Statesman 10/23/23

HIGHLANDER

Utah State University, Logan, Utah

Week of October 23, 2023

Page 2 - The Utah Statesman, October 23, 202

‘Grasshopper Apocalypse’ at USU P

By Andie Allen NEWS REPORTER

T

his semester while studying outside, you may find yourself joined by frolicking grasshoppers.

One even might have decided to hitch a ride on your shoe while walking through campus.

Or maybe you are like Braxton Buttars, a mechanical engineering student who had one grasshopper jump not just onto his leg, but head-on into him.

“There does seem to be a lot of them,” he said.

This upsurge in grasshoppers is not just slightly bewildering. It’s also a threat to gardeners and farmers.

Utah Pests Quarterly, a newsletter from Utah State University Extension, has dubbed it “The Grasshopper Apocalypse.”

“Grasshoppers — just by the nature of them being so highly mobile and so highly destructive — it’s a lot more noticeable,” said Nick Volesky, program associate in USU’s biology department for integrated pest management.

In an email with The Utah Statesman, student organic farm manager Abigail Lazier said the insects were “definitely worse this season.”

“From what I saw this summer, the grasshoppers

caused extensive damage to many of our crops— particularly corn, green beans, strawberries and onions,” Lazier wrote.

When considering the noticeably high number of grasshoppers this season, Volesky says it is important to look at the lifecycle of grasshoppers and Logan’s recent climate.

Grasshoppers lay their eggs underground in the late summer and fall, so it would be easy to assume the harsh weather would be fatal to them. Contrarily, Volesky said their survival rate is increased because snowpack provides insulation and prevents desiccation, or drying out.

Last winter had the second largest amount of snowfall as recorded by Extreme Weather Watch. The website states the winter of 2022-23 had 134.8 inches of snowfall.

Wet and rainy conditions, however, promote infections and contribute to population crashes, according to Utah Pests.

“If the spring conditions are usually hot or dry, which we have pretty often in Utah, the eggs will hatch a lot faster,” Volesky said.

These climate conditions contributed greatly to the outbreak of grasshoppers this season, according to Utah Pests.

“Flower farms have been hit hard, where the grasshoppers will feed on the leaves, the stem, the fruit of the plant or the actual flower,” Volesky said. “That can cause a lot of economic setbacks.”

Volesky said gardeners have a few different options for grasshopper management, including row covers, which physically exclude the grasshopper from eating plants by covering them in mesh or spun down fabric.

“Row covers are 100% effective,” Volesky said.

Volesky also recommends for garden owners to hand remove the grasshoppers. Once removed, placing insects such as grasshoppers, caterpillars and others into soap and water can help manage infestations.

“Part of the challenge with grasshoppers is they’re really highly mobile,” Volesky said, “It’s hard when managing only a small space, so we usually recommend a community wide grasshopper control.”

Volesky said the best time to hand remove insects from gardens is in the morning because cold nights make them a lot slower.

Row covers and hand removal are ways to maintain grasshopper infestations for those who do not want to use chemical or pesticide control, but Utah Pests also gives pesticide recommendations.

“Bait products using active ingredients such as zeta-cypermethrin + bifenthrin, malathion, permethrin, and carbaryl are labeled for grasshopper use in home gardens,” the newsletter reads.

According to Volesky, 2024 will most likely bring another big grasshopper season before we see them diminish due to natural causes. So, if you weren’t ready for the grasshopper apocalypse this season, you can now prepare for next year.

Videos with additional information can be found on USU Extension’s YouTube channel.

Andie Allen has spent the last four years studying English and journalism at USU since she is too short to be a Disney princess.

— andie.allen@usu.edu

A grasshopper sits on the edge of a yard located on 500 N. in Logan.

PHOTO BY Claire Ott

By Alivia Hadfield NEWS REPORTER

U

briefs.

“I looked for common themes and then started grouping the results together. I read them not only for numbers but words to tell a story,” Brunner said. “What story is this story, and how does it impact and influence? How is it conversing with contemporary, climate, and environmental issues? How is it in conversation, if at all, with any policy or other areas of concern?”

Brunner got involved when Schad asked faculty to submit questions to be on the survey.

“We both wanted to ensure the poll results were communicated,” Brunner said. “We want this to be able to help environmental organizations, people on the ground doing the work, and help policymakers understand where Utahn’s priorities lie. We want to share it with the people making the laws or proposing new legislation and policy. So, the goal is to use this research to make a difference.”

Already, graduate students are using this data to create a master’s thesis.

“If students are interested in involvement, they can contact me,” Schad said.

“We’ve had undergraduate and graduate students working with us on this project, and they’re now co-authors of these research briefs. So we’re happy to have student involvement.”

Schad and Brunner have plans to send out a new version of the UPEP every 18 months or two years to compare Utahn’s feelings on environmental issues.

“We’re here as researchers at USU to help people understand and interpret the data or understand what it might mean for them,” Brunner said. “This isn’t a oneway communication. This data is intended to help, to encourage conversations.”

To view the full results of the UPEP poll visit chass.usu.edu/sociology/canri/upep.

tah State University’s Community and Natural Resources Insitute, or CANRI, recently published the findings of its 2023 Utah People and the Environment Poll, or UPEP. The poll surveyed 450 Utahns via probability sampling methods, which randomly selected households from across the The Utah Statesman has created a state and asked them to participate rather condensed version of the UPEP poll to than allowing people to opt in. see how student readers compare to The survey aims to understand Utahns’ Utah at large. Scan the QR code below to perspectives on environmental issues facparticipate. ing Utah.

“I think a survey like this that’s done well and seeks to gather a representative understanding of what people think can be really valuable,” said Jessica Schad, director of CANRI and the poll’s administrator. “I hope that the data can be used to inform decision-making in the state.”

The poll showed in a list of environmental concerns, drought is the No. 1 concern for Utah residents, with 57.6% finding it very concerning. The drying up of The Great Salt Lake was second (54.8%) and air quality was third (55.2%).

The Utahns surveyed also cared about outdoor recreation. The poll showed Alivia is a sophomore at Utah State 93.8% of respondents indicated outdoor University who loves everything recreation options and/or access to wiljournalism. When she’s not reading or derness and public lands were moderatewriting Alivia enjoys food, family and ly, very, or extremely important to them. playing the guitar.

CANRI reports in 2021, Utah tourists had spent $10.56 billion. This revenue — Alivia.hadfield@usu.edu supported 130,600 jobs and “resulted in $1.81 billion in state & local tax.”

The survey included questions about air pollution, water, heritage, people’s perception of environmental problems, Great Salt Lake, energy, recreational public lands, environmental issues and standard demographic questions. When Schad created the poll, she asked students and faculty members to submit questions and sections they would like to see on the survey.

“I gave students the opportunity to add on a small number of questions if they had an interest,” Schad said. “I also put out a call to all faculty that they had an opportunity to put questions on the survey.”

The UPEP team has released the executive summary and four policy briefs and plans to release new briefs every couple of weeks.

Betsy Brunner, an assistant communication studies and philosophy professor, PHOTO BY Jack Burton co-authored the executive summary and Karston Berkley, Jordan Barrus and Dallin Smith overlook Logan Canyon from Crimson Trail on Friday, Oct. 6.

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Page 3 - The Utah Statesman,October 23, 2023

Polling Utahns’ environmental concerns

Page 4 - The Utah Statesman, October 23, 202

Micromobility: A policy in progress “Utah State falls under a different jurisdiction than the city of Logan,” said Russ Holley, senior city planner. tah State University’s main campus in Logan Utah State decided to not allow Bird Scooters onto spans 400 acres. Students often walk to classtheir campus for safety reasons, according to Amanda es and events, but others have found they DeRito, associate vice president for strategic comunican save time getting to class by using micromobility cations. devices.

“Safety is always a top priority. Our Personal transportation within walkways are particularly crowded micromobility includes but is not between classes, and we want to make limited to the following devices: sure everyone can move safely where skateboards, scooters, bicycles, they need to go,” DeRito wrote in an electric scooters, longboards, email to The Utah Statesman. penny boards, rollerblades and one When asked, the following departwheels. ments declined to comment on microMicromobility on Utah State’s mobility, or Bird scooters: USU Police, campus is technically covered Risk Management, the policy office, under USU Policy 501, which was Parking & Transportation and the last updated in 1998.

Christensen Office of Social Action & “The use of bicycles, skateboards, Sustainability. and in-line skates shall be allowed USU does have plans to update both only as a means of transportation Policy 501 and Policy 509, which on walkways and other vehicular covers walkway safety. Plans for the travelways of USU. Anyone using updates started back in February of a bicycle, skateboard, or in-line 2022, but they were later delayed due skates on USU property shall give to the departure of former vice presright of way to any pedestrian ident of student affairs James Morales. and shall travel at a reasonable, Morales had been an advocate for safe, and prudent speed. Under no micromobility usage on campus due to circumstance will bicycling, skateits positive environmental impact. boarding, or in-line skating be DeRito said the committee is hopallowed on ramps, curbs, benches, ing to have the final policy within steps, or stairs and other such the next six months. This policy is structures. The use of bicycles, created through collaborative effort skateboards, or inline skates shall with USU departments such as not be permitted inside any buildFinance and Administrative Services, ing,” the current policy reads.

Sustainability, Risk Management and This past July, the city of Logan Public Safety. entered into an agreement with Nate Omer, the USUSA natural a micromobility company called resources college senator, sits on the Bird. Logan residents can use committee as a student representative.

Bird’s white electric scooters every“Micro-mobility directly influences where in Logan except on Utah PHOTO BY Zach Guercio student transportation choices, behavState’s campus.

Jasiah Winger skates around campus on Oct. 12. iors, and therefore carbon footprint,“

By Malory Rau NEWS REPORTER

U

Omer wrote in an email to the Statesman.

Omer is a personal micromobility user on campus and discussed micromobility communities on campus such as Aggie Blue Bikes.

Cache Valley has three, soon to be four, skate parks, but Utah State has no clubs or events held for skaters.

There were attempts in the spring semester of 2023 to create a Girls Skate Club, but it is no longer running.

“It could be that campus is snowed in for much of the school-year and people’s transport habits tend to change with that, but there’s certainly enough warm weather at the start and end of the school year for events. Blue Goes Green and the Office of Sustainability would certainly be interested in helping to organize more events to promote micromobility options,” Omer wrote.

Not all students are fans of micromobility. The crowded sidewalks can get tense with students flying by at a much faster pace than walking. Omer said in the winter months as snow banks build up, the sidewalks get even smaller, making the shared space even more crowded.

“Earbuds are a big issue,” Omer wrote. “I know noise canceling is great and people love to jam out while cruising around campus. I do it myself a fair bit, but being aware of your surroundings is really the number one thing someone can do to make things run smoother on campus sidewalks.”

Malory Rau is a sophomore studying social media, public relations and marketing.

When not skateboarding with friends, she is usually thrifting, reading or watching the latest movie.

— m.rau@usu.edu

THE USUSA UPDATE 10/10 • • •

The council motioned to table a resolution regarding FSL issues.

Amendments were passed regarding the wording of an alchohol resolution.

VP Emily Smilanich held a campus safety walk/ride in order to identify areas of safety concern around campus.

10/17 • •

The council passes resolution ELBR 2024-01 regarding alchohol on campus and also clarified a part of the resolution regarding graduate students.

The council is still working on reviewing all past pieces of relevant legislation to make sure they are up to date.

Cars drive up and out of Logan Canyon on Oct. 11.

PHOTO BY Wyatt Merchant

By Kris Carpenter NEWS REPORTER

A

s David Zook was driving down Logan Canyon, he saw a woman next to a stopped car, waving him down. Concerned, he pulled over.

The woman then took Zook to her vehicle, to where he saw the woman’s elderly mother in the passenger seat.

“I immediately was thinking to myself, ‘Is there some kind of medical emergency going on?’” Zook said.

The mother was fine, he later learned — but the small family had a broken down car, no cell service, and, as a result, no way to get out of the canyon without waving others down and hoping someone would help.

Zook then drove twenty minutes to leave the canyon, where he would have the cell service to call the Utah Highway Patrol. He estimated it had taken them over twenty minutes to reach the canyon, another twenty to find the family, and a final twenty to make it out of the canyon.

“If there had been a medical emergency, it would have taken more than twenty minutes for an ambulance to get there,” Zook said. “If that were a traffic accident or a heart attack or some other medical emergency, those minutes are critical.”

That’s why Zook, as Cache County executive, decided to push for fiber optic cables in Logan Canyon. The

extensive project, while it would provide cell service to residents, would ultimately cost $20 million from Utah state funds.

“That’s a major problem right now in Logan Canyon — it’s almost impossible to get help and to get to a hospital within an hour with the current conditions without cell service,” Zook said. “Having cell towers in Logan Canyon will be an incredible public safety improvement simply because of the fact that it will give people access to health in a timely basis.”

For Utah Sen. Chris Wilson, R-Logan, the project has been especially important to him. Just this last 2023 legislative session, Wilson sent in a funding appropriations request for the state to fund the expensive construction.

Wilson noted he was motivated to start the project because of the environmental concerns the lack of cell service could pose.

“If we get a semi truck, or, heaven forbid, a tanker truck or something like that, that went into the river into Logan River and was leaking or something, I just worry the emergency response is going to be that much longer if we don’t have the cell service,” Wilson said. “I was concerned about, you know, catastrophic issue with the environment.”

The Utah Department of Transportation won’t just focus on implementing fiber cables and building cell towers. The funding will also work to provide traffic cameras, message boards and weather stations, according to Rob Wite, UDOT Region One director.

Whenever a crash, weather event, or other type of emergency would close the canyon or create more dangerous driving conditions, Wilson said drivers would receive the information before they enter the canyon.

The cables will go from Garden City to the mouth of Logan Canyon, Wite said, and the construction is split up into several phases — with one section of the construction having been completed last year, another section completed on Oct. 14, 2023 and the last stretch to be completed next year.

The federal government also had to approve the project, as the Logan Canyon is on federally-owned land, Wilson said. After the state legislature approved his appropriations request, Congress then encouraged the UDOT to move forward.

In addition to moving through the weeds of the approval process, Zook noted how construction on the project has not been simple.

“The environmental factors there are pretty challenging to be able to do any kind of construction project, especially burying an underground cable, where (you have) your narrow, winding road with either a drop off on one side or a mountain on the other, and the river and weather conditions, and traffic going through there, and no alternative routes to detour traffic,” Zook said.

Despite the extensive work with installing fiber optic cables underground and building cell towers throughout the canyon — often lauded for its beauty, Zook said — the public should not have concerns about serious

environmental impacts.

Currently, the UDOT is working to fund the fiber optic cables, and separate cell phone companies are working with the Logan Ranger Service to build cell towers, Wite said. “(Logan Canyon) is a rare beauty in Utah and in our nation. That canyon is a natural treasure — and putting cell towers into the canyon is something that would be a great public safety movement, but it’s something that we also wanted to do in a way that we could preserve the natural beauty,” Zook said.

Utah Rep Daniel Johnson, R-Logan, agreed with Zook.

“I think that the beauty of the canyon with this kind of installation is not going to be hurt near as much as if you were cutting away at, chopping down trees,” Johnson said. “I don’t see that happening with this installation.”

Johnson, also a supporter of the funding request and member of the Utah House Transportation Committee, noted Utah State University students are especially central to conversations about the need for cell communication.

“It’s several thousands of students that go to Utah State University, and it’s growing, and so when we talk about safety concerns and transportation concerns, they’re right in the middle of all of that,” Johnson said.

“This is for them as much as it is for a visitor just coming in to our area or a lifelong resident of Cache County that is going up and down.”

Although construction should minimally affect USU students, Zook still encouraged any students driving through the canyon to remain cautious during the changes. Wite agreed, adding students should check with the UDOT social media sites.

“While we’re working on this project, there’s going to be closures in the canyon, probably lane closures from time to time,” Wite said. “We will send out alerts when there’s closures, and I think understanding that and knowing that during construction — that’s going to be an impact.”

Kris Carpenter is a senior studying English and journalism. When they’re not reporting and writing, they’re spending time with their spouse, reading, or playing Dungeons and Dragons.

—kris.carpenter@usu.edu

Page 5 - The Utah Statesman,October 23, 2023

Cell service coming to Logan Canyon

Page 6 - The Utah Statesman, October 23, 202

Where were the wildfires this summer? P

By Sydney Lyman NEWS REPORTER

T

ypically in the summer months, Logan skies rotate from a cheerful blue to a smokey gray.

This past summer was different. A late spring and an unusually cold winter reduced wildfires in the area, so skies were clearer. But less fire isn’t an inherently good thing, and the trend of fewer wildfires may not hold up in the coming summers.

Mark W. Brunson, a professor of human-environment interactions at the S.J. & Jessie E. Quinney College of Natural Resources at Utah State University, confirmed Logan residents the long winter to thank for the reduced risk of wildfires this past summer.

“There were wildfires, but not really in Utah, not as much as there have been in previous years,” Brunson said. “That’s a function of the fact that it was winter longer, and we had we had a late spring.”

J. Bradley Washa, an assistant professor of wildland fire science agreed, saying a wet cool summer helped decrease the risk of wildfires.

“In Utah, we have seen a decrease in wildfire activity across the state in both numbers and acres burned,” Washa wrote in an email to the Utah Statesman. “For the Logan area, the snow pack from last winter reduced the length of the fire season in the spring, with cooler and wetter conditions being experienced over the summer,

and early snow has shut down the fire season into the fall.”

However, Brunson also stated Logan may have seen fewer wildfires in a small part due to increased awareness about fire safety.

“In 2020, we had the pandemic, and people couldn’t do things indoors… So what did people do? They went outdoors, and a lot of those people who went outdoors were folks who weren’t as experienced,” Brunson said.

“That’s been the target of some of the public relations campaigns. It’s just, “Hey, be careful where you park your automobile; here’s how to put out a fire.” There are people out there who are working pretty hard to try and reduce human risks.”

Increased awareness of fire safety has been aided by a federal grant of $4.7 million that was used in part to launch fire safety campaigns in the state of Utah.

The U.S. Forest Service website states the money was requested to “substantially expand fire education and awareness, create Community Fire Hazard Mitigation Methodologies, and remove hazardous fuel loading around structures in the Central Area.”

But wildfire is still a risk to communities, especially after multiple extremely wet, cold years. These conditions allow small plants to flourish, but if conditions don’t remain constant plants dry out, creating plenty of fuel for the next wildfire.

“Research in the past five years has shown that often the largest fires occur the first dry year after one or two or three wet years because we do get a buildup of fuels, or we call fine fuels. When it dries out, there’s more flammable vegetation, and so you end up getting more fires,” Brunson said. “It really depends on where you are, and what’s going on in the forest is very different than what’s going on in the range lands of the West Desert.”

Less fire isn’t inherently better, because it is necessary for healthy ecosystems to manage the buildup of fuels over time.

“We began to put out these fires, and we were good at it. As a result, there were a lot of smaller grasses and small saplings that might otherwise burn were allowed to remain,” Brunson said. “When you have more trees competing for the same amount of DESIGN BY Derrick Hawley resources, then those trees

are not as healthy. When they’re less healthy, they’re less able to withstand a wildfire.”

Managing the buildup of fine fuels often requires prescribed burns, a practice where a fire is planned and extinguished safely to mitigate the risks associated with large, uncontrolled forest fires.

“Scientifically driven forest management practices in many ways are intended to mimic wildland fire occurrence,” Washa wrote. “Thinning practices around the area are somewhat driven to address the build-up of what we call fuels, dead and dying trees, and down woody material. These are not timber sales and are intended to address more of the fire hazard.”

Prescribed burns are rooted in Indigenous communities’ original practices as a way of managing and taking care of the land.

“We know, for example, Paiute people used to burn the forests of South Central Utah,” Brunson said. “For over 100 years, land managers tended to dismiss what they heard from Native people as being not scientific. But now, there’s very much interest in reintroducing cultural burning practices that sustain these forests.”

For students looking to do their part to reduce wildfire, Brunson says being aware of best practices and sharing knowledge with family and friends can be the most efficient way to keep our forests safe.

“I think that knowing what the safest practice is and, when possible, not building big campfires, especially if you’re not in a developed campground. If you’re using ATVs, stay on the trails. Those are all ways that you can reduce your impact,” Brunson said. “I don’t see students as being the challenge. You know, just be aware, think about it. If you learn things, share it.”

Sydney is a junior studying political science, journalism and anticipatory intelligence. When she’s not chasing the latest scoop, you can find Sydney hiking, turning stress into delicious baked goods and delivering puns so bad they’re good.

— sydney.lyman@usu.edu

By Savannah Burnard NEWS REPORTER

W

inter is coming, and for Cache Valley, This means snow- but how much? A Utah State University climatologist explained the predicted forecast for Cache Valley this winter and how community members can prepare.

Jon Meyer, the assistant state climatologist at the Utah Climate Center, said the expectation for this winter in Northern Utah is normal to slightly above normal winter precipitation. He said he is optimistic Utah will have a string of years to follow this pattern.

What does normal to slightly above normal STATESMAN FILE PHOTO mean? Meyer said climatologists tend to lean away A snowplow removes snow from a USU pathway. from dialing in numbers and specific amounts. He but even a normal to a slightly above normal winter said because seasons are dominated by events, this is great,” Meyer said. “It’s what we need to continue plagues the accuracy of seasonal predictions. to provide drought relief to continue to recharge the “You could have 85 out of 90 days that look very state’s reservoirs and water resources.” dry, but five days out of a 90 day period where we With the winter months coming, Meyer said it’s get huge snowfall could really turn around a seaimportant for community members to be prepared for son,” Meyer said. the snow.

Meyer said climatologists base predictions on “One of the biggest things that I could recommend what’s called a climate teleconnection. According to people to do is to make sure their houses, their yards climate.gov, teleconnections typically entail climate and their vehicles are ready for the winter season,” patterns spanning thousands of miles. Meyer said Meyer said. many forecasters in the western United States look He said he likes to use the Utah Department of at the El Niño and La Niña teleconnection cycles.

Transportation traffic app to check for snowy road Meyer said when the central Pacific Ocean gets conditions. warmer than normal, it’s considered an El Niño According to Logan City’s snow removal website, the phase, and when it gets colder than normal, it’s a La city’s street maintenance division has 16 crew memNiña phase. bers, a foreman and a manager who are responsible “During El Niño events like we’re expecting this for snow removal. wintertime, a tropical jet stream tends to throw win“The goal of the Street Maintenance Division is to tertime storms through California and to our southquickly and efficiently provide safe and clear roadern neighbors Arizona and New Mexico,” Meyer ways as soon as possible after a snowstorm,” the websaid. “During La Niña years, the jet stream tends to site reads. push those storms to the Pacific Northwest and we The website recommends community members to get drier conditions in California, Arizona and New be aware of snow plows and to allow at least 50 feet Mexico.” between their car and a snowplow. The website also Meyer said people often make predictions whether reminds citizens it is against Logan City Ordinance Utah will be in an El Niño or La Niña year based 10.52.170 to park a vehicle on any street or city on conditions in other states like California and owned parking lot between the hours of midnight Arizona. However, he said Utah can’t always be and 6 a.m. from Nov. 15 through March 15. compared with other western states because clima“We do the best job we can to provide clear and safe tologists don’t really see any statistical relationship driving conditions for citizens,” the website reads. with Utah in connection with the Pacific Ocean and “Every storm is different, but our goal for each one its climate patterns. is to provide timely and effective service. With your “Sometimes we’re drier than normal. Sometimes cooperation, we can make this winter’s snow removal we’re wetter than normal in an El Niño year,” Meyer a success.” said.

Instead, Meyer said climatologists in Utah look at Savannah is a student in the Quasi Decadal Oscillation, or QDO, which usuthe journalism program. She ally controls northern Utah’s snowpack. Meyer says loves meeting new people as of last year, Utah transitioned back into the wet and trying new things. phase after being in the dry phase for about five years.

— savannah.burnard@ “It doesn’t say we couldn’t get another winter usu.edu like we did last year. The roll of that dice is pretty unfavorable to come up again like we had last year,

Grayson is a senior at Utah State studying Economics, he loves disco and soul! If awesome music isn’t enough he also likes to talk about the dating scene here in Logan. Listen every Wednesday from 3-4 pm!

Baby Come Back Player

On the Beat B. B. & Q. Band

Footsteps in the Dark The Isley Brothers

I’ll Do My Best The Ritchie Family

Baby Be Mine Michael Jackson

Page 7 - The Utah Statesman,October 23, 2023

Prepare for this year’s snowfall

DESIGN BY Abby Fillmore

Page 8 - The Utah Statesman, October 23, 202

By Asher Schroader LIFESTYLES REPORTER

Despite the fact the sun was partially obscured, you should never observe an annular eclipse without protective lenses, even at its maximum. Doing so can n Oct. 14, the moon’s shadow carved a path over cause severe damage to the eyes, including retinal cities from Eugene, Oregon to Corpus Christi, burns, or eclipse blindness.

Texas. Some experienced upwards of four and As the weekend approached, people across the a half minutes of near-totality, with eyes and telescopes Southwestern U.S. and Central and South America turned upward for a glimpse at the ring of fire. made plans. People sometimes cross state or even This isn’t the first time such an event has happened. Just national boundaries for the chance to witness an over six years ago, the Great American Eclipse swept from eclipse in person. the Pacific Northwest to South Carolina, but the path of Gabriela Alcaraz, a first-year student majoring in totality missed Utah by 142 miles, instead passing Logan human biology, had plans of her own. to the north, covering Idaho Falls, Idaho. This time, how“I plan on watching ‘Twilight: Eclipse’ with my cat, ever, Logan was luckier. because I feel like it really ties into the whole event,” she said.

While some were content to watch the skies from home, others attended USU’s Annular Solar Eclipse Observation Event. A lively scene greeted visitors on the Quad, with dogs running through the grass and lenses facing the sky. There was just one problem: clouds covered the sun.

While other parts of Utah welcomed the Three people look up at the annular solar eclipse on the Quad on the morning of Oct. 14. start of the eclipse with a clear sky and beautiful, 70 degree weather, Logan’s view was “It was very exciting,” Taylor said. “It was very cloudy in blocked by mid-morning cirrocumulus, a sign of the morning, then we came here just at the right time to the changing seasons. The spectacle was tempo- see the crescent-moonish shaped sun, and now, we can rarily rendered imperceptible to the naked eye, see it really well with the glasses.” though using a solar filter sometimes helped Taylor had never seen an eclipse before, but for her, it with visibility. was just as much about the people around her as it was However, this did little to dampen the at- with the sun. mosphere, as attendees explored the various “I think it’s very impressive how many people turned booths, viewing the sun through an array of up,” Taylor said. “It’s very nice for the community. Well different telescopes and speaking with physics done to James and the physics department.” majors about the eclipse.

Utah and Cache Valley will be visited by more eclipses.

Anne Hedrich was impressed by the event’s The next total eclipse to visit will be lunar, happening on flexibility. the nights of March 13 and 14, 2025, and the next solar “We’ve gotten to see quite a bit, and in a way, eclipse will be partial, occurring on January 14, 2029. it makes you appreciate it even more,” Hedrich Logan won’t experience a total solar eclipse until well said. “I didn’t even realize that this would be beyond our time, namely June 24, 2169, a little more than 145 years in the future.

PHOTOS BY Claire Ott such a big thing happening. I came up to check People view a live stream of the annular solar eclipse from a telescope located in Valley of the it out, and it was this big event. It was awesome.

Gods, Utah.

I hope lots of people had the chance to see it.”

Running through the grass surrounding the Eclipse watchers in Logan were privy to a 89% totality, crowds were groups of children, some of them playing which covered the valley in near-complete darkness, save games as they waited, others wide-eyed with wonder as for a small crescent of sunlight still visible. This is because their parents explained how the moon was blocking the unlike the 2017 eclipse, this one was annular. sun’s rays. Abby Bernier, a senior studying wildlife ecoloSolar eclipses occur when the moon’s orbit aligns with gy and management, made note of how the event catered the Earth, blocking the sun and leaving a shadow. Due to to all age groups, rather than just university students. the moon’s orbital speed and five degree tilt compared to “I thought it was really cool that USU did this,” Bernier Asher Schroader is a first-year exploratory Earth’s solar orbit, eclipses are bound to happen some- said. “It definitely made it a great event for people who student at USU. With a focus area in humanwhere at least twice a year, but no more than five times. weren’t able to go down to southern Utah, and it’s great ities and arts, he is passionate about writing, James Coburn, a professor of the USU physics depart- that they have all of these educational stations. They art and graphic design, and making music. In ment, described the reason not all eclipses are total. made it pretty kid-friendly. I’m really happy with how it his free time, Asher enjoys reading, playing “An annular eclipse happens when the moon is further turned out.”

Cities: Skylines, and spending the weekends away in its orbit,” Coburn said. “The moon is at the far Children and young families weren’t the only demowith his boyfriend. side of its orbit, so when it crosses the sun, it won’t quite graphic to attend. Several groups of older citizens came cover it up.” as well, such as Visnja Taylor. Her group was ecstatic to - a02415522@usu.edu By contrast, if the moon were nearer to its perigee, or see the clouds part just in time for the maximum, at 10:38 closer to Earth, a total eclipse may have occurred. a.m.

O

Page 9 - The Utah Statesman,October 23, 2023

Community gathers to view annular eclipse

Page 10 - The Utah Statesman, October 23, 202

Hiking the highlands: A guide to explori

alytics, and he’s also a hiking enthusiast.

“I love to hike because it gives a sense of accomplishment and I find it relaxing and very beautiful. Getting away from the world is nice! Take a deep breath and enjoy the amazingness of the valley! It makes you wanna cry just how pretty it is and how you feel with your loved ones,” Merrill wrote in a text message to The Utah Statesman.

In addition, hiking has mental and physical health benefits. According to the National Park Service, hiking improves heart health, builds muscles and bone strength and decreases certain respiratory risks. Many studies have also proven that spending time outside improves mental health.

Spending quality time in the great outdoors reduces stress, calms anxiety and can lead to a lower risk of depression, according to a study done by researchers at PHOTO BY Heidi Bingham Stanford University.

Stairs at the beginning of a wooden trail by Second Dam on Oct. 17.

“Taking in the sights, smells, and feelings of nature has so many health benefits

By Ashley Dorius it can even be prescribed by a doctor,” the National Park LIFESTYLES REPORTER Service website states.

There are dozens of trails crisscrossing throughout hen a university is located near a place like the canyon, and according to National Geographic, the Logan Canyon, it’s only expected that its stustretch from Cache Valley to Bear Lake that Aggies call dents become avid hikers, and Utah State home is also the “Last Unspoiled Place.” With trails rangUniversity is no exception. Students have fallen in love ing in difficulty, length, accessibility and views, there’s with being in the mountains. no wonder there’s a hike for every outdoor enthusiast.

People might wonder why young adults would want to Since there are so many trails, every hiker has a differwander around the mountains with limited connection ent favorite. Anya Cole, a sophomore studying psycholto the outside world, but Tyson Merrill has an answer ogy and yoga studies, described one of her best hiking for them. experiences.

Merrill is a first-year student with a major in data an-

W

Naomi Peak gives a view of Logan Canyon and Cache Vally in the distance on Oct. 6, 2023.

PHOTO BY Jack Burton Karston Berkley follows Jordan Barrus as they hike up Crimson Trial on Oct. 6.

“I think the trail right across from First Dam is awesome because I went on that trail as a moonlight hike, and if you go to the left and under a cave, there’s a bunch of graffiti, and you can walk along a pipe,” Cole said. “It’s really pretty, especially at night.”

Sawyer Hill is a senior studying outdoor product design. One of his favorite hikes in Logan Canyon is a popular spot known as the Crimson Trail.

“The Crimson Trail is a loop, so you never see repetitive sights,” Hill said. “It’s pretty moderate, but you get a really good view of the canyon and Logan City.”

Carter Ellis is a sophomore studying exercise science.

He enjoys hikes for the splendid views and gorgeous sights of Utah State’s backyard, especially with the changing leaves in the autumn weather. He hiked on Crimson Trail recently and enjoyed the experience.

“It was awesome,” Ellis said. “Super pretty with all the colors of the fall changes are amazing. There was a lot of orange when I went two or three weeks ago. It was great. I loved it; the temperature was fantastic. It was one of the better hikes I’ve done recently.”

Maille Walsh is a senior majoring in biology. As an outdoor lover, she’s been on several trails and shared what each was like.

“My personal favorite is the river trail that connects up with the Stokes Nature Center,” Walsh said. “Right now, you get a lot of beautiful colors in the valley.

You’re next to the water the whole time. It’s fairly easy, you can go as long as you want. It does hit an incline eventually, which is great if you’re looking for a little bit more intensity.”

Walsh said the Wind Caves hike “kicked her butt” but had breathtaking views.

“The last one is towards the end of the canyon, over

by Garden City or Bear Lake,” Walsh said. “It’s about a mile; it’s less intense than Wind Caves, but again, you have that really pretty incline. You can see valleys all over the place; it’s great.”

Merrill, ever the passionate hiker, talked about many hikes he’s done with friends and his sister.

According to Merrill, Spring Hollow is very shady, with water features and a public bathroom. It’s a more leisurely hike available in the fall, with some incredible rock formations.

High Line Trail was super easy and flat in Merrill’s eyes, with good views of the USU campus and a fun tunnel, but Bonneville Trail was a little more complicated.

“Lots of ups and downs. Leg burner and not quite as pretty,” Merrill wrote.

Merril said Hobbit Caves was not a long hike, and he recommends pulling off and crossing a river for some fantastic rock formations. He also talked about Mount Naomi and said climbing was challenging but rewarding, as it’s the tallest peak in the Bear River Mountain Range.

With all of the trails available, it only makes sense Aggies hit the hikes. Hiking experts shared some of their tips for a great time in the canyon.

“You need good footwear for a few of the jagged rocks.

Also, dress warm because Cache Valley gets cold!” Merrill wrote.

With a more humorous twist, Hill shared some advice of his own.

“Go do it, and wear sandals,” Hill said.

On a more serious note, Hill also added what a hike should be.

“I think the ideal hike is the one that’s well-mapped,” Hill said.

Cole shared her recommendations for a fantastic time outdoors.

“I would say get a group of friends and go,” Cole said.

“Explore, and you’ll be delighted with what you find.”

Ellis agreed with the sentiment.

“Take it all in,” Ellis said. “It’s one of the best places to hike because Logan is one of the best places to find nature.”

Page 11 - The Utah Statesman,October 23, 2023

ing the great outdoors in Logan Canyon

PHOTO BY Heidi Bingham A mountainside located in Logan Canyon on Oct. 17.

Ashley Dorius is a first year student studying English with a teaching emphasis. A Nebraska native, she loves exploring old bookstores, quoting New Girl, eating soft pretzels and being a Swiftie.

-ashley.dorius@usu.edu

PHOTO BY Jack Burton

Page 12 - The Utah Statesman, October 23, 202

Utah prairie dog recovery biologist speaks on career options at USU

By Ella Stott LIFESTYLES REPORTER

O

n Oct. 2, Barbara Sugarman, Utah prairie dog recovery biologist for the Division of Wildlife Resources, came to Utah State University to share important information for those considering a wildlife career.

In her presentation, Sugarman explained how she came to work for the DWR despite receiving her undergraduate degree in forestry. It was a long process involving many jobs that Sugarman found she wasn’t passionate about.

Sugarman’s first introduction to wildlife work experience was the summer after her first year of her undergraduate. She worked for the Grand Canyon Wolf Recovery Project, which aimed to reintroduce wolves in the Grand Canyon area.

“I got a lot of experience dealing with very unhappy and difficult people through this job,” Sugarman said in her presentation. “I learned that I did not enjoy doing environmental advocacy work.”

The job allowed her to network with experts in the field and get experience more closely related to what she wanted to do. Although she was majoring in forestry, Sugarman said that she always wanted to focus on the wildlife aspects of natural resources.

Sugarman’s boss for the wolf project had worked with prairie dogs in the past, and she recruited Sugarman to help trap and relocate the animals for a month.

“That was the random thing that I did that led to my entire career,” Sugarman said.

Although she gained experience with prairie dogs early on, Sugarman didn’t return to them until after she got her graduate degree. During this time, she had many different jobs, ranging from park ranger to working with bears.

Finally, things fell into place when Sugarman’s old supervisor wrote to her saying she got a promotion within the division and the prairie dog recovery biologist position was available.

“I had done my master’s thesis work with prairie dogs,” Sugarman said. “So I applied for her job and I got it.”

Now, Sugarman continues to work with prairie dogs. A major part of her job is counting the animals.

“Prairie dogs move around so much,” Sugarman said.

“It’s really important to see where they’re at right now, so we do a mapping.”

Sugarman and her technicians count prairie dogs from 1,300 colonies every year.

“We’re just documenting how many prairie dogs there are and trying to get the best data,” Sugarman said.

There is some human-wildlife conflict between farmers and prairie dogs because the animals often get into the soil the farmers want to use.

“We go and we trap Utah prairie dogs from locations where there’s like human wildlife conflict.” Sugarman

said. “It’s very important to get an accurate spring count of a property.”

Sugarman hires seasonal technicians to help perform these counts. Two of them, Jake Durbin and Josh Morris, came with Sugarman to an interview following her presentation.

Durbin knew he wanted to go into wildlife since high school after participating in Future Farmers of America.

“I’ve just been pretty much doing wildlife my entire academic career,” Durbin said. “I figured, might as well make a job out of it.”

Durbin’s passion continued in college when his school’s mascot was a live buffalo. He got to help handle it during sports games and parades.

A prairie dog stands next to a bush in its natural habitat.

SUBMITTED PHOTO

“That was kind of where I knew I wanted to do live animal handling,” Durbin said.

Morris said his passion for wildlife came early on as well, but not because of school activities.

“I grew up on a farm, so I’ve always loved working with animals and hunting and fishing,” Morris said. “I just wanted to have a career in that field as well.”

According to Morris, his time being a prairie dog wildlife technician is helping him gain experience to work with larger animals and eventually become a biologist.

“I’d like to eventually work with game mammals like deer or elk,” Morris said. “I also just enjoy being outdoors and preserving what we have now.”

Sugarman said she really appreciates the work of her technicians, as it takes a lot of people to count all the prairie dogs.

According to Sugarman, getting involved in volunteer work or working as a technician early on is crucial to getting your foot in the door of wildlife resources.

“Volunteering is one thing you can do to get as much experience as you can during your undergrad,” Sugarman said. “That’s how my whole career ended up happening.”

Sugarman said being able to take opportunities when they were presented is important to finding footing in the field.

“Your career is this transformation,” Sugarman said.

“Something leads into something else that leads into something else.”

Durbin agreed students should be taking advantage of opportunities as soon as they can.

“It’s a lot easier on yourself if you have that volunteer work to add to your stuff right out of college,” Durbin said.

Nakaila Wengreen, senior in wildlife ecology and management, attended Sugarman’s presentation.

“It’s always great to hear professionals talk about the work that they do,” Wengreen wrote in an email to The Utah Statesman. “I love hearing about the research that’s going on in Wildlife Management and all of the cool work that people are doing.”

According to Wengreen, some of the opportunities Sugarman mentioned were very important to getting experience in her desired field.

“I learned about work opportunities next year with the DWR,” Wengreen wrote. “It helps to get career advice and to get an idea of what options I have when I graduate.”

Wengreen said she has dreamed of working with animals since she was a kid.

“Going into a career in wildlife means that I will be doing work that’s important and that I’m passionate about,” Wengreen wrote.

Read the rest of this story at usustatesman.com.

Ella Stott is a first year student studying English and journalism because she hates money. When she’s not writing, she’s watching sitcoms, eating Greek yogurt and admiring Nebraska corn.

-ella.stott@usu.edu

PHOTOS BY Cameron Carnes Rebekah Woodbury, a senior studying biology, works in the plant lab on Oct. 16.

By Cameron Carnes LIFESTYLES REPORTER

U

tah’s Plant Pest Diagnostic Lab researches and diagnoses pest problems and plant diseases of arthropods. This resource provides services that increase new discoveries and help the agricultural community in all of Utah by ensuring a safe environment for farmers and homeowners.

UPPDL is located in both the Life Sciences building and the Biology and Natural Resources building. It gives anyone from any part of Utah the resources to protect their land — whether that be a garden at home or a farm.

Claudia Nischwitz is a plant pathology specialist. She spends her time working and leading students in the plant lab.

“A commercial farmer or a homeowner can send a sample if they think their plants don’t look right and then we will try to diagnose what the problem is,” Nischwitz said.

“The problems can vary from fungal bacteria disease, frost damage and insect feeding.”

UPPDL deals with a variety of problems that can occur in any form of agriculture, whether that be the garden at home, a farm or an invasive species.

Alexander Knudson is the arthropod diagnostician and professional practice extension assistant professor.

“This resource is for anyone,” Knudson said. “For example, we’ve had people send in pictures of what they think might be bed bugs, and we’re able to identify it for them via email. If someone sends me a suspected invasive species photograph, I get to that as quickly as possible because if it is an invasive species, we can notify the Utah Department of Food and Agriculture and the United States Department of Agriculture to solve the problem.”

The lab offers free consultations via email where the problem is solved within 24 hours.

UPPDL has two different sides to it, each one working hand in hand to create a better community for all of Utah.

There are two different labs, one focusing on researching plant diseases and the other focusing on researching pests and bugs.

“Every day is something different,” Nischwitz said. “You never know what is going to come through the door. You may plan out your day and completely change it by the end of the day. There is a lot of variety in our work.”

The bug lab is currently working on a variety of projects.

With emails and physical samples coming in every day, there is always a potential problem or an opportunity to educate the community.

“We had a client send in a lawn sample who wanted to know if they had insects or a plant disease,” Knudson said.

“The plant lab has already looked at it and determined there was no disease. Now we will run it through a Berlese funnel, which makes possible insects or arthropods fall down into a jar of ethanol. If we aren’t able to find invasive species, we will go back to the photos they submitted and the management they have put their lawn through in order to determine if it was a biotic condition or a pest.”

Both labs work together to diagnose samples. Normally the bug lab looks at physical samples first to detect pests, then the plant lab will look at the sample for a possible disease. The plant lab currently has student volunteers and researchers focusing on detecting possible plant diseases.

Skylar Andam is a senior majoring in exercise science and pre-med who spends his time in the plant lab researching possible plant disease.

“I’m just researching dahlia plants and the diseases they have,” Andam said. “Right now, we are trying to determine if a disease in a dahlia plant can be found in all or just a few of the tubers. Currently, tests will come back with results that only some of the tubers have diseases, which can be distressing for farmers because they won’t know what parts of the plant to throw away or keep.”

Both labs are often filled with different things to research. However, they don’t just spend all of their time in a lab.

“Sometimes when you’re in a research lab you are often thought of as being stuck in the lab,” Knudson said. “But, we do a lot of going out and meeting people where they are and providing them the opportunities to learn, wheth-

The UPPDL plant lab is located on third floor of Life Sciences building.

er that is in person, or virtually online as well.”

Going out into the field allows researcher to quickly tackle issues.

“You never know when you are going to get sent out to the field to solve immediate problems for farmers,” Nischwitz said.

A big part of UPPDL’s mission is to also educate community members and help them with their own individual research projects.

“We help people out with research projects as well,” Knudson said. “We recently received around 100 samples of insects that we will help identify and diagnose the impact these insects had on oil placement.”

Read the rest of this story at usustatesman.com.

Cameron Carnes is a journalism and English major. She’s most known for her love for Taylor Swift, Percy Jackson and the beach!

-a02420680@usu.edu

Page 13 - The Utah Statesman,October 23, 2023

Utah Plant Pest Diagnostic Lab identifies, researches potential invasive species

Page 14 - The Utah Statesman, October 23, 202

One emission at a time: USU’s road to carbon neutrality

be reduced, as well as emissions that can be replaced by more sustainable opinions.

“Funding for our Decarbonization Plan is also a work in y the year 2050, USU plans to reach carbon neuprogress, and we’re hopeful we’ll be able to chip away at trality, meaning the university has a goal to strike it year by year,” Taft wrote. “That project will cost around a balance between the amount of carbon emitted $140 million in full, and our goal is to have it completed and how much the university absorbs. by 2040.”

The university plans to accomplish this by eliminating USU has a large sustainability team that works many of its greenhouse gases, including but not hard to make the plan function. The team collablimited to heating, cooling, landscaping, transorates with the faculty to make sure the whole portation and waste. The USU Sustainability campus can reduce emissions. Currently, there Council works hard to make sure USU is on the are about 30 members on the USU Sustainabilicorrect path to reach this goal. ty Council working together in different areas to Caitlin McLennan is USU’s Sustainability Procover all bases. gram Manager. She works full time to track USU “I’m our sustainability program manager — this greenhouse gas emissions. is my full time job,” McLennan said. “To coor“I chair the university-wide Sustainability Coundinate the Sustainability Council; to calculate cil, so my work spans across campus,” McLennan our greenhouse gas emissions to make sure that said. “I work in about every department with as we’re reporting to do outreach around all of that many stakeholders as I possibly can to try and into do waste audits; to coordinate waste reduction tegrate sustainability into operations, academics, and establish planning and goals; and then to policy, decision making and all that sort of stuff.” also do and coordinate integration into the curUSU has a large campus that employs and edriculum with some faculty members.” ucates vast numbers of people. There are many There are also student interns that are committhings happening between all the different colting their time to help in the USU sustainability leges, so it’s crucial to keep an eye on all the little projects. The interns’ help is crucial to help prothings. mote and manage the work that has already been SUBMITTED PHOTO Jordan Taft is a planning and sustainability indone.

A parking garage at Utah State University with solar panels on the roof. tern who helps facilities planning, design and con“There are three part time student sustainability struction. assistants, and two part time planning interns (like “USU’s goal of carbon neutrality is to make sure as an “The tricky thing with that reduction report is that rate me!),” Taft wrote. “There are so many more people workinstitution we are responding to the reality of a changing 32 is no longer available through Rocky Mountain Power ing on sustainability efforts around campus though, like at climate,” Taft wrote. “By limiting our carbon (and equiva- for Utah State University,” McLennan said. “That’s a pow- our sister department COSAS where there is a coordinator lent) emissions, we are making sure the institution is resil- er purchase agreement, which would have allowed us to and 4 part-time sustainability interns, our campus energy ient for the future and preserving our future.” purchase renewable energy.” manager, recycling coordinator, and so many more peoThere are three scopes contributing to greenhouse gas On the USU Sustainability website in their USU green- ple! Sustainability has been integrated into USU Facilities emission that USU Sustainability keeps a very detailed re- house gas reduction committee final report, they list their for a while, and we all have a role to play in the carbon cord of in compliance with reporting requirements from key recommendations. neutrality goal!” the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Some of these recommendations include switching to Higher Education, or AASHE, and Second Nature. energy saving lighting, looking for ways to improve fuel Read the rest of this story at usustatesman.com.

“Scope one is really all of your direct emissions,” McLen- efficiency for USU vehicles, developing fund raising events nan said. “That’s anything that is combusted or consumed for sustainability, adopting climate focused learning outon campus.” comes and more. To see the full list of recommendations, Scope one includes livestock the university owns as well visit usu.edu/sustainability/about/index. as the campus bus, shuttles and everything at the central These strategies have been effective, but that doesn’t energy plant. mean there haven’t been some problems arising. One Scope two is any electricity USU purchases from other problem is funding for sustainability projects. USU sussources. tainability receives less funding for projects than other “Scope two is anything that we’re buying from Logan line universities.

Jacob Casper is majoring in English with an empower, right up in Logan, Rocky Mountain Power or other “Compared to other similar universities USU has 60% phasis in creative writing. When he’s not working, campuses and then other municipal power companies if less funding for campus sustainability work. Most other he hangs out with his wife. Jacob is an avid hoodie, we’re not under Rocky Mountain Power lands,” McLennan universities have a whole office of sustainability, and we card and board game collector. All of which are slowly said. “Scope three is direct and indirect emissions related use a less formal model,” Taft wrote. draining him of all funds. to consumption and waste. So anything that’s processed Reaching carbon neutrality is costly. A lot of time and off site is going to fall into that scope three category.” management goes into planning out what emissions can - a02357545@usu.edu Scope three includes landfilled waste on the Logan camBy Jacob Casper LIFESTYLES REPORTER

B

pus; university study abroad and business travel; student, staff and faculty commuting; and some paper purchasing.

USU currently doesn’t track all of these but is hoping to start tracking them in the future.

USU Sustainability has 11 strategies for tracking greenhouse gas emissions and lowering emissions for the campus. However, one of the strategies from the reduction report is no longer feasible.

ty, but we always make sure there are options that are accessible for those that might not have climbed before,” he wrote. “We spend most of the remaining time on the ince its creation in 2015, the ARC’s rock wall has rock belaying or climbing, but the trip leaders are always been a favorite among students, giving participants happy to answer any climbing related questions in addia chance to experience something new. Campus Rec tion to what we teach as part of the trip.” has created various programs based on the interest to Some students take this hobby and pursue it outside of help students pursue their newfound hobbies.

USU’s programs. Shaw knows many students who have Hundreds of students have participated in the protaken rock climbing to the next level. grams, including rock-climbing trips and individual “My favorite thing is to see people from past trips lessons. when I’m out and about climbing on my own time,” Clayton Shaw, Utah State’s student climbing manager, Shaw wrote. “It’s cool to see people try something brand has been a big part of the scene for years now, pushnew and just run with it like that.” ing climbers to have fun and succeed. He leads various USU student Ben Verdejo has enjoyed being able to events for the campus community. use Utah State’s rock-climbing equipment and programs.

“I’ve been climbing here for three years. I just show up and climb, but they have a team and social nights too,” Verdejo said.

The program has helped him become more comfortable at Utah State while introducing him to a whole new community.

“I just think it’s fun. It gets me moving and I meet people,” Verdejo said. “I’ve made plenty of friends.”

Students who have never tried the sport before are finding new ways to become part of an Aggie family. Maggie Edwards, a first-time climber, is excited for the opportunities it’ll bring.

“I think it’s amazing. Recreation programs like this help with the academic side and PHOTO BY Claire Ott social life of college,” Edwards Fourth-year USU student Shayna Pugh clips a quickdraw in Black Smith Fork Canyon on Oct. 7. said. “I’m always open to making friends!”

Students who are interested in climbing can visit the “Utah State offers trips, academic classes, clinics and rock wall at the ARC. They can gain climbing experience, courses and club sports all related to climbing. Our trips get information about upcoming excursions or register and academic classes are a good introduction to climbing for classes. and let people acquire the baseline knowledge and skill and then our clinics and courses are an opportunity to learn more if climbing is something you want to pursue on your own,” Shaw wrote in an email to The Utah Statesman.

Shaw has seen both new and experienced climbers alike grow as people and athletes.

“Some students take to it pretty quickly, but a lot of students have to work a little to make it up their first Jacob Hutchison is a first-year route. I especially enjoy the overnight trips because I can student studying history. He loves watch students go from having zero experience at the going on walks, playing video games start of the trip to really being excited about it after a and reading. couple days of climbing,” Shaw wrote.

These excursions are beginner-friendly but still allow —jacob.hutchison@usu.edu experienced climbers to take on tough challenges.

“We try to set up routes with a wide range of difficulBy Jacob Hutchison SPORTS REPORTER

S

THIS WEEK IN AGGIE SPORTS Monday Oct. 23 Men’s Tennis at Tallahassee Futures AWAY

Thursday Oct. 26 Women’s Soccer at Boise State AWAY Women’s Volleyball at Colorado State AWAY

Friday Oct. 27 Cross Country at Mountain West Championships AWAY Men’s Rugby vs Utah - HOME Hockey vs Weber State - HOME Men’s Golf at Monterrey International - AWAY

Saturday Oct. 28 Women’s Volleyball at Wyoming - AWAY Women’s Lacrosse vs BYU - HOME Baseball Blue vs White Fall Game - HOME Women’s Club Soccer vs UVU - HOME Women’s Rugby vs Wyoming - HOME

Sunday Oct. 29 Women’s Soccer at Mountain West Tournament AWAY

Page 15 - The Utah Statesman,October 23, 2023

Rock climbing helps students reach new heights

Page 16 - The Utah Statesman, October 23, 202

Embracing the season: Fall hiking in Cache Valley

By Rylan Bean SPORTS REPORTER

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estled in the northern end of the Wasatch Front lies the picturesque region of Cache Valley. The outdoor enthusiast paradise offers a wide array of recreational activities for people of all ages and interests.

As the temperatures transition from the warmth of the summer months to winter, the leaves change to a vibrant tapestry of gold and red foliage. This is the signal to one of the ideal times to take advantage of the many hiking trails in the area. Whether you are an experienced backpacker or a student who needs a break from class, the trails welcome all.

If you aren’t sure whether you should go or not sometime this fall, Megan Gentry offers this advice.

“It’s going to be a good experience no matter what, so just do it. Don’t think twice. Just go. Get out there,” Gentry said.

Gentry is a senior from Bountiful who has taken full advantage of the many different outdoor options during her time at Utah State University.

“I feel like that’s one of the gems of Cache Valley. Just kind of like out away from everything else,” she said.

“There is great hiking in other places, but the Cache Valley has a special sauce.”

Gentry is passionate about exploring the area surrounding Logan.

“I just did Card Canyon. Beautiful hike. Very good colors in the fall,” Gentry said. “It’s kind of a lesser-known one so you don’t have tons of people, so that’s super nice.”

Gentry said though Jardine Juniper is a longer trail, it isn’t a steep one.

“I love Jardine Juniper. It’s a great one,” she said. “It’s super mellow, just like a gradual 10 miles round.”

White Pine Lake, which begins in Logan Canyon at Tony Grove, is a shorter but steeper option.

“White Pine Lake is a great one. Beautiful lakes at both ends, actually, and it’s not too hard,” Gentry said. “I think people go camp there too.”

Gentry said the Wellsville Mountains offer single hikes as well as a full ridge trail.

“I would recommend the Wellsvilles,” she said. “Even from campus you can see the red, and it’s amazing right now up there.”

Hiking is a favorite hobby for many of the students at USU. Parker Horman, a junior and native of Cache Valley, shares Gentry’s enthusiasm.

“Some would consider me granola,” Horman said. “I spend every minute that I can in the mountains with my dog. I think that’s a pretty good classification.”

Horman has developed many personal tips and tricks for hiking in the Cache Valley.

“Tip number one: disregard the weather, go hiking whenever you can,” he said. “The season for hiking in the fall is really short but it’s pretty. So, rain or shine. You have to take advantage of the beauty while it lasts. You won’t regret it.”

Just like Gentry, Horman emphasized how Cache Valley is an ideal spot for spending time outdoors.

“There’s nowhere that compares. Anywhere in Utah is great, but the mountains I feel like in Cache Valley

College students climb Crimson Trail in Logan Canyon on Oct. 6.

are very unique,” he said. “The colors, because of the elevation up here, of the leaves is just a lot different than you’ll get anywhere else.”

Before getting on the trail, it’s important to prepare and know proper safety tips before you go. Intermountain Healthcare suggests eight things to do to keep you safe while still enjoying being out in nature.

Know the trail Make sure you know what to expect on the trail.

Review guides, terrain, elevation gains, and difficulty.

Check the weather beforehand to avoid getting caught in a storm.

Use the buddy system Hike with another adult so that no one is alone. Be in sight of your partner.

Take plenty of water and snacks Hiking can be strenuous, so make sure you have enough water and snacks to avoid dehydration and exhaustion.

When in doubt, pack more than you think.

Watch out for water Don’t drink unpurified water, and be aware of swift currents.

Gear up and wear sunscreen Depending on the trail, make sure you have the proper equipment necessary to avoid injury. Use sunscreen regularly and wear protective clothing.

It’s OK to be noisy More often than not, wildlife do not want to be near humans. They will usually leave if they hear you coming.

Become a “tree hugger” If you or someone else gets separated, stay put until someone finds you.

PHOTO BY Jack Burton

Leave No Trace Pack out what you pack in. If you have trash or garbage, make sure you clean up after yourself.

Ultimately, anyone can experience the trails here in Cache Valley and discover what makes this place so special. So lace up your boots, prepare your pack and get on the trail to embark on a journey.

“To be out there in it is just like, wow, something else,” Gentry said. “Just to get away from the city, and it’s so easy when you’re in Cache Valley. You just go 10 minutes, and you feel like you’re in a different world.”

Gentry said hiking is a way to disconnect from a busy life.

“You connect to nature, but also, I feel like you really connect to yourself,” Gentry said. “Moving your body is good for the soul.”

For more extensive information on hiking safety tips, visit intermountainhealthcare.org/blogs/safe-hiking-tipsfor-the-whole-family.

Rylan Bean is a sophomore studying business management. He loves to be a part of the HURD, play sports, hike, bike and spend time with friends and family.

—rylan.bean@usu.edu

PHOTO BY Jack Burton Kaitlyn Schofield climbs Preston Valley Pinnacle in Logan Canyon on Thursday, Sept. 28.

Cars driving up Logan Canyon on Oct. 11.

A heart shaped rock surrounded by leaves found by Second Dam on Oct. 17.

PHOTO BY Claire Ott

PHOTO BY Heidi Bingham

PHOTO BY Wyatt Merchant

C L O S E U P S

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Logan Canyon displays fall colors on Oct. 14.

C A N Y O N

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C A N Y O N C L O S E U P S

PHOTO BY Jack Burton

The road winds through Logan Canyon on Thursday, Sept. 28.

Fourth-year USU student Anais Barrientos climbs in Logan Canyon on Sept. 1.

PHOTO BY Claire Ott

PHOTO BY Jack Burton A chipmunk slowly gets closer to some hikers with food in Logan Canyon on Oct. 14.

Sudoku puzzles are provided by www.sudokuoftheday.com.

Page 19 - The Utah Statesman,October 23, 2023

Last week’s solution:

PHOTO BY Heidi Bingham

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