Being a Good Observer is an Important Skill in the Backcountry

The better observer you are, the better your chances of survival are in an emergency.  If you spend a lot of time in the same general areas, you should take the time to learn to read the terrain. There are many nature signs that can help you.  Learning these signs can help you in almost any areas or situations.

For instance, let’s talk about rock.  The type of rock in the area can tell you a lot about what to expect.  Limestone will tell you that you may find caves, holes and stone pillars.  If there is granite, the chances of natural caves are greatly reduced.  Where there is granite you are likely to have uneven rough ground and depending on the area maybe wet boggy ground.

Pay attention to rock faces, geological forces such as glaciers often tip rocks in the same direction.  See if there are any exposed angles visible and do they tend to run in one direction.  If you are familiar with the rocks in your area, this can help you to determine the points of the compasses.  This is one of the few navigation techniques that will work underground in a cave.

Look at the smaller rocks around you.  If the rocks are round and smooth, you know they have been exposed to running water and constant erosion.  The water may be gone but you can use this technique to help determine if the area you are in is susceptible to flash floods. Be careful in low-lying areas.

Soils are another thing to watch.  The darker the soil, the more organic materials it contains and the richer it is.  You should have lots of plant and animal life in this type of area.

When it is time to set up a camp or bug out location, check the soils in your campsite.  Sandy soils tend to be dry and drain well.  Clay soils will hold the water.  Avoid this type of soil when camping.

These are just a few of nature’s signs that you will see if you are a good observer.  Every area is unique in some aspects, but many are consistent all over.  Work on your skills and become a good observer.

Howard

The post Being a Good Observer is an Important Skill in the Backcountry appeared first on PREPAREDNESS ADVICE.