Wild salmon and steelhead trout snorkel survey crews typically work eight days in a row. This is because most of their work sites are in remote areas of Idaho and daily commutes are not practical. They also work ten-hour days. You might wonder, “How do the crews spend the rest of the 24 hours each day while in the field?”
In the hours between sunrise and work, breakfast is made. This meal is essential because the crew’s workday will include hiking several miles, crawling upstream against strong currents in cold water, and making decisions that will affect data accuracy and crew safety. They need lots of energy to complete these tasks. The menus vary among crews. Some, are content with an energy bar. Others, splurge on a full breakfast. Most, mix it up with a combination of simple meals one day and more complex ones on others. One crew, a few years ago, was so excited about their work that they didn’t want to be delayed by breakfast. They simply opened cans of soup and drank the cold contents as they sprinted up the trail each morning.
After the day’s work is completed, crews are free to do as they wish. Most take advantage of the special locations they are in. Here, they can enjoy: Wide open spaces, exploring with their best friend, unfished waters, first fish, clear, deep pools, evening campfires, and clear skies, free of light pollution, to view the stars.