Join us for a celebration of 2016’s accomplishments on Saturday, June 24 at 6:30 pm. and enjoy a presentation by Geof Smith on his solo canoe expedition through Alaska’s Brooks Range. The event will take place at NMU’s Seaborg Center, room #2806.
Smith’s expedition was a solo venture covering 650 miles and lasting 51 days. It began on June 30, 1985 and was completed on August 19, 1985. He will share his experience through scenic photographs, interesting encounters with bears and wolves along with some agonizing stories and joys of the trip.
In the summer of 1988, Smith completed a second Arctic Canoe Trip (870 mi) with two friends in the barren lands of Canada.
Geof Smith is currently enjoying retired life, with his wife, Kristi in Negaunee, MI. after 33 years of working for the National Parks Service. After starting his service as a volunteer with Joshua Tree National Monument (now a National Park), he has been employed by many parks throughout his career. Some of the notable parks include: Isle Royale National Park, Everglades National Park, Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, Voyageurs National Park, and several parks in Alaska- Glacier Bay, Denali, Gates of the Arctic and Kenai Fjords National Parks.
Smith is presently pursuing writing and photography interests as well as contributing to stream monitoring conservation efforts in the area and is a board member of MooseWood Nature Center. He is also teaching some natural history. Geof and Kristi are avid bird watchers, enjoy fly fishing, canoeing, enthusiastically exploring their family history (genealogy), and love to travel.
The Annual Meeting schedule: (times are approximate)
6:30 pm.—Welcome message, accomplishments of 2016, acknowledgements and thank yous, upcoming programs and events
7:00 pm.—Introduction of Erica Pfleiderer, Animal Supervisor and volunteer coordinator with a report on volunteer needs
7:15 pm.—Business Meeting
7:45 pm.—Presentation by Geof Smith: Arctic Canoe Expedition Through Alaska’s Brooks Range
Attendees are invited to enjoy refreshments and meet with staff and board. The public is welcome.
Donations not required but are always welcome.
