ADVENTURES WITH ROCKS (TM): GO OUTSIDE AND PLAY

Sunday, March 25, 2012

GO OUTSIDE AND PLAY

It’s that time of year- springtime in the desert. Folks are heading out to play for the last time before heading to their summer destinations. There is so much to do here: rockhounding, gold prospecting, mountain biking, hiking, 4-wheeling, and, yes, even boating on some of the area lakes. There are stone cabins, old mines, ghost towns, petroglyphs, and the beautiful wild parts of the Sonoran desert to see all around Quartzsite.

Our desert certainly is a beautiful place in the springtime. Birds and wildlife abound. Washes explode with the colors and fragrances of desert flowers. Cacti and ocotillos are blooming. Temperatures are still enjoyable in the 70’s and low 80’s. But the desert can be deceptive. This is still a harsh environment, after all. It is important to remember to be prepared when heading out to play, even on a short local trip.

The dryness of the desert can cause dehydration more quickly than expected, even on a cooler, breezy day. Be sure to always pack enough water for everyone in the party. One gallon per person is recommended, just to be on the safe side. And, while we think about heat illness in the summer, it can also be a concern at this time of the year. Anything can happen when out in the desert. Keep a bag or backpack stuffed with food, a first aid kit, and extra clothing- even when heading out for just a few hours. If you get stuck overnight you will be warm and have food and water. Keep your vehicle prepared as well. Extra water, parts, and tires are good basics to have even for short trips. It is always better to be over- prepared than under- prepared.

In addition to being prepared, following the Treasure Hunter’s Code of Ethics ensures that everyone has a pleasant experience and can enjoy our beautiful desert in the future. Conduct yourself in the backcountry with courtesy and consideration for others. Respect the rights and property of others and observe all laws, whether national, state, or local. Never destroy historical or archeological treasures, and leave the land and vegetation as it was. Fill in all holes, and please remove all trash and litter when you leave. Remember, all treasure hunters may be judged by the actions of one, so think about the image and example you are setting.

And remember: no matter what, have fun and enjoy life! And as you bid Quartzsite goodbye for the winter, we want to thank you for allowing us to be a part of your fun here. Thank you for making this season a very successful one for us here at RocksInMyHead at Rice Ranch. We couldn’t do it without you. Travel safely and have a great summer. Wherever you are, we hope you will allow us to serve you over the phone (605-376-8754), by email (Jenn@RocksInMyHead.biz), and on the web at http://RocksInMyHead.biz for all your rock and gold-related desires.

And thanks to you, we will be expanding next year to offer several new product lines as well as some exciting new services and events. Follow us on Facebook at http://Facebook.com/RocksInMyHead or in the Desert Messenger throughout the summer and fall for all the updates. Or go to http://RocksInMyHead.biz and register your email. Please come by our booth at A37 in Rice Ranch and say goodbye before you get on the road. Grab a rock or two to take with you. We are open until the end of March. See ya next year!