May 13th, 2023, First Creek Field Trip Report

On Sat. May 13th we went to First Creek for agate, jasper, and crystal geodes. It was a hot day with temperatures in the mid-80s, but beautiful clear skies and views. We had 22 people in 11 vehicles. After hiking to the 2 mile ravine, the Merriman’s took half the group to the dig pits on east side of the ravine while the rest of us were kind of scattered through the area. I think the heat was a limiting factor in climbing the hills, at least for me. The diggers ended up with some nice agate nodules, while surface collectors found mostly crystal material and seam agate material. Everyone brought extra water and by about 4:00 PM we were back to the parking lot. Such a relief to exchange my boots and socks for sandals. Ticks didn’t seem to be an issue, although a couple of them were spotted.

Our next scheduled trip is on June 17th to Little Naches. The DOT always tries to get Chinook Pass open by Memorial Day weekend. With this long stretch of hot weather I anticipate the road will be open soon, despite the heavy snowpack received this winter.

Attendees were Paul A. and Peggy S., Tammy C., Robert M. with kids Evalyn and Johnathan, Loren M, Gina L. and Michael K., Steve F. (2nd outing), Gina M. and Julie M.,
Also .. new members making their first trip were Jason S. with son Westin, Grady and Maddy N., Lynnette A. and guest Katie, Lorie L., Jeanie L., and guest Martha C.
Thanks Jeanie for a number of these nice photos.

Submitted by Roger Danneman Field Trip Guide (roger.danneman@gmail.com)
425-757-3506 cell and texts

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Updated: July 11, 2023 — 10:12 am

Presidents Message

  • From the Top of the Rock Pile Our Gem Show is on June 29th and 30th, with set-up on June 28th. Roger is looking for volunteers, so be prepared to help when he calls or emails you. We need a volunteer to ensure all the signs we need inside the venue are made and printed. We also need a volunteer to order street signs for our new location, place them before the show, and take them down. Then I am looking for a volunteer to take charge of the club sales table and set up the sales table. We need

Meeting Announcements

  • Topic: Out-of-state rockhounding sites by Roger Danneman Oregon, Utah, Idaho, Montana, etc. – So many rockhounding places! We have a few members who have combined a road trip vacation and rockhounding that will collaborate on this. It’s interesting to see the variety of material from these areas. After this meeting, you may want to plan a road trip too! Show ‘n Tell: Show us something you have found or bought on a road trip.

  • April 11th – Rock Bingo (Spring Break) and Food Drive This meeting is our annual “Rock Bingo” night. It is held during spring break so our Young Tumblers and their friends can attend without worrying about school the next day. Each member is asked to bring 3 wrapped items for each person who intends to play Bingo. You can play up to 3 games in person, and every person goes home a winner. Please try to donate an item you would like to receive, not junk slabs and rocks. Let’s all plan to have a fun evening together. Guests are welcome, and we encourage our Young Tumblers to bring their friends. Food Drive – We are collecting food for the Kent Food again. Try to donate 1 item or more for every person playing Bingo.

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