There’s some fun in the sun planned at Petrified Forest National Park beginning in August, thanks to the Petrified Forest Museum Association’s new Petrified Forest Field Institute (PFFI). Field institutes offer outdoor learning opportunities by using the park as the classroom. Classes will cover geology and paleontology, archaeology, human history and photography in this first season, with many more courses and opportunities for exploration and discovery planned for the coming years. “With so many diverse facets to the park, Petrified Forest is delighted to have an educational partner in the Petrified Forest Field Institute that can provide a more in-depth experience for the visitor,” said Park Superintendent Brad Traver. The park preserves some of the most pristine and colorful deposits of petrified wood from the Late Triassic Era (200 to 225 million years ago). Not only does the beautiful Painted Desert strata preserve the ancient fossil record, but it also contains a record of human habitation dating back 13,000 years. The new institute provides an opportunity to explore the Petrified Forest with expert guides as students learn more about the fascinating events that sculpted this beautiful land. Participants take part in and contribute hands-on with fossil excavation of an ancient lake, record rock-art (petroglyphs) on newly acquired park lands, and learn how to use light and shadow to capture exquisite pictures of the Painted Desert. Each class lasts one day, with upcoming classes beginning in August and continuing through October. Spaces are limited, so early registration is encouraged. Complete the registration form and liability waiver online, and return the information by fax, mail or email. The physical demand and academic nature of some courses determine the age limits. Paleontology and archaeology field courses cannot accept children younger than 12, and all children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Refer to course descriptions for limitations. Pets are not allowed on field seminars. Walking and hiking at elevations above 5,000 feet require participants to be in good physical condition. Day hikes will range from two to five miles, and some may exceed eight miles. The cost per class ranges from $89 to $129, less for members of the Petrified Forest Museum Association. For more information visit http://www.petrifiedforestfieldinstitute.org/.