By Lyndsie Kiebert
Reader Staff
When it comes to enjoying the great landscapes of North Idaho, even the most seasoned outdoorsman has more to learn.
Matchwood Brewing is hoping to create a space where that learning can happen with the Summer Adventure & Safety Series, where local experts will bring topics to the table in hopes they can benefit local recreators next time they hit the trail.
Owner Andrea Marcoccio said she and the rest of the Matchwood team was inspired to continue offering outdoor education courses after working with the Idaho Panhandle Avalanche Center to host their Snow Pit Chats at the brewery this past winter.
“We saw a deep interest from the community in social learning experiences on topics that our neighbors care about deeply,” Marcoccio said. “We are excited to invite guests to connect with one another about outdoor adventures and safety while enjoying local craft beer (and) hearing from experienced leaders on each topic.”
The resulting series consists of six workshops pertaining to a swath of knowledge useful for recreating in the summer months. The first in the series is happening July 12 5-6:30 p.m. with help from event partner Selkirk Outdoor & Leadership Education and is titled “Leave No Trace Bear Awareness.” Remaining workshops are “Mountain Medicine: Safety in the Wilderness” Aug. 14 with Longleaf Wilderness Medicine, “Pack Packing 101” Aug. 21 with SOLE, “Living and Recreating Safely In and Around the Bunker Hill Superfund Site” Aug. 29 with Idaho Conservation League, and finally “Mountain Goat Awareness and Safety” Sept. 11 with Friends of Scotchman Peaks Wilderness.
Marcoccio said all workshops in the Summer Adventure & Safety Series are free and aim to target every skill level.
“From hikers and trail runners to first-time backpackers, these events are free, family-friendly and will benefit a wide range of adventurers,” she said.
Those with questions about the series should contact the brewery at 208-718-2739.
