As the Information Center & Bookstore Manager, I have the opportunity to spend a lot of time interacting with visitors who walk into our store. Some are members and know the lake well, and some have never even heard of Mono Lake before and just desperately want to use the bathroom. One of the best aspects of working with the public so much is the opportunity to talk to people about the wonders of Mono Lake. I love  seeing how inspired and excited people get as they hear our story—the ups and downs, the difficulties and victories, and the work we do now.

Another one of my favorite parts about working at the counter is hearing people’s positive feedback about our Information Center and the Mono Basin. Visitors rave about our books, gifts, wonderful seasonal staff, and the magic of their time down at the tufa towers. Members reminisce about meeting David Gaines, the time they rode in the Bike-A-Thon, or the moment they first visited the Mono Basin and saw the lake teeming with brine shrimp and flies. Sometimes people email me days after their visit to share a story or thank a specific staff member for their help. Recently I received a chocolate bar all the way from Germany as a thank you for helping some travelers when their car broke down!

Our store is an amazing place to hear about people’s encounters with Mono Lake, whether it’s their first time visiting the lake, or one of many stretching back over the years. To our visitors from both near and far, and our members: thank you for your stories and kind words!

All the 2011 Field Seminars will be up online here for everyone to view on January 15, 2011.

Take a look at what we’re offering this year, make your plans to come for a seminar, and be ready to sign up when registration opens for members only on Monday, February 1. Registration opens for non-members on Monday, March 1, but if you wish to register on February 1 you can join the Mono Lake Committee when you call or sign up online.

Questions? Call (760) 647-6595.