February 2005 Sierra Club The Compass www.dallassierraclub.org

February’s Program: Fishing on page 1

Portrait of a Passionate Environmentalist: An Interview With Margie Haley on page 1

Walking the Ouachita: On page 6 February 2005 The Compass

A monthly publication of the Dallas Sierra Club

F E B R U A R Y ’ S P R O G R A M

Paul Huston holding his 'catch-of-the-day' on a Sierra Club fishing out- ing in Minnesota in September 2004."

f you're like me and you grew up here in Texas, chances are pretty good you spent a lot of time fishing on one of our many area lakes. Some of my fond- Iest memories are the times I spent with my grandfather out on Lake Whitney - either helping him bait the trot line, checking the trot line, fishing for hours on our floating barge, or fishing right off the boat on one of the many alcoves out by White Bluff. Whatever the occasion, I learned to love fishing at an early age. My grandfather and I would bring home a whole basket full of crappie and channel Portrait of a Passionate Environmentalist catfish (after he cleaned them of course - my grandmother wouldn't let them in the house until they had been cleaned and filleted) and then my grandmother An Interview With Margie Haley would fry them up for supper. The fish might have been filled with mercury, her- bicides and other toxic chemicals 35 - 40 years ago, but at least we didn't know By Laurie Orloff and The Audubon Society, Margie has just recently been elected Trustee of the Dallas about it then and they tasted great. argie Haley was enjoying herself by Historic Tree Coalition. She has won After I grew up and had my own boys, we too spent time fishing on Texas' lakes the fireplace on one of the coldest awards such as the Individual and creeks, but our fishing has always been on the catch and release program. Mdays of the year when she was Environmental Excellence Award; the Granted part of it was simply because I always hated having to kill and clean the interrupted by the doorbell. She got up to let Citizens' Award for the Hazardous Waste fish. But also, one of the downsides of being an informed environmentalist is me in, greeted me, and invited me to join Task Force of Dallas County; the summed up by a phrase in Bob Seger's song "Against The Wind" which states, her at the hearth. She immediately began Conservation Medal from the Daughter's of "I wish I didn't know now what I didn't know then." But with knowledge comes to explain that the fire was heating the the American Revolution; the Keep Dallas power; now that we are fully aware of the causes of mercury and chemical con- entire room and how she and her husband Beautiful Public Education Award and the tamination of our creeks, rivers and lakes, we can take proactive steps to help efficiently used sky and fluorescent lighting, High Country Citizen's Alliance Volunteer of reduce or eliminate the contamination hazards. double pane glass insulated windows, fans, the Year Award to name just a few. She is This month we have an exciting panel of speakers that will talk to us about and ingenuity to keep their cozy, but spa- Co-chair of Sustainable Dallas, a non-profit some of the most beautiful watersheds in the country right here in our own back- cious home on White Rock Lake comfort- organization, which among many things, yard, and some of the challenges they are facing from mercury contamination to able for all seasons. brings in speakers to educate businesses invasive aquatic vegetation to habitat degradation. White Rock Lake is where Margie's great on becoming more environmentally sus- Ed Parten with Texas Black Bass Unlimited (T.B.B.U.) and Sensible grandfather, A.A. Jackson purchased land tainable. She holds this position along with Management of Aquatic Resources Together (SMART) will talk to us about some and settled many years ago (the sailors of architect, Gary Olp, who builds sustainable of the challenges and success stories TBBU and SMART are experiencing. the Corinthian Sailing Club at White Rock buildings, and small business owner, Tom TBBU is a non-profit organization comprised of anglers, environmentalists, con- Lake know exactly where Jackson Point is). Kemper, who sells environmentally sensi- servationists, public health advocates and industry leaders to improve and pro- A.A. Jackson also started the very first tive office products. In addition to putting on tect our fisheries, environment and habitat of Texas. SMART is a coalition of over downtown farmers market in Dallas. yearly conferences, Sustainable Dallas 300,000 members that have come together to create a healthier system of Respect for the gifts of the land has a recently provided the funding for Jill Jordan, aquatic vegetation management. The coalition was formed because of their long history in Margie's heritage. "My father Dallas Assistant City Manager, one of her strong common belief that herbicides used in fresh water drinking systems and would take me on hunting and fishing trips staff members, and two SMU professors to the destruction of aquatic habitat through the use of these chemicals is destroy- and always taught me to leave the land in attend a week-long course called "Beyond ing our natural heritage and the health of our citizens. better condition than when I found it, " Sustainability" at the Darden Business Tim Cook with the Bass Anglers Sportsmen Society will also be here to talk to Margie fondly recalled. College at the University of Virginia. us about "Natural Allies" - how sports fishermen and environmentalists are work- Margie is a fascinating woman- a pas- Sustainable Dallas will be meeting with ing together to help create healthier aquatic habitats. sionate environmentalist who doesn't just them this month to discuss what they can Lastly, Karen Hadden with the Sustainable Energy and Economic walk her talk - she "sprints" it. Her unbound do to help SMU move towards a goal of Development (S.E.E.D.) Coalition will be here to talk to us about some of the energy and enthusiasm for healing Gaia is becoming more environmentally sustain- mercury risks and advisory warnings concerning the consumption of fish in parts admirable. She and her husband, John, set able. Politically, Margie has brought a lot of of our Texas area lakes. up the "Planetary Trust" fund which pro- attention to Sustainable Dallas. "We need Come find out how you too can get involved to help clean up Texas' waterways vides financial aid to causes they feel are people of power and influence to let other and fisheries, to return them to their pristine and natural states, and to help most effective in helping the environment. people of power and influence know about ensure that future generations can enjoy them just like we have. Margie emphasized, "How can you not be the conferences that Sustainable Dallas involved? This is our nest and we're mess- puts on. That is how we can effect change. Bryan Carpenter ing it up. There is a lot we can do individu- People at the top can effect change, and we Program Chair ally to help improve our environment." have seen it happen." "The whole family is involved," she Margie guided me out the front door into explained. "Our daughter, Kimberly, has her yard, and, without missing a step, she started a non-profit organization called segued from explaining what Sustainable The Dallas Sierra Club’s general meet- Hornet 'Globe Aware,' in which her son Greg also Dallas was about to showing me what a ings are held the second Wednesday of participates." Globe Aware is an organiza- sustainable yard is all about. First, she Greenhill School each month. Meetings are open to all tion that offers participants opportunities to pointed towards the "Galvalume" roof on Spring Valley vacation in distant lands, living among the their home and mentioned that it is so interested persons. The meetings are indigenous people, while helping to durable; it can last up to 400 years. It also held at Greenhill School located at empower the host communities in creating saved them a good chunk on homeowners the corner of Midway and Spring Valley. Please enter from Hornet renewable, sustainable programs (see insurance. She explained that the rain that Midway Tollway www.globeaware.org). 'Sustainability' is quite falls on this "Galvalume" metal roof goes Drive. Check www.dallasseirraclub.org for the buzzword in the Haley home. from the gutters into three 3,000-gallon directions. (Mapsco 14F) In addition to being a member of The rainwater catchment tanks, which are LBJ Freeway League of Women Voters, The Sierra Club, The Dallas County Corporate Recycling See Margie Haley on Council, The Recycling Coalition of Texas Page 3 The Compass February 2005 1 The Compass GENERAL February 2005 Letter from Chair Volume 100, Issue 0205 CALENDAR The Compass is the monthly publication of the Dallas Regional Group of the Sierra Club. Members of the Dallas Group support The 2/2 • 3/2 First Wednesday. Executive Thank You Compass and receive the publication as part of Committee Meeting 6:30PM at REI 2nd It is with deep gratitude that I say Thank You to all of you who contributed to our their membership benefits. floor meeting room (I-635 between Welch Campaign 2004 donation appeal. The generous response of our members and friends Road & Midway Road, MAPSCO 14Q), to Opt Out: You can download and view The affirmed my belief that our volunteers' time and energy is best used in work that discuss Club projects, policy and advances the mission of the Sierra Club rather than in fundraising events. Compass at any time from our web site at finances. All members are welcome to www.dallassierraclub.org. Just click on the And advancing our mission is exactly what we're doing: 'Compass Online' link. If you don't want to receive attend and participate. Call Ann Drum at The Compass by mail, you can opt out at the 214-350-6108. Our Outings leaders are hard at work planning and leading a variety of outings for above web site location or by sending an e-mail to different interests and skill levels. Check out all the activities on the Outings page. [email protected]. Include 2/7 • 3/7 Monday before the General Don't miss the Beginner Backpacking and Camping Class on February 12! your name and member number. Or send your Your support will allow us to maintain pressure on city councils and water planning Meeting. Deadline for electronic mate- name and member number on a post card to boards to make the wisest use of existing water resources as they plan for our future Cancel Compass, Dallas Sierra Club, P.O. Box rials to be submitted to the Compass water needs. Your support also allowed us to join with other environmental organiza- 800365, Dallas TX 75380-0365 E-mail [email protected] or tions in filing a lawsuit to force the EPA to require the state to come up with a truly effec- tive clean air plan. deliver diskettes to editors during the Conservation Chair Rita Beving will be leading volunteers to Austin several times this Subscriptions: The Compass is available to non- General Meeting. members by subscription for $12 per year. To legislative session to lobby our representatives on issues of local importance. There subscribe, send a check made payable to are opportunities for participation both at home and in Austin. Contact Rita at 214-373- 3808 to find out how you can help. "Dallas Sierra Club" to: 2/9 • 3/9 Second Wednesday. Sierra Club General Meeting 7:00 - 8:30 p.m. Our Recycling Outreach Team volunteers will soon be spreading out into the com- munity to talk about recycling to PTA groups, Sunday School classes, Homeowners' Newsletter Subscriptions: Come to the General Meeting at Greenhill School located at the corner of Association groups and others. Volunteer training will be held soon. If you want to be a part of this exciting new team, contact me. Dallas Sierra Club Midway and Spring Valley. Check We are evaluating our entire communications toolbag to maximize effectiveness and www.dallasseirraclub.org for directions. P.O. Box 800365 minimize cost. Watch for a new and improved Dallas Sierra Club News email newslet- Dallas TX 75380-0365 Come early to pick up activity materials ter in your Inbox in February. If you're not yet a subscriber, sign up through our web- and afterwords join the socializing at site (www.dallassierraclub.org) or contact me to be added to the list. I invite you to call me Address Changes: To change your address, Pappa’s Pizza. or send me an email with your suggestions about our newsletter, emails and website. send your name, old and new addresses and member number to: 2/16 • 3/16 Third Wednesday. Outings As always, thank you for ALL the ways you support the Dallas Sierra Club. Comittee Meeting 7:00 PM at REI (MAP- Sierra Club Member Services SCO 14Q) to discuss schedules and Ann Drumm PO Box 52968 Dallas Sierra Club Chair issues. All outings leaders, future outings Boulder, Colorado 80322-2968 214-350-6108 or [email protected] leaders, and interested Sierrans are wel- or email the information to: come. Call Mick Nolen at 972-991-9351 for more information. CAMPAIGN 2004 HONOR ROLL [email protected] Environmentalist ($1,000+) Jerry & Carol Moore 2/23 • 3/23 Fourth Wednesday. Carol Nash Submissions: Article and photograph submis- Ann and David Drumm Calvin Nichols Newsletter Party 7:00PM at the Churchill sions are always welcome. Please send sub- Patricia Hutcheson Edwin Pegelow Recreation Center at Hillcrest & Grier & Lorraine Raggio missions by the deadlines given in the General Conservationist ($500 - $999) Barb Rike Calendar. Send submissions to the newsletter Churchill Way (MAPSCO 15V). Help Ze'ev Saggi editor at the e-mail address and phone number sort, bundle and label the newsletter. R.L. & Patricia Glazer Mel and Linda Sharp George Zimmerman Allen Stern listed on the back fold. Socializing afterward. Contact Charlotte Margaret Turlington Forst at 972-248-7581. Trail Builder ($125 - $499) Ron & Rae Weiss © 2005 Dallas Sierra Club Ken Wooley Wesley Boren Day Hiker (up to $49) Bryan and Lyn Carpenter Anonymous (2) Don and Mary Colston Lige & Marion Balceszak Karen Foley Kerry L. Balch Announcements Margie Haley James Scott Buchanan Laura Kimberly and Kent Trulsson Jack & Susan Cooper Douglas & Patricia Lawson Walter & Paula Davis Wenchie Leobrera Christine Eastus INNER CITY OUTINGS (ICO) William E. Maina Rick Englert Philip & Joenie Mein Becky Fisher Sierra Club outreach program provides hikes and camping to disadvantaged youth. Michael Schwartz Ned & Genie Fritz Special fall volunteer orientation meeting/dinner being planned. For details, watch web- David Van Winkle Grayson Garner site (www.dallassierraclub.org) or contact Liz Wheelan at [email protected] or 214-739-2269. Jim & Caroline Vornberg Gary Hayden Backpacker ($50 - $124) Katherine Henry MD Anonymous (5) Karan Marshall COMPASS AD SALES Garrett and Cecilia Boone Angela Neville Dwaine & Ellen Boydstun Martha Ohlson Volunteer needed to sell advertising in The Compass. Ken & Becky Bruder Curtis & Uma Philbrook Contact Ann Drum at 214-350-6108. Helen Burt Don Purinton John & Robin Caldwell John Rath Rick Casey Mike Rawlings MEMBERSHIP & VOLUNTEER TEAM Gregory Crown Molly Rooke Patrick & Debbie Doyle Anne Rowe Join our newest committee and help organize volunteer activities, plan social events and Charlotte Forst Richard Rundstein community outreach. Contact Ann Drumm at 214-350-6108. Eric Foster Liz Wheelan William Gillies Whitney Williams David Gray and Nancy Bateman Wendel Withrow COMPASS REPORTER Bill Greer Write an occasional article about events going on in the Dallas group. Dr. Rick Hamlin In Memory Of Jack Hale Contact [email protected] Don & Penelope Hanmer by Jack & Susan Cooper William T. Heath Art Johnson Every effort has been made to accurately RECYCLING TEAM NEEDS PUBLIC SPEAKERS Bob Judd report the donations. Should you notice Talk to community groups about recycling. We’ll train you and give you handouts for Roger Kallenberg an error, please accept our apologies and Jack Knox contact Mary Colston at 214-618-1424. your audiences. Great advocacy opportunity! Contact Ann Drumm at 214-350-6108. Lynn Kutler

2 February 2005 The Compass MARGIE HALEY Guns 'n Granola CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 Sportsmen aren't in the GOP's back pocket anymore (Reprinted with permission from Sierra back. Under pressure from logging inter- magazine's November / December ests, however, the Bush administration has 2004 issue) proposed replacing this road less rule with hey want to protect wetlands, think one that would require each governor to the energy industry has too much petition for road less protections on nation- Tinfluence on public-lands decisions, al forests in his or her state. are concerned with mercury levels in rivers, Many sportsmen assume that they have lit- and want the United States to do more to tle in common with environmentalists. Yet fight global warming. And many of them the Sierra Club has never opposed guns or carry rifles. According to a survey released hunting-and almost one-fifth of its members in July by the National Wildlife Federation, identify themselves as hunters or anglers. many hunters and anglers are at odds with When quality of wildlife habitat is the issue, the Bush administration. the groups find common ground-as the Nearly half of 752 respondents believe Club and Ducks Unlimited have done to the oil and gas industry has the most say protect California's Central Valley wetlands with the administration, while only 4 per- from sprawl. cent say that level of influence is appro- Taking the time to reach these predomi- Steve Houser, of The Dallas per gallon and emit 90% less pollution than priate. Only 30 percent agree with the nantly conservative sportsmen is worth- Historic Tree Coalition, invited standard automobiles. administration policy of allowing wetlands while: They have clout that enviros can Coming through the garage and into the Mayor Laura Miller to Margie's to be destroyed as long as new wetlands envy. "I don't think [George Bush] cares kitchen, Margie began explaining their recy- what the environmental community thinks," home so that she could practice are created elsewhere. And three-quar- cling and composting habits. She said that ters of those surveyed believe that the NWF board member Jim Martin told the Los tree climbing. she also aspires to grow a vegetable gar- United States should reduce greenhouse- Angeles Times, "but he cares what the den. She just recently began the process of gas emissions. sportsmen think." Four days after meeting inconspicuously placed in the yard. Later, becoming a "Master Naturalist" through a It should be no surprise that sportsmen with "hook and bullet" leaders last when the yard needs watering, a valve can program she is taking through the Texas are among the most ardent conservation- December, Bush killed a proposal to rewrite turn on soakers, which go through the yard. Parks and Wildlife Department. She admit- the Clean Water Act. The sportsmen con- This is an exquisite system of harvesting ted that she eats very little meat and would ists. (Watching the sunrise while holed up rainwater. like to eventually become a vegetarian, in a duck blind on a frigid morning will do vinced him that the plan would have dam- As Margie pointed out the various plants especially because of the incredible that.) Their zeal for protecting wildlife habi- aged streams and wetlands. They'd proba- and shrubs in her yard (Coastal Sea Oaks, amount of energy it takes to raise animals tat is well founded: The conservation group bly never consider themselves "tree hug- Turks Caps, American Beauty Berry, for meat. Trout Unlimited reports that the best hunt- gers"-but their concern for natural areas is Native Yellow Texas Columbine, Shortly before our interview came to a ing in Idaho and Oregon is in those states' right on target. Horseherb, etc.) she told me that her lawn close, Margie told me she and John wildest areas. recently painted the house. She request- was remade by SmartScape, which uti- Even with the Clinton-era road less rule Reed McManus lizes xeri-scaping techniques. Maintaining ed a special paint - called Safecoat - that in effect-which put 58.5 million acres of the beauty and usefulness of her yard is a uses no volatile organic compounds. The national-forest land off-limits to road build- On The Web: For more information, go to passive endeavor due to the natural irriga- painters she hired had never heard of this www.sierraclub.org/huntingfishing tion that is provided by the rainwater tank paint before, but after the job they did at ing-the vast majority of road less areas are system, the composting and the the Haley home, they began using it all still accessible to hunters on foot or horse- SmartScaping. We engaged in a very the time. Margie shared that the painters interesting discussion about native plants told her how grateful they were for her being used for teas and healing. having introduced them to this paint. It As we progressed down the natural slope made their jobs much more enjoyable of the yard, Margie pointed towards her since they no longer had to deal with toxic Chinquapin oak tree, which the Dallas fumes and headaches. Historic Tree Coalition has named a cham- Our interview ended back in the front room pion since it is the largest of its species in next to the still glowing fire. Gazing out the the city. She added that Mayor Laura Miller picture window at the lake, I imagined how needed a large tree to practice climbing in it must have been for the Native Americans preparation for the State Tree Climbing from ages past who had lived here - hunt- Competition hosted by the International ing, gathering and tending to needs of their Society of Arbor Culture in which she had daily lives all while keeping the land beauti- been invited to compete. Having been very ful for the next generation - just as Margie's familiar with Margie's extremely tall and father taught her to do. We had an opportu- beautiful champion Chinquapin, Steve nity to learn a great lesson from the natives, Houser, of The Dallas Historic Tree which I sometimes wonder if we have failed Coalition, invited the mayor to Margie's to learn - the lesson about using our home so that she could practice climbing resources wisely so that there will always for the competition (see photos). be abundant resources for generations to We walked around back towards the come. Margie not only thinks about these garage by way of the courtyard where things every day, but acts on them every Margie pointed out the solar paneling on day as well. As she puts it, "We must all do the roof. She explained that, at this everything we can do to lessen our ecolog- moment, the paneling is more of a pilot ical footprint on our surroundings." project, but soon they aspire to making it more functional like the solar panels on Laurie Orloff is a freelance writer who lives homes in California that convert sunlight in . She is also a newspaper into electricity efficiently. In her garage she columnist on Joyful Parenting as well as a showed me the two Toyota Prius hybrid symphony musician. She teaches orches- cars that she and her husband own. tra and music appreciation at Bishop Lynch Margie said that they get about 48 miles High School.

The Compass February 2005 3 February 2005 Sierra Club Outings

www.dallassierraclub.org

Backpacking east). Hike will take 3-4 hrs. No reserva- tions necessary. Leader: Dale Edelbaum Canoeing FEB 12 (SAT) BEGINNER BACKPACK- FEB 19 (SAT) BIRDING DAYHIKE TO 214-343-6741 ING and CAMPING CLASS Aimed at HAGERMAN NATIONAL WILDLIFE beginners, this class is an ideal way to learn REFUGE This is a joint trip with Audubon MAR 4 (FRI) DEADLINE for submission of Car Camping Society of Collin County. The birding will about backpacking. Topics include: wilder- outings to be listed in the March Outings begin at the Hagerman National Wildlife ness ethics, outdoor clothing, boots, back- List and April Newsletter. Refuge near Lake Texoma at 8 AM. The trip packs, tents, sleeping bags, cookware, Cycling is ½ day, plus an optional lunch at a local Contact: Mick Nolen food, and preparing for a trip. Instructors restaurant followed by birding in the 972-991-9351 are experienced Dallas Sierra Club leaders. Denison/Eisenhower Park area. Expected [email protected] Day Hiking There will be time for questions and a birds are geese, ducks, winter Sparrows, hands-on look at outdoor gear. Lunch of shore birds, and many others. Car pooling backpacking food is included. You will also will be available from Plano. Education have the opportunity to learn about, and Leaders: David Van Winkle MAR 5 - 6 (SAT - SUN) BEGINNER CAR- sign up for, several beginner backpacking Tom Heath CAMP TRIP AT TALIMENA STATE PARK trips. The class will be held at REI [email protected] Fishing ON THE OUACHITA TRAIL We will car (Recreational Equipment, Inc.) in the sec- 972-562-7174 camp in Talimena State Park, near Talihina, ond floor program room. REI is at 4515 LBJ . We will day hike section 1 of the Service Project Freeway, north side, between Midway and Ouachita Trail on Saturday and Sunday Welch. The class will start promptly at morning for a total of 8 miles of hiking. The 10:30 AM and will end at about 6:00 PM. FEB 19 (SUN) WALK AROUND THE trail parallels the Talimena Scenic Byway in The fee is $20 for Sierra Club members and ROCK We'll hike 9-miles on paved trails Notice: To receive this outings list monthly the . On Sunday, $30 for non-members (you can sign up to around the shoreline of the lake. Meet at via e-mail, send message to: you will have time to sightsee along this be a Sierra Club member at the class). No 10:00 in the parking lot on Mockingbird road. [email protected] reservations are necessary, just show up. Lane just west of the Mockingbird Bridge (by the Dog Park), between West Lawther Leader: David Van Winkle Contact: Arthur Kuehne Type SUBSCRIBE OUTINGS LIST and Buckner Blvd. (Mapsco 37 B). It's all 972-562-7174 214-902-9260 on the subject line. hard-surface, so wear comfortable walking [email protected] [email protected] shoes, pack a snack, and bring water. Water faucets are available at several HOW THE OUTING points around the lake, as are restrooms. PROGRAM WORKS No reservations necessary. MAR 12 - 13 (SAT - SUN) BEGINNER Leaders: Whitney Taylor BACKPACK TRIP ON THE BUCKEYE Dallas Sierra Club Outings are open to members FEB 12 (SAT) WHITE ROCK LAKE Kelly Carlson MOUNTAIN/CANEY CREEK TRAIL This and non-members. Some trips may require special CLEANUP Help clean up the Dallas Sierra 972-672-5199 (Whitney) qualifications and capabilities. The leaders of each Club's Adopted Shoreline. Meet at the For is a favorite of the Dallas Sierra Club. Hike outing / trip are serving in a volunteer capacity and the Love of the Lake office parking lot on about 5 miles on the Buckeye Mountain assume no responsibility above that of trip organ- level below Eckerd's in Casa Linda Plaza Trail, and camp near a waterfall. The hike izer. If you have a medical problem, it is your (on Buckner facing Doctors Hospital, just FEB 25 - MAR 1 (FRI - TUE) 7TH ANNU- back to the cars will be on the Caney Creek responsibility to inform the leader before the outing north of Garland Road, Mapsco 38-J) at AL TAOS BUS TRIP Don't miss out! The Trail, and is shorter at about 4 miles. This is / trip. Outing / Trip leaders are encouraged to par- 8:00 AM for registration and refreshments. Taos Bus trip accommodates people with a a relatively easy hike and is suitable for ticipate in training and classes to increase their Leader: Carol Nash wide range of interests and physical abili- beginners. Preference will be given to skills, but they are not paid professionals. They will 214-824-0244 (H) ties. All trips are in the area of Taos, New those who attended the backpacking class. assist you within their limitations. It is the responsi- [email protected] Mexico. Trip 1 tours historic and environ- Leader: Marcos Jorge bility of the participant to be aware of any personal mental sites to better understand local con- 972-394-2546 (H) limitations before going on an outing. cerns. Trip 2 downhill skis the Taos Ski FEB 16 (WED) OUTINGS COMMITTEE [email protected] Radios and firearms are prohibited from all out- Basin. Trip 3 snowshoes to the high altitude MEETING Meet in the upstairs program ings. Pets are not allowed unless specifically stat- Williams Lake. All three trips stay at El room at REI (on north side of LBJ between ed. All outings officially begin at the trail head or Pueblo Lodge enjoying the hot tub, heated outing start point. Leaders cannot assign carpools, Midway and Welch), at 7:00 PM. Bring pool, and dinner at any of several places in but may help coordinate ride sharing for energy your ideas for the Dallas Sierra Club Taos. Trip 4 backpacks to a heated yurt to MAR 12 - 13 (SAT - SUN) BEGINNER conservation and to promote fellowship. All non- Outings program. We will be planning local stay two nights above the snow and snow- BACKPACK in McGEE CREEK, OK. This commercial transportation is the responsibility of outings and bus trips. All outings leaders, shoe during the day. You can enjoy a week- will be an easy hike to try out your legs, all the individual. Car-pooling is SOLELY voluntary, future outings leaders, and interested end in the snow without having to backpack that new gear, and enjoy a weekend in the but the costs are shared. The usual method of Sierrans welcome. a lot of winter equipment. Trip 5 backpacks woods. McGee is close enough that we can sharing transportation cost is for all riders in the car, Contact: Mick Nolen the strenuous, traditional snow route to leave Saturday morning for the drive to the including the driver, to divide the cost of transporta- 972-991-9351(H) summit New Mexico's second highest point, trailhead. We'll hike in about 3 miles to tion equally. The recommended method of comput- [email protected] Wheeler Peak. On the last day, you have a camp, and then do some day hiking. ing cost is to multiply round trip mileage by $0.13 a choice to soak in a remote hot springs Sunday morning will feature another day- mile for small cars, $0.16 for large cars and $0.19 (clothing optional by local tradition) or wan- hike, then we'll take a different trail back out der the historic and commercial areas of for vans. Before leaving, be sure this or some to our cars. downtown Taos. Our chartered sleeper bus other method is agreed upon. Leader: Arthur Kuehne Most outings require reservations. To participate FEB 19 - 20 (SAT - SUN) WALK THE will leave Dallas at 6:00pm Friday evening and return Tuesday morning between 214-902-9260 in an outing contact the leader, who will decide if OUACHITA, SEGMENTS 3, 4, & 5 This 5:00am and 6:00am. Keep an eye on the [email protected] the trip you are interested in is suitable for you trip includes 14.6 miles from Horsethief outings list for more details to come. based on your capabilities and the demands of the Springs Trailhead to Pashubbe Trailhead. Leader: Bill Beach trip. There is usually a limit to the number of people Drive up Friday night (can stay at Winding allowed on a given outing / trip. Reservations are 214-662-3224 Stair Campground on Scenic Hwy 1). MAR 12 (SAT) WHITE ROCK LAKE necessary for outings unless otherwise noted. If [email protected] Saturday's hike is 10.6 miles to Big Cedar CLEANUP Help clean up the Dallas Sierra you must cancel, inform the leader as soon as pos- Creek. Then 4 miles on Sunday before driv- Club's Adopted Shoreline. Meet at the For sible so that someone else can go in your place. ing home. The first 4 miles on Saturday are Please respect the wishes of your leader who the Love of the Lake office parking lot on almost flat; about 65% of remainder is has volunteered his / her free time to allow you to FEB 26 (SAT) DAYHIKE / PHOTO HIKE level below Eckerd's in Casa Linda Plaza downhill. Great views and plenty of water. go on the trip of your choice. If you have any ques- AT WHITE ROCK LAKE Hike 9-mile (on Buckner facing Doctors Hospital, just One of the Ouachita Trail's "most outstand- tions, or if you are interested in becoming a leader, around White Rock Lake. We will stop to north of Garland Road, Mapsco 38-J) at ing" hikes. Rated: Moderate (for distance). contact either the Outings Chair or the appropriate take pictures of birds, squirrels etc. Wear 8:00 AM for registration and refreshments. Leader: Mick Nolen Outings Committee Coordinator on the newsletter comfortable shoes. Bring a snack. Meet at Leader: Carol Nash back page. 972-991-9351 9:00 AM at the parking lot on east side of 214-824-0244(H) [email protected] Mockingbird bridge (past dog park going [email protected] 4 February 2005 The Compass MAR 16 (WED) OUTINGS COMMITTEE and eat lunch. Saturday evening cook din- Oklahoma for a campground weekend and MEETING Meet in the upstairs program ner on the grill. Sunday morning go to a 15 mile fast float down a category 2 river room at REI (on north side of LBJ between Hamiltons Pool and hike 3 miles round trip only 2 hours away from Dallas. This trip APR 3 (SUN) ANNUAL SIERRA CLUB Midway and Welch), at 7:00 PM. Bring to the Pedernales River. Lunch will be at starts at the Dougherty Bridge and ends at AZALEA DAYHIKE ALONG TURTLE your ideas for the Dallas Sierra Club The Salt Lick in Driftwood where the trip will Highway 53 bridge near the Municipal Outings program. We will be planning CREEK IN DALLAS Leisurely 1.5- or 2 end. The park is west of Austin, about four Airport on the Washita River. Along the way local outings and bus trips. All outings hour walk with rest stops. Suitable for chil- hours from Dallas. This is the peak of the several rapids later including "Big Canyon" leaders, future outings leaders, and inter- dren in strollers. Meet 2:00 PM in shopping wildflower season in the hill country. rapids the water enthusiasts will see ested Sierrans welcome. strip on Oak Lawn (4200 block) just north of Leader:Greg Holman wildlife, cliffs and birds galore. Camping will Contact: Mick Nolen Wycliff. Take Oak Lawn Exit off I35 or 214-398-8061 972-991-9351(H) Fitzhugh exit off Central Expressway. No [email protected] be at the Turner Falls campground Friday [email protected] reservations needed. and Saturday nights or arrive at the put in Leader: Austin Brouns by 9 AM Saturday to start this one day trip. 214-528-3812 This trip is not for novices since the rapids APR 16 - 17 (SAT - SUN) BEGINNER at Big Canyon are at least a mile long. MAR 18 - 22 (FRI - TUE) GILA WILDER- BACKPACK TRIP ON THE LITTLE MIS- Leader: Terry Sullivan NESS ADVANCED BACKPACKING TRIP SOURI RIVER This hike is along the sce- 972-492-3038 The Gila Wilderness is located in south- APR 9 (SAT) SEVENTH ANNUAL nic Little Missouri River in western [email protected] western New Mexico, approximately 900 WORLD'S LONGEST DAYHIKE If you're . The hike is easy, and is on rela- miles from Dallas. Car pooling will be tough enough, or crazy enough, come and tively flat terrain. The total distance is about encouraged. The journey includes a back- join your fellow Sierrans for a 23-mile day- 6 miles. There will be several stream cross- pack trip of 24 miles over three days on the hike on the and White ings, so be prepared to get your feet wet. MAY 14 - 21 (SAT - SAT) DARK CANYON Crest Trail (USFS trail 182). Start at the Rock Lake trails. Meet at 8:00 AM at the Sandy Point trailhead at 9100 feet. The trail Preference will be given to those who SOUTHERN UTAH BACKPACK AND DAY- north end of the White Rock Creek trail in attended the backpacking class. quickly climbs a ridge to 10000 feet. The HIKE Four day backpack in Dark Canyon Valley View Park, on Valley View, just east of Leader: Marcos Jorge trail passes Whitewater Baldy Peak (10,895' the intersection of Hillcrest and Valley View starting in Alpine scenery and ending in the - highest point in the Wilderness), Center 972-394-2546 (H) (just north of 635, Mapsco 15-R). We'll hike desert. Also day hikes in Natural Bridges Baldy (10535'), Hummingbird Saddle [email protected] down to White Rock Lake, around it, and and other areas with the remaining time. (10400'), ending at Mogollon Baldy back. Bring your most comfortable walking Leader: Don Purinton (10770'). The view from Hummingbird shoes, Mole Skin, extra socks, water (water [email protected] Saddle of Whitewater Baldy is one of the and bathrooms are available along the trail), most breathtaking views in the Wilderness. APR 16 - 17 (SAT - SUN) CANOE THE 972-985-1774 The view from Whitewater Baldy of lunch, and rain gear (if rain is in the fore- BRAZOS RIVER Part one of a '05 canoe Whitewater Creek is also superb. Tracks of cast). We'll make a snack/lunch stop at the and kayak odyssey and spend a weekend coyotes, lions, bears, deer, and elk can 7-11 near the White Rock Lake spillway. on this authentic Texas River. A 20-mile sometimes be found on this trail. This back- Optional dinner and foot replacement after float trip just below Possum Kingdom Lake MAY 21 - 25 (SAT - WED) ZION AND the hike. This may be the last year for this pack trip is considered difficult. In addition includes camping on an island sandbar, BRYCE CANYON NATIONAL PARK BASE hike. Turnout the last few years has been to the hike, we will visit the Gila Cliff scenic tall cliffs, wildlife viewing and four CAMP / DAYHIKE See the incredible tower- very light. Apparently, there aren't very Dwellings National Monument. distinct river ecosystems for fishing and ing cliffs and slickrock canyons of Zion many Sierrans who are tough enough or Leaders: David Van Winkle wildlife. Rochelle's Canoe Livery will supply National Park, learning about the unique Emil Raggi crazy enough! canoes and set up the shuttle for all partici- geology that created this region. See the 972-562-7174 Leader: Arthur Kuehne pants. A two-day trip on class 1 waters unique, colorful hoodoos and natural [email protected] 214-353-2927 awaits the water enthusiasts only a two and bridges in Bryce Canyon, learning about the [email protected] a half-hour drive from Dallas. Leader: Terry Sullivan powerful forces that created these struc- 972-492-3038 tures millions of years ago and the current MAR 19 (SAT) DAYHIKE / PHOTO HIKE [email protected] day forces that continue to modify them. We at WHITE ROCK LAKE Hike 9-mile APR 9 - 10 (SAT - SUN) BEGINNER will day hike from our base camp in Zion around White Rock Lake. We will stop to BACKPACK ON BUCKEYE MOUNTAIN Canyon to numerous locations in Zion take pictures of birds, squirrels etc. Wear TRAIL Hike one of the most scenic National Park, plus drive to a dayhike in comfortable shoes. Bring a snack. Meet Wilderness trails in Arkansas. Hike in to APR 23 - 24 (SAT - SUN) BACKPACK Bryce Canyon National Park. Included in the at 9:00 AM at the parking lot on east side on the ridge SECTION 6 OF THE OUCHITA TRAIL IN Zion portion of the trip will be the Lower of Mockingbird bridge (past dog park top Buckeye Mountain Trail, out along OK. We'll hike about 12 miles from the going east). Hike will take 3-4 hrs. No Narrows of Zion Canyon, and outstanding the creek bottoms of the Caney Creek Pashubbe Trailhead to the state line. This is reservations necessary. vistas from Angels Landing and Observation Trail. Rated moderate, suitable for begin- a beautiful section of the trail, but it is a Leader: Dale Edelbaum Point / Hidden Canyon. We will day hike in ners in good shape. We'll camp Friday moderate to strenuous hike due to mileage 214-343-6741 night near our cars, Saturday night near Bryce Canyon at either Fairyland loop or the and elevation changes. Under the Rim trail. We will hike 6-10 miles a nice little waterfall. Leader: Arthur Kuehne with up to 2200' of elevation gain (and down) Leader: Dale Edelbaum 214-902-9260 every day.This trip is rated strenuous. This is 214-343-6741 [email protected] MAR 24 - APR 2 (THU - SAT) CANOE THE [email protected] a fly / drive trip. LOWER CANYONS OF THE RIO GRANDE Leader: David Van Winkle Canoe 84 miles of one of the most beautiful 972-562-7174 and isolated canyons in the lower 48. This [email protected] trip is for canoeists and kayakers experi- APR 23 - 24 (SAT - SUN) KEY APR 16 - 17 (SAT - SUN) WOMEN'S enced in multi-day white water wilderness EXCHANGE BACKPACK, CANEY CREEK ONLY BACKPACKING TRIP TO ROB- canoe trips. Participants must drive down TRAIL, AR. This popular trail is justifiably BERS CAVE Drive up Friday night (only on Wednesday (Mar 23). On Thursday we famous for nice scenery, great campsites, will shuttle cars and start the trip. We about 35 mi. east of McAlester, OK.) and and easy hiking. It is seldom hiked end to should be off the river on Saturday (Apr 2) camp in the state park--real rest rooms end due to the loooong car shuttle. We'll MAY 27 - 31 (FRI - TUE) MEMORIAL DAY available before and after our outing! afternoon. We are planning time for hiking get around that on this hike by starting BUS TRIP TO THE WHITE MOUNTAINS Saturday's hike with pack is 4.75 miles to a some of the scenic canyons along the river. groups from both ends of the trail. We'll WILDERNESS / RUIDOSO AREA Enjoy primitive campground--we'll do an optional Leader: Bill Beach camp together Saturday night, trade car one of five different 3-day trips to central 3.2 mile hike over to Lost Lake/Robbers 214-824-4584 keys, and hike on out to each other's cars. New Mexico. New this year--trip 1 will be [email protected] Cave after setting up camp. Local legend Sunday we'll meet again and trade cars cabin-based with dayhiking, fishing, or if says that the James Gang and Belle Starr back. Here's your chance to hike the full 9.5 you prefer, just relaxing and enjoying the were the first regular visitors to wander mile length of this very scenic trail without a view! Trips 2 thru 5 will backpack in the through the unusual, huge rock formations car shuttle! With about 5 miles each day APR 2 - 3 (SAT - SUN) EASY BACKPACK in this area. On Sunday, we'll reverse our this is a moderate hike, but both groups will White Mountain Wilderness of the Lincoln TRIP ON THE PRETTIEST SECTION OF trail (4.75 miles) back to the cars. This trip need to wade the knee-deep National Forest. Backpack trips range from THE OUACHITA TRAIL This trip through may involve some up's and down's on little on the west end. Contact Bill to sign up. moderate to strenuous and we recommend the Flatside Wilderness area covers only Oklahoma hills, but is generally rated an Leaders: Bill Greer that participants have at least one prior 10.6 miles through a well-watered area of EASY backpack. 972-964-1781 backpacking trip. Our chartered sleeper the trail. The scenery is superior to any Leaders: Cari Henkin [email protected] bus will leave Dallas after work on Friday, other area. Sunday we will exit at the [email protected] Mike Rawlins May 27 and return at about 5:00 AM on Flatside Pinnacle. Everyone is encouraged 214 826-5461 972-783-0962 Tuesday, May 31. Cost will vary depending to bring a lunch for Sunday. We will climb Laura Kimberly [email protected] on the trip chosen. the pinnacle to eat and to enjoy the scenery. Leader: Cari Henkin This is segment 17 of the Walk The [email protected] Ouachita program. 214 826-5461 Leader: Cari Henkin APR 16 - 17 (SAT - SUN) PEDERNALES MAY 13 - 15 (SAT - SUN) CANOE THE FALLAS STATE PARK CARCAMP 214-826-5461 WASHITA RIVER Part two of the '05 canoe See Outings List on Dayhike 7 miles round trip to Jones Spring [email protected] and kayak odyssey takes Sierrans up to Page 6 The Compass February 2005 5 February 2005 Sierra Club Outings II

www.dallassierraclub.org OUTINGS LIST NON-SIERRA CLUB OUTINGS Walking the

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5 The following are privately sponsored and MARCH 12 West Fork, Roy Orr bridge to administered trips. Sierra Club takes no Mountain Creek, 8 miles, small rapids, Bear Ouachita responsibility and makes no representa- Creek, Woodbine sandstone, Eagle Ford By Pryor Lawson tions or warranties about the quality, safety, shale, steep put-in, seldom paddled. JUN 5-11 (SUN-SAT) BUFFALO NATION- supervision or management of these trips. hen it comes to walking the AL RIVER CANOE TRIP The Buffalo River They are published as a reader service APRIL 9 Trinity Main Stem, South Loop 12 Ouachita, Jerry Lewis has been in northern Arkansas is one of the most because they may be of interest to recipi- to Dowdy Ferry, 8+ miles, Great Trinity Wthere and done that, but he has- beautiful rivers in the United States. The ents of this publication. Forest, McCommas Bluff Preserve, 1905 n't gotten the T-shirt -- yet. Buffalo River is administered by the navigation lock and dam, difficult access. Jerry, one of the prime movers of the and features clear EXPEDITIONS "Walk the Ouachita" expeditions, joined the water, magnificent high limestone bluffs MAY 14 West Fork, Mountain Creek to Sierra Club in the late 1980's. "I'd been and an outstanding canoeing experience. Trinity River Expeditions offers canoe Sylvan, 6+ miles, Eagle Ford shale, backpacking as a Scoutmaster for several We'll canoe about 60 miles of the river from access to the natural areas along the Trinity small rapids, confluence of West and years," he recalls. "I saw an ad in the paper Gilbert down to a take out on the White River. Periodic high water events have dis- Elm Forks, springs and seeps, good about hiking with the Sierra Club, so I River and camp on the gravel bars along couraged building near the river, leaving birding, good access. showed up for a meeting." The result? A the way. Exact mileage may change due to thousands of acres in the floodplains as weekend backpacking trip to the Pecos river level. Some canoeing experience reservoirs for the flood water. These wood- JUNE 11 Trinity Main Stem, Sylvan to Wilderness, his first "adult" backpacking required. ed and open natural areas shelter a variety South Loop 12, 10 miles, Downtown Dallas, experience, one that was quite a bit differ- Leader: Arthur Kuehne of native plants and animal life and contain Great Trinity Forest, Miller's Ferry site, ent from his Scouting trips. "I was over- 214-902-9260 many other features like historic bridges White Rock Creek, steep take-out. loaded with equipment," says Jerry. "I did- [email protected] and river crossings. Canoe travel is the eas- n't know what I'd gotten into. But when I got iest way to visit these areas and Trinity JULY 9 West Fork, Highway 360 to Roy Orr River Expeditions provides the equipment, out there and saw the sun peeking through transportation and information to set up bridge, 4+ miles, Cross Timbers, small the pine trees, I was hooked." your own river trip. rapids, Woodbine sandstone bluffs, Dorothy Since then, Jerry has led dozens of Guided Trips On the second Saturday of Spur trestle, one portage, steep take-out. Sierra trips, including several on the every month a guided trip is conducted on Ouachita trail. "Back in the early 90's, a different river segment in the Trinity AUGUST 13 Elm Fork, California Crossing when David Isabel was president of the watershed. The interpretive guide discuss- to Frazier Dam, 6+ miles, L.B. Houston Dallas Sierra Club, we got the idea to hike es the natural history and historic features Nature Area, Campion Trail, diverse ripari- the whole thing." It was a daunting task, along the river and comes with his own boat an and small lake habitat, native hibiscus. since the entire trail spans over two hun- and equipment. Trip includes boat, paddles, dred miles. "But, over 2-3 years, we did it," lifejackets, shuttle and interpretive guide. SEPTEMBER 10 Trinity Main Stem, Sylvan says Jerry. Price per person is $35.00, sales tax to South Loop 12, 10 miles, Downtown When Isabel resigned as president in included. Dallas, Great Trinity Forest, Miller's Ferry 1993, trips to the Ouachita petered out. Call Charles Allen at 214-941-1757 for site, White Rock Creek, steep take-out. In 2003, Jerry realized that, out of the cur- meeting place and other information. rent membership in the Dallas club, prac- Meeting time for all trips is 8:30 a.m. River OCTOBER 8 Elm Fork, Belt line Road to tically no one had hiked the Ouachita. conditions can change quickly; scheduled California Crossing, 8+ miles, 1886 Keenan "So I said to Mick Nolen, let's do it again," trip locations may be changed to find the Bridge site, diverse riparian and small lake says Jerry, and the "Walk the Ouachita" best boating conditions. All guided trips habitat, native hibiscus, Cardinal flowers. hike was reborn. must be paid in advance. Cancellations 30 Jerry has the entire Ouachita trail split up days or less before the trip date are not November 12 West Fork, Handley into segments that are perfect for weekend refundable. Trips are held rain or shine - Ederville Road to Greenbelt, 9 miles, getaways, with hikes rated from "very easy" there are no rain checks or weather related Randoll Mill site, Lower Cretaceous lime- to "strenuous." As it was fifteen years ago, refunds. http://www.canoedallas.com stone, small rapids, seldom paddled, diffi- the idea behind the trips is to give hikers cult take-out. the chance to walk the entire trail, and to GUIDED CANOE TRIPS - 2005 introduce new or inexperienced hikers to December 10 West Fork, Greenbelt to the beauty of the Ouachita forest. "Like FEBRUARY 12 West Fork, Beach St. John Muir said, get 'em out there and they'll Highway 360, 9 miles, River Legacy to Handley-Ederville, 7 miles, small get interested," Jerry says, speaking of the park, proximity of Bird's Fort site, rapids, Gateway Park, Fossil Creek, Ouachita in particular and the world of Lower Cretaceous limestone, one Woodbine sandstone, seldom paddled, nature in general. portage, seldom paddled. difficult access. Jerry's interest in the Ouachita trail was actually rekindled back in 1999. A friend of his had some time off in the fall, so he and Jerry decided to structure the trail into manageable segments, which closely Buy Groceries resemble the segments for the Sierra Club's series of hikes. "We went fifty-three & Help the Sierra Club miles in '99," says Jerry, "and finished in 2001." If you shop at Tom Thumb - go to the service desk When Jerry finished the last segment of and get a reward card by giving them the Sierra that trip, he wanted a memento to remem- Club #3941.They will explain how to use the card. ber the journey. "I crawled up onto a tall hill at the state park," he recalls. "There was If you shop at Kroger - pick up a Kroger card at the no band, no photographers, no cheerlead- next General Meeting, or call George Zimmerman ers." So he went inside the small visitors' at (H) 972-315-2049 or email [email protected] building at the end of the trail, and asked to to get a card mailed to you. buy an "I walked the Ouachita" T-shirt. The problem was, they didn't have one. But Each time you use these cards to buy groceries, the Jerry plans to change that, even if he has club receives .05% of what you spend, PLUS the to silkscreen it himself. CALL TODAY Sierra Club card gives you certain item specials. "Someday," he says, "there'll be a T-shirt." 6 February 2005 The Compass The Sierra Club's Secret Weapon - You A Hundred and One Seashore? It is, and Dr. Wayburn tells the Points of Light... unforgettable story of how he and his late wife Peggy accomplished it in his recently Without volunteers, there would be no published memoir Your Land and Mine: Sierra Club. Sierra Club volunteers are more Evolution of a Conservationist (available than the grassroots -- they're the trunk, from Sierra Club Books). branches, and crown of a giant sequoia. For his visionary achievements, Dr. If the New Year has you wondering Wayburn was honored with the Albert whether now might be a good time to get Schweitzer Prize for Humanitarianism in more involved in the Club, you should know 1995 and the Presidential Medal of Freedom about the on-line resource we call "Sierra in 1999. Now 98 years old, he continues to Club 101" -- it's a quick primer on how the fight to protect the wildlands of Alaska. Club works and how you can be a part of it. Check it out and you'll find that there are many ways to volunteer -- one of which is ... And One Who's probably just right for you -- and easier than Made His Bed you might think. If you're going to moonlight as an advice columnist, you'd better be prepared to lie in One Who's Made a Big any bed you make, and SIERRA magazine Difference... managing editor Bob Schildgen not only gets into the bed but defies anyone to kick Need an inspirational model for what one him out of it. Bob writes "Hey Mr. Green" for Sierra Club volunteer can achieve? Look no SIERRA, a regular dose of uncommonsen- further than Dr. Edgar Wayburn, the Sierra sible environmental wisdom on topics rang- Club's Honorary President since 1993. ing from SUVs to air-conditioning. (Don't Is it really possible that one man could be even think abut asking him about air-condi- largely responsible for establishing the tioned SUVs!) nation's largest urban park (the Golden Still pondering life's big questions Gate National Recreation Area), protecting (paper or plastic)? Drop a line to Mr. more than 100 million acres of Alaskan wild Green, and your question might get lands, creating Redwood National Park, answered in SIERRA magazine. and preserving the Point Reyes National

The Compass February 2005 7