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The Explorers Club – Canadian Chapter 1 www.explorersclub.ca

News for the CaNadiaN Chapter

Vol. 6 No. 1 Summer 2014

Far Afield

Wreck of the SS Charcot, built in Norway in 1923. Photo by Neil Burgess. See page 19 for story.


Table of Contents

Message from the Chapter Chair .................................................................................................3Message from our Communication Co-directors .........................................................................4Regional Report - BC/Yukon .......................................................................................................5Regional Report - Prairie/NWT .....................................................................................................6Regional Report - Ontario/Nunavut ..............................................................................................9Regional Report - Atlantic/Quebec .............................................................................................11Outstanding Canadian Members ................................................................................................12Student News and Updates ........................................................................................................13Explorer Reports & Updates ......................................................................................................19In Other News.............................................................................................................................25Membership Report ....................................................................................................................27Awards & Honours ......................................................................................................................28Explorer Resources ....................................................................................................................28 Far Afield and The Explorers Log Schedule ...............................................................................28

Far Afield is published bi-annually. Far Afield welcomes brief submissions from members, preferably in Microsoft Word format with high-resolution digital photographs files sent separately from the text. Photographs must include captions and a credit. Please send all materials to: [email protected]. Submissions may be edited for length. The authors are responsible for the content of their articles. Their views do not necessarily reflect the views of The Explorers Club Canadian Chapter and the Club is not responsible for the accuracy of the articles.


There’s so much happening I’m just going to jump in.

‘Like’ our Facebook pageShare your news in the e-newsletter and Far AfieldCommunication Co-Directors Wilson West FI’08 and Maeva Gautier FI’13 along with Ray Hyland MI’12 and Rogier Gruys MI’10 worked a miracle during the first three months of this year to create a robust communication program. Read about it in Wilson’s message on page 4.

Behaving ethicallyYour board of directors is developing a code of ethics to guide the relationships among our members and policies for dealing with violations. We put together a team comprising John Pollack FI’06 and Rosemarie Keough FI’02 led by Dale Dunlop MI’07. Dale has been a lawyer for 38 years and has special expertise in governance and ethics. He has developed ethics policies for several national not-for-profit organizations and the public company that he chairs. The committee has had several discussions; we expect a code ready for review by the board later this year. This Code will not replace the Club’s Statement of Ethics; it builds upon it and provides our board with the ability to act quickly when necessary.

Seeking protégés and mentorsThe board would also like to establish a mentorship program to make it easier for student and other young members to tap into the wealth of expertise and experience that resides in abundance among our members who’ve been around long enough to know how to get things done. This has been done informally by our members for as long as The Explorers Club has existed, but perhaps we can accelerate the process. Rosemarie Keough FI’02, who has played a critical role in connecting dozens of people over the years, has offered to help get this off the ground, but we need a couple more people to really make it successful. Please let me know if you’re willing to help.

Representing Eastern Canadian studentsJessica Lansfield TI’13 is doing an outstanding job organizing events and reporting on the activities of the 15 student members in Western Canada. We need another student in Eastern Canada to represent the 23 student members at the other end of the country. This is a great way to get to know your fellow students and become more involved in the Canadian chapter. If you’re willing to take on the task – or know of a young member who would be perfect for the job – please let me know.

Revising our awards and honours programWe have also put together a new Awards and Honours team lead by Simon Donato FI’09 supported by Lee Treloar MI’09 and Susan Eaton MI’11. This team is refining our award program. Please read Simon’s report on page 28.

This is a tremendously exciting time to belong to The Explorers Club. Be part of making the Canadian chapter ever more vibrant by becoming involved. We always welcome fresh ideas and another pair of hands. Get in touch with me or any of our directors listed on our website.

Message from the Chapter Chair Elaine Wyatt MI’05


The Communications team has had a busy Spring. First, we would like to congratulate Maeva Gauthier FI’13 and David Crawford on the birth of their baby boy, Mathis. The next generation of explorers is here! Perhaps we should have a new membership category – Mathis Gauthier-Crawford II’14 (Infant International).

Second, we would like to welcome Ray Hyland MI’12 to the team as e-newsletter editor. Ray is a marketing and advertising professional with many years experience living and working around the globe. He’s a contributing editor for the Overland Journal and Expedition Portal who is also engaged in the company’s special operations and marketing as well as partnership and distribution projects. He has a very impressive background in marketing for some of the largest companies in North America including ExxonMobil and MasterCard. His expertise and insight into effective communication shows in the quality of our e-newsletter.

Ray was an important part of the launch of our new monthly e-newsletter in April and the three very interesting issues that we’ve been sent out so far. The shape of the e-newsletter began with interviews with more than 20 individuals who are deeply committed to The Explorers Club -- the incoming board members that you elected in November, our committee chairs, the outgoing directors and directors-at-large. All but one asked for a newsletter that was similar in style and presentation to the newsletters that we all receive from our professional, academic, avocational and social associations. They wanted something concisely written and easy to scan with the option to click on links to more detailed information. We’ve received rave reviews, but would like to hear from more people. Let us know what you think.. and take the time to contribute. It’s a great way to let your fellow members know what you’re up to. Our schedule is easy to remember: the call for submissions is the first Wednesday of every month, the deadline for submitting your news is the second Wednesday, and the newsletter will be sent to all members on the third Wednesday.

Some of you might ask, “Why two newsletters?” We have been producing your much-coveted, bi-annual newsletter Far Afield for five years now. This will not change, as the e-newsletter is not meant to replace Far Afield. Its purpose is to provide an opportunity for members to announce upcoming events, update fellow members on expeditions, even call for volunteers. Far Afield continues to be the medium through which more comprehensive news is provided with full expedition reports and updates, regional reports, student reports, awards and honours and membership reports.

In May, the Communications team also launched our new Facebook page for the Canadian Chapter. “Like” us at www.facebook.com/explorersclubcanada to share your exploration news with your fellow explorers and stay connected!

We are also continually updating the website, and there you can find links to Far Afield, the e-newsletter, our Facebook page and more Chapter information.

Have a great summer everyone, keep exploring and keep communicating!

Communication Co-directorsWilson West FI’08


Here I am, once again poised at the start of a plan for another wonderful summer on the waters of the Pacific Northwest, as I look forward to cruising from home in Victoria all the way to Southeast Alaska and back. The perfect schedule for a coastal marine biologist – two months of exploring the coast! I recently attended a lecture by philosopher poet David Whyte who recited a Wordsworth poem that seems fitting: “…Ah! need I say, dear friend, that to the brim, My heart was full;” Wordsworth wrote, of his experience walking through fields at sunrise..“…and on I walked in blessedness which even yet remains.” (from The Prelude, IV, William Wordsworth, 1805). I’ll be on the water, not in the verdant fields, but all the same, I feel filled to the brim with blessedness and gratitude in anticipation of being out, soaking up the experience. Since the last Far Afield in early February, Jess Lansfield TI’13 organized a wonderful evening of talks attended by a keen audience at the spectacular Beatty Biodiversity Museum at University of BC. We chatted under the enormous suspended skeleton of blue whale during the break and afterwards, Andrew Trites, University of British Columbia (UBC) Associate Professor and Director of the Marine Mammal Research Unit in the UBC Fisheries Centre, toured the late-stayers around the next door building where more marine mammal skeletons are in life-like poses. Dr. Trites explained how to read the stories in the bones, from old healed injuries to osteoporosis, and how that helped him understand more about the lives of these amazing animals. See more details about the Night at the Beatty in Jess’s Student Rep report, this issue and a link to the blue whale project: www.beatymuseum.ubc.ca/blue-whale-project.Later in the spring, I was fortunate to attend two different lectures by Robert Bateman MI’84. One was hosted at the Royal BC Museum, where he talked about the artistic inspiration he takes from forms and shapes in nature, how he’s always studied those for the foundation of his painting works, and how seeing through the camera’s eye is a useful tool for framing the scenes to be painted. In Bateman’s next talk I heard, on Earth Day in Sidney, BC, he had a hopeful message for the future and how conservation is increasingly important as we humans learn to adjust to our changing world. Also this spring, I heard Wade Davis MED’87 speak about his stunning photographs and writings about the Sacred Headwaters of the Stikine. He described his history of meeting the local peoples there, and of activism around conservation of the wilderness rivers. His long association with the northwest corner of the province conveyed his strong ‘sense of place’ and connection to the lands and peoples there. Recently, Pat and Rosemarie Keough FI’02, FI’02 gathered a small group of Explorers and potential new Explorer Club members to share stories of inspiration and travels. We heard of relief work in Malawi and overland treks, community activism and how to tell a great story with words and brilliant photography. I was particularly impressed with the message of Mike

Regional Director BC / YukonMary Morris FI’10


Schauch MI’13 whose mountain trek in a remote corner of Nepal became a transforming journey for him and his group of friends, from their experiences with the people of the tiny village of Phu. Mike presented his award-winning film and showed us how approaching exploration with an open heart can truly make a difference in our world. See his official trailer for the movie ‘Beyond the Gates of Phu’ at vimeo.com/52336677.We also were blessed to meet month-old son of Maeva Gauthier FI’13 and David Crawford. Little Mathis blissfully napped through the evening storytelling and seemed completely relaxed about being by far the youngest member of the gathering. Special welcome again to new members in BC/Yukon Chapter and thanks again to Elaine Wyatt MI’05 and John Pollock FI’06 for helping streamline the membership process. Hope to see you at Wells Gray in September. Cathy has lined up a great program for the Sense of Place, Wells Gray style. Be sure to read about her plans for this weekend in this issue.Happy summer season of being out in the world, everyone!

Regional Director Prairie / NWTNat Rutter FE‘78

You will probably read this after the fact, that the Prairie and NWT Annual outing was held in Jasper, Alberta on June 20, 21, and 22, 2014 after the deadline for this Spring issue of Far Afield. We had 12 members and friends sign up. We lodged in Hinton (next to the Jasper National Park gate) We met in Hinton, Friday evening where we had dinner, had our annual meeting (10 min.) and had a talk by Marilyn Campbell on the history of Hinton and environs. Saturday, we explored the evidence for the Last Glacial Maximum that took place about 20,000 years ago, walked along spectacular Maligne Canyon, visited Miette Hot Springs, had a picnic on an Island in Pyramid Lake (where canoeing is an option), and viewed the cultural sights in the Jasper town site area. Alter dinner in Jasper, Rogier Gruys MI’10 presented a special screening of Park’s new movie for the Icefield Centre - Through Ice and Time. On Sunday, we traveled along the Icefields Parkway to Athabasca Glacier, where we hiked to the glacier and discussed how the glacier has changed in the last few hundred years, as well took the new Glacier Skywalk overlooking the Valley. From there we left for home. In the next Far Afield, I’ll report on how close we came in holding the events outlined above.Jason Schoonover FE‘86, Su Hattori MI‘13 and Sir Rod Beattie report that last winter (dry season there) they continued Paleolithic-Neolithic digs along Thailand River Kwai as well as sought out new caves along the same drainage system for future exploration. Jason’s and Sir Rod’s attempts to reach the second chamber of the Death Cave – so named because of infant bones discovered in the first along with Neolithic potsherds and a polished jadeite ax, as well as dangerous CO2 levels – was aborted when their new oxygen equipment failed due to missing


mask valves. Once restored, they’ll continue next dry season, and in the middle of the dries part when CO2 levels are at their lowest. They also continued GPS mapping of the WW-II Death Railway made famous in Bridge Over the River Kwai. As well, Jason laid down a 72,000 word first draft of his spinoff to Adventurous Dreams, Adventurous Lives. His reports on this past season’s explorations can be seen at www.jasonschoonover.com/blah.htmlJason and Sir Rod are organizing an eight-person, 10-day kayak trip down the length of the Kwai in early January, stopping at obscure railway sites Sir Rod knows from his years building the Death Railway Museum at Kanchanaburi, and staying at resorts along the route. The adventure will also include a day’s dig at Hintok Cave where there’s a

Glacier Skywalk, Jasper National Park. Photo credit: Brewster Tours.

Sir Rod Beattie and Su Hattori MI’13 in the Death Cave on a low CO2 day. Photo by Jason Schoonover.

99% certainty of turning up new artifacts. Photos of this beautiful river can be seen at the above link. If you’re interested, please contact Jason at [email protected] Susan Eaton MI ’11 gives an update on her 2014-2016 Sedna Epic Expedition sponsored by the Royal Canadian Geographical Society (RCGS). An all-woman team, will mount a 15-day reconnaissance expedition in July 2014, traveling on a 116-foot expedition vessel from Labrador to Baffin Island, and then across the Davis Strait to Disko Bay and Ilulissat, Greenland. This proof-of-concept expedition is in preparation for the proposed main expedition, an epic 3,000-kilometre-long snorkel relay of the Northwest Passage during the summer of 2016.During the RCGS-sponsored 2014 reconnaissance expedition, Team Sedna will conduct sea trials of the equipment needed to snorkel the Northwest Passage, demonstrating that snorkelers — using diver propulsion vehicles or “scooters” —can travel great distances in often ice-infested waters. The Expedition’s namesake “Sedna” is the Inuit goddess of marine mammals from Greenland to Alaska. Sedna will snorkel daily with the 10 sea women: One day, she’ll take the form of a tusked narwhal or a 200-year-old bowhead whale; the next day, she’ll be a ringed seal or an orca.


The July 10-27 reconnaissance expedition involves three science projects (remotely operated vehicles, mobile marine aquariums and marine mammal/sea bird censuses) designed to deliver educational outreach to Inuit communities and to study ocean change in arctic waters. The data collected by Team Sedna will be made available online to the OpenROV community, Neptune Canada’s Ocean Networks Canada, Google Ocean, ExploreOcean in Washington, the TELUS Spark Science Centre in Calgary, We are Water, a not-for-profit in Florida, the Petty Harbour Mini Aquarium in Newfoundland, Explorers Club, the Royal Canadian Geographical Society, Canadian Geographic Magazine, WINGS Worldquest, WISE (Women in Science and Engineering), and to school children in the US and Canada, including students living in the Arctic. The 2014-2016 Sedna Epic Expedition has received overwhelming support from scuba diving equipment manufacturers in Canada, the US and Europe. Team Sedna’s equipment sponsors include SANTI, a Polish manufacturer of arctic-rated drysuits and SUUNTO, a Finnish company that makes waterproof GPS computer watches and dive computers. Other sponsors include Dive Xtras Scooters, GoPro, Aqualung, Atomic, Bare, Oceanic, Nautilus Lifeline, and Nanuk Plasticase, Arctic Kingdom Polar Expeditions and Ocean Quest Adventure Resort.Team Sedna has been making waves, garnering international media coverage in magazines, newspapers, radio and TV. To follow Team Sedna, visit www.facebook.com/sednaepic or www.sednaepic. To view the Sedna Epic Youtube video, visit www.youtube.com/user/sednaepic.See the membership report for a list of new Prairie / NWT members since our last issue.

Susan Eaton MI’11 wearing a traditional Init amauti and caribou boots, Arctic Bay, Nunavut, June 2013. Photo by Stephen Henshall.


Regional Director Ontario / NunavutPeter Rowe FI’08

With numerous meetings, talks by guest explorers, a visit from the President, and a film festival, the Ontario/Nunavut region has been very active in the first half of 2014, with many more activities planned for the rest of the year.During his visit in May, President Alan Nichols FN’84 commented that he had visited many Explorers Club chapters around the US and the world, and that none have such a “sweet deal” as we have in Toronto, with the monthly hospitality of Jeff Willner MI ‘01 and Kensington Tours. Our speaker at the first dinner of the year was Jessica Phillips MI ‘12. Jessica, a partner of the late Billy Jamieson, brought along several pieces from their exotic collection, and talked about her work as one of the on-screen buyers on the CBC reality show “Four Rooms”, which debuted in January. She also talked about the preparations for the dispersal of Jamieson’s estate by Waddington’s Auctions. In April, numerous members of the Explorers Club attended and purchased at the auction, one of the most active, and certainly the most bizarre and macabre that the auction house has held.In February we welcomed explorer extraordinaire Jeff Fuchs FI’08 to speak about his distant travels on the lost trade routes of the Himalayas. Jeff kept a large group of us enthralled with the stories of his explorations. He is now proposing a new Explorers Club group expedition, which the Ontario/Nunavut region and Canadian Chapter will be supporting, to explore the Ladakh mountain region of northern India, in September, 2015. We hope to have Jeff back in the winter of 2015 to discuss this new initiative.In the summer of 2013, on behalf of the club I invited the young but very experienced explorer Adam Schoalts TI’14 to join the club. With the help of Canadian Chapter Membership director John Pollack FI ‘06, Adam got his membership approved in June. He has already applied

Ripley’s Aquarium in Toronto. Photo by Peter Rowe.

to carry a club flag on his summer expedition to the Arctic. In March, Adam spoke to our regional dinner about his solo explorations of northern Canadian rivers, and his discovery of several previously unknown waterfalls on rivers leading into James Bay. (More on Adam’s explorations elsewhere in this issue of Far Afield). Unfortunately, Adam’s talk conflicted


with ECAD, so attendance was down with several Ontario members, including yours truly and our Canadian Chair Elaine Wyatt MI’05 representing Ontario and Canada at the events and meetings in New York. Elaine returned to host the Explorers Club Film Festival the following week. It was another well attended, successful screening of new films, with Cory Trepanier MI’09 as this year’s keynote speaker, talking about his painting and filming expeditions to the Arctic.In April we changed things up in a big way, foregoing the usual Kensington dinner to instead do a group “Behind the Scenes” tour of the new Ripley’s Aquarium. Twenty-four of us got a great tour backstage at the big new facility. The photo (on the previous page) is of a whale hanging in the lobby, a cast taken from a whale skeleton from Canada’s oldest museum, the Niagara Falls Museum of Oddities, sold to Ripley’s by fabled Toronto Explorers Club member Billy Jamieson. One of the highlights of the year was the May visit of International Explorers Club President Alan Nichols. Alan flew in from his San Francisco home via New York, where he was attending to club business. He showed us the new club video - worth watching online at vimeo.com/95904042. He spoke on the theme of “Why you should - or should not - become President of the Explorers Club”. Following his talk, since he is an inveterate bicyclist (10,000 miles on the “Silk Web” across Central Asia and China), Canadian Chapter co-founder Duane Robertson and I took him on a bicycle exploration of the Toronto waterfront.In June we had another unique event, with members invited to the outdoor garden reception on the Credit River, and then the Premiere, at the Mississauga Waterfront Festival, of the new film about Lake Ontario’s famous sunken ships “Hamilton” and “Scourge” titled “Shipwrecked on a Great Lake”. Watch for two members in the film - Far Afield Editor Wilson West FI’08 (playing a shackled War of 1812 prisoner) and ex-Chapter Chair Joe Frey FI’01 (playing himself, exploring the wrecks via Parks Canada sonar, and also working as a support diver on the film). Screenings will run through July on a water screen beside the lake in Port Credit.At the July dinner, George Kourounis FI’09 and Robin Brooks discussed their expedition to Turkmenistan, where George explored the “Gateway to Hell” burning gas geysers, and Robin handled logistics on the Kensington/National Geographic-sponsored adventure.

A War of 1812 era schooner sails through a lake squall in Peter Rindlisbacher’s evocative painting.

In August, we hold the 1st Annual Ontario EC Underwater Weekend. On August 8 deep technical and ex-commercial diver Scott Stitt will speak on deep technical diving and Jack Purchase FI’81 will talk about training in re-breather diving. The next morning, we’ll head to the upper Niagara River to current-dive through the muskies and pike to see a pair of War of 1812 landing craft. We’ll also plan to get out in time - apparently there is a little waterfall further downstream.


Our annual get together which will take place this year on Isle Haute, a place of mystery in the middle of the Bay of Fundy, August 4 and 5. We will leave by zodiac from Advocate Harbour and spend a day and a night exploring the island. A videographer will accompany us and provide a documentary record of the trip. Returning to the mainland a number of us will kayak the difficult waters of Cape Chignecto as far as the Three Sisters, one of the remotest areas of the Bay of Fundy.The trip is limited to ten people, and there is one spot remaining. If you are interested in participating in this exciting excursion, please contact: Dale Dunlop at [email protected] Spooner FI’14 will carry a new flag – Flag 211 – to the Le Casimir Wreck Project in the Dominican Republic July 5 to 19, 2014. Simon and his team from ADMAT are returning to Le Casimir to continue the survey and excavation of this important French brig that sank in 1829. The work is being carried out for the Oficina Nacional de Patrimonio Cultural Subacuatico. Simon’s expedition will forever appear as the first in the documented history of this newly inducted flag. See the membership report for a list of new Atlantic/Quebec members since our last issue.

Regional Director Atlantic CanadaDale Dunlop MI’08

September will see the 2nd Annual Canoe Trip (September 2-4) and Wilderness Symposium (September 5-7) at the northern retreat of Fred Gaskin FI’81, with the overnight canoe trip to Georgian Bay.In October Ottawa-based Denis St-Onge OC FI’05 retired senior scientist with the Geological Survey of Canada will come down to the Big Smoke to speak on Canadian explorers of the past. In November, we’ll have another special event, with Jack and Nora Purchase, and Ron Bogart, doing a special Explorers Club Introduction to Diving night at a Scarborough pool. Finally, on December 11, Past President of the Canadian Chapter and “Boundless” TV marathon running star Simon Donato FI’09 will visit us from Alberta, following his TEC Talk in New York City. He will discuss his current flag expedition to the North Dakota Badlands, and his expedition searching for Lt. Steeves’ missing jet in the High Sierras.See the membership report for a list of new Ontario/Nunavut members since our last issue.

Raising Le Casimir’s windlass. Photo copyright ADMAT-Nielsen.


Our Cathie Hickson is one of the foremost volcanologists in Canada and probably knows more about past volcanic activity in Canada than any other scientist. Her research on volcanism in Canada has continued since she completed her PhD in 1987 at UBC on the volcanic rocks of the Wells Gray Clearwater area (BC). These volcanic studies were sparked by an earlier encounter with eruptive volcanism at Mount St. Helens in Washington State in 1980. She wrote her undergraduate thesis (UBC,1982) on the pyroclastic surge (directed

Wells Gray Provincial Park, preparing for a popular guide book on Wells Gray rocks. Photo by Gord Dubois.

blast) that nearly took her life during the May 18 eruption. After joining the Geological Survey of Canada (GCS) as a Research Scientist, she studied most of the volcanoes in British Columbia and in 1992 was part of the team that published the geothermal map of British Columbia and created the Geological Survey of Canada’s first volcanic website. By this time, she had also became very involved in global volcanism. She, along with her Canadian team from Transport Canada, Environment Canada and other organizations, were instrumental in bringing lessons learned from the Canadian experience of ash hazards to aviation (from eruptions in Alaska) to the global arena as part of the team that created the International Aviation Volcano Ash hazard protocols. She got first-hand experience by being trapped in Italy during the 2010 Eyjafjallajökull, Iceland eruption that closed much of Europe’s airspace. Cathie was with the GSC for nearly twenty-five years and besides the work mentioned above, she was able to lead many other volcanic focused studies, including regional mapping projects, a national program for natural hazard reduction as well as heading the GSC Vancouver office for seven years. She conceived, initiated, and led two multiyear projects in South America jointly funded by the Canadian International Development Agency and the countries of Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, and Peru (1996 – 2002) with Columbia, Ecuador and Venezuela joining for the second project (2002 – 2008). The focus of these projects was geoscience technology transfer between these countries and Canada. The first project targeted improved regional mapping and mineral exploration techniques and the second focused on natural hazard reduction (volcanoes, earthquakes and landslides). Several landmark publications came out of these projects to add to her impressive record of over 150 publications. In 2008 she joined the Geothermal Energy start-up company Magma Energy Corp in charge

Outstanding Canadian members – Dr. Catherine Hickson FI’05Nat Rutter FE’78


of the company’s global exploration program. In two short years she had amassed some of the most prospective exploration ground available and had established new Magma subsidiaries in Peru and Italy to add to those already established in the USA and Iceland. Intense exploration in the following two years confirmed significant resources that have now been partnered to other companies. Cathie is now a geoscience consultant providing services in the geothermal

Wow, what an incredible few months it has been with The Explorers Club. Since the last Far Afield, several inspiring events have taken place and numerous connections have been made between attendees. Among these student-led events, two have taken place in the Yukon Territory, with a promise of more to unfold over the next few months. Recently, the BC/Yukon Chapter also took over the exquisite Beaty Biodiversity Museum located on the University of British Columbia’s campus. This event is where Daisy Gilardini FI’11 stole the audience’s hearts with her passion and talent

Student News and UpdatesJessica Lansfield TM’13

energy and mineral exploration fields. She has been an Adjunct Professor at UBC’s Department of Earth, Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences for many years where she supervises and mentors students. She is a sought after speaker at both professional and general public functions and is often called upon by the media to comment on a number of geoscience topics. Cathie has written two books for the general public, Surviving the Stone Wind and Nature Wells Gray. She is a member and counsellor for several professional groups and has received several awards and honours. We are proud to have as an active member of The Explorers Club.

Mapping Mt. Garibaldi volcano north of Vancouver. Photo by Paul Adam.

for photography in the polar regions. The following paragraphs try to share with you a few details of these events. If you have any ideas for future student-led events or know a young and promising individual to join the club, please connect with Jessica Lansfield TM’13 via email at [email protected].


December 2013: Adventures in Icy Waters and Beyond.This was the first Explorers Club event of this type to ever take place in the Yukon Territory and its setting truly seemed to be inspiration for Jack London’s stories. That night also provided intense weather conditions, making travel difficult as the snow heaved down; however, a dedicated and inspired group of northerners, dressed in their winter best warmed the inside of Kieran’s cosy cabin and shared stories of discovery, challenges, icy beauty, and magical moments spent in the wild.Based on a recommendation made by John Pollack FI’06, Doug Davidge was our first speaker of the evening. These two explorers have worked side by side on several occasions and Doug provided an incredible overview of their A.J. Goddard discovery, the Yukon’s first historical underwater archeological site. To the right is an email Doug sent to the Yukon participants after the event, which enthusiastically summarizes the talks, provides links to rich educational resources, and touches on the ambiance of the night.

Hi Jessica,Thanks so much for the wonderful evening as well as the opportunity to meet all of you and find out more about the good work others are doing here in the Yukon and beyond. I enjoyed giving the talk on the wreck of the AJ Goddard and answering your questions. Kieran, your combination of amazing images and writings when out on the land are very special indeed. I look forward to seeing more of your photography and videography!If anyone wishes to learn more about the Goddard please have a look at the following links: www.tc.gov.yk.ca/publications/The_AJ_Goddard_Reconstruction_2012.pdf www.promare.org/project-archives/canada I neglected to say much about Lindsey Thomas, the lead archaeologist on the Goddard Project...here you can read more at the Promare site on who she is and what she is doing today: www.promare.org/team/scientific-team/lindsey-thomas-ma Perfectly Preserved Gold Rush Ghost Ship Discovered in Canada’s Sub-arctic: nauticalarch.org/projects/all/north_america/yukon_gold_rush_steamboat_survey_canada/video/ or www.oceangate.com/expeditions/goddard-expedition.htmlFor those who may subscribe to Facebook you are welcome to browse the page I set up on the Goddard and all of the activities associated with the project: www.facebook.com/groups/129425565491/I also have a YouTube channel featuring my interests in videography: www.youtube.com/user/Kingpoint/videosAgain, thank you for a wonderful evening. The extreme snowfall event made for an interesting drive home. I have never seen that much snow on the Alaska Highway ever...but I did make it home safely!Cheers and Merry Christmas to you all!Doug DavidgeKate Harris and company

discovered the AJ Goddard. Photos by Kieran O’Donovan.

Outside Kieran’s beautiful cabin on the banks of the Yukon River.


I agreed with Doug’s comments wholeheartedly, particularly regarding Kieran’s work. During his talk, Kieran combined his professional film, photography, and research experiences in the north, with intimate readings from his field journal and moving works from other writers influenced by the north. As a result, I think he inspired everyone in the cabin that night. Recently, Kieran has been a part of several exciting projects, including: Wild Canada, which aired on CBC this winter, and the short film, Enough to Get By, which was shown at the Cannes Film Festival in May. Recently, I had the opportunity to work with Kieran as a sound technician on a wildlife-based film. I recommend following this talented storyteller and filmmaker as his career unfolds, there is no telling where his story will take him. To view some of Kieran’s work visit: www.cbc.ca/wildcanada/ or his personal website kieranodonovan.com/

January 2014: Ancient Forest Discussion GroupSpearheaded by Dr. David Rapport FI’10, this discussion group included Luisa Maffi FI’10, David Crawford, Jessica Lansfield TM’13, Tom Reimchen FI’04, Misty MacDuffy, Ken Wu and Maeva Gauthier FI’13. It was an opportunity to brainstorm and provide an interdisciplinary perspective on ancient forests. Instead of a formal talk, this diverse group of passionate individuals gathered around the dining room table in Maeva Gauthier’s FI’13 house to explore previous efforts to conserve British Columbia’s frontier (original, ‘old growth’) forests, especially on Vancouver Island, ranging from the intense Clayquot Sound demonstrations in the 1980s to current day protests on logging old-growth in the Port Alberni area. These places have seen significant and very visible NGO and citizen group activity aimed at limiting the reduction of old growth forests; however, it seems that these invaluable forests are still disappearing. The main questions posed that night were: What has been the social response to the threats and losses? What has worked, what appears to have worked (but hasn’t) and what has been a failure in the public response to this environmental / ecological crisis? And finally, where do we go from here in the quest to protect old growth forests?

The following paragraphs provide a glimpse into some of the conversations and focal points that unfolded during the discussion:

Ken Wu, a founder of the Ancient Forest Alliance, was a key member of the discussion, identifying his multiple conservation struggles and successes. In his younger days, Ken used to conduct blockades and chain himself in protest to trees and equipment, at times using militant tactics to voice his opinion. Through the years he began to realize that he needed to broaden his base of support and appeal to the Canadian mainstream, rather than focusing on the same supportive people and groups.

Misty McDuffy recalled the days of chaining herself to a stump in downtown New York City outside the offices of The New York Times until management came down to chat. She stated that she is often frustrated by the changes that have taken place in our world and calls for a systems perspective, “we need to think of things from the headwaters to the deep waters, consider full watershed fisheries and how to manage eco-webs”.

Ken also described the latest changes in the logging industry; how logging is now occurring at higher altitudes, and how the categorization of forests is very important to help people distinguish between areas of low, moderate, or high productivity. Some areas such as old growth and steeper slopes take longer to recover than others; sometimes true recovery in these areas are not possible, particularly when the areas are not sufficiently restocked. During this conversation, the group also explored the reality of secondary growth ecosystems that significantly differ from old growth ecosystems, yet seem to have a great impact on public opinion. When old-growth forests are cut, trees can grow back, but the wildlife, the living legacy,


cannot and this is the message that needs to be shared. Dialogue, then veered into how innovative approaches are needed to reach out to potential industry partners and influential populations of the lower mainland of British Columbia.

How can change be created the group members asked themselves? Some answers were suggested, including: we need to invest in relationships with immigrant populations and Christian conservatives of the mainland, and to create boycotts, by finding out who are buying the wood products and asking them not to buy or be prepared for drops in customer purchases. Getting the middle class, conservatives, industries and businesses on board also emerged as a key to success. After all, these groups often vote, they vote people into power, and governments respond to the people who elect them. For legislative and policy change to occur, supporters from these groups are necessary. Also, no land changes can be processed without the involvement of First Nations. Therefore, there needs to be economic alternatives and links made across cultures. Collaboration, the incorporation of current values and traditional knowledge are vital. It was emphasized that we cannot put people into a box and must ensure that we explain our perspectives clearly across different segments of the population.

Acceptance that all communities will have a mix of opinions and pressures is also necessary. We must face these opinions and pressures with solutions and ideas and be open to different arrangements for conservation to occur. It was clear that we need to continue to move forward, to keep pushing, as currently we are losing ground in regards to old growth forests. The past approaches that focused on STOP and NO movements did not work. They did not represent the economy. We need to focus on jobs, revenues, and diverse approaches to save the old growth forests from logging. This means focusing on alternative economies to restore damaged ecosystems and making the argument for reforestation, as it could put millions of people to work and enhance economic activity.

Public support is also required to find the best ways to restore forests. To obtain this support, it seems that education is not enough. We need to connect people to the heart of these places. The classic idea of conservation that separated people from nature, where nature was either exploited or kept away from humans, did not work. One point was made that throughout human history we have been a part of nature, thus reconnection, making it meaningful to people, the conversation that we are a part of nature and it is what makes us human is important.

Vancouver Island forests. Photo by Jessica Lansfield.

Encouraging people to relate to nature, to make direct connections, is essential. We need to get people into these places, to link traditional and new ways of thinking, to mix old and new, to create a fusion of ideas.

Dr. David Rapport FI’10 emphasized the need to connect these special areas to our existence; highlighting that there is hope that increasing this awareness may arrest the rate of loss.


The Explorers Club members tour the skeleton exhibit with Dr. Andrew Trites. Photo by Maeva Gauthier.

Jeffery Whiting presents his work with Artists For conservation. Photo by Maeva Gauthier.

Polar wonders Talk at the Beaty. Composition by Daisy Gilardini. Photo by Maeva Gauthier and Derek Tang.

The Art of Conservation poster by Nicolas Lemieux. Polar bear photo by Daisy Gilardini.

We also need to think, feel, and act differently, he urged. Speaking from experience, he stated that those in government often come from the lifeless sciences. They do the best with what they have learned, their mindsets focused on economic resources to capture the marketplace. There is no connection to the life sciences for they are trained to think in a narrow way. Ultimately, there is a lot of work to be done, it is a long struggle, and….it is just starting.

After remaining silent for most of the evening, the following words emerged from Tom Reimchen’s FI’04 lips, “I am glad for the Mistys and the Kens of this world”. Words, it seemed, that held true for the rest of the group.

Several weeks after this discussion group, I took an afternoon flight over the west coast of Vancouver Island with my brother Alex piloting the way. We flew over sections of old growth mixed in amongst the clear cuts. From the air, the impact of forestry on the island was profound.

February 2014: The Art of ConservationUnderneath a giant blue whale skeleton, explorers, artists and friends gathered together to talk about art and conversation. There are over a million specimens in the incredible Beaty Biodiversity museum and approximately 75 participants from various walks of life wandered amongst the museum’s displays, toured exhibits with museum volunteers, and listened to four highly


experienced speakers, including Jeffery Whiting FI’11, Andrew Trites, Ian Hinkle and the keynote address by Daisy Gilardini FI’10. Countless supporters made this evening happen, special thanks must be provided to the speakers, Rosemarie Keough FI’02, Isabelle Groc FI’13, Maeva Gauthier FI’13, Beaty Biodiversity Museum staff and volunteers for their help with making the event possible, and Nicolas Lemieux for his design work for the event’s posters.

Some feedback on the event: Dr. Andrew Trites: Thanks Jessica. I was impressed with how professional and well organized the evening was. I met lots of new people and expect to stay in touch with many of them. Thank you for putting this together and making it happen. I look forward to seeing you at another Explorers Club event.

March 2014: Capoeria: A glimpse into Brazilian cultureWe were very excited to have Instrutora Andrea Podracky from Grupo Axé Capoeira agree to host an event for The Explorers Club and highlight the food, culture and art forms of Brazil. Unfortunately, the event had to be postponed; however, we look forward to hearing from Andrea in the future when her schedule permits. Stay tuned.

Andrea began training with Axé Capoeira in 1999, from the moment she saw her first class, she knew Capoeira would be something she would explore deeply. Fourteen years later, she remains humbled and inspired by this extraordinary art form. Over the years Andrea has had the opportunity to share her love of Capoeira with her students and participate in workshops, festivals and events around the world. She feels fortunate to share the philosophy of Capoeira as a strong tool for personal development.

Andrea remains committed to furthering her skills and developing more fully in her art. She strongly believes in the power of community building through Capoeira and aspires to construct cultural bridges between kids in Canada and those in Brazil through her Kids Helping Kids charity foundation. She is the winner of the 2010 European Open Capoeira tournament, where she competed against men and women. Andrea has overcome incredible adversity in recovering from a complete hip replacement inspiring people around the world as the highest ranked female representative in our group worldwide.

April 2014: The Beauty and Value of our Northern ResourcesA night filled with wine, cheese, and stories regarding the rich resources of the north, their beauty and value. Neil Hartling of Nahanni Adventure Tours, spoke of his journey from a young 20-year-old adventurer paddling his first rivers to owning a world class company that manages expeditions on twenty waterways across the north. Jocelyn Joe-Strack’s voice filled the room in a true oral storyteller fashion, giving those in attendance a new perspective, sharing the history of her family and her hopes for the future of northern resources. The room was open to many discussions, even the difficult ones, regarding residential schools, warring tribes, illness, economic development and protection of different northern regions. We shared our stories, our connections to northern resources, and we learned from and inspired one other.

Comments and photos from Neil Hartling, one of our key speakers for the evening: After “Floating through the world’s largest non-polar ice cap” (via Power Point) and a provocative presentation on Yukon’s Water, we enjoyed a rich exchange and social time. Thanks to Jessica and The Explorer’s Club.


An Investigation of the Whaling Shipwrecks in Conception Harbour, Newfoundland and LabradorWarren Bush SI’10“Currently there are three wrecks on the site and the true identities up until this point have yet to be confirmed through study or analysis,” reads the report for Archaeology Research Permit 13.32 submitted to Newfoundland and Labrador’s Department of Tourism, Culture and Recreation on 8 April 2014. The report is referencing the flagship project of the recently formed Not-for-Profit group, the Shipwreck Preservation Society of Newfoundland and Labrador (SPSNL), dedicated to advancing “the study, documentation, and appreciation of Newfoundland and Labrador shipwrecks, and the historical, archaeological, and diving methods needed to obtain this goal,” according to the group’s website. Untold thousands of ships have met their fate on the seabed surrounding the island, representing a graveyard of exceptional potential for exploration and research. In early 2012, SPSNL members decided on what would become the groups’ capital project: identifying three shipwrecks, known to be whalers, which had apparently been abandoned in the region of Conception Harbour. Whilst documenting what are essentially obstructions to navigation isn’t the sexiest notion, the idea presented a methodologically sound proposal – an attempt to conceive and execute against historical and archaeological objectives is typically complex, but the fledging SPSNL needed to start somewhere – and identifying the whalers would introduce basic principles required to undertake more ambitious future projects. Thus, during the summer of 2012 and that of 2013, a number of meetings took place to plan the fieldwork that the project’s success would hinge on. Contextualizing the wrecks was merely a matter of research – the whaling industry in Newfoundland began with the Basque in the 16th century, a dynamic that received widespread attention through an archaeological excavation at Red Bay, in Labrador, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. North Atlantic whaling intensified over the coming centuries, and the harvesting capabilities of commercial firms increased dramatically with advances in steam power and munitions. The region particularity appealed to British and Norwegian interests, but enterprising British subjects also set out to exploit the whale fishery. Indeed, from 1898 to 1972, no less than nineteen whaling companies operated out of Newfoundland. One such entity, Johan C. Borgen’s Hawke Harbour Whaling Company, became the focus of SPSNL. Although Borgen based himself out of St. John’s, he hunted whales from as far south as South Georgia Island near Antarctica, to as far north as Hawke Harbor, Labrador, and was well known within the maritime community (allegedly he killed 5,100 over a 20 year career). He purchased the assets of the Polar Whaling Company on 8 April 1957, which furnished him with a fleet of six whalers and a shore-based processing station in Hawke Harbor. Not majestically titled, the ships were the SS Charcot, SS Southern Foam, SS Sukha, SS Sposa, SS Soika, and SS Sluga. Borgen’s Hawke Harbor whaling station burned to the ground in September of 1959, and he

Explorer Reports & Updates

Diver near rudder and propeller of S.S. Charcot. Photo by Neil Burgess.

Deck machinery on the bottom beside SS Charcot. Photo by Neil Burgess


moved five of the six ships to Conception Harbour, a small town in Conception Bay, on the northern coast of the Avalon Peninsula of Newfoundland (one ship was already a wreck in Hawke Harbor). Borgen’s operations suffered further setbacks with imposition of a whaling moratorium designed to ameliorate the disastrous state of the North Atlantic whale fishery. His once industrious fleet settled into the landscape of Conception Harbour, eventually becoming relics of a bygone industry and obstructions to navigation. Local knowledge indicated that two of the five ships had been towed away for scrap – although exactly which ones remained an elusive fact

Explorer Reports & Updates continued

Harpoon gun on bow of S.S. Sukha, built in Yorkshire, England in 1929. Photo by Neil Burgess.

– and over time, two more sank below the waterline and eventually settled slightly beyond, and underneath, a fifth. SPSNL’s task lay in obtaining sources that established the physical particulars of the initial six vessels, although the wreck at Hawke Harbor, known to be the SS Sluga, could safely be ruled out. Months of archival digging eventually yielded construction agreements and material purchasing orders from Smith’s Dock Company, located in Middlesbrough on the River Tees, in England. Smith’s launched four of the five vessels throughout the 1920s, and the documentation provided critical details needed in the field. SPSNL arranged for an introductory course to be taught in Underwater and Foreshore Archaeology under agreement with Britain’s Nautical Archaeology Society, which trained local divers in the principles and methods of archaeological fieldwork. The project’s final report indicates that the course provided “an understanding of archaeological dating techniques, principles of deposition, site formation processes, archaeological legislation, and underwater two-dimensional (2D) survey skills.” SPSNL members spent the remainder of the 2013 summer season conducting surveys of the wrecks, which proved more difficult than initially anticipated, namely though limited visibility, maneuvering equipment around the sites troublesome orientation, heavy kelp growth, magnetic interference, and cold water. Fieldwork employed two avenues of methodology established during the course, 2D and 3D survey methods. The 2D method used a 20m baseline and was advantageous for mapping the debris field, which “created a spatial awareness of the artifacts in conjunction with the wreck,” according to the report. Further, “each wreck was then directly measured using survey tape and then tied into the baseline using bearings and distances. Freehand sketches and measurements were done underwater of each shipwreck, noting all significant superstructure, deck machinery and components.” A 3D survey method was also employed with the help of a computer program, which analyzes control points designated by divers, and creates a precise 3D map based on trilateration of the points.Once fieldwork wrapped up, SPSNL members analyzed the results, and conclusively identified the wrecks as the SS Charcot, SS Sukha, and SS Southern Foam (results that differed from regional speculation). The project wasn’t exactly a sensational archaeological milestone, but it represents a successful and responsible flagship project for an organization in a region of significant potential for fieldwork – an exciting new project is already shaping up!


Explorer Reports & Updates (cont’d)

100 Miles of Wild: North Dakota Badlands TransectSimon Donato FI’09All photos by Simon DonatoIn spring 2013, Adventure Science undertook the 100 Miles of Wild: North Dakota Badlands Transect, the first project of its kind across the rugged badlands. Carrying Explorers Club Flag #112, the purpose was to observe the effect of the current Bakken oil boom on the Badlands wilderness. Rather than take the established Maah-Daah-Hey Trail, the team navigated primarily off-trail through areas of interest. To tie itself to the history of the region, the trek started at the North Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park (TRNP) headed to Theodore Roosevelt’s Elkhorn Ranch, and concluded at the South Unit of TRNP in Medora. The teams travelled on foot to seldom-visited, isolated places within the Badlands, typically staying within the boundaries of the federally-administered Little Missouri National Grassland. Three two-person teams were

Jessican K. navigates a ridgeline

Typical oil pad.


deployed daily and tasked with covering distances between 10 - 25 miles per transect. These teams (Team Tortoise, Speed Deer, and Mountain Kitty) were assigned routes designed to cross varied and difficult landforms, with an emphasis on travelling to places no one goes to on foot. For this project, the journey, not the destination, was important.While deployed, the teams were charged with observing and recording their impressions of the native flora and fauna, as well as any anthropogenic creations. Records and documentation were collected with the goal of establishing a description and personal sense of this landscape. The data will be used to create a ‘baseline’ impression of the land that can be compared to this area as it was in the 19th century, as well as a record that can be used in the future to gauge the impact of the Bakken oil boom.Teams were required to stop briefly every few hours to

Scoria roads and pads. Photo courtesy of Ecoflight.


Jessica K. with fossilized tree stump between log points M4 and M5.

Bison skull from eroding creek bank near log point M8.

Golden Eagle at log point S20.

Historic farm implement between M6 and M7

record their experiences, the view, and the sounds they were hearing. Each of these locations was designated as a log point. At each log point team members recorded a photo and video panorama, and took notes on what they observed and felt. The route and records were carefully tracked with GPS units. Team notes at each log point included an assessment of their location and signs of ‘civilization’ they could see, the sounds and smells of the location, and perhaps most importantly the feeling of their location. This method of recordation was designed in part to overcome the inability to collect quantifiable data from a quick pedestrian transect, and in part out of recognition that the project aim was to collect the feeling of the landscape, which is inherently personal and non-quantifiable. Additionally, this data was appropriate for collection by individuals with extensive wilderness experience but lacking discrete scientific skills applicable to this landscape. Teams also recorded natural and anthropogenic features, and included a narrative of their travels between log points. At the end of each day, a debriefing was held, and each team shared what they learned about the state of this inspiring wilderness.Overview of Findings The full report can be found here: www.adventurescience.caOil development: The teams encountered numerous oil pads. The transect was conducted in the earliest days of spring when minimal drilling activity occurs. Teams carried H2S monitors and no H2S leaks were recorded during the expedition. The overall cleanliness of the well sites was better than expected, with minimal litter and no unconfined liquids observed. Within the National



Typical scoria road.

Active water tank between log points M1 and M2.

Rippled sandstone between log points M4 and M5.

Grasslands, most oil pad equipment has been painted a neutral tan color that blends well with the landscape. Roads: The team encountered and unanticipated number of roads built throughout the transects. While traffic on the roads was minimal at the time of the transects, the roads were noticeable as a substantial intrusion in the landscape. The roads are built primarily out of local ‘scoria’ (burned clay), and are built to withstand traffic from heavy trucks and equipment.Archaeology: Prehistoric archaeological sites in the Badlands (which are not numerous) can be difficult for the non-expert to identify, as they usually are expressed by small lithic scatters. Thus no definitive prehistoric archaeological sites were identified. Abundant skeletal remains of bison, horse, and other plains mammals were observed and recorded during the expedition. A possible chert scraper found in association with a bison bone bed (log point M12), suggests that this may be an archaeological site. With the exception of recent material, these sites were always identified in eroded embankments/cut-banks along numerous creeks. Such sites can be natural of related to human activity. These bone bed sites were recorded with GPS, photos, and brief descriptions. Geology/paleontology Paleocene: No Cretaceous aged fossils were identified, although Paleocene marine bivalves were observed, as well as numerous fossilized tree trunks/stumps (both of the Sentinel Butte Fm.) during the survey. Fossil trees were so numerous that they are recorded in the notes but were not individually documented.Pleistocene/holocene: Stratified Pleistocene/Holocene deposits are common valley in-fill (alluvium). Often fining upwards from a coarse lag, these deposits record fluvial



Bison bone bed near log point M11.

activity and tend to be highly fossiliferous, with well-preserved bison material weathering out of creek banks in numerous locations visited. Wildlife ecology: A number of key species were observed including big horn sheep, mule deer, eagles, coyote, beaver and pronghorn. Bison, wild horse, and elk were observed in the National Parks. Evidence of other predatory animals was noted. Mountain Lion tracks were ubiquitous in any area near streams or springs. Wolf /coyote tracks were not uncommon. Bear scat was noted near the North Unit of the park. Historical sites: A number of 30-50 year old farming, ranching, and mining implements were noted during the survey. These were note recorded individually. Fences were ubiquitous.Sense of wilderness Defining the term “wilderness” is somewhat subjective. The Oxford dictionary defines it as “An uncultivated, uninhabited, and inhospitable region” while the Miriam-Webster dictionary defines it as: “(1): a tract or region uncultivated and uninhabited by human beings (2): an area essentially undisturbed by human activity together with its naturally developed life community”. Using either of these definitions - true wilderness areas in the lower 48 are uncommon, and often fragmented. Wilderness is a perception of individuals, and the team was carefully chosen to include only participants who had worldwide travel experience in exceptional wilderness area. Thus when the teams say something “felt like wilderness,” their point of reference is more likely to be someplace like Borneo rather than a local park.As teams hiked a collective 270 miles of transects, it became apparent that the difficult geography of the Badlands have shielded them from large-scale development, with ranching the only extensive use of the area. The transects ran primarily through the federally-managed Little Missouri National Grasslands. The Grasslands are not a designated wilderness area, and the mandate of the U.S. Department of Agriculture is to use the lands for the public good, a use that currently includes grazing and oil development. The rugged nature of the Grasslands has, however, led to an area largely undisturbed until the current oil boom. Despite this, the threat of future development and rapid expansion of the industry is real and should be carefully managed by the State to ensure that this unique wilderness region, and its non-human inhabitants are not irreparably damaged by the current boom. While the team presented several recommendations, the most pressing is the need for a road and well free wildlife corridor, linking the north and south units of TRNP.


Austin Mardon CorMem’86 receives honorary degreeThe University of Lethbridge (Alberta) announced that Austin Mardon, 51, is one of the recipients who will receive an honorary Doctor of Laws degree in the coming spring 2014 convocation ceremony. Mardon is best known for his tireless advocacy on behalf of those living with schizophrenia and other mental illnesses. He is also an International Fellow and Corresponding fellow of the Explorers Club of New York. Mardon graduated from the University of Lethbridge with

In Other News

a degree in geography in 1985, and a promising future ahead of him. The following year, at the age of 24, he was involved in a meteorite recovery expedition in the South Pole which was funded by NASA and the National Science Federation. He managed to recover over 700 meteorites and was awarded the U.S. Antarctic Service Medal for his work.However, at the age of 30, Mardon was diagnosed with schizophrenia. “I thought my life was over”, Mardon recalls. But Mardon didn’t let his diagnosis stop him from going on with his life and continuing with his education. Mardon completed his PhD in Geography through a long distance program at the University of Greenwich in Australia. Since then, he has been keeping himself busy. He served on the board of directors for the Shizophrenia Society of Alberta, was the coordinator of the Alberta Mental Health Self-Help network, and advised on the Premier’s Council on the Status of Persons with Disabilities, among many other achievements. Furthermore, he has authored and co-authored over 50 books and 242 shorter pieces.Mardon has garnered much recognition and honours for his efforts, including the President’s Award from the Canadian Mental Health Association (2002), Order of Canada (2007), and Medal of Honor from the Alberta Medical Association (2010). He is also a member of the International Academy of Astronautics.University of Lethbridge chancellor, Dr. Shirley McClellan, said of this honor, “We’re very excited that Austin has accepted our offer of an honorary degree and are pleased to recognize the work he has done over the years to bring issues of mental illness to the forefront”. _______Nameless Arctic River Expedition 2014Adam Shoalts TI’14The expedition’s objective is old-fashioned exploration at is finest: an attempt to become the first in recorded history to canoe a nameless river on Victoria Island in Nunavut, nearly 300 kilometres above the Arctic Circle. No known person or expedition has ever previously canoed this river; which is covered in ice for nearly ten months of the year. This area is so remote it was only first mapped in the mid twentieth century, and only then by the use of air photos rather than more accurate ground surveys. The expedition, in addition to canoeing and exploring the river, will create a detailed topographic map of the river, adding geographic features such as waterfalls, rapids, and canyons omitted from the existing maps. Wildlife such as musk-oxen and polar bears will also be photographed as the expedition journeys to the Arctic Ocean. The expedition dates are August 12 - September 2, 2014.


Expedition outline From Cambridge Bay, Nunavut, we will fly via air charter approximately 200 kilometres due north to a large unnamed lake situated in the vast uninhabited interior of Victoria Island (the world’s ninth largest island). This lake is the headwaters of the nameless river that we will canoe to the Arctic Ocean (over 95 percent of the tens of thousands of waterways and lakes on Victoria Island remain nameless).

In Other News (cont’d)

We will traverse this lake via canoe, reaching the unnamed river’s outlet near its northeastern shore. From here, we will paddle, wade, and portage our way downriver to the Arctic Coast, presumably encountering white water and many shallow rocky stretches, as well as passing through some small lakes. Away from the river, we will explore on foot the surrounding barrens, hiking to several eskers in the area, adjacent lakes, muskeg, and hills. When we reach the sea, our pilot will rendezvous with us and together we will return to Cambridge Bay to complete the expedition (having covered about 300 kilometres in total). Surveying equipment and GPS will be carried in order to assist in the cartography work; using GIS, a detailed topographic map will be created through McMaster University’s GIS Laboratory. We believe the expedition meets all of Mountain Equipment Co-Op’s (MEC) requirements. It is a self-propelled expedition involving both paddling and hiking. Both expedition members are Canadian and members of MEC. The expedition is exploratory in nature; it will result directly in increasing geographic knowledge (the essence of traditional exploration), and will be the first known descent of this exceptionally remote Arctic river in recorded history. This is one of the most isolated and least explored parts of the planet and the expedition is certainly technically difficult. Both expedition participants are extensively prepared, through both physical training and gear preparation, and have extensive experience in Canada’s wilderness and the Far North. Both participants are skilled survivalists and will carry a satellite phone and GPS spot tracker as a safety precaution, as well as first aid kits. The expedition is focused on “no trace camping” and will rigidly adhere to the motto, “take only photographs, leave only footprints.” The small size of the party (only two individuals) will also help to minimize environmental impacts; no trace of the expedition will be left behind. Both participants have made the study of the natural world a major pursuit since childhood and are deeply committed to wilderness preservation. Shoalts was the recipient of the Niagara Region’s annual environmental award for 2008, in recognition of his volunteer work with local conservation groups and writing on environmental issues in local newspapers.


The Canadian Chapter continues to grow. As of mid-May we have 233 members, of whom 222 are in-country and 11 are out-of-the-country but prefer to be associated with this Chapter. By region our membership totals are: • 27 Atlantic / Quebec • 83 Ontario / Nunavut • 36 Prairies / NWT • 76 BC / Yukon Since January 1, 2014 we have recruited 13 new members and a number of changes in location and membership status. The major changes include: • Atlantic-Quebec Region

– Andrew Harvey TI’14 was elected as a Term Member – Dr. Patrick Mayer FI’04 moved into the region. – Dr. Simon Spooner FI’14 was elected as a Fellow – Nansen Weber MI’14 was elected as a Member

MembershipMembership Director John Pollack FI’06

– Rebecca Wolff SM’14 was elected as a Student Member • Ontario-Nunavut Region

– Captain William Bennett MI’14 was elected as a Member – Joe Frey FI’06 was reinstated as a Fellow – Nat King-Cormier MI’14 was reclassified to Member– Adam Shoalts TI’14 was elected as a Term Member – Travis Steffens FI’14 was elected as a Fellow

• Prairies-NWT Region – Paul Elliott AI’14 was elected as an Associate Member

• BC-Yukon Region – Dr. Sarah Boon FI’07 moved into the region – Sandra Borton TI’14 was elected as a Term Member – Francois Gervais MI’14 was elected as a Member – Daisy Gilardini FI’10 moved into the region – Richard Mayo MI’14 was elected as a Member – Dr. Verena Tunnicliffe FI’13 was reinstated

If anyone wants to sponsor a new member, remember one of the jobs of the Membership Director is to assist in that process with a co-sponsor letter if needed, and a check on the package to ensure it is complete. I’d be pleased to help you.

Welcome to the Club!


The Awards and Honours Committee is currently working to modify the existing awards structure within the Canadian Chapter. These modifications were spurred by suggestions from members to 1) clarify the existing categories, 2) provide latitude to recognize worthy Canadian explorers who were not necessarily members of The Explorers Club and 3) find a cost effective replacement for the Steffanson Medal, as the original mould has been lost, and there is a high cost for replacement. Once these changes are approved by the Canadian board, the annual awards competition will open for members.

Awards & HonoursCommittee Chair Simon Donato FI’09

Send us your suggestions for resources, information, granting sites, websites and other materials helpful to exploration and field research. Explorers Club Canadian Chapter Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/explorersclubcanada. Find out what your fellow members are up to and share your own news.Gribs USA (www.grib.us) is the format used by the meteorological institutes of the world to transport and manipulate weather data and is the foundation of the forecasts we see around us in our daily life. GRIB.US allows you to extract weather files tailored to your needs. The easy-to-use Ugrib software allows you to view the data anywhere in the world when you want to, where you want to.

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