Volume 27, Issue 2 www.bcha.org Spring 2016 A Thank You to Buffalo River Back Country Horsemen By Pam Floyd

Last year a small group of dedicated horsemen in northwest Arkansas spent a record amount of time working to keep the trails of the Buffalo National River open and accessible for all. While this thank you is directed to them and their many acts of service, the gratitude expressed can be extended to each of you BCH members who work tirelessly to protect and maintain the wild places that have been entrusted to you.

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Building Stronger Chapters and a Stronger BCHA: Trails Forever Fund A Message from Executive Director Jim McGarvey By this spring, BCHA will have equipment, training and more. Our Mountain Elk Foundation, and The Fully 30% of the net proceeds from grown to more than 32 state organi- chapters and our national organization Wilderness Society. Founded near- any planned gift will go to the BCHA zations, with well over 180 chapters, must meet and overcome not only the ly 30 years ago, Crescendo provides Education Foundation’s Grants Pro- from to Florida and from Cali- challenge of Keeping the Trails Open many opportunities to inform and ed- gram. fornia to New York. We are becoming for All, but also the challenges of in- ucate our members about providing for Jerry Bentz, president of BCH Ore- more of a national presence and hav- teractions with the land managers and and protecting their families and loved gon will be the national chairman of the ing greater impact with our federal and legislators. ones through comprehensive, flexible Trails Forever $5 a Month Club. state agency partners and other recre- In response, BCHA put together solutions. Their products will provide ational user organizations. the Trails Forever Fund. The fund pro- an opportunity for BCH members and Consider Participating in the One might say we are starting vides two paths for our members and supporters to consider a planned gift Trails Forever Fund to make it into the “Outdoors Big fellow equestrians to do their part. to BCHA. Similar to our successful Former National Chair and BCHA League.” crowdfunding grants program 30% of Education Foundation Chairman My- To play in the Big League requires Trails Forever Estate Giving the net proceeds from any planned lon Filkins DVM said, “The Foun- Commitment – of which we have Program gift will go to the BCHA Education dation Grant Committee members are plenty; and it requires Time – we have In mid-March, the BCHA entered Foundation’s Grants Program. very much looking forward to award- plenty of that, too, last year we gave into an agreement with Crescendo In- I have committed to stay on as pro ing grants from funds raised by Trails 410,000 volunteer hours; and finally it teractive of Camarillo, CA to provide bono Executive Director through April Forever.” requires Money – we never have had Gift Legacy Services to our members 2019 to manage the Estate Giving Pro- The Trails Forever Fund, which much of that. and supporters. Crescendo’s hundreds gram’s success. includes both estate planning and the Going into the future, we want to of clients include the four U.S. Mili- $5-a-month campaign, will be rolled strengthen our ability to Keep the Trails tary Academy foundations, American Trails Forever $5 a Month Club out at our National Board meeting in Open for All through empowering our Cancer Society, American Heart Asso- For over six months, several BCH Las Vegas, April 20–23. You can join chapters with grant funding for tools, ciation, colleges and universities, the members including Ginny Grulke, the $5-a-month club right now by go- Grand Canyon Association, The Rocky KY; Mike McGlenn, WA; Mary K ing to www.bcha.org and clicking on Church, MO; Jerry Bentz, OR; Fred- the Donate button or by completing the dy Dunn, UT; and me organized the donation form on page 5. NON-PROFIT ORG. Trails Forever $5 a Month Club. To- Thank you! Please direct comments Back Country Horsemen of America U.S. POSTAGE 342 North Main Street, Suite 301 gether, we members, with only a small or suggestions to Jim McGarvey: West Hartford, CT 06117 PAID monthly donation, can make a large im- [email protected] PERMIT NO. 178 pact on Keeping the Trails Open for All. or cell: 706-669-1015 SALEM, OR

Inside... Letter to the Editor...... 2 From the Chairman’s Saddle...... 3 From the Executive Secretary’s Desk...... 5 The Catch Pen...... 6-8 Public Lands Report...... 8 NextGen...... 10 Back Country Horsemen of America www.bcha.org 1 Letter to the Editor Dear Editor, that Wilderness areas are. Wilderness are again clear. Did it take a while? I read the article “A Study of is not simply a place to recreate out of Yes. Was it worthwhile and a satisfy- Crosscut Saws or Power Saws for Trail sight and sound of the modern world, ing effort to do it only with crosscuts 342 North Main Street, Suite 301 Clearing” in last fall’s issue, and feel but something much greater. in keeping with the Wilderness Act? West Hartford, CT 06117 I simply cannot permit it to pass with- Any time we compromise the defi- Absolutely! (888) 893-5161 out comment. Mr. Applebaker went nition of Wilderness as set forth in Sometimes there are compromises to great lengths to prove the obvious, Section 2(c) of the Wilderness Act, we for the sake of Wilderness. Without al- Interested in Joining? that chainsaws cut faster than crosscut have degraded what Wilderness was lowing prior grazing rights to continue, Contact BCHA or the organization nearest saws, but totally misses the point of intended to be. To use chainsaws for the Wilderness Act probably could not you for more information. why we use crosscuts in Wilderness. the sake of speed, efficiency, and con- have been passed. It can be argued that National: BCH of Mississippi BCH of America PO Box 641 Many arguments can be made for venience compromises Wilderness and trails themselves are a compromise to Erica Fearn Nesbit MS 38651 crosscuts over chainsaws from a tech- demonstrates a significant lack of com- the “primeval character” of Wilderness 342 North Main Street 901-485-2982 nical standpoint, such as complexity, mitment to it. but, particularly near large population Suite 301 [email protected] weight, reliability, and transportability A local Wilderness experienced centers, trails exist to concentrate use West Hartford, CT 06117 www.bchms.org (888) 893-5161 of the equipment required, and many a significant wind event at the end of and protect the Wilderness environ- Show-Me Missouri BCH FAX (360) 832-1564 of Mr. Applebaker’s assertions regard- 2011, which flattened 500-600 acres ment. 519 Good Hope Road [email protected] Marshfield, MO 65706 ing safety, fatigue, and technique can of forest and affected a much larger Compromises made for the conve- www.bcha.org (417) 425-9969 be readily challenged. Still, these ar- area. Approximately four and a half nience of visitors without benefit to the State Organizations: www.showmebch.org guments do not address the fundamen- miles of trail were literally buried be- Wilderness should be considered with BCH of Alabama BCH of Montana tal question of why the use of crosscut neath fallen trees and many more miles only the greatest reluctance and skep- 1404 Arkadelphia Road PO Box 4864 saws is important in Wilderness. required major clearing. Because the ticism. Each compromise, small as it Warrior, AL 35180 Butte MT 59701 Under the Wilderness Act, these ar- blowdown was within Wilderness and, may seem, whittles away at the idea (205) 936-9043 [email protected] [email protected] www.bchmt.org eas are “designated for preservation and furthermore, was a natural event, a de- of leaving Wilderness as a place “un- backcountryhorsemenal.com protection in their natural condition” cision was made to cut it out only with impaired for future use and enjoyment BCH of Nevada Buffalo River BCH, PO Box 19324 and “shall be administered for the use crosscut saws. No MRA was prepared, as wilderness” and sets a precedent for Arkansas Reno NV 89511 and enjoyment of the American people no request for chainsaws was made. more compromise, e.g., helicopters or 18210 Simpson Lane (775) 843-2569 in such manner as will leave them un- Furthermore, the area was not closed, mountain bikes with trailers to haul in Little Rock AR 72223 [email protected] impaired for future use and enjoyment but those who desired the challenge of chainsaws, fuel, etc. next? Eventually, (719) 337-4474 www.bchnv.com Jacque.alexander as wilderness.” Mr. Applebaker con- finding a way through or finding a way death by a thousand cuts to something @arkansas.gov BCH of veniently quotes the phrase “for future around were allowed to do so. important to us all. Wilderness is worth PO Box 37005 use and enjoyment as wilderness”, but Many hours of volunteer time going that extra mile for. BCH of Albuquerque NM 87176 PO Box 4486 [email protected] emphasizes “use and enjoyment” while by members of a number of different “The idea of wilderness needs no Chino Valley AZ 86323 www.bchnm.org ignoring the most important part, “as groups, including the local chapter of defense, it only needs more defenders.” (928) 445-3809 BCH of wilderness.” Non-Wilderness areas Back Country Horsemen, went into ― Edward Abbey www.bchaz.org 110 Hobbit Lane of public land are frequently managed cutting out affected trails, and grant BCH of Pisgah Forest NC 28768 for recreational use and enjoyment, but money was procured for a youth corps Sincerely, 13061 Rosedale Highway (828) 577-3462 [email protected] they are not designated for preservation crew for five weeks of cutting. Four Ralph Bradt Ste G Box 217 in their natural condition in the way years and 1,000+ trees later, the trails Kittredge, Bakersfield CA 93314 www.bchofnc.org www.bchcalifornia.org BCH of Oregon 37245 Wheeler Rd BCH of Colorado Pleasant Hill OR 97455 A Thank You to Buffalo River Back Country Horsemen PO Box 1524 (541) 746-4547 By Pam Floyd Elizabeth CO 80107 www.bcho.org www.bchcolorado.org What’s your place on the Buffalo? Whatever place Black Hills BCH That’s a question a fellow Buffalo Riv- has a special hold on BCH of Florida of South Dakota PO Box 815 20112 Buckin Horse Lane er BCH member asked on a recent river you, there’s a good Brooksville FL 34605 Whitewood SD 57793 ride. No one present had to ask what chance you helped 352-796-9272 (605) 645-2296 he meant or struggle for an answer. As make it even better. [email protected] [email protected] folks who regularly ride the Buffalo That’s what you do www.fbch.org www.bhbchsd @blogspot.com we’re lucky like that, aren’t we? We every time you ride BCH of all know that he was asking about the out and clip, saw, and PO Box 1471 BCH of Tennessee, Inc. Blue Ridge GA 30513 777 Cedar Creek Cave Rd place on the river that speaks most di- lop your way down 706-374-7075 Greeneville TN 37743 rectly to your heart, brings you peace, river. Every time you [email protected] (423) 552-3767 and draws you back again and again. stop to pick up some- [email protected] If you have a minute, think about one else’s trash or BCH of Idaho www.bchet.org PO Box 513 your place. Maybe it’s high in the take the time to teach BCH of Salmon ID 83467 headwaters of the Buffalo where the a child how to tie a Above: Spring Creek. Right: Twin Falls www.bchi.org PO Box 13195 Ogden UT 84412 trails can be a little wild and wooly and quick release knot, you make the future BCH of Illinois (801) 985-1909 the pools in the river are that particu- of the Buffalo National River a little Rt # 2 BOX 214 www.bchu.com lar shade of blue-green that makes you brighter and more certain. the Buffalo River (a love letter really) Golconda IL 62938 (618) 672-4841 BCH happy to be alive and in the company Think about the number 3,072 for and a thank you note to each of you. [email protected] 55 Lost Creek Lane of a good horse. Maybe your thoughts just a moment. That is the number of Simply, thank you for every hour you Buena Vista VA 24416 go flying along Sneeds Creek in the hours members of Buffalo River Chap- spent riding and working to keep the Hoosier BCH Indiana (540) 570-1910 12784 E Rollins Lane [email protected] springtime when the wildflowers are ter BCH committed to the care and trails of the Buffalo open and accessi- blazing and the waterfalls are sparkling maintenance of our beloved river and ble to all. I hope you and your horse or Springville IN 47462 BCH of Washington (812) 797-4540 110 W 6th Ave PMB 393 and full. Or do you dream of a spot its watershed last year. It’s a big num- mule had some grand adventures along hoosierhorsemen Ellensburg WA 98926 further along as the river is winding its ber for a small group of dedicated peo- the way to that 3,072 and you were able @yahoo.com (509) 276-6226 way home, where you’re thrilled and ple who choose to make a difference, to spend some quality time in your spe- BCH of Kansas www.bchw.org surprised to see an Elephant’s Head? isn’t it? This post is both a fan letter to cial place. 1409 Lincoln Road BCH of Concordia KS 66901 2446 Spriggs Dr 785-243-2494 Lander WY 82520 OOPS! A correction steve.lindsey@lia_ks.com [email protected] www.wyobch.org with apologies. BCH In the Winter 2016 issue on page 9 SHOOTING STAR SADDLERY 7900 Wades Mill Road Affiliates: Mt. Sterling KY 40353 BCH of Alaska was a Catch Pen article submitted by Saddles, Chaps, and Gunleather (859) 744-0397 PO Box 3148 the Colorado Front Range BCH (FR- [email protected] Palmer AK 99645 BCH). Unfortunately, two smaller JEFF MORROW, MAKER www.kybch.com (907) 360-0480 items from the California Mother Lode [email protected] NIARADA, MONTANA Unit (MLU) were inserted into that ar- BCH Pigeon River and www.shootingstar.montana.com Beyond, MI, Inc. Saratoga BCH ticle. 6631 E Ashard Road PO Box 461 With apologies to the FRBCH for Clare MI 48617 Cambridge NY 12816 406-250-7601 (517) 296-4475 859-230-0980 the mistaken entry and to MLU be- [email protected] cause they didn’t get the headline they deserved. Thank you all for your patience and forgiveness. Sherry 2 www.bcha.org Back Country Horsemen of America SHOOTING STAR SADDLERY Saddles, Chaps, and Gunleather

JEFF MORROW, MAKER NIARADA, MONTANA www.shootingstar.montana.com 406-250-7601 only send important information. So, Bear Country Containers please, get those email addresses to us ASAP so you don’t miss out on things SIBBG (CA) approved and you need to know! IGBC certified bear resistant I would like to say thank you to our aluminum PACK PANNIERS past Education Chairman Peter Kriger for his leadership and time. We are now welcoming Mack Long into this posi- tion. Mack has some great ideas and By Don Saner, Chairman new directions he wants to bring to his committee. He sent out a survey Hello BCHA! asking questions about your education Looks like winter is starting to program for each state. Your responses lose its grip (or almost) and I know our will help Mack and the committee bet- Durable, airline approved thoughts are turning to getting out on ter understand what and where BCHA Our products are made with GUN CASES our horses, hitting the trail, and doing needs to direct our attention. Please be an all aluminum body and what BCHA’ers do best—trail work! sure to get that important information all stainless steel hardware I want to take the time to thank the back to him ASAP so he can hit the and corner ends are doubled, National Directors and State Officers ground running at the National Board welded and gusseted for for making our twice-a-month chair- Meeting. greater durability. men calls such a huge success! Our As I am writing this, I have just fin- regular teleconferences are a great ished the agenda for the National Board avenue to get information out to the Meeting. It is so amazing how much Various models of panniers and gun cases are available. membership and for the membership work the Directors of the National See website for details: www.BearCountryContainers.com to find out how BCHA can help you Board get done in just four days! The Contact us by email at: [email protected] in your state. On each of these calls, I Director of Public Lands and Recre- have mentioned how important it is for ation Randy Rasmussen has put togeth- Call 406.763.4364 Made in Montana BCHA to have your individual e-mail er a great Public Lands Workshop. We Box 38, Gallatin Gateway, MT 59730 by Jerry Kawasaki addresses. If we need to get some im- will have the opportunity to visit and portant information out to our member- work on strategies with the BLM, US ship fast, this is by far the best method. Forest Service, National Park Service, We are now in the process of tran- and the US Fish and Wildlife Service. Beyond the Round Pen sitioning over to our new office staff Ben Pendergrass from the American at Association Resources. A complete Horse Council will be there to update targets a pressing need. and updated list of members and their us on the National Forest System Trail Many clinicians address colt starting and developing a contact information will help BCHA Stewardship Act. Our Executive Di- relationship with your horse, but few address basic serve our membership well. You have rector Jim McGarvey is working hard horsemanship and the skills necessary my personal assurance that BCHA will on funding and I’m sure he’ll be ad- for staying safe with your horse in the not now, or ever, sell your information. dressing this in his column. We just backcountry. This two-day course Your contact information will stay in have so much going on I hope you get house and only for our use. We will the chance to come to one of your Na- prepares horses and riders for not bombard you with e-mails and will tional Board Meetings in person! advanced trail and backcountry challenges. June 10-12, 2016 Clinic fee: $350 per person Get more details: 406.328.4195 my.montana.net/draa/tnwalk/ beyondtheroundpen1.html Dan Aadland, Ph.D., is a lifelong horseman, rancher, and writer, author of eight books (including The Complete Trail Horse) and many magazine articles for equine and outdoor publications.

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Friday, Saturday, Sunday, July 8, 9, 10, 2016 Raleigh, North Carolina

Sheraton Imperial Hotel - free parking, $99/night for first 100 rooms 4700 Emperor Blvd., Durham, NC 27703 (919) 941-5050 Free shuttle from Raleigh-Durham International Airport to/from Hotel

250+ attendees anticipated - nationwide outreach for attendees with East to West promotions

Conference Schedule Highlights: 25 national keynote speakers and presenters invited - representing federal land management agencies (US Forest Service, Bureau of Land Man- agement, National Park Service, Department of the Interior, Department of Agriculture, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, Land and Water Conservation, and more); national equestrian organizations, BCHA, AQHA, AHC, ELCR, and more); state parks, state and municipal land managers, and private land own- ers; Welcome by NC Dignitaries; Sponsors/exhibitors include FHWA, North Carolina Horse Council, and multiple national, regional and state agencies, companies and organizations; conference is featuring a limited-to-50-participants rolling bus speakers and sites tour/first come/first serve; topics re- lating to equestrian recreation successes and issues in the second decade of the 21st century, i.e. current discussions about access to public and private land, horses and drones, outreach to youth, Youth Corps, shared trails, and more!

Back Country Horsemen of America www.bcha.org 3 BCHA Mission Statement In Loving Memory Denny Murray 1937-2015 1. To perpetuate the common sense By Jim and Gayle Higgs use and enjoyment of horses It is with great sadness that we in in America’s back country and BCH of Central Arizona say goodbye wilderness areas. to Denny Murray. At least he is in a 2. To work to insure that public lands better place and without pain. remain open to recreational use. Denny exemplified what every Back Country Horsemen organization 3. To assist the various government and would hope for in its membership – private agencies in their maintenance dedication to our mission statement and management of said resource. and working tirelessly to achieve it. 4. To educate, encourage and solicit Denny became a member of BCH- active participation in the wise and CAZ around 2008. He took on the sustaining use of the back country challenging duties of Project Chair- ident for at least three years resource by horsemen and the man and what a job he did! He worked until his health made him slow general public commensurate with hours on Forest Service paperwork, down. He and Sara were in- our heritage. working hard on the Almosta Trail strumental in forming the system, instrumental in the building of Prescott Trail Safety Coalition 5. To foster and encourage the the pavilion at the Loop C group site after horse vs. bicycle acci- formation of new state Back Country at Groom Creek Horse Camp, took the dents. Horsemen’s organizations. lead with the Forest Service and the Denny was honored with city of Payson to save Houston Mesa the chapter’s Outstanding Vol- Horse Camp from becoming a motor- unteer Award and the Forest Coming soon... ized (OHV) camp, just to mention a Service will name Trail 626 in few. He was great on his computer at the Almosta Trail system after APRIL BCHA National Board researching pertinent information for him. 20-23 Meeting - NV the chapter. His accomplishments for the chap- ny, we will miss you, rest in peace, you 2016 Denny served as our chapter pres- ter are too numerous to mention. Den- deserve it.

2016 FREE-FEE Days Meet Black Hills BCH of South Dakota Buffalo Hunt Raffle on Federal Public Lands Finalist!! April 16-24: National Park Week - NPS By Renee Bechen, Public Affairs Officer June 11: National Get Outdoors Day - Everybody has special accom- USFS plishments on their bucket list but does yours include hunting a trophy buffa- Aug 25-28: National Park Service lo? Well, maybe not. But to some it Centennial - NPS is a VERY big deal! A trophy buffalo was on Sheridan, WY resident Diane Sept 24: National Public Lands Day - Boice’s bucket list. Diane is an accom- BLM, NPS, USFS, USFWS plished hunter in her own right, includ- ing several buffalo hunts previously. Oct 9: First Sunday of National However, she had never taken a trophy Wildlife Refuge Week - buffalo. What defines a trophy buffalo USFWS one might ask? Typically an old herd Nov 11: Veterans Day - bull of accomplished body size, stat- BLM, NPS, USFS, ure and horn radius/length accounts USFWS (11th-13th) for a trophy. Black Hills Backcountry Horsemen of South Dakota (BH BCH SD) in conjunction with Routier Outfit- bow. Guide Ryan was enthused about his huntress that day!! ters of Buffalo, SD guaranteed a trophy attempting to make this great crossbow Diane is a marvel and one should buffalo that meant that Diane was all in hunt stalk happen. After several hours be impressed with her accomplishment Index of Sponsors for this hunt!! of glassing, driving and viewing poten- that day whether you hunt or not. Di- Good hunting practices and skills Aadland, Dan tial trophy bulls, a strategy was initiat- ane has had to overcome life obstacles typically come from one’s family. All ed. A combination of prairie land, roll- not unlike that of the rest of us. How- Beyond the Round Pen...... 3 good hunters know there is more to ing hills/breaks with some short pine ever, what makes it a bit sweeter for American Endurance Ride hunting that just firing a gun. Hunt- forest was part of the landscape on over Diane is that she is a cancer survivor. Conference...... 10 ing is a skill that takes practice to be a 30,000 acres that several trophy bulls She also is a marathon runner and quite proficient with a firearm. Prowess and were located. a competitor as well. How’s that for Back Country Store...... 10 tenacity for hunting comes from spend- Diane initially had her eye on a inspiration! So for all of you, male or ing an inordinate amount of time in the trophy bull grazing in the short pine Bear Country Containers...... 3 female outdoor enthusiasts, whether backcountry or prairie understanding forest. While Doug, Phil and I lagged you like to: hunt, fish, horseback ride, Blue Creek Outfitters...... 5 weather, game patterns and habitat. behind, our huntress and guide led us bike, hike, run, set personal goals that For those that do not hunt it is tough on an exciting two-mile hike and stalk. take items off your bucket list. Diane Boone and Crockett Club...... 7 to comprehend. In a unique twist of The first trophy bull had other ideas just took one off of hers and it was an Chris Tornow Saddlemaker...... 9 fate, Diane returned to her old hunt- when the wind switched which made amazing hunting trip experience that ing grounds. Although she grew up in the crossbow and getting close obso- all of us who participated in will never High Desert Trail Riders BCH...... 12 California, her father would travel to lete. A much larger trophy bull was forget! Wyoming to hunt. Diane followed in later located that proved to be on a mis- Thanks, Diane and Phil Boice, for Kinsey Horsemanship...... 12 her father’s footsteps and eventually sion to cover country across the prairie. allowing Doug and me the opportuni- National Equestrian Trail Conference...3 moved to Wyoming. Diane was sad that Ryan was able to assist with weaving a ty to share in a once in a lifetime hunt her father is gone but his presence was stalk through several drainages, across with you. Thanks to Randy Routier North American Trail Ride definitely felt on Saturday January 23, a creek and over a knoll to where Di- our hunt coordinator with Routier Out- Conference...... 5 2016 when she was able to take her first ane placed a well-aimed shot with her fitters of Buffalo, SD for allowing us a Outfitters Supply...... 11 trophy buffalo bull. 45-70-lever action rifle. Diane’s hunt- tremendous hunting trip on gorgeous The hunt on the Routier Ranch near ing skills and accuracy with a firearm backcountry of northwestern SD. AND Saddle Pal by Cate...... 3 Buffalo, SD is where Ryan Routier our helped her take one of the top five tro- we especially thank our guide Ryan guide met up with Phil and Diane Boice phy bulls of around a 100 per our guide Shooting Star Saddlery...... 2 Routier for his expertise and hunt camp plus Doug and Renee Bechen. All are Ryan. Out of 100 or so buffalo that stories that will keep us laughing for The Event at Rebecca Farm...... 12 members of BH BCH SD. Diane was Ryan has help guide, a female hunter days to come! the lucky winner of BH BCH SD Buf- has taken only about six. Guides do not Trailhead Supply...... 5 falo Raffle that was a recent fundraiser impress easily because they “live and Two Horse Tack...... 7 for the organization. Originally, Di- breathe” hunting with both good and ane’s plan for this hunt was to attempt a bad hunters. However, it was clear to stalk on a trophy buffalo using a cross- see that even Ryan was impressed with

4 www.bcha.org Back Country Horsemen of America Hello Fellow Back Country Horsemen –

This is my last article in the BCHA National Newsletter as your Ex- ecutive Secretary. After over 20 years in this position, your Executive Committee has decided that it is time to go to the next level and have a full staff rather than just an Executive Secretary. Association Resources Inc. will be able to offer more services to BCHA than I can.

Being your Executive Secretary has been one of the delights of my life. When I found the BCH in 1987, I felt like I was “home”. And when the position of Executive Secretary came up in 1994, my husband said “That’s your job, Peg!” And I have lived BCHA ever since.

Getting a new “boss” every two years has been challenging at times but that’s the nature of association management. Since I am the one with the continuity and history of BCHA, I tried to gently guide the new of- ficers during their terms – sometimes it worked, other times, well, that’s another story. Anyway, it was done with love.

I have met so many wonderful people in BCHA! I treasure the friend- ships that have evolved. And these are not just at the National Board Meetings but on email and the phone. Those devoted volunteers who send in their members’ contact information for the mailing list have be- come my friends, too. It is such a pleasure to email or talk to them and find out about their horses and lives. And there are the others that I get to counsel during the winter when there’s not enough horsing around to do and the winter doldrums take over.

I will miss BCHA and its activities but I will have more time to ride good ol’ Rosy Red Hot and see those trails that we love. (Of course, I will stay a member of my chapters – Pierce County and Nisqually – and maybe have time to go to a meeting or work party…)

By the way, I will continue to work with the BCH Education Foun- dation.

Your friend, Peg

DONATION FORM

I would like to donate: GUIDES COURSE ______Monthly or one-time by credit card _____One time, by check June 4th–June 12th PLEASE FILL OUT FOR CREDIT CHECK INSTRUCTIONS CARD DONATIONS Make check payable to: Name______BCHA Address______On memo line, write: City, State Zip______Trails Forever Fund Phone (important!) ______Two-week Program Includes instruction, Amount I can donate (pick one) ☐ accommodations $5 a Month PLEASEPLEASE MAILMAIL THISTHIS FORM TO:TO: • Beautiful country, Great horses ☐ $10 a Month Back Country Horsemen of • Excellent price, Good company ☐ $15 a Month Back Country Horsemen of America America • Also one-week ☐ $______a Month 342 North Main Street, Suite 301 PO Box 1367 Trail Riding/Packing Clinic ☐ One-time donation of ______West Hartford, CT 06117 Graham, WA 98338-1367

See web for most complete book Credit Card Information Questions? Contact: and DVD ever. QUESTIONS? CONTACT: Number (Visa or MC only) www.bcoutfitter.com GinnyErica Fearn Grulke 1.250.569.3423 [email protected]@bcha.org 859888-893-5161-940-4672 Call or e-mail for info and brochure. Exp Date _____/_____ [email protected]

Back Country Horsemen of America www.bcha.org 5 The Catch Pen Arkansas Buffalo River BCH National Park Centennial Ride/Clean-Up in the Works By Nancy Deisch

On the 40th anniversary of the Buf- ter all along the entire length of the riv- falo National River Park in 2013, the er as well as remove trees, brush, and Buffalo River BCH of AR celebrated other debris from the trails. The re- by riding the 131-mile length of the wards will be many. Fall in the Ozarks river—a ride that took 12 days, lots of is a time of unbelievable beauty with planning, and a good bit of stamina. the forests turning and the river clear- Recently when the Park asked its part- ly reflecting the crystal blue sky. All nering groups to plan centennial cel- colors of the rainbow are represented, ebrations for 2016, the first thing that along with camaraderie of good friends came to mind was another river ride— and good horses, and the satisfaction of this time in reverse. taking good care of our Park. These are So the planning has begun for just some of the things we look forward the October 2016 ride. The trail will to with our Centennial Ride. There is change a bit, for the better, this time, still an incredible amount of work to do, Photo: Going over maps and ideas, members of Arkansas’ Buffalo River BCH and but the BCH’ers still plan to pick up lit- but it has begun, and it will be worth it. personnel of the Buffalo National River Park put together plans for the October Cen- tennial Ride/River Clean-Up.

BCH of Reno Nevada Share Your Christmas Food Drive and State Recognition By Don Daniel, State Chairman The High Sierra Chapter of all day live event, and we are invited BCHNV (Reno) has participated in the for next year. local Share Your Christmas food drive In addition, the Friends of Neva- for the past five years. This year we da Wilderness recognized our chapter collected over 550 pounds of food and as the Partner Organization of the Year $100. As always, we delivered it to the 2015. Several of our members attend- drive up collection point on horseback, ed their awards banquet and accepted a with a pack string. Nine members and framed print of Nevada’s Table Moun- seven and a half animals participated tain Wilderness in appreciation for our (we had a miniature horse in the string). work with them in Central Nevada. Hosted by our local Channel 2 tele- We are all looking forward to host- vision station, the station always has ing you at the National Board Meeting one of its members ride with us and in Las Vegas in April, 2016. interview the riders. Each year we re- Hope to see you there. ceive great television coverage of the

BCH Wyoming Annual Rendezvous 2015 By Dan Stroud Well it’s January 2016 and I’m just from the audience, and included songs now sitting down to write something by three and cowboy poetry thrown in. about the 2015 BCH Rendezvous in The three that volunteered to provide Wyoming. The Rendezvous at Upper entertainment included Dennis Dailey, Green River Lakes was hosted by the Al Sammons, and John Sweem. All are Pinedale Chapter, called the Mountain characters and were very enjoyable!! Man BCH, fitting for the area with its Barry Reiswig (BCH in Cody) past trapper rendezvous. gave a presentation on the public lands The Upper Green River Basin con- issues. In particular were those related tains the headwaters of the Green River, to giving public lands to the states for fed by seeping glaciers such as Mam- management and how seriously BCH is moth, Minor, Sourdough and others. taking this issue. The area has the trailhead at the lower An auction that featured some lake, binds with trails that tie in to the amazing items was held the final eve- Continental Divide Trail, and traverses ning. Seems like there was something not only to the south end of the Wind for everyone at this auction and a good Rivers and beyond, but also north, even time was had by all with the event; to Yellowstone Park. many went home with purchases of one Eighty-six people signed up and at- kind or another…I know I’m set for tended the event, from many places, in- the next four oil changes on my diesel cluding other states such as South Da- which was a purchase of mine. kota, Arizona and Oregon. Every Wy- Finally, the Sunday before every- oming chapter was also represented. one headed out, a Cowboy Church Ser- Festivities included both on-your-own vice was held to give thanks for every- rides as well as guided rides to various thing around us and for everyone with locations in and around the area. Also whom we had the pleasure of spending included at the Rendezvous were din- the three days! ners, sing-alongs, cowboy poetry, an auction, and live music provided by Jared Rogerson the last evening after the auction. The first evening featured a group of three entertainers, with participation

6 www.bcha.org Back Country Horsemen of America The Catch Pen BCH California MLU Day Ride Was T-o-o-o Cool By Lucy Badenhoop Photos by Jamie Canon

Photos by Jamie Canon. Above: Vista. Right: Four horses.

The Mother Lode Unit rode from loud equipment ahead, but when actu- Auburn to Cool, ate lunch, and returned ally approached, they shut down the to Auburn on Wednesday, February 10. chain saws and waited for the horses to There were four riders to enjoy the fan- pass. They were thanked enthusiasti- tastic weather and almost empty trails cally. for the 15-mile round trip…two and a A sandwich and salad in the restau- half hours each direction. rant were chosen rather than picnic at Everyone started out with jackets the trailhead behind the firehouse. The or a hoody, but soon took them off. horses enjoyed a drink and rested be- The trails had a few muddy spots from fore heading back to Auburn. recent storms and they were easily It was a peaceful day that spotlight- by-passed. The morning ride to Cool ed the busy birds and squirrels in the encountered maybe two dozen hikers/ trees along the trail. Good compan- bicyclers and only half that number on ions, sunny skies and spectacular vistas the return ride in the afternoon. made this ride Early in the ride, the group saw t-o-o-o c-o-o-o-l. some signs warning of a work crew and Caples Creek Gets a Post Planting Party By Lucy Badenhoop Photos by Daryl Shankles & Jerry Heitzler The Caples Creek Equestrian Trail- Creek Trailhead, you can’t miss the head near Kyburz, CA was open for use large new sign located a third of a mile in June 2014. The official entrance sign down the dirt entry road to the main was received in March, but required parking area. Cathy Bounds delivered two wooden support posts. Russ Niesz the sign components, helped assemble donated six steel hitching posts for the it and approved the location of the sign trailhead, so a post planting work party and hitching posts. She added a small was scheduled for May 6, 2015. Sev- sign at the equestrian connector trail. en volunteers and Cathy Bounds of the Visitors should then proceed to- USFS started with a safety briefing and ward the right to the cul-de-sac (day- worked from 8 am to 4 pm to get the use parking) and look for the four steel posts in the ground before the forecast- hitching posts. As you enter the turn- ed thunder storm arrived. The goal was around area, there are two on the left met!! side and two on the right side. They The team brought their professional are suitably spaced to provide separate equipment that made the job go faster. hitching or to string a highline between Above: Cement. Jerry Heitzler brought his tractor/au- each pair of posts. The last two hitch- Right: Welding tie rings. ger towed by Daryl Shankles with his ing posts are located across the bridge truck/trailer, which made quick work of at the hiker’s trailhead. They are on two ranger districts of the US Forest digging the 3-4 foot deep holes. Russ the slope, across the driveway from the Service. Five members of the Mother Niesz brought 40 bags of concrete, vault toilet. Lode Unit of BCH of CA, picked up the steel posts and his welder on his Once all the holes were dug, the the supplies and spent the day digging heavy-duty flatbed truck. He saved the group took a lunch break at a table and holes, mixing concrete to erect two bul- day when a support arm on the tractor chairs borrowed from the newly outfit- letin boards—one in the picnic area and needed a welding repair. ted Mother Lode Unit trailer. Everyone a second in the day use cul-de-sac. Cordell Van Reese came in his packed their own lunch, but bottled wa- The first posting on the -bulle “shop” van with all sorts of tools for ter on ice and cookies were provided. tin boards was a laminated copy assembling the sign, mounting it to the After lunch, the finishing touches were of “HOUSEKEEPING TIPS FOR 4x4 posts and making sure everything put on the hitching posts, tools loaded LEAVE NO TRACE”. Hopefully, this was square and level. I brought my in the various rigs, and the area policed information will eliminate some of the landscape trailer filled with seven tubs for trash… everyone was ready to head early issues associated with uniformed of water, wheelbarrows, ladders, and home. users of the trailhead. hand tools. Mike Kohlbaker came with On July 7 and 21, 2015 further im- On your next visit to the trailhead, his truck bed loaded with similar items provements were made to the Caples check out the new equipment installed needed for the work. Chris Chaloupka Creek Equestrian Trailhead in the El- in the central picnic area—all are the put in a surprise appearance and was a dorado National Forest in a joint effort results of our long term partnerships big help setting the posts. by the Elegant Ears Mule Association, between volunteer groups and govern- The next time you visit the Caples the Mother Lode Unit of BCHC and ment land managers.

Back Country Horsemen of America www.bcha.org 7 BCHA Officers, Chairs and Staff Chairman The Catch Pen Donald Saner BCH Idaho Squaw Butte Chapter Donate to Community PO Box 515 By Marybeth Conger Wilson WY 83014 307-733-1356 On January 12 Robbin Schinde- [email protected] le and Marybeth Conger, members of Executive Director and Past Chairman the Squaw Butte chapter of BCH of Jim McGarvey Idaho, delivered a donation to the Em- 2408 Owens Gin Rd mett Valley Friendship Collation. The Calhoun GA 30701 goods delivered included 259 pounds 706-669-1015 of food to help stock the shelves. Ear- [email protected] lier on December 23, chapter members Vice Chairman Phil and Kay Ryan delivered to the Pet Tom Thomas Adoption League another 150 pounds 110 Hobbit Land Pisgah Forest NC 28768 of food and pet supplies. These dona- [email protected] tions were gathered at the Chapter’s 828-883-8559 end of year Christmas party on Decem- Treasurer ber 19. For more information visit the Freddy Dunn website at sbbchidaho.org. 1485 W 5650 North Pictured left to right are members Phil Ryan and Kay Ryan. St. George UT 84770 435-862-6181 [email protected] Public Lands Report By Randy Rasmussen Erica Fearn 888-893-5161 BCHA and the BLM Sign Vision- encourages joint work parties with national MOU provides added impetus Fax: 860-586-7550 ary Agreement BLM field offices and will allow us— for the BLM field office to expedite a [email protected] When someone shares pictures of and our partner The Wilderness Soci- project approved via the RMP process Director Public Lands Recreation an open and scenic landscape in the ety—to “identify, promote, and expand several years ago. Randy Rasmussen American West, I usually think imme- a system of trails for hiker and equestri- For RMP processes that are upcom- 389 NE Cherry Ln diately and fondly of the U.S. Bureau an use” on BLM-managed lands. You ing or have recently begun, the MOU Albany, OR 97321 of Land Management. That’s my bias. read that correctly: “expand a system encourages BCHA and TWS to seek 541-602-0713 mobile For the American public, the BLM of trails” for our use. We have a unique opportunities to “cultivate a communi- [email protected] manages a great diversity of federal opportunity to work in partnership ty of hiker and equestrian trail users to Education public lands and rivers. with the BLM to formalize a system help respond to planning, management, Mack Long My great uncle and “adopted of trails throughout the awe-inspiring and maintenance challenges” faced by 41088 Roberts Road grandfather,” the late Russ Penny, was landscapes of the American West. Op- the BLM, including…“addressing rec- Charlo, MT 59824 a BLM icon who served as state direc- portunities to do so would be realized reational conflicts, and planning and 406-644-7889 tor in four different states. Today, he is primarily through our active participa- management in light of budget con- [email protected] celebrated as a visionary who helped tion in the agency’s land use planning straints.” In other words, a BLM field Education Foundation usher in the era of recreation manage- process. office might ask us to bring together Mylon Filkins DVM ment—or “people management,” as The MOU builds upon earlier ser- and educate hikers, horsemen and other [email protected] he put it—to an agency known at the vice agreements that encourage BLM interests on the opportunities and chal- Expansion time for facilitating mining and live- field offices to enter into agreements lenges related to the public planning Steve Lindsey stock grazing on the public estate. Un- with local BCHA chapters for the main- process. 1409 Lincoln cle Russ set the stage for the protection tenance of trails, trailheads, and other The MOU also envisions BCHA Concordia KS 66901 of landscapes as varied as Califor- related facilities. That will remain the and our chapters assisting in the devel- 785-243-2494 [email protected] nia’s Alabama Hills, the coastal King primary motivation and benefit behind opment and conduct of BLM educa- Range, and numerous Mojave Desert such MOUs. Yet the new MOU encour- tional training (e.g., Leave No Trace) Media and Marketing landscapes that today are protected as ages other noteworthy outcomes. and technical skill workshops, includ- Robbin Schindele national parks/preserves and as Wilder- A first step in implementation of ing trainings on trail maintenance stan- 4600 W. South Slope Road Emmett ID 83617 ness. the MOU is to help the BLM develop a dards, first aid, CPR, and saw training/ [email protected] My bias runs further. I recall my new website highlighting the “Top 20” certification. These will be forums 208-365-1789 first summer in Colorado, when my hiking and horseback riding on trails where mutual learning can take place, wife and I served as volunteer river on BLM lands. With your input, we’ve made available by the excellent skill Public Lands Jim Allen rangers for the BLM. That opportunity received trail nominations from most set and technical know-how of BCHA PO Box 806 yielded a summer of floating and camp- of the 12 Western states. The next step volunteers. Custer SD 57730 ing, free-of-charge, in the renowned will include working with the BLM to To me, BCHA’s new MOU reflects [email protected] Gunnison Gorge. I’ll also never for- whittle the list down to about 20 trails the heartfelt passion and diversity of 605-673-2173 get floating through the labyrinth of for which the agency has sufficient in- skills demonstrated by BCHA’s 13,000 Public Lands canyons carved by the Dolores River formation to highlight on its national volunteers—with a depth and breadth Oscar Simpson and its tributaries. Our flotilla, accom- website. This exercise will serve as a that matches the range and grandeur 3320 12th Street NW panied by botanists from The Nature pilot as the BLM continues to improve of BLM landscapes. The MOU looks Albuquerque NM 87107 Conservancy, scouted and mapped its website by providing enhanced toward a future wherein the agency [email protected] petroglyphs, dinosaur tracks, and rare trails-related information. provides the public with enhanced and 505-345-0117 hanging gardens on the red sandstone The MOU also allows us to joint- sustainable opportunities for outdoor Public Liaison and Advocacy Partners cliffs. ly identify landscapes where opportu- recreation and all the benefits that flow Alan T. Hill Most of the nation’s BLM lands nities exist to promote new hiking and from it, from relaxation and physical PO Box 492260 are located in 12 western states, includ- horseback riding trails. In partnership health to increased tourism and an ex- Redding CA 96049-2260 ing Alaska. They range from historic with TWS, we will assess where our panding recreational economy. It’s vi- 530-221-4354 lighthouses on the Oregon coast and grassroots membership (i.e., chapters) sionary. Fax 530-221-9267 [email protected] within Washington’s San Juan Islands; is well-organized and motivated to Looking back 20 or 30 years ago, wild and scenic rivers; national scenic promote new trails through one of ei- who would have thought that outdoor Volunteer Hours Chair and historic trails; and significant por- ther two public forums: 1) comprehen- recreation would become such a valued Larry Zauberis tions of the Great Basin and the Mo- sive Resource Management Plans that and important aspect of what the BLM 11374 Highway 550 Durango CO 81303 jave, Sonoran and Chihuahua deserts; might make significant land allocations can offer the public? Who would have 970-759-5629 to expanses of alpine tundra through- for recreation; and 2) specific trail or foreseen the need for the agency to pro- [email protected] out portions of Alaska and atop Ore- “implementation plans” for which an vide the public not simply with trails gon’s Steens Mountain and Colorado’s approved RMP identified a need for here and there, but with high-quality Web Master Marty Duvall and Robbin Schindele Powderhorn Wilderness. Importantly, new trails or facilities. recreational experiences that will be [email protected] horsemen have ready access to most of An example of the latter is already remembered and shared for a lifetime? these landscapes. playing out in southwestern Idaho, Given my bias, I have little doubt that For these reasons and more I’m where BCH Idaho and TWS are prod- Uncle Russ and his contemporaries excited about BCHA’s new recreation ding the BLM to construct new trail- shared that vision. There is no doubt partnership with the BLM. Earlier this head facilities for hiker and equestrian that our and forthcoming generations year, Jim McGarvey signed a 5-year use on the boundary of the Little Jacks will be the beneficiary. Memorandum of Understanding that Creek Wilderness. In this case, BCHA’s

8 www.bcha.org Back Country Horsemen of America Mammoth Cave National Park’s First Creek Trail in Kentucky February 4, 2016 A passionate trail rider from the Mammoth chapter of the Back Country Horsemen describes a trail riding experience we all might hope to enjoy in Kentucky’s Cave Country. by Doris Dorsey

How does one begin to tell tales of adventurous spirits, the Green River a trail when living adjacent to it most trails offer sheer cliffs, narrow rocky of their life? Mammoth Cave Nation- ledges, muddy seasonal trails and creek al Park, the longest cave system in the bottoms. Riders become parts of the world that’s home to more than 400 landscape of green, take a look within miles of explored cave and the second caves, rockscapes, virgin timber, karst oldest tourist attraction in the U.S., has sinkholes, farmsteads and settler ceme- been my backyard for half a century teries, all intertwined with the tributar- and for that reason, it seems to be a hard ies of the Nolin and Green rivers. Trails trail to discuss. So many memories and are open year round, with several horse perspectives come to mind when try- camp options adjoining the national ing to put my words on paper. How to park. describe a trail that has become second A change in season offers a new nature to travel? There is nothing or- view. Winter’s stark landscape means a dinary about this area of south central lack of tree foliage and dramatic views Kentucky—whether riding one time or of the nearby karst, sinkholes, caves a hundred, there is never a time to call and rock shelters. Springtime dawns these just your average trail rides. with a bountiful wildflower show with Going back in time now and grow- wild orchids and pristine flora. Summer ing up next to Mammoth Cave National and autumn are the busiest seasons of distance. Look close and pick out extra streams with fields overgrown with na- Park, I shared many happy treks as a the year for horseback riders and fea- large rows of ancient trees that would tive bamboo and large maples, beeches child, especially camping at the park ture abundant views of area wildlife serve as a property line or fencerow for and sycamores. The river bottom has and boating on the beautiful Green like wild turkey, deer, the occasional the early settlers. Signs of a once thriv- a fresh mile trail loop offering various River with my family. One of my fa- coyote, rattlesnakes and copperheads. ing community of farmers and traders trail surfaces depending on the season, vorite things was gazing up the sheer One of my favorite trails is First are now long forgotten. from muddy to swift water crossings cliff walls of the river and wondering Creek Lake Trail, a 12-mile round trip. First Creek Trail becomes more in wet spring to dry stream crossings what it would be like on a trail up there, The trail begins with a descent into rugged now, winding down past rock autumn. There are two campsites on looking down on the river below. After the forest via a trail that was once an overhangs that were once Native the loop with horse tie posts, and they starting a family of my own, we hiked old settler roadbed that followed the American shelters. Trail surface now are full of so many riders in the peak many of those upward paths that are original ancient buffalo trails. Many becomes hardscrabble with sizeable seasons that you’ll need a reservation now horse trails. My love for horses modern Kentucky highways were once sandstone rocks and loose under foot- to stop. Midway around the loop, there grew stronger with every ride, and I these old buffalo traces. Here, those ing making travel on horseback more are other trail crossings, leading riders became immersed in discovering more deep, wide tracks formed many of the of a challenge. After a rider navigates to options like the Temple Hill Trail- about trail upkeep and maintenance, early settler roadways that existed near through the rocky ledge, the travel head, the McCoy Hollow Trail and so I started volunteering at Mammoth Green and Nolin River watershed in heads uphill and footing becomes cliff- Wet Prong Loop. Some of these trails Cave National Park. central Kentucky. Looking closely, you side with dramatic views of nearby make for six to eight hours of more Now much of my trail time is spent can still catch a glimpse of s ome of Sugarcamp Hollow. riding and aren’t for the feint of heart. leading the Mammoth chapter of the the buffalo trails in the river bottoms First Creek and Second Creek Hol- For those wanting more of an easy trail Backcountry Horsemen, serving as a as deep traces in the forest lead toward low are beautiful reminders of the mag- ride, stay on the loop and return to First voice for riders and an aid to the nation- the river, still wide enough for the orig- nificent wilderness that all of Kentucky Creek Trail to circle back from where al park. Horseback riders like us are inal covered wagon trails. These his- once was. After crossing a stretch of you came. often the first to access a downed tree torical routes were once avenues for solid sandstone under footing at bluff- The peaceful wilderness landscapes or litter, and we’ve quickly become a the abundant wildlife to find drinking side, once again the trail descends into and the bountiful trail rides are calling second line of defense in the continual water in the nearby rivers. These trails valleys rich with large growth forest your name at Mammoth Cave National work of keeping trails fit for users. We often lead to daydreaming for this his- and softer footing. First Creek Trail Park in south central Kentucky. Once call these trails home and want them to tory-loving trail rider. is now merging into Second Creek, they call, it’s impossible not to answer. feel the same love and care as we do for Many of the Mammoth Cave sys- where the small stream of water once If I’ve learned one thing in over the 50 our horses. tem’s trails include remnant sounds of again comes into view and riders tend years I’ve dedicated to this national Riders become immersed in these early Kentucky settlers, and rider views to slow their pace. Tie posts are trail- park, it’s to always give in to the beck- quintessential southern Kentucky land- include old farmsteads, which, after side as Second Creek runs directly into oning beauty of the trails. scapes and geologic wonders. Mam- more than 80 years of national park oc- Nolin River, the perfect spot to stop moth Cave National Park contains cupation, all but echo the presence of and stretch your legs with a view of the This article is reprinted with per- about 60 miles of horseback trails, all human habitation. A sharp eye will pick river below. mission from EquiTrekking at http:// offering a wide range of conditions for out old foundation stones where a home Hop back up and keep riding the www.equitrekking.com/articles/entry/ riders. Riders have the ease of wide av- once stood, a lonely settler graveyard, descending trail further into the flat mammoth-cave-national-parks-first- enues and gravel surfaces on several perhaps a rusty wagon wheel or a piece river bottom, catching a glimpse of old creek-trail-in-kentucky/. beginner trails. But for those with more of a horse-drawn farm implement in the hearthstones, the waterfall and small

Back Country Horsemen of America www.bcha.org 9 Summer Sponsorship Deadline: June 5, 2016 BCHA Newsletter CSUNextGen and BCH of Colorado Team Up Media Kit By Chuck Peterson Our BCHA newsletter is read by passionate In the summer of 2015 a great pate in this great experience. With Dr. very much appreciated our help. trail riders, saddle and pack stock owners, packing experience happened in the Andy Dean DVM, a member of the Some of the goals for this event avid back country packers and others who Mt. Zierkel Wilderness near Steam- Northern Colorado Chapter, and nine were quite obvious in that we were have an investment in saddle and pack stock boat Springs, Colorado. Seven Colo- mules with ten head of good mountain there to help the USFS in the back and public land management. We serve over rado State University students and two saddle horses they rode long and diffi- country. But as important we wanted 14,300 members nationwide who belong to BCH members spent a week packing cult trails each day. to give our students some true and real 180 active chapters/units and affiliates in 27 and volunteering for the Routt Nation- This great event was partial- packing and trail riding experiences. states. al Forest. Led by US Forest Service ly funded by the Rocky Mountain We did that. We wanted them to see Visit www.bcha.org for more information on Ranger Steve McCone, the troupe Riders of the Rockies, a wonderful the wilderness and get an appreciation BCHA. spent five solid and long days pack- horseman’s organization who annu- of a true American Wilderness and Display Sponsorship Rates ing signage in and removed more ally helps support young people and learn how important it is to save and Newsletter Ad Size Single Issue than 2,200 pounds of trash out of the the wilderness in the way of packing protect the country many love. If a backcountry. and trail maintenance and helping the picture is worth a thousand words then One column wide (W x H) The students were all graduates of different agencies such as the United riding high for five hard and wonder- 2.5 inches x 2.5 inches...... $55 my Packing and Outfitting Class in the States Forest Service and the Rocky ful days is worth so much more. We 2.5 inches x 5 inches...... $95 Equine Department of the University. Mountain National Park. know our students went away with 2.5 inches x 10 inches...... $135 All spent more than 16 weeks in class Everyone was pleased that so many things and a week in the woods Two columns wide (W x H) learning about, practicing the skills, much trash from the wilderness was is one they will never forget. 5 inches x 2.5 inches...... $95 and then taking a four-day pack trip at removed and how well the students 5 inches x 5 inches...... $135 the end of the course. Then students and the stock did in the endeavor. 5 inches x 10 inches...... $235 who applied were selected to partici- And from recent comments the public Half page (W x H) 5.25 inches x 15 inches (vertical)...... $365 10.5 inches x 7.5 inches (horizontal)...... $365 BCH Idaho Guest Speaker at Cayuse 4H Education Camp By Marybeth Conger, BCHI’s Roving Education Chair Reporter Full page (W x H) On December 11, 2015 Charles 10.5 inches x 15 inches...... $720 Chick, a member of the Squaw Butte Deborah’s specials Chapter of BCH of Idaho (SBBCH), 2.5 x 15 full right column...... $175 was the guest speaker at the 4H horse- 10.5 x 3.5 full width, less overnight educational camp for across bottom of page...... $175 kids. His wife Lorraine set up the SBBCH chapter display, the BCHI 20% bonus for sponsorships in four issues banner, and handed out the BCHI pla- (one year). All prices are for black and white cemats that show statewide all BCHI ads. Ask about full color prices. chapters. The camp was hosted by the BCHA reserves the right to refuse advertising Payette Country 4H Horse Leaders As- space to any person or company. All ads must be sociation and was held at the Payette paid for before inserting in the newsletter. The 4-is- Country Fairgrounds in New Plym- sue package must be paid at time of first insertion. outh. It was a fun educational winter overnight campout for the horse kids Mechanical Requirements: to learn about the BCH organization Artwork is accepted in these formats: Adobe and work on their 4H projects. Acrobat PDF, Photoshop JPG saved for PC Forty-eight horse kids, along with format. Images must be at a resolution of 300 their parents, and 4H leaders were in pixels per inch at the actual size used in the attendance. Charles began with an artwork. All ads will be black and white unless introduction of BCHA, BCH of Ida- about 45 minutes with great questions prepared by reviewing BCHA and special arrangements are made. ho, and then brought it down to the coming from the kids. BCHI website information, and got Note: For questions or graphic design and lay- chapter level. He discussed the BCH The Chicks had a giveaway draw- copies of BCHI placemats for hand- out of your ad, please contact Deborah Schatz mission and what members do, such ing for a BCHI calendar that provided outs. Keep in mind there is a provi- at (406) 892-0200 or as having fun clearing trails, building another way to educate. They had ter- sion in the BCHI budget to reimburse [email protected]. things on trails, being responsible on rific fun with this community outreach chapters for copies of these placemats. Annual subscriptions for non-members the trails, our volunteer service and event and encourage other members of Kudos to Charles and Lorrain are available by sending your name, partnerships to help keep trails open. the BCH organization to promote ex- Chick who have shown us a way to address and $45 to: Next was a discussion to help the kids pansion through education. “The tools have fun with education and promote BCHA learn the traits of a backcountry horse- to do this type of thing are out there our organization. 342 North Main Street, Suite 301 man’s horse. The presentation lasted for us to use,” said Charles Chick. He West Hartford, CT 06117 or www.bcha.org Subscription or Address Corrections to: Erica Fearn Phone: (888) 893-5161 Fax: 860-586-7550 E-mail: [email protected] Managing Editor Sherry Jennings PO Box 305 East Olympia WA 98540-0305 E-mail: [email protected] Design, Layout and Sponsorship Director Deborah Schatz 4720 Trumble Creek Road Compete. Have fun. (Or both.) Columbia Falls MT 59912 (406) 314-1084 Try Endurance! E-mail: [email protected] The Back Country Store Printing Eagle Web Press Visit us at Interested? Call for free info packet 4901 Indian School Rd. NE www.bcha.org Salem OR 97305

10 www.bcha.org Back Country Horsemen of America Reporting Volunteer Service OUTFITTERS SUPPLY, INC By Larry Zauberis, BCHA Volunteer Hours Committee Now is the time for all National service by Back Country Horsemen Essential Gear for the Trail Directors to make sure the volunteer is consistently underreported. While efforts of the members of their state our members are more than willing to have been reported to Back Country volunteer to maintain trails all across Horsemen of America. As the Volun- the country, many are reluctant to re- teer Hours Committee Chairman I am port the hours and expenses incurred in NEW TRAILMAX compiling the Volunteer Service report that effort. Even when members report CAMO FOR 2015! for presentation at the National Board their basic work hours on projects, they TrailMAX™ Saddle Panniers Meeting in April. often fail to report the associated con- TrailMAX™ Scabbards Volunteerism is one of the most im- tributions like the travel time, vehicle TrailMAX™ Saddlebags Outfitters Supply has become the leader in equestrian saddlebag portant activities Back Country Horse- mileage, and pack and saddle stock use. design and manufacturing. Why? Because we have men can use in our effort to perpetuate Each of these categories adds consider- used, repaired and sold saddlebags for over 25 years. enjoyable common sense use of pack able value to the volunteer effort of the We design our saddlebags to ensure that they (1) do not shift or slap the and saddle stock in the backcountry. A individual member. horse, (2) easily store lightweight central point of our mission statement It is up to us at the chapter level gear for any length ride, (3) would is to assist government agencies in to track and report our service. Each last just as long as our desire to ride down the trail. Quality and functionality maintenance and management of pub- chapter should appoint a Volunteer have always been our top priorities. lic lands. Hours Coordinator (VHC) or commit- Also available: Cooler Inserts for our Original Saddlebags, Junior Saddlebags and Original Pommel Bags! It is important to remember that tee responsible for reporting the hours our volunteer effort goes far beyond that members work and other expenses TrailMAX™ Bear Proof Pack Panniers the satisfaction provided by the trail they incur during their service. Please • Easy to use, economical panniers are ideal for packing average-sized loads work itself. The hours spent and ex- feel free to contact me (Larry Zauberis, • Contoured sides fit properly on horse or mule without pressure points • Meets all USFS & IGBC requirements for bear-resistant storage containers penses volunteered add to the credi- [email protected]) at any time if you • All rigging straps and top pack attachment dees included for use on a Decker or Sawbuck pack saddle bility of our collective voice in policy have questions concerning reporting We offer a wide selection of discussions with public land managers, your volunteer service. soft-sided panniers as well! whether on the local ranger district or For more information and down- Outfitters Supply Pack Saddles in Washington D.C. The value of being loadable documentation go to the Built for a lifetime of hard use; we handcraft these in able to speak from the position of hav- BCHA website: Montana using Hermann Oak Old World Harness leather ing provided volunteer service cannot http://www.bcha.org/get-involved/ with rolled breeching and breastcollar and our TrailMax Decker pack trees with stainless steel arches. Several be overstated. volunteering/hours/ styles of Decker and sawbuck pack saddles available. However, the value of volunteer Premium leather hobbles, scabbards and tack, Proudly made in the USA

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AERC Welcomes BCHC By Lucy Badenhoop BCHC was represented at the the Rendezvous in Angels Camp in American Endurance Riders Confer- mid-March 2016 (the soliciting was ence in Reno, NV on February 19-20 (a disguised as shopping). Friday and Saturday). The booth was In the booth itself, three new mem- sponsored by BCHC and four members bers were enrolled in the Mother Lode of the Mother Lode Unit attended to Unit, and about 40 applications were setup and man the booth for two days. handed out for other CA units along Carol Gilmore and Randy Hackbarth with the brochure for Rendezvous. organized/transported the materials, Dozens of visitors from other states while Bob Sydnor and I assisted in were referred to the BCHA website to manning the booth. get information on their state organi- At 8 am Friday morning, the action zation. Disappointingly, we sold only started and continued until 5 pm Satur- one Lucky Calendar raffle ticket. day. There were seminars, a tack swap, The bowl of chocolate kisses and vendors, a continuous raffle, a meet ‘n baggies of horse treats enticed numer- greet, a concert, and lots of friendly ous visitors to stop and chat. Discus- equestrians. One AERC officer visited sions with folks who visited the booth our booth and thanked us for coming… revealed that the AERC members have she really seemed to appreciate our or- similar concerns as BCHC members ganizational presence. about the loss of trails and equestrian The booth operated very well with access to public lands. We found a lot the representatives taking turns listen- of common ground. rials were quickly packed in boxes and Our BCHC booth at AERC. ing to the seminars, manning the booth When the trade show ended at 5 hauled to the parking lot for the eve- and soliciting other vendors to attend pm Saturday, the booth display mate- ning ride home.

Back Country Horsemen of America www.bcha.org 11 Premier CTR Organization Offering Free Memberships NORTH AMERICAN TRAIL RIDE CONFERENCE PO Box 224, Sedalia, CO 80135 Phone: 303-688-1677 • www.natrc.org, [email protected] For the first time in its 55-year history, the North American Trail Ride Conference is offering free 2016 memberships to people who have never been NATRC members. Executive Administrator, Laurie DiNatale, ex- plains, “We are a distance competitive trail ride or- ganization that values conditioned, sound, trail savvy horses that are a pleasure to ride. We value light and balanced riding and encourage the good care of hors- es over the distance and in camp. We want to share that with people.” Camaraderie, fun, beautiful scenery, exhilaration, pride in accomplishment, confidence, overcoming disappointments, stretching our abilities, and deepen- ing partnerships with our horses, are offshoots of the experience of riding in NATRC sanctioned competi- tions. Says DiNatale, “There is nothing like miles to cement the bond between horse and rider!” As a non-profit educational and distance CTR Your horse is speaking ... (competitive trail ride) sanctioning organization, are you listening? NATRC education takes on many forms. The most unique of these is the direct feedback to competi- Tune ups based on your tors of scores and comments on their veterinary and Horse’s Behavioral Needs horsemanship scorecards, which each rider receives at the close of a ride competition. Clinics and Consulting, Other resources include clinics, a new competitor 55 years of Behavioral Diagnostics section on the website, mentoring new competitors, and Training informative articles in regional and national news- letters, an introductory video, social media, and the Kinsey Horsemanship soon to be published second edition of the “NATRC 126 Docheno Road Rider’s Manual, A Complete Guide to Competitive Belton, 29627 Trail Riding.” Photo by Mike Collins. Rider Tammy Lineback on For more information on the free membership of- her Missouri Fox Trotter mare, Susie’s Stardust, at fer, go to www.natrc.org. the moment in 2012 when she realized her dream (864) 933-6713 (EST) Contact: Bev Roberts of winning the NATRC’s highest annual award, the [email protected] [email protected] President’s Cup. 870-420-3244

You’ve helped us from the beginning and look how far we have come! Thank you Back Country Horsemen, for your support and dedication to The Event at Rebecca Farm. We’ve touched so many lives!

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12 www.bcha.org Back Country Horsemen of America