The Hidden Lore of Gravel | With Dustin Clayton

Join Dustin Clayton by the banks of the West Nishnabotna river for a discussion centering on the rocks, minerals, and fossils common to western Iowa.

We'll discuss the geological events that have shaped the landscape around us and how the rocks and stones present in the rivers, streams, and gravel beds of our region came to be there. We'll also talk about how people have interacted with the mineral world over time and the very long relationship humans have had with flints, cherts, and quartzes. From tools to talismans, we'll examine stones in myth and legend.

There will be a walk along the river (weather and river conditions permitting) and a demonstration of stone tool making.

Ages 16+ please. $12 per person. Park entry fee included in registration. Please meet at Olsen Lodge.

About Dustin:

Dustin Clayton is a lifelong student of the natural world and an avid woods walker. He has for many years been a practitioner of various Earth-based skills including: flintknapping, folk herbalism, foraging, traditional woodworking, cordage making, and fiber arts. Additionally, he has extensively studied folk traditions and practices from around the world.  He believes very deeply in approaching the land as it presents itself through the lenses of myth, craft, and contemplation. Dustin’s goal in all the programming he presents is to inspire people to get out into the woods and begin to build respectful relationships with the living world all around them.

“It is my very great hope that this program will provide people who are not scientists, but who are nevertheless filled with wonder and curiosity while in natural spaces, with access points for being in the right relationship with the living world.” — Dustin Clayton

Awaken Your Connection to the Natural World Today:

This is one of ten programs that Dustin will lead in 2022, all with the goal of guiding you into a deeper relationship with the land by awakening your senses, curiosity, and interconnectedness with the living communities of which you are a part. Each program will include three components: traditional craft, folk/ancestral knowledge, and contemplative engagement. These programs will naturally build on each other and have cumulative value, but participants do not need to attend them all to gain understanding and a sense of awakening. We hope to see you soon - whether it’s for a single program or more!

Cancellation Policy

Guests may cancel their reservation for a full refund up to 1 week (7 days) prior to the program date by calling 712-545-3283 and speaking with staff directly. Cancellations received less than 1 week (7 days) in advance of the event will not be refunded. Fees for programs cancelled by PCC due to weather or other circumstances will be refunded.