Ear to the ground:

“It’s become the new Durango pastime.”
– Local woman commenting on the latest trend of folks adding their “personal touches” to the “Arc of History” sculpture
 

How do they know no two are alike?

How much do you know about snow other than that, until recently, we’ve had a distinct lack of it? Do you know how unique a snowflake is? Or how winter gear keeps the snow from soaking you? Or how mountains affect snowpack?

If your answer is “no” to these or many other winter-related questions, then this week’s Pub Science, which takes place this Friday from 6 -8 p.m. at the Powerhouse, is for you. Topics include everything from molecular water science and nanotechnology to avalanche pattern simulation, backcountry safety and topography. Featured presenters include Backcountry Experience, Kling Mountain Guides, Sim Tables, Colorado Avalanche Information Center, and the National Snow and Ice Data Center.

Who knows? You might even learn how to charm those snow gods into giving us some more winter.

Pub Science is a free event for 18 and older. For more information, call 259-9234.

Miles to go

Looking for a reason to get off the couch? Look no further than the latest phone app, “Wooftrax.” The “Walk for a Dog” app raises money for local dog shelters and rescues every time you take Spot out for a spin. Simply download the app, sign up (yourself and your dog/dogs), log on and grab the poo bags. Wooftrax not only logs your miles but maps your route for you as well.

Wooftrax donates between 11 cents and 25 cents per mile walked to the organization of your choice. There are virtually hundreds to choose from throughout the country, as well as several local ones including: Annie’s Orphans; Blackhat Humane Society; Cortez Animal Shelter and La Plata County Humane Society. (If you don’t see your favorite animal rescue organization on the list, urge them to sign up!) Users can change the shelter or rescue they are walking for with the swipe of a finger.

So far, Wooftrax has donated to 4,000 rescues and shelters throughout the country.

To learn more, go to www.wooftrax.com or search “wooftrax” in your apps. Fido will thank you – and the couch will still be there when you get back.