Wilderness Preparedness

James Covert, instructor of blacksmithing and wilderness skills, brings a wealth of knowledge and experiences to ASA. Upon retiring from the military, James earned his Bachelor’s degree from Bluefield Baptist College (now Bluefield University) in Physical Education with a concentration in Outdoor Recreation. James has many years of teaching experience in a variety of outdoor settings for various organizations and groups.

In wilderness skills classes, James focuses on providing easy-to-learn skills that are transferable to everyday life.  His students, whether children, youth or adults, will become more confident in the wilderness environment. Classes will cover necessities such as understanding the wilderness environment (identifying poisonous plants, insects, and other hazards which could be encountered), constructing different types of emergency shelters, understanding the process in safeguarding drinking water, fire safety and the Virginia law, tool making (blacksmithing) and wilderness cooking. Classes will also address the importance of wilderness ethics and etiquette (Leave No Trace).