Geological Reasoning And Natives Investigating The Earth (GRANITE)
Agreement to Participate and Liability Release
The GRANITE program will depart Lake Superior State University (LSSU) in Sault Ste. Marie, MI on Friday
July 12, 2013 and return on Friday, July 26, 2013. Participants are responsible for their transportation to and from LSSU
before and after the field excursion. The field trip plans include vehicle travel from Michigan to Wisconsin, Minnesota,
South Dakota, Wyoming and back. Individuals are responsible for their own transportation to and from Sault Ste. Marie,
MI before and after the GRANITE field excursion.
During the GRANITE excursion, participants will examine a diverse range of geologic features from a variety of
geologic environments. Exercises will vary widely but may include geologic, hydrologic, environmental and/or tectonic
studies, descriptions of samples or processes, geologic mapping, interpretation of observations related to the geologic
history of a locality and/or its significance to Native communities. The geologic exercises will at times be in relatively
remote regions and terrains will vary from flat to steep valleys and peaks. Participants can expect to encounter very
rugged terrain at times; thus, it is the student’s responsibility to be in shape for hiking and to seek medical advice if there
are any concerns related to physical exercise. Closed-toe, sturdy shoes such as tennis/walk/running shoes or hiking boots
are a necessity (see equipment list for some of the other items you will need to bring). Climatic conditions may vary from
hot (90°F+) to near freezing some evenings.
I understand that participation in the GRANITE program involves risk and the potential for injury is ever-present
and includes, but is not limited to, sprains, cuts, bruises, slivers (including cactus), puncture wounds, fractures, eye
injuries, burns, drowning, automobile accidents, etc. There are inherent risks because of the range of ecosystems and
diverse variety of fauna and flora will be encountered and may include: bears, rattlesnakes, scorpions, various biting
insects, poison ivy, poison oak, etc.
Participants will spend many nights camping in public and private facilities. Participants are responsible for all
personal items at all time. I release the GRANITE staff and LSSU for responsibility for any personal items that are lost or
damaged. Participants will often work as partners and in teams that may be responsible at various times for helping shop
for food, preparing group meals and cleaning up and other tasks as designated by the GRANITE staff.
Participants will at times not be in the direct presence of GRANITE staff. Therefore, the participant accepts
responsibility for his or her own safety and behavior. This includes, but is not limited to, behaving in compliance with
local laws and ordinances, any and all safety guidelines established by the GRANITE staff, meeting at rendezvous points
at designated times and not being in possession of, or consuming alcohol or illicit drugs throughout the duration of this
field excursion.
Participants are expected to behave at all times in a safe-conscious manner befitting a representative of LSSU.
Participants recognize that they will be in close proximity to one another for an extended period of time and that they must
respect each other’s property, space and feelings.
Realizing the above conditions, my signature below indicates that I agree to participate in this event and agree to
abide by all standards and conditions established by the GRANITE staff. Alcohol or other drug abuse and any
repercussions of this abuse are solely my responsibility. I understand that my willful disregard for any of these standards
or conditions is grounds for immediate dismissal from the GRANITE. I assume transportation responsibilities and
associated costs should the participant be dismissed from GRANITE due to illness, injury or inappropriate behavior.
In signing this hold harmless agreement / liability release, I understand and acknowledge that I / my child is
voluntarily participating in activities sponsored by or offered through Lake Superior State University as part of the
GRANITE program. I further understand that all activities have inherent risks to myself and others. I accept any risks
that may be associated with GRANITE related activities. It is understood that individuals who do not have any special
professional training may lead some activities.
By signing this release form, I agree to indemnify and hold harmless the Lake Superior State University, its Board
of Trustees, officers, employees, agents and the GRANITE staff from any claims for injury or damages that may arise
from, or in connection with, any activities (including transportation) in which I / my child may voluntarily participate.
Furthermore, I understand that the University reserves the right to withdraw any or all announced parts of any
activities should conditions warrant and to decline to accept or retain participants as members of any activity.
I have fully read this release and agree to accept any risks that may be associated with the GRANITE activities.
Student Signature
Date
Parent/Guardian Signature
Date