The 2025 Gorge-ous Gathering, the annual membership meeting of the Ice Age Floods Institute (IAFI), was an unqualified success! Hosted by the Columbia River Gorge Chapter, this year’s event treated nearly 150 participants to an unforgettable experience filled with geological exploration, natural beauty, and engaging presentations.
Attendees enjoyed a diverse and packed program of discovery that included:
- Five immersive field trips: These excursions offered unique perspectives on the region’s geology, ecology, and cultural heritage.
- A lively membership meeting and dinner: A chance for members to connect, reflect, and look ahead.
- A captivating presentation by Nick Zentner: The renowned geologist enthralled the audience with his insights into J. Harlen Bretz’s groundbreaking Ice Age Floods theories.
- A post-field trip social gathering: An opportunity for attendees to unwind at Bargeway, a local pub, and discuss the day’s adventures.
Exploring Wonders of the Gorge: Many first-time visitors were awed by the Columbia River Gorge, and by the Discovery Center which served as the main venue. The event also highlighted other local gems, including museums, wineries, and natural attractions. For the adventurous, there was even a wild and scenic whitewater rafting experience! The Columbia Gorge weather was characteristically warm and windy, except for the breezy and cool main field trip, and spirits were high throughout the event. The field trips were a definite highlight:
- Ice Age Floods of the Eastern Gorge: USGS geologists Jim O’Connor and Richard Waitt led a fascinating tour exploring the geology and iconic Ice Age Floods features of the eastern Gorge.
- Vineyards and Terroir: Renowned soil scientist Alan Busacca guided a tour of several local vineyards and wineries, illustrating how the unique “terroir”—including soil profile, precipitation, elevation, and exposure—contributes to an amazing spectrum of fine Gorge wines.
- Native Plant Walks: Native plant expert Barbara Robinson, who has dedicated years to reintroducing native plant landscapes at the Discovery Center, led insightful walks across the Rowena plateau and around the center’s grounds.
- Central Gorge Exploration: Local geologist Lloyd DeKay led a couple of trips, uncovering unusual geological features, sharing Native American cultural artifacts and stories, and even including a side trip to see a variety of exotic animals found in the central Gorge.
Engaging Presentations and Community Spirit: Beyond the field trips, the Gorge-ous Gathering offered engaging presentations that fostered a strong sense of community, including:
- Nick Zentner’s Revelations: Always entertaining and dynamic, Nick Zentner captivated a near-capacity audience with his revelations about the observations, thoughts, and research that underpinned J. Harlen Bretz’s revolutionary theories on the Ice Age Floods.
- Welcomes: Krystyna Wolniakowski, Executive Director of the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, welcomed IAFI members with a brief overview of the Scenic Area’s importance. IAFI President Gary Ford then provided a concise recap of the Institute’s beginnings and history, followed by the re-election of officers.
- The IAFI Store, expertly managed by Patty Hurd, saw brisk business.
- Numerous volunteers generously offered their help with check-ins, bus monitoring, and countless other details that ensured the smooth operation of this multi-faceted event.
- Venue: The invaluable support and resources provided by the Discovery Center perfectly complemented the theme of the entire gathering.
Looking Ahead to 2026
Prepare to Mark Your Calendars! The 2026 annual membership meeting will be hosted by the Ellensburg Chapter. They are already hard at work planning and arranging exciting field trips, presentations, and social gatherings to delight members and the general public.
Keep an eye on the IAFI.org website for more information, especially after the first of the year, to ensure you don’t miss out on the next incredible IAFI gathering!