WHEN: December 14th, 2025 & March 15th, 2026 2:00-4:30pm
WHERE: Northern Otter Creek Gorge Trailhead Parking Lot
WHO: This series is for families and people of all ages! Children 10 and under must be accompanied by an adult.
COST: MALT Members: $100 ($55 for one workshop) Non-members: $120 ($65 for one workshop)
REGISTER: Please complete this form to confirm attendance
WHAT: Local favorite and seasoned primitive skills teacher Mo (Maurice Bissonnette) is bringing us two hands-on workshops at the Otter Creek Gorge Preserve this fall and winter season, with more to come throughout the year.
Maurice Bissonnette has been a Wilderness Survival educator for 20+ years. Teaching adults and children how to find edible plants, make survival shelters, track wild animals through forests and generally help people learn to be comfortable in the Wilds of Vermont. He has taught at Wisdom of the Herbs School, Earthwalk Vermont, Wild Earth and Crows Path.
Workshop 1: Fire by Friction
Sunday, December 14 | 2:00–4:30 PM | Otter Creek Gorge
In this session, Mo will guide participants through the art and science of making fire the traditional way — by friction. Gain confidence in this timeless skill while deepening your understanding of patience, focus, and the natural materials that make it possible.
Workshop 2: Shelter Building
Sunday, March 15 | 2:00–4:30 PM | Otter Creek Gorge
Learn how to build quick, efficient shelters using only the natural materials around you. Mo will demonstrate practical techniques for staying warm, dry, and resourceful in the woods. (You may know Mo as the creator of the whimsical “castle” tucked along MALT’s summer camp area on the TAM!)
Stay tuned! Mo will return in June for a Foraging Workshop and again in September for a Whittling Workshop — rounding out a full year of learning ancient skills in modern times.
CANCELLATION POLICY: MALT operates programs outdoors in a variety of weather conditions. If weather conditions are hazardous (lightning, sustained winds >30m.p.h.), MALT may cancel the program. If that is the case, you will receive notification via email.
Check Out Mo’s YouTube Channel!