Club seeks new heights

Come rain or shine, the Augustana Outdoor Club (AOC) showed its dedication to Mother Earth on a trip to give back to Palisades State Park during Earth week.

The Adopt-a-Crag event was part of the Access Fund, a national advocacy program that keeps U.S. climbing areas open and conserves the climbing environment.

''Not only did we make the Palisades a better place by giving back and beautifying a wonderful state park, Augustana students and faculty, as well as SDSU students and the Sioux Falls community, were able to come together for a common goal as citizens and do their part to celebrate Earth Day.'' club president junior Samuel Smolnisky said.

This event aimed to create an awareness of the partnership between land managers and climbers.

''The stewardship that is displayed by events such as ours not only shows what we can all do to give back to the land, but also demonstrates the passion we have for such a beautiful place to climb and recreate at,'' Smolnisky said.

The club picked up trash in the park, placed woodchips on heavily used paths and performed trail maintenance that included building a retaining wall and leveling of pathways.

''It was great to see everyone come out despite the bad weather,'' club vice president and junior Katie Randall said.

The AOC has previously climbed in Palisades State Park, which is located near Garretson, S.D. The cliffs and formations provide lots of space to practice scaling and rappelling techniques. The terrain of the park provides a popular getaway for campers, hikers and rock climbers alike.

The AOC strives to provide students with activities that college students wouldn't normally get to experience, based on a love of the outdoors.

''Outdoor Club allows students to participate in meaningful activities that will endure to become lifetime hobbies,'' Randall said. ''That's why it's so important. When you have opportunities to try new things when you're young, you'll be more likely to continue those as you get older.''

While establishing future passions, the club's leaders think the activities are also valuable in the hectic life of a college student. The events are also affordable, with most under $10, with transportation provided or carpooling offered.

''School is extremely stressful, and students need to take a break and get a little fresh air, do a little exercise and best of all try something new and have an awesome time with friends,'' Smolnisky said.