Field Trip

Experience an unforgettable field trip with a visit to the Laramie Foothills Bison Conservation Herd and the Lindenmeier Site. Explore the majestic bison herd, a key part of conservation efforts, and immerse yourself in the rich history of the Lindenmeier Site, one of North America's most significant archaeological discoveries. This unique excursion offers a blend of natural beauty, wildlife conservation, and a fascinating glimpse into ancient cultures.

Friday, April 4, 2025

Overview:

Soapstone Prairie Natural Area is an astonishing wide-open landscape spanning nearly 19,000 acres. It is home to miles-upon-miles of trails, extensive and diverse archaeological human history and rare plant and animal life. Soapstone truly is a place to behold.

Soapstone is home to two types of wildlife that were reintroduced into what used to be their natural habitats – the American Bison and the Black Footed Ferret.

We recommend you wear comfortable clothing and sensible footwear to make the most out of the field trip! And don’t forget to bring your water bottle to limit plastic waste!

Itinerary

8:00AM - Meet at front entry of The Embassy Suites, nearby The Ranch Events Complex. You will be assigned to a van for transport to the Soapstone Natural Prairie Area.

8:15-8:30 – Vans depart for Soapstone Natural Prairie Area. Transit time is approximately one hour. Note: the last nine miles consist of gravel road, which can be dusty and bumpy.

9:15-9:30 – Arrive Soapstone Natural Prairie Area South Parking Lot. Bathrooms are available.

9:30-10:00 – Welcome Talk. Local Experts from the City of Fort Collins and Larimer County will explain how the site originated and how it is used today. Casey Cisneros (Larimer County Natural Resources Dept) and Justin Fredrickson and Matt Parker (City of Fort Collins Natural Areas Dept) will present the introduction.

10:00-11:15 – First Group Tour. You will be assigned to one of two groups, who will rotate visiting the following areas:

The Lindenmeier Site, a stratified multi-component archaeological site that contains the most extensive Folsom culture campsite yet found, with radiocarbon dates of c. 12,300 B.P. Kelly Smith (City of Fort Collins) and Matt Parker will discuss the history of the site and how local land managers responsibly steward values of national interest.

The Bison Range and Handling Facility – here you will learn about the Laramie Foothills Bison Conservation Herd, a herd of Yellowstone lineage, which was reintroduced to the Soapstone Prairie Natural Area in 2015. You will also learn how the bison are managed, and how the program started and has evolved. Jennifer Barfield (CSU), Matt McCollum (CSU), and Rasa Humeyumptewa (CSU) will lead the discussion.

11:15-12:30 – Second Group Tour. Group 1 and 2 rotate and visit the alternate site.

12:30 – Picnic Lunch at North Parking Lot. An assortment of freshly made sandwiches from Cheba Hut, chips, and other refreshments will be provided. Gluten free and vegetarian options available upon request.

12:45-1:30 – Vans depart Soapstone. Early-departure vans can take lunches to go.

1:45-2:30 Vans return to The Embassy Suites in Loveland.