Department of Public Works, –noun, While a Burn thrives on the efforts of all its volunteers who put together theme camps, events, and the other offerings that make up the gift economy, someone has to build the infrastructure that holds it all together. Likewise, everyone is expected to leave no trace when the event is over, yet someone has to pick up the MOOP that is still left behind.
At That Thing In The Desert, volunteers in the DPW or Department of Public Works will arrive weeks in advance. They drive in the first stake that marks the future home of the effigy and the center of Black Rock City, then build up the framework of the temporary metropolis before opening day. Then they remain after the event to return the desert to pristine condition; some stay into October, or even year round at the DPW’s permanent encampment in Gerlach. The contributions of similar volunteers at smaller regional burns are no less vital.
During exodus, remember to gift the DPW with your unopened food products and unused drugs (especially any Pabst Blue Ribbon). They need them more than you will in the default world. While you’re headed for a hot shower and a casino buffet, they’re counting the minutes till the desert is theirs again.
See also: Earth Guardians
It’s amazing to watch the transformation that DPW veterans undergo. If you’re like me and you’ve never been part of the Department of Public Works, take a moment to contemplate what it must be like: you arrive in a barren, empty desert and spend weeks building stuff with a small group of other people. Then 50,000 people show up to party, make art, and set things on fire in the city you just built. They disappear a week later, leaving you alone again. The strongest of drugs leave their mark on the minds of the user, and this is especially true of those who spend a month or more each year freebasing playa dust.
Thanks to Ghoast for suggesting this entry.
Other entries in A Burner Lexicon can be found at https://kitoconnell.com/lexicon/
