Grand Teton Summer Journey

With only a day and a half left at the Science School, we have settled into the routine of early mornings, full days, and unique experiences.

This morning we filled up on French toast and packed a lunch before heading to the Conservation Research Center to participate in migration corridor restoration. This involved removing fencing - including posts and barbed wire - that have made it difficult for local populations to make it to their seasonal homes. These include elk, moose, pronghorn, and mule deer as well as birds like the trumpeter swan: these can become entangled in the fencing and die of starvation or exposure.

Everyone worked hard and we were very productive, earning a stop at the local Dairy Queen for Brownie Batter Blizzards and banana splits.

Next we visited the National Museum of Wildlife Art, where we viewed works of art by Carl Rungius, Andy Warhol, Gutzon Borglum (who created the Mt. Rushmore sculpture), Theodore Geisel's (Dr. Seuss) original drawings for "The Lorax", award-winning student paintings for the Federal Junior Duck Stamp program, and more.

Through a spotting scope we watched bald eagles on the National Elk Refuge. On the way back to the Science School, we saw baby pronghorn and baby bison in the sage flats.

This evening we are headed to the Oxbow Bend to spend time viewing wildlife, drawing in our sketchbooks, and painting in our journals.

Tomorrow, the Rockefeller Center, Phelps Lake, and closing ceremonies.