Whaddya Think?

[#59]

D.G. and I have been kicking around an idea lately and although we are by no means the final "experts" on this I thought input from folks in these parts would be helpful so here goes:

As you may know there are certain BF "organizations" that set up "outings" for those interested in this endeavour. They charge a rather hefty fee but basically (apparently) leave participants largely to their own devices rather than deliver very much significant hands on help. The general consensus among the BF community seems to be one that many of these events are more economically motivated rather than being inspired by a desire to further the effort to solve the mystery in general.

To that end, what we've bandied about is the notion of organizing AND moderating a workshop for novices who are serious about learning more about what the BF research effort is all about.

This would be a workshop held in the woods among the habitat BF resides therein with a goal of delivering real information the participants could take and implement into immediate practical application on their own subsequent to the workshop.

We would take the attendees out and actually show them things such as bows, X formations, pinwheels, blinds, etc. so that they would know what to look for and what it really looks like compared to naturally occuring formations.

While an encounter is by no means a lead pipe cinch we will be in areas of known activity. Also, we will introduce the participants to sounds heard in the woods and attempt to help them learn to distinguish between those produced by known forest dwellers and those which may come from other sources.

Casting techniques introduced would include using materials previously omitted from many "experts" inventory of product. How to properly preserve, document and analyze the scene of a finding would also be discussed in detail.

Guest speakers would possibly include people with considerable experience in photographic technique and analysis, woodmanship skills such a how to read tracks, etc. as well as FTF discussion with persons who've actually had BF encounters in the field so a perspective as on what to expect (emotional reaction, etc.) when the FTF indeed does happen.

We plan on furnishing housing/food to the attendees and basically keeping a tight loop on the agenda so as to maximize the potential for everyone to benefit from the experience. Fee structure is currently dynamic as the cost numbers (housing, food, guest speakers, etc.) haven't yet been finalized.

Anyway, we'd appreciate any feedback y'all could give us on this idea.

Thanx,
TG

[Micahn]

I think every thing looks great so far. Now that I am back home I will try to get more people hanging around here :-)

[Ruthie]

Sounds like a pretty good idea. As long as the people participating understand they are there to gain knowledge and not become instant experts.  Just look around at all the arm chair squatchers that are experts. Hell most of them wouldn't know deer droppings from owl puke. Good Luck

[#59]

Sounds like a pretty good idea. As long as the people participating understand they are there to gain knowledge and not become instant experts.  Just look around at all the arm chair squatchers that are experts. Hell most of them wouldn't know deer droppings from owl puke. Good Luck

Yes, it's NOT AT ALL a how-to make a BF "hunter" out of someone rather, to teach basic woodmanship (where to look and what to look for, etc.) and more importantly how to become a part of your surroundings and what really intelligent observation techniques are all about.

[#59]

Also, I have received word the Honobia BF Festival went down just as was expected...a monumental flop.

This just goes to reinforce the fact people (w/common sense) have grown weary of the dog & pony show presentation so endemic with the majority of so-called BF Research Sites/Organizations.

The times are a changin'...

[Ruthie]

Also, I have received word the Honobia BF Festival went down just as was expected...a monumental flop.

Really and I missed it. Its over? Gee....

[Prairie Ghost]

Well I don't know how an event at Hanobia could draw any people out where it is.  If the people have seen it once before, why go back?  It is a long drive from anywhere and just not worth it.

[Ruthie]

What always intrigues me is the claims that these folks can just go down there and have an encounter. Is it that easy? Just drive out to the woods park and wait? Here comes the local BF walking by?

[#59]

What always intrigues me is the claims that these folks can just go down there and have an encounter. Is it that easy? Just drive out to the woods park and wait? Here comes the local BF walking by?

"BF in a can!"

Shades of BFRO. 

Remember, this bunch are the "experts" on all things BF and besides what would any good backwoods festival be w/o a couple of sightings to keep the kool-aid sippers in line?  They're over on that site drooling outa both sides each time the bell is wrung.

At least both touristas got the chance to buy a few trinkets.