Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: Peoples'Friendship University of Russia
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During winter break, students from the RUDN University Institute of Ecology embarked on a research expedition across the Perm Krai. Over three days, the students trekked 15 kilometers along the snowy trails of Kamenny Gorod and Usvinsky Pillars, conducted a winter animal census, and experienced 18th-century history at a concert in an ancient mansion.
With a map in hand
The trip to the Perm Krai combined fieldwork with immersion in the region's culture. The students not only explored the Ural landscapes but also worked as researchers. Their first day in Perm was spent as a geographic quest: map in hand, the students explored the city, navigated its surroundings, and learned about its unofficial symbols. They saw the "Perm Salty Ears" sculpture and the local guardian, the Brown Bear.
The main part of the expedition took place in the northern part of the region. The main attractions were the Stone City and the Usvinsky Pillars, giants of Perm. Having reached the peaks, the group explored the crevices between the boulders and the bizarrely shaped rocks.
Throughout the entire route, the students conducted a winter survey of the area: they measured the height and structure of the snow cover for future comparative observations and recorded how the vegetation was coping with the cold. Of particular interest was the winter animal census, which involved tracking animals: the students managed to document the tracks of some residents of the Kama region.
"We saw tracks of hares, minks, field mice, and even moose! Do you know what they look like? I saw them for the first time. These three days flew by so quickly that we didn't even have time to look back. They were full of impressions, beauty, and frost! We hope to return to the Perm region again!" — Daniil Chugaev, first-year student majoring in Ecology and Nature Management.
Hot tea against frost
The students highlighted several aspects of research work in winter conditions. They said the most challenging aspect of the expedition was keeping their hands and feet warm in the freezing temperatures. To avoid this, the group moved at a brisk pace and frequently drank hot tea from thermoses. There was a fair amount of snow, but with a long stride, it didn't hinder their movement, the future ecologists shared.
The students also noted a sense of oneness with nature: the hike participants experienced a sense of belonging, realizing they were literally walking in the same places where moose had walked before. Regarding their research, the students said their snow measurements allowed them to understand how "dirty" the winter periods were.
For example, gray streaks were visible on the snowdrifts on the roofs of houses in Usva. This could indicate either periods of thaw or pollutant emissions. Such observations help determine the environmental burden in the region. The maximum snow depth recorded by students in the mountains was approximately 90 cm.
"At the top of Stone City, snow completely covered the low trees and shrubs, providing them with warm shelter from the wind and cold. And that's a good thing. Even if a plant isn't completely covered, keeping the roots and lower part of the trunk warm helps the trees survive the frosts," says Daniil Chugaev.
The expedition allowed the children to experience a small winter adventure and practice useful skills that could be useful in their future careers.
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