Frequently Asked Questions

Who is facilitating the Golden Workshop?
Outdoor Writers Association of America (OWAA) in conjunction with The University of Montana.  

Who should register for the Goldenrod Workshop?
Both seasoned and apprentice writers are encouraged to attend. The workshop is in a casual setting with hands-on learning and with a peer group of writers and instructors.  

When is the Goldenrod Workshop?
August 1-7, 2010 

How did the Goldenrod Workshop get its name?
The Goldenrod Workshop is named in recognition of Margaret's Menamim's OWAA Poem of Invocation. Former OWAA President "Uncle" Homer Circle, who was president of OWAA in 1967-1968, urged Margaret Menamin to write a poem of invocation.  "I felt we needed one to replace those which tended to be biased toward one religion or another," Circle said in a letter. More on Margaret Menamin and the poem.

When should I arrive and depart?
Check in is from noon-5 p.m., Sunday, August 1.  Receive room assignments and the facilitator will answer questions. Introductions and dinner starts at 6 p.m. 

When does the workshop end?   
Students will receive evaluations first thing Saturday morning, August 7, just before departure.

Is there a maximum number of students?
Yes. 30 is the limit and enrollment is on a first-come, first-served basis.  

When and how do I enroll?
Enrollment is open now. Download the application.  

When is the application deadline?
A non-refundable $250 deposit is due by May 1, 2010. Full payment is due July 1, 2010.

Where is Missoula?
Missoula is located in western Montana adjacent to Interstate 90 and serviced by Missoula International Airport. Missoula is a two-hour drive from Glacier National Park and a four-drive from Yellowstone National Park.

What airlines serve Missoula?  
Alaska Airlines/Horizon Air
Allegiant Airlines
Northwest Airlines/KLM
Delta Connection
United Express
Horizon Airlines

What does the $995 cover?
Room, board and tuition. Participants reside at The University of Montana campus, in dormitory rooms. The $995 fee assumes double occupancy; add $100 if requesting a single sleeping room. Alternate arrangements can be made by workshop attendees at their own expense.

Is part of my $995 fee refunded if I arrange my own food and lodging.
No. Course fees cannot be partitioned.

What amenities are available on campus?
Goldenrod Workshop sessions will be held at the University Center, which offers various retail services, including the UC Market, the UC Food Court, the Bookstore at The University of Montana, Campus Quick Copy, and the Bookstore at The University of Montana.

Where will Goldenrod Workshop meals be held?
Three meals will be served Monday through Friday at The University of Montana Food Zoo cafeteria in the Emma Lommasson Center. Each participant will receive a UM Griz card (student identification card), that enables Goldenrod students to swipe their way into both the cafeteria and their dorm room. Once inside the cafeteria, it's a buffet-style eating arrangement.

What if I arrive in Missoula before the commencement of Goldenrod?  
Students will need to make alternative arrangements for lodging.

How do get from Missoula International Airport to The University of Montana?
A variety of rental car companies operate from Missoula International Airport, which is 15 minutes from the University of Montana.

What public transportation is available in Missoula?
Mountain Line, the public transit service for Missoula, runs from the University of Montana to almost anywhere in town. Bicycles can be rented at the University of Montana, and Missoula is very pedestrian-friendly. For a list of Missoula taxis, Google "Missoula + taxi"; For a list of Missoula hotels, Google, "Missoula + hotel"

Can I receive academic credit for attending Goldenrod?
OWAA hopes to provide credit for successfully completing the coursework the second year of the workshop, in 2011.

Are scholarships available for the workshop?
If you're an OWAA member, you could be eligible for the John Madson Fellowship to attend Goldenrod. Members may apply for the John Madson Fellowship, which is funded through the OWAA's John Madson Fellowship Fund, an endowment that thrives primarily through member contributions and fundraising efforts. Its goal is to enhance professional communication skills for as many members as possible. The deadline to apply is February 1, 2010.   

What if the workshop is canceled?
In the event the Goldenrod workshop is canceled, a full refund will be issued within 45 days of cancellation.

How do I contact OWAA?
Contact Us.