Survival Skills

The Cattail and its Many Uses

The Cattail and its Many Uses

The cattail is one of the most easily identifiable and recognized plants in North America, and also one of the most useful. Growing throughout the entire state of Minnesota, they are always easy to locate, usually forming dense growths around lake shores, ponds, and swampy areas. Let's take a look at some of the ways we can utilize this plant in the field.

Firestarting in Cold/Wet Weather

Firestarting in Cold/Wet Weather

Fire is perhaps our most important tool in the wilderness. We rely on it for warmth, light, cooking food, and purifying water among other things. The ability to start a fire in less than ideal conditions is especially important, as that's when we need it most. On this trip we'll practice a few techniques to see what works and what doesn't.