Our office trailer was supposed to arrive Monday, but high winds prevented delivery Monday and Tuesday. Wednesday wasn’t looking too good either according to the dispatcher. Thus it was a joyous surprise to see the familiar green-trimmed trailer chugging up the HAC when we were heading down to Riverton to run a couple of errands. The installation is going on as we speak, unfortunately all the snow melt has made a mess and it is taking a long time to get the office trailer stable and level.

With no work space we have not been able to get at any of the gear. It has just been the crew hanging out in the trailer for the most part. Erin and Dan got in first, and we managed a quick trip to Sinks Canyon yesterday. There was a LOT of snow, more than I’ve seen there. The main river channel was mostly covered. We didn’t see any Dippers anywhere, so I wonder if they didn’t have enough clear real estate along the stream.



The snow was (mostly) packed down enough for us to hike up our usual trail up the canyon. Spectacular as always!



Also one moose resting below the road in the University of Missouri geology station.



Today we ventured out to Chugwater Lek mid morning after the male sage-grouse would have stopped displaying for the day.



There was still a good foot of snow on the lek surface, and only a small amount of grouse sign. It is still quite early and with the amount of snow it wasn’t too surprising that the lek wasn’t more active.



We also began orienting the crew to the ins and outs of living in the trailer. Here Gail is demonstrating emptying the grey water for Erin, Mary, and Dan.



The port-a-potty also arrive today, so we’re pretty much all set! Tomorrow we’ll set up the office trailer and start bringing the 4-wheelers up from Riverton. Progress!