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Who is Martha Yates?
Dr. Martha Yates served as Coyote District Archaeologist on the Santa Fe National Forest for many years and taught at UCLA, the University of California Santa Barbara, and the University of Vermont. In 2008, the Secretary of the Interior and the White House appointed Dr. Yates to the Resources Advisory Council, an advisory council to the Bureau of Land Management.
Dr. Yates received her BA in Archaeology/Anthropology, an MA in Philosophy of Religion from Columbia, an MA from University of Vermont in Greek/Latin, and her PhD in Classics from UCLA, which included Bronze age archaeology, along with the study of Etruscan mirror work and Linear B tablets. She was a Resident Scholar at Harvard University, studying Sanskrit and Hindu Mythology. A professional photographer as well, she has worked for the New York City Planning Commission Press Office and the Mayor’s Press Office with photos in The New York Times and on WNEW-TV News. Martha has won special archaeology awards, a Distinguished Scholars Award from University of California Santa Barbara, and many others. She is a writer with a number of publications to her credit and has won awards for her poetry.
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What will I see and experience on this trip?
Itinerary
The week before the trip: Presentation and orientation
via Zoom with Dr. Martha Yates from 5pm-7pm MST Required
Wednesday: Farmington, NM
Arrive by 5pm MST to the Hampton Inn, Farmington, NM
Dinner at the Three Rivers Brewery in Farmington, NM
Thursday: Chaco Canyon
6am Breakfast opens at the Hampton Inn
7am Depart for Chaco Canyon.
9am Arrive at Chaco Canyon Please bring a picnic lunch and plenty of water
5pm Return to the Hampton Inn in Farmington, NM
6:30pm Dinner at the Three Rivers Brewery in Farmington
Friday: Aztec and Chimney Rock National Monuments
6:00am Breakfast opens at the hotel
8:00am Depart for Aztec National Monument
8:30-10:00am Tour of Aztec Great House and the Great Kiva
10:15am Depart for Chimney Rock National Monument
11:30am Arrive Chimney Rock Please bring a picnic lunch and plenty of water
3:30pm Depart Chimney Rock
Tentative farewell dinner in at Alley Grill in Pagosa, CO
Known for it's hot springs and only 20 minutes from Chimney Rock, Pagosa, CO is a great place to spend your Friday night!
Since the altitude may be significantly higher than visitors are accustomed to, it is important to pay close attention to health concerns. Learn more about the climate and altitude precautions here.
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What other costs should I plan for?
Additional costs may include:
- Transportation A high clearance, 4WD vehicle is recommended
- Accommodations The group will use the Hampton Inn in Farmington, NM as a meeting location. It is not required that you stay there but we recommend staying close by in Farmington to ensure you are not late for group departures.
- Two picnic lunches Please bring a cooler
- All dinners including dinner at Three Rivers Brewery in Farmington, NM and the farewell dinner
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What do I need to bring with me?
In addition to your normal packing list, don't forget:
- Binoculars (you don't want to forget these!)
- A cooler or ice chest
- Food for two picnic lunches (Wed and Thur)
- A reusable water bottle and plenty of water (2-3 quarts per person per day)
- National Park Passes (Adults 62+ qualify for Senior Passes, learn more and purchase you pass here)
- Hiking poles (if you use them)
- A day pack
- Hiking boots/shoes
- Extra socks
- Sun hat
- Sunscreen
- Rain coat (just in case!)
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What is the weather like in Northern New Mexico?
With an average of 320 sunny days a year, Northern New Mexico is a beautiful place to visit! In May, expect warm days (80F) and cool nights (50F). It is smart to dress in layers and wear a hat.
This trip will take participants on outdoor adventures at higher altitudes (6,000-7,000 ft). Because of the high altitude, the sun may seem hotter than the actual temperature suggests. Participants are encouraged to drink plenty of water, wear a hat, and use sunscreen liberally.
Since the altitude may be significantly higher than visitors are accustomed to, it is important to pay close attention to health concerns. Learn more about the climate and altitude precautions here.
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Where can I learn more about the Chacoan world?
Dr. Yates' presentation and handout will ensure that you have the information you need to understand the Chacoan world. Should you be interested in learning more, Dr. Yates has provided a thorough bibliography.
Contact
Andy Mattern
Director, Doel Reed Center
andy.mattern@okstate.edu