![[Image Description: Two MCC members taking a brief break; one is sitting on a rock, the other is standing nearby. They are both in their uniforms, looking out at the expansive, mountain view surrounding them.]](https://cdn.firespring.com/images/c3f85e97-43a9-4810-8081-e8e6338173d0.jpeg)
As we packed up our gear, headed to the Ranger Station, and received our project instructions for the week, we all were in a great mood going into our final hitch. We were assigned to help on a research project surveying lynx habitats across Hyalite Canyon. It seemed simple enough and a lot less strenuous than our other projects. We were excited to have a welcome break, after all, the Forestry Crew this season had been through numerous trials and tribulations but nothing could keep us down.
That is... Until the forest started to attack.
One by one we were picked off by the wasps and hornets, some getting stung multiple times. Staying on our feet was a fleeting privilege as we bush-wacked up and down steep hills through the dead and down. Alongside the hornets, the horseflies and mosquitoes followed up with a coordinated attack. Our arms were covered in bites, cuts, bruises, and thorns. Our legs met the same fate as well. By day four it seemed nearly impossible to continue to go on, our bodies were exhausted and the elements were beating down on us hard. But like we always have, we rallied and we rallied hard. Ultimately we completed 185 surveys across the canyon, providing critical information to the Bozeman Ranger District, and helping them with their treatment plans for future projects.
