Volume 29, Issue 1 www.bcha.org Winter 2018 Looking Back By Rick Adair of Shoshone Back Country Horsemen, Wyoming

Top: “Looking Back” If Not Your BCHA, Then Who? is Bob Yeats, SBCH With the beckoning calls going they do not have an adequate budget in member as he summited out to help maintain our public lands, place to hire a commercial trail clean- Crow Creek Pass. The prominent peak in the the question arises, if we are not able ing team. The SNF is recognized as the background is Bill Cody to respond, will those calls go unheed- first national forest in the US and still Peak, halfway point in ed. Like the proverbial tree falling in primarily a horse and foot travel forest. the trail cleaning venture. the forest and no one is there to hear it, With this season almost over, our Inset photo is a BCHA method of taking a selfie. does it still make a noise when it falls? SBCH chapter has already cleaned Thoughts were: some- Will there be anybody there to answer over 114 miles of trail during 2017. thing old, something new, the call for help? Our BCHA is at the This is a contribution of 1,526 hours, me, just passing through, forefront of assisting in keeping the 19,046 miles on vehicles and 255 stock leaving no trace. trails open and the trailhead facilities days. In “looking back” at one of our operational. recent trail clearings that the SNF had ist/hunting lodge on the confluence of vation of 6,500 feet, following along A similar request is made yearly to asked SBCH to clean this year, the trail the Middle Fork and North Fork of the Crow Creek, climbing to the summit the Shoshone Back Country Horsemen came with an enduring history. Native Shoshone River approximately five of Crow Creek Pass at 10,500 feet. The (SBCH) here in North West Wyoming. American Indians traveled the corridor miles from the east entrance of Yellow- vista to the west is a sizeable portion of Our chapter has a long-standing agree- to their hunting grounds long before stone National Park. Yellowstone National Park with views ment to assist the Shoshone Nation- our history ever started. Renowned Crow Creek is located a mile and on a clear day extending to the Grand al Forest (SNF) management team in scout, bison hunter, and entertainer one half north of Bill Cody’s lodge at Teton mountain range. To the east is the cleaning trails that are in bad shape or Buffalo Bill Cody established his tour- Pahaska Teepee. Crow Creek Trail is Absaroka Mountains with prominent within the North Absaroka Wilderness peaks appropriately named like Silver area and is a hand tool only maintained Tip and Bill Cody. There are a number trail. The trail is approximately 11 of states smaller than the area that can NON-PROFIT ORG. Back Country Horsemen of America U.S. POSTAGE miles in length. It starts on the North be viewed from the majestic perch go- 59 Rainbow Road Fork of the Shoshone River at an ele- ing over Crow Creek Pass. East Granby, CT 06026 PAID [continued inside on page 2] PERMIT NO. 178 SALEM, OR Inside... From the Chairman’s Saddle...... 3 National Reports...... 4-5 Catch Pen...... 6-7 Youth...... 7 Chapter Articles...... 8-11 Bitterroot Clan Honored...... 12 Welcome Iowa!...... 12 Back Country Horsemen of America www.bcha.org 1 If Not Your BCHA, Then Who? By Rick Adair [continued from front page]

59 Rainbow Road In accepting this task, we knew still several miles from the pass into East Granby, CT 06026 Crow Creek Trail had not been cleared Yellowstone National Park. With other (888) 893-5161 of down timber for three consecu- trails on the schedule to be cleaned, our tive years. This was due in part to dedicated chapter came through once Interested in Joining? two wild fires in the previous decades again. Crews were divided and a call Contact BCHA or the organization nearest you for more information. along with significant bark beetle in- went out for all-hands-on-deck. Once festation that fell a sizeable portion of National: BCH of Minnesota again on August 10 and 11, we set out BCH of America 30490 335th Street Way mature pine and fir trees. Brewing the on our mission. With five pack animals The crew finally made it to the top. Bill Cody Erica Fearn Lake City, MN 55041 “perfect storm” scenario, the winter of in tow, five volunteers made it back into Peak is in the back ground. We had already 59 Rainbow Road [email protected] 2016-2017 brought one of the heaviest the meadow to throw down camp and cleaned this portion of trail on previous trips East Granby, CT 06026 651-345-9909 trying to get to the top. (888) 893-5161 www.bchmn.org snow packs in modern history. Conse- get on with the job of cleaning the trail. FAX (360) 832-1564 quently, the spring runoff freeing the The last several hard fought miles did BCH of Mississippi [email protected] 600 Old Hwy 51 N. high country of snow melt had the local not come easy. Now at over 9000 feet www.bcha.org Box 641 rivers and creeks running at near bank elevation, running a hand saw was very State Organizations: Nesbit, MS 38651 levels, thus delaying an early start. exhausting, so was walking from one BCH of Alabama (901) 485-2982 On June 20 and 21, SBCH mem- downed tree to another. Several times, 1404 Arkadelphia Road [email protected] Warrior, AL 35180 www.bchms.org bers set out on the mission of clearing the final switch backs left us thinking (205) 936-9043 Crow Creek Trail at least to where snow we were closer than we actually were. Show-Me Missouri BCH [email protected] 519 Good Hope Road drifting would prevent further access of Then like a light at the end of the tun- backcountryhorsemenal.com Marshfield, MO 65706 the high country. This was still weeks nel, we crested into one of the most re- BCH of Alaska (417) 425-9969 before forecasted peak of high water in warding sights and efforts that we ever PO Box 3148 www.showmebch.org creek crossings was to occur. After the put forward. The view at the top of this The weathered, downed sign indicated that Palmer AK 99645 BCH of Montana we had finally reached our goal, Crow Creek (907) 360-0480 first day, we saw that the previous goal wilderness paradise made us all quickly 2130 9th Street W. #109 Pass, entering into Yellowstone Park. The [email protected] was as lofty as the distant mountain forget our sore muscles and calloused Columbia Falls, MT 59912 journey was over. Arkansas Back Country [email protected] pass itself. It was a three-mile day that hands. The only disappointment on the Horsemen www.bchmt.org had most of us licking our wounds. On trip, we had only a few moments to en- 3566 Highway 397 S. BCH of Nevada the way back out to the trail head that joy the view before we had to depart to Harrison, AR 72601 PO Box 19324 evening, two adult grizzlies bears were make it back to camp by dark. Before (719) 337-4474 Reno NV 89511 Jacque.alexander roaming right above the trail. Ironical- this day was over, we would ride over (775) 843-2569 @arkansas.gov ly, the grizzlies were tame compared 16 miles, plus clean the final segment [email protected] BCH of Arizona www.bchnv.com to crossing the swollen creek from a of trail before getting back to our camp PO Box 4486 warm day’s hefty snow melt. White and awaiting pack stock. BCH of New Mexico Chino Valley AZ 86323 PO Box 37005 water rapids up to the belly of our stock In pulling camp and riding down (928) 445-3809 Albuquerque NM 87176 made for an interesting conclusion of the totally cleared trail on the 11th, www.bchaz.org [email protected] day one. there was plenty of time to reflect on www.bchnm.org BCH of California Day two on the 21st was less gain our achievement. Was it worth it? The stock is getting itchy feet, knowing that 13061 Rosedale Highway BCH of North Carolina the trailhead is getting close as we finalize Ste G Box 217 than day one. Not only did we not Without any doubt, yes it was. The 102 Arrowhead Lane this episode of cleaning trails in the SNF. Bakersfield CA 93314 make the snow line, we had not cleared next person to ride this trail will hope- Whittier, NC 28789 Only those that see the trail between a set of www.bchcalifornia.org (828) 577-3462 to the half way mark on the trail. In un- fully appreciate some unknown strang- mule ears can understand the significance of BCH of Colorado [email protected] spoken thoughts going back down the er’s efforts to keep this wonderful trail this pic. This pic is dedicated to all the mule 34872 Highway 184 www.bchofnc.org trail after a full day’s work, we all knew open. In conclusion, here are some of riders out there. Mancos, CO 81328 the crossing this time would be danger- the numbers for this one formidable ef- www.bchcolorado.org BCH of North Dakota 2550 Windsor Pl N ous. Sure enough, the water was up to fort. The SBCH had 17 members con- BCH of Florida Mandan, ND 58554 the flanks on our stock causing them to tribute a total of 35 men/women work PO Box 815 Brooksville FL 34605 BCH of Oregon get pushed down stream all the while days on Crow Creek Trail, in all total- (352) 796-9272 PO Box 362 struggling to maintain footing in the ing 309.5 man hours. Fifty-one stock [email protected] O’Brien, OR 97534 large river boulders. Further attempts days were recorded along with 1,403 www.flbch.org (541) 746-4547 of clearing this trail would have to wait www.bcho.org miles of hauling mules and horses to BCH of Georgia until the water crossing subsided. the trailhead. PO Box 1471 Black Hills BCH With one small exploratory expedi- Makes you proud to belong to a Blue Ridge GA 30513 of South Dakota 706-374-7075 20112 Buckin Horse Lane tion in early July, we made another full great organization does it not? In con- [email protected] Whitewood SD 57793 court press on July 25 and 26. Our goal cluding, from where this recap of Crow (605) 645-2296 this time was to make the summit by the Silver Tip Peak, showing the magnitude of BCH of Idaho Creek trail started, if not your Back downed trees that we had to deal with. [email protected] 26th. In order to maximize work time, PO Box 513 www.bhbchsd Country Horsemen, then who would Salmon ID 83467 @blogspot.com this was an overnight trip with pack do this? Let’s all make sure the legacy www.bchi.org stock. Camping was right off the trail BCH of Tennessee continues by recruiting the next gener- BCH of Illinois 570 Sunnyside Road in one of the few mountain meadows. ations into our great organization. Photo below: Packing up camp on the final Rt # 2 Box 214 Sweetwater, TN 37874 At the end of the 25th it began to rain. The SBCH has been assigned trail day and packing out. Our saw training class Golconda IL 62938 (423) 552-3767 cautioned us to prevent “mission creep”, (618) 672-4841 The rain was not quite hard enough cleaning for the Crow Creek Trail for [email protected] staying within our certification of being Buck- [email protected] to force on rain gear, but wet enough 2018 by the SNF. We hope to clean this www.bchet.org ers. The leaners will be on the ground this Hoosier BCH Indiana to soak us by the time we reached our trail yearly for a few years to keep it winter with us being there next summer to BCH of Utah make-shift camp that evening. There is 12784 E Rollins Lane PO Box 13195 from getting in the shape it was in 2017. remove them. Springville IN 47462 Ogden UT 84412-3195 cooking in the rain, then there is noth- (812) 797-4540 (801) 985-1909 ing more somber than cooking and eat- hoosierhorsemen www.bchu.com @yahoo.com ing in the rain. A close second is going Virginia BCH to bed in the rain and knowing that the BCH of Iowa 55 Lost Creek Lane only thing to greet you in the morning 3445 Lima Trail Buena Vista VA 24416 MIssouri Valley, IA 51555 (540) 570-1910 would be putting on cold wet clothes (402) 350-3249 [email protected] from the day before. Day two on the [email protected] 26th left the survivors hastening to BCH of Washington BCH of Kansas PO Box 1132 reach the pass in order to make it back 1409 Lincoln Road Ellensburg WA to camp, pack up, and make it back to Concordia KS 66901 98926-1132 our trailers before night fall. Rain was (785) 243-2494 (509) 276-6226 steve.lindsey@lia_ks.com www.bchw.org once again forecasted. Thinking we were so close, but not knowing what BCH of Kentucky BCH of Wyoming 2068 Pondsville Kepler Road 2446 Spriggs Dr lay ahead further up the trail, we had to Smiths Grove KY 40353 Lander WY 82520 stop once again for private life commit- (859) 744-0397 [email protected] ments. Our GPS readings told us the [email protected] www.wyobch.org www.kybch.com “crow flies” distance to the pass, but Affiliates: not the trail distance with the upcoming BCH Pigeon River and Saratoga BCH switch backs. Beyond, MI, Inc. PO Box 461 6631 E Ashard Road Cambridge NY 12816 The man hours spent so far on this Clare MI 48617 859-230-0980 trail was well beyond what anybody (517) 296-4475 could have planned for and the goal [email protected]

2 www.bcha.org Back Country Horsemen of America View from the Chairman’s Saddle By Freddy Dunn, BCHA National Chairman OUTFITTERSOUTFITTERS SUPPLY,SUPPLY, INCINC Essential Gear for the Trail

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Outfitters Supply Pack Saddles Looking forward to 2018 (D-Hawaii), in her opening statement Built for a lifetime of hard use; we handcraft these in Montana using Hermann Oak Old World Harness leather with rolled I can honestly say that 2017 has ex- on H.R. 1349, declared that “this bill is breeching and breastcollar and our TrailMax Decker pack ceeded my expectations when it comes opposed by more than 200 Back Coun- trees with stainless steel arches. Several styles of Decker to Back Country Horsemen of Ameri- try Horsemen of America chapters... and sawbuck pack saddles available. ca. I wasn’t sure what to expect as the and we have received dozens of letters TrailMAX™ Bear Proof Pack Panniers first female chairman of this historical- in opposition to this bill.” Her state- • Easy to use, economical panniers are ideal for packing average-sized loads ly male-led organization. But any res- ment is affirmation of BCHA’s -abil • Contoured sides fit properly on horse or mule without pressure points ervations I had were overcome through ity to make our concerns well known • Meets all USFS & IGBC requirements for bear-resistant storage containers • We offer a wide selection of soft-sided panniers as well! working with professional, enthusias- throughout the Halls of Congress. tic, and dedicated members and staff. BCHA joined The Wilderness So- TrailMAX™ Saddlebags I couldn’t be prouder to represent this ciety in a petition to force the Depart- Outfitters Supply has become the ment of Interior into a public rulemak- leader in equestrian saddlebag national organization. design and manufacturing. Why? As 2017 comes to a close, BCHA ing process to clarify its (in)ability to Because we have used, repaired is financially sound. We have 13 facilitate federal land transfer to the and sold saddlebags for 30 years. We design our saddlebags to committees ACTIVELY working for states. This represents a proactive step ensure that they (1) do not shift BCHA. We have action plans in place to make the Administration publicly or slap the horse, (2) easily store for each committee with thoughtful disclose its limitations in the absence lightweight gear for any length ride, (3) would last just as long as budget requests for 2018. We’re ahead of direction from Congress. While the our desire to ride down the trail. of the game this year. We’ve had joint Administration could choose to ignore TrailMAX™ Scabbards committee chairmen conference calls the request, petitioners could choose to to inform each of what the others were challenge the lack of response via the doing and eliminating duplicate efforts. Federal Court system. We’ve continued the state presidents’ Our new channels of communica- calls every month that we started sever- tions were paramount in the success al years ago. Individuals have stepped that we had reaching out to our mem- TrailMAX™ Saddle Panniers up and raised the bar this year, and it is bership. And we thank you for your my hope that the momentum that has action. Stay tuned – we’ll need you in We also proudly carry quality gear from: built will carry on through 2018 and the coming months more than ever. beyond. Communication was the greatest We need your voice to continue WALL TENTS challenge and the greatest criticism that these efforts BCHA has had to overcome. We’re I urge all of you to go to the mem- Contact Us for a FREE Catalog & Dealer List spread from coast to coast. But, the bers only portion of the website and knowledge and technology used by update your profile. Make sure the 1-888-467-2256 our management company Erica Fearn, contact information for you is cor- www.OutfittersSupply.com along with our amazing webmaster rect. Add your picture! This program, Marty DeVall and our social media ad- called Your Membership is extremely 7373 US Highway 2 East, Columbia Falls, MT 59912 ministrator Mark Himmel, has allowed versatile and we’re exploring different us to communicate directly with our uses for it. We’re even using this plat- members and nonmembers in ways and form of the website for a pilot program in frequency as never before. Meeting to renew memberships in Washington Foundation Offers Grants for 2018 minutes are available within days on State. Results will be tallied and com- The Back Country Horsemen of The grant request form and more our website in the Members Only Re- municated in January or February. American Education Foundation direc- information on the BCH Education sources of our website. Action Alerts But most of all, talk to people tors are pleased to announce that funds Foundation can be found on the web are sent directly to member email ad- about BCHA. When you see folks at are available for 2018 grant requests. site www.bcha.org by clicking on “Ed- dresses. And, hours and hours have the trailhead, pass them on the trail or These funds are from individual dona- ucation”. All applications can be sent been spent working on our member and see them at clinics, invite them to join tions made directly to the Foundation, in digital format to grantrequest@bcha. donor data bases to make them as accu- the fun and experience the satisfaction funds from auctions and raffle of do- org; or a request form can be mailed rate as possible. We even have changes of making a difference. There’s great nated items (including Peg Greiwe’s to PO Box 385, Graham WA 98338- coming to our website to make it clean- instant gratification when you can ex- popular quilts) at the BCHA National 0385. All applications are due by er and easier to navigate. perience the before and after of clear- Board Meeting, and 30% of the dona- March 15, 2018. Notifications of fund- ing a trail, or cleaning up a trailhead. tions made to the BCHA Trails Forever ed applications will be made by end Challenges ahead And, oh by the way…you don’t have to Fund. of April. Questions about the applica- But we have big challenges ahead! own a horse to support Back Country Grants are available to BCH chap- tion or the Foundation can be directed Public lands are being attacked from Horsemen! ters and organizations for trail head and to [email protected] or every angle, including the two obvious In conclusion, please keep your trail construction and/or maintenance, [email protected]. ones -- the transfer and sale of public ears tuned for alerts and requests from educational events and youth programs. All funded grant recipients are re- lands and the attempt to amend The Randy and me regarding upcoming Partnerships with public land agencies, quired to send a final report of comple- Wilderness Act of 1964. hearings on H.R. 1349. We, along with youth groups, and equestrian trail ad- tion to the Foundation, as well as sub- At the start of an early December our partners, are monitoring it closely. vocacy organizations are encouraged. mission of an article and photographs congressional hearing in Washington And your response will be vital. Grant requests can be funded up to to the BCHA National Newsletter. BCH D.C., BCHA’s opposition to a bill that Thank you for being Back Country $1000 each and by special request of Foundation directors are Mylon Filkins would authorize mountain bikes in Wil- Horsemen. Thank you for your years a donor there are three $1000 grants DVM , Becky Hope, Joanne Mitchell, derness was noted by the ranking mem- of service and dedication to keeping available for projects east of the Mis- Michael Murphy, Karen Saner and Ex- ber of the Federal Lands Subcommit- our public lands public and our trails sissippi River. ecutive Secretary Peg Greiwe. tee. Representative Colleen Hanabusa open for all. Above all, be safe!

Back Country Horsemen of America www.bcha.org 3 BCHA Officers, National Reports Chairs and Staff Chair Ms Freddy Dunn How to Nominate a Project for the Back Country [email protected] Vice Chair Horsemen of America Double Diamond Award Darrell Wallace [email protected] The BCHA Double Diamond will be awarded at the National Board from the agency or private parties that Award is presented annually at the Na- Meeting banquet in Spokane, WA, in were in collaboration on this project Treasurer tional Board Meeting for an exception- April 2018. or program may also be included. Be Sherry Copeland [email protected] al volunteer effort and/or educational BCHA will accept applications sure to clearly name the chapter or unit program completed during the previ- from any chapter/unit for a volunteer whose project is being nominated. Ap- Past Chair ous calendar year. The projects eligi- project or educational program that has plications must be submitted by email Donald Saner [email protected] ble for recognition can include, but are been accomplished during the calendar attachment in Word or Adobe format, not limited to, trail maintenance, trail year immediately preceding the April or US Postal Service. Digital format Executive Commmittee construction, trailhead construction, National Board of Directors Meeting is preferred; however, a hard copy will [email protected] educational programs, and youth pro- (Jan.1-Dec.31, 2017). All award appli- be accepted if electronic options are not Doug Bechen grams. It is imperative that all nomi- cations shall be for a specificproject or available to the nominator. Ginny Grulke nations be received by April 1, 2018, specific educational program, not for Alan T. Hill so committee members will have time multiple projects or programs under- Email digital format applications Becki Krueger to: [email protected] Yvette Rollins to thoroughly review them before the taken during the year. Multiple outings National Board Meeting. to accomplish a specific project are ac- Director of Public Lands Mail US Postal Service hard copy and Recreation Exemplary projects and pro- ceptable. applications to: Randy Rasmussen grams were accomplished in 2017. Include a maximum four-page BCHA Double Diamond Award [email protected] If your chapter has an outstanding narrative describing what the project 5132 County Rd. 277 Executive Administrator project, now is the time to nominate entailed and how it was accomplished Palmyra, MO 63461 Erica Fearn, CAE it for the Double Diamond Award. from start to finish. Answer the ques- 59 Rainbow Road The BCHA Volunteer Hours Commit- tions: who, what, where, when, why, Applications must be received by East Granby, CT 06026 April 1. 860-586-7540 tee, appointed by the National Chair of and how. A maximum of eight photos [email protected] BCHA, will decide the recipient of the may be included to help the commit- For questions, call 573-406-2566. 2017 Double Diamond Award, which tee make its decision. Support letters Committees: National Public Lands Jim Allen, Barry Reiswig, Co-chairs [email protected] Public Lands – State Sherry Copeland and Roy Cornett, Co-Chair [email protected] Public Liaison and Advocacy Partners Don Saner [email protected] [email protected] Expansion Steve Lindsey [email protected] Education Mack Long [email protected] [email protected] Funding Ginny Grulke [email protected] Media and Marketing/Facebook Mark Himmel [email protected] Newsletter [email protected] Vision Yvette Rollins [email protected] Volunteer Service Larry Zauberis and Mary K Church, Co-chairs The BCHA Nominations Committee is searching for candidates who desire to [email protected] [email protected] run for 2018 seats. There are six positions to fill: Chairman, Vice-Chairman, [email protected] Treasurer, and Three Executive Board Members (one who is a non-Director). Web Masters Some will be seeking re-election but all National Directors are eligible for Marty DeVall and Mark Himmel [email protected] election. There is also one executive board member from outside the Direc- BCH Education Foundation of America tors. c/o PO Box 385 Graham WA 98338-0385 360-832-2451 Contact one of the Nominations Committee: Steve Lindsey, Mary K Church [email protected] or Roy Cornett with your intentions to run before February 1, 2018. Annual subscriptions for non-members are available by sending your name, address and $45 to: BCHA 59 Rainbow Road East Granby, CT 06026 Or purchase subscription online at www.BCHA.org Subscription or Address Corrections to: Erica Fearn Association Administrator BCHA BACK COUNTRY HORSEMEN OF AMERICA 860-586-7540 1-800-893-5161 Steve Lindsey, National Nominations Committee Chairman FAX: 860-586-7550 [email protected] 1409 Lincoln, Concordia, KS 66901 785-243-2494 [email protected]

4 www.bcha.org Back Country Horsemen of America National Reports Public Lands Report By Randy Rasmussen, Director of Public Lands and Recreation The following report expands upon great things you do as a volunteer to an action alert sent December 15th via keep trails open for everyone. email to all BCHA members for which we have on file an email address. If House Leaders Likely to “Hide you did not receive the action alert the Ball” and would like to be added to BCHA’s The timing of a floor vote would email database, please go to BCHA’s have to be approved by the House lead- website, click on “About Us,” then ership. HR 1349 could be voted on as a “Join Our E-Blast List.” stand-alone bill or, more likely, it could be packaged with other public land H.R. 1349, Bikes-in Wilder- bills or must-pass legislation. lands in the continental U.S. that to- on the House floor to further undermine ness Bill, Gains Momentum in Given that amending the Wilder- day are designated as Wilderness. By the Wilderness Act. It’s critical we ap- Congress ness Act is known to be highly con- insisting that “mechanized forms of ply constant pressure on our represen- In early-December, Congressman troversial—the Act has never been travel” be allowed in Wilderness (the tatives until HR 1349 is soundly de- Tom McClintock (R-Calif.) scheduled amended throughout the Act’s 53-year purpose of HR 1349), they chose to ig- feated. Let your member of Congress a hearing for HR 1349, which he in- history—a floor vote on HR 1349 will nore the potential for Congress to insert know that we will resist all attempts to troduced in March 2017. The public most likely be bundled with other, less other damaging provisions into the bill. undermine and weaken the Wilderness was provided only one week’s notice controversial or even potentially ben- Act. and Rep. McClintock did not invite eficial, public lands legislation. Doing HR 1349 Could be Made anyone with opposing views to testify so might be viewed as providing “cov- Worse during the hearing. As was expected, er” for legislators who don’t want to Again, don’t be fooled. Members the hearing was one-sided and included be exposed as voting to undermine the of Congress could offer amendments many mischaracterizations about the Wilderness Act. history and implementation by federal Don’t let them fool you. A vote to land management agencies of the 1964 undermine the Wilderness Act is still a Wilderness Act. Rep. McClintock vote to undermine the Wilderness Act, skillfully guided his witness during even if your representative claims they the question-and-answer period, which intend to vote in favor of another bill in included exchanging verbal swipes at the package. BCHA horseback riders and “commercial pack trains.” Senate Bill Likely, Contact The following week, the U.S. Your Senators NEEDS YOUR HELP House of Representatives Committee We are on the lookout for intro- on Natural Resources voted 22-18 to duction of a Senate “companion bill” move HR 1349 to the full House for to HR 1349. Given that legislation AND consideration and a vote. Unfortunate- must be passed by both the House and ly, committee members fell into a par- Senate before it goes to the President’s WE NEED IT NOW ty-line vote, with only Rep. Liz Cheney desk for signature, a companion bill By Jim Allen and Barry Reiswig, Public Lands Committee Co-Chairs (R-Wyo.) voting against the bill. could be introduced at any time by an- As with trails, Wilderness should ti-Wilderness senator(s). Alternatively, Back Country Horsemen of America is facing unprecedent- not be a partisan issue. Wyoming should the House pass HR 1349 on a ed challenges in Congress ranging from outright transfer and BCHA has reached out to Rep. Cheney, floor vote, the bill automatically would sale of our public lands to bills that would allow mountain bikes including letters-to-the-editor of local be sent to the Senate for consideration. newspapers, thanking her for her vote Consequently, it would be wise to in Wilderness areas. and for defending the 1964 Wilderness reach out to your senators to let them We need our members to step up and support good land man- Act. know your feelings about HR 1349 agement and resist efforts to amend the Wilderness Act to allow (contact information for your senators mechanized forms of travel. What Might Happen Next? is listed online in your BCHA member- We need to be able to contact our membership, on short no- HR 1349 could be put to a “floor ship profile). vote” in the House of Representatives tice to urge members to contact Representatives and Senators at any time. When, or in what form, the Coalition Working to Oppose and get them to support our positions on land transfer and bikes bill might be voted upon is unknown. HR 1349 in Wilderness. The Bikes in Wilderness bill (H.R. 1349) recent- Given the speed and relative stealth BCHA continues to work in part- ly passed out of the House Natural Resources Committee and is by which this bill moved through com- nership with a number of regional mittee, however, BCHA members and national organizations to prevent headed for the full House. We need to stop this bill in its tracks. must be prepared to reach out to their HR 1349 from being enacted into law. Right now, the national organization has only about 60% of representatives at a moment’s notice. These partners include The Wilderness the email addresses of our members. Sending out notices in the BCHA is monitoring the situation and Society, American Horse Council, Pa- newsletter is way too slow given it is only printed quarterly. will alert members once we learn the cific Crest Trail Association, Appala- We need to be able to contact you the members quickly potential date of a floor vote. That’s chian Trail Conservancy, American why it’s important we have your email Hiking Society, the Partnership for the (within hours sometimes) to ask you to contact your respective address on file. National Trail System, and the National members of Congress on various bills. We know some mem- Wilderness Stewardship Alliance. bers are reluctant to provide your email address, but we have a Reach Out to Your Represen- Importantly, the Internation- critical need to contact you. Our association manger Erica has tative al Mountain Bicycling Association a secure system for the storage of email addresses; BCHA will There is nothing stopping members has publicly stated its opposition to from reaching out to their representa- HR 1349 and will not act to promote never sell, distribute, share, or trade your information. tive in Congress at this time to share the bill. In addition, hundreds of orga- Our public lands and Wilderness Areas need your help like their views on HR 1349. Contact in- nizations have signed onto group letters never before. Please consider providing your emails the next formation for your representative is declaring their opposition to HR 1349. time you renew your membership. Your assistance and support listed in your BCHA membership pro- is critical in these desperate times. Your help is greatly appre- file (BCHA website, login is required). Bikes-in-Wilderness Support- Ask to speak with your representative’s ers a Small Minority ciated. Legislative Assistant (LA) for natural HR 1349 was introduced on behalf resources- or public lands-related is- of two small organizations that neither sues. Develop a relationship with the understand nor respect the origins and LA by speaking with them or leaving the intent of the Wilderness Act. They a message each week. Make sure they believe the Act should be “modern- know you represent a broader BCH ized” to let mountain bikes have legal BCHA will NEVER sell, distribute, share, or trade state or chapter, and tell them about the access to the last remaining 2.7% of your information.

Back Country Horsemen of America www.bcha.org 5 ManyCatch Hands (andPen Mules) Make Light Work On October 11th, the Bureau of group hauled 7,200 pounds of gravel Land Management held a ribbon cut- to help keep the trail in good condition ting to recognize the completion of a for hikers to use and enjoy. To learn major road improvement project at the more about Back Country Horsemen Red Rock National Conservation Area. visit: https://www.bchnvb.com/ and The included construction of bridges for more information about the Friends over low water crossings, a flood warn- of Red Rock visit: http://www.friend- ing system, pulverization and paving sofredrockcanyon.org/index.php of the 13-mile Scenic Drive, and ex- pansion and improvements to parking (Reprinted by permission from author Meggan lots. These improvements mean better Swanson Holzer) access for visitors, new restroom and over 200 more parking spaces. The project was awarded the Federal High- way Administration’s 2017 Environ- mental Excellence Award for the two bridges over the low water crossings. The work day was organized by the Southern Nevada Climbers Coa- lition and the BLM in the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. The Bristlecone Chapter of the Back Country Horsemen of Nevada assisted the Friends of Red Rock Canyon on a day of trail maintenance on the Pine Creek Trail on Saturday, December 2nd. Using their horses and mules, the

Front Range Colorado BCH Grant Report Thank you so much for the grant of $500 to put toward the cost of food, supplies and trail maintenance materi- als for our annual weekend campout to do trail work with youth. As sometimes happens, plans change. The group of mentors and boys we had been doing this with for the past six years could not participate this year. Instead, we recruited other boys and girls to help us. We had seven children and 15 adults who worked a total of 126 hours on this project. We partnered with the Pike Nation- al Forest district to fix and maintain the Burning Bear Trail near Buno Gulch on Guanella Pass. The trail is adjacent to a bog and had deteriorated. Forest Service personnel came in a few days before our weekend and realigned the timbers along the sides of the trail. Then our group of adults and children worked with wheelbarrows, shovels and rakes to refill the trail with an ag- gregate trail surface base. As in previous years, we set up our camp kitchen and porta potty trail- er. We supplied all the food and pro- pane. Some FRBCH members brought their horses, giving the boys and girls opportunities to help care for the hors- Your horse is speaking ... es and learn how we use them in the backcountry. The kids did most of the are you listening? cooking and cleaning up. We held for- mal and informal conversations on sur- Tune ups based on your vival skills, wilderness first aid, proper Horse’s Behavioral Needs use and care of tools, and leave no trace ethics. Clinics and Consulting, 55 years of Behavioral Above: Before and after. Middle and bottom: Workers. Diagnostics and Training

Kinsey Horsemanship 126 Docheno Road Belton, South Carolina 29627

(864) 933-6713 (EST) [email protected]

6 www.bcha.org Back Country Horsemen of America HorseCatch Corral atPen San Isabel National Forest Horn Creek Trail Head Project By Gerald Martin, Rocky Mountain BCH Chapter, Colorado Members of the RMBCH chapter trail, the Rainbow Trail, transits almost joined forces with the local USFS of- the complete distance along the east fice to build a 20’ x 20’ steel pipe pan- facing side. Elk, deer, bear, bighorn el stock corral, a pipe hitch rail and a sheep, and mountain lion may be seen. pipe high line set at the Sangre de Cris- Now, after flexing our unmounted to mountains Horn Creek Trail Head. leg muscles, our local Forest Service li- Materials acquisition was shared and aison is so happy with the potential, he the club provided the labor for the cor- is probably going to ask us for repeats ral installation. This trail head receives at other trail heads. Wow, what did we considerable use by out-of-state stock get into?? owners. There are eight fourteeners In all seriousness, we are fortunate in the local range between Alamosa to have over a 20-year working rela- and Salida. A multitude of trails, many tionship with our local public lands leading to high country lakes, travel in management agencies. We hope to on both the east and west sides of the continue our contributions in the long mountain range. A very popular ATV term.

A New Passion Found….in the San Juan Mountains of SW Colorado By Annie Pack, SJBCH-BCHCO Passion: have it, feel it, live it. to this game. My first real outings came this year That’s how I’ve always felt about with some of my neighbors Mike Pluth horses. From the time I was a young and his wife Rena Gallant. We were up girl visiting a friend’s family farm in above Opal Lake on the Leche Trail one Yoakum, Texas, the love of riding hors- day riding and it was absolutely shock- es and being in the country became a ing to me how many downed trees we feeling I would never be able to shake. came upon, areas that were “match- But it took me a while, almost 50 years stick-ish” with fallen trees and impas- later actually, to get my first horse and sible by our horses. I was told that that home in the mountains I so desper- trails like this that didn’t eventually get ately longed for. That was almost three cleared would be closed by the Forest years ago. Sometimes you just want Service. They simply don’t have the something so badly you just can’t let budget or the manpower to do every- anything stand in your way. A note of thing that is needed to tend to all of the disclosure. My horse was hidden from trails. Very sad really. It was then that my husband for about a year before I I began to understand how important it came clean -- don’t ask. was for all of us who are able, not just I joined San Juan Back Country horse owners alone, to help out. I just Horsemen (SJBCH) originally to have assumed all of the trails were somehow some people to ride with. Little did I magically cleared, never really gave it know it would become so much more. much thought. When my horse Victor was delivered Having moved here from a large to his new home where I board him a city may have something to do with my couple of years ago, I had never even feelings about the Colorado mountains saddled a horse. The difference be- and viewing them from horseback. It tween a bridle and a harness? Well, I would be unfortunate not to be able try Horsemen. Thank you to all of you didn’t know that one either. Fortunate- to travel these trails and get lost in the who have nurtured this new green rider, ly for me, I got a great horse not even beauty and serenity that they offer. It I’m sure it has been maddening on oc- knowing what I was doing, and an even is my hope, my passion, that we all casion, but what the “hay”….I’m learn- greater teacher. You see, I’m very new can remember why we’re a part of this ing to be a handy sawyer! wonderful Association of Back Coun- Happy, peaceful trails~

UtahYouth Wasatch Front BCH Grant Report Another successful youth campout be our next generation of back country is in the books! Utah Wasatch Front horsemen. BCH Chapter’s annual event draws lots It is great to see friendship renewed of interest and excitement from the kids through the common interest of hors- who attend every year. This year was es and trail riding. This year’s campout no different. There were several fresh was held at Weber County’s North Fork faces too! Park in Eden. This place is one of the Thanks again to a $450 grant from favorite horse camping spots because it the BCHA Foundation, our chapter was is a quick drive from Ogden. Besides able to cover the cost of having over being easy to get to, the location is ideal fifteen kids and their adults participate to provide much needed relief from the in the weekend-long event. Getting valley heat. The Wasatch Front Chap- youth out camping, having fun, and ter is also very active in this park with riding with their friends is what brings helping maintain their trails and build- them out year after year. But the adults ing horse facilities. So, if you’re in the know there are other reasons for doing Ogden/Salt Lake area and have a kid this. The reason is to get the kids more that’s interested in trail riding please confident in trail riding, learning about contact us through the bchu.com web- the importance of being good eques- site to find out more information about trian trail users, learning the Leave No our next youth camp out! See you on Trace principles, and inspiring youth to the trails!

Back Country Horsemen of America www.bcha.org 7 Spring Sponsorship Deadline: Buffalo River Chapter BCHA Reporting In March 5, 2018 By Pam Floyd BCHA Newsletter As members of Back Country Horsemen of America, we know with Media Kit certainty that we are part of something Our BCHA newsletter is read by passionate bigger than ourselves. After all, this trail riders, saddle and pack stock owners, great organization, grounded in the avid back country packers and others who have an investment in saddle and pack spirit of the West, steps up to help get stock and public land management. We a bipartisan National Trails bill passed serve over 13,000 members nationwide who when little else is moving through Con- belong to 194 active chapters/units and af- gress. It gives us a voice when eques- filiates in 31 states. Our mailing list includes trian trails are threatened (case in point, members, public land agency personnel the recent Alert regarding H.R. 1349 (Forest Service, BLM, National Parks, state inspired many of us to contact our rep- land agencies), elected officials, advertis- resentatives, encouraging them to op- ers, other trail and horse organizations. pose this legislation that would allow Visit www.bcha.org for more information on Carver work day 2017 - the work crew. BCHA. bikes in the wilderness). At the nation- al level, BCHA also nurtures new state Display Sponsorship Rates and local chapters at a time when other Newsletter Ad Size...... Single Issue fledgling groups struggle to gain a foot- ing. One column wide (W x H) We know all this, but……. when 2.5 inches x 2.5 inches...... $55 you round the bend on a favorite trail 2.5 inches x 5 inches...... $95 that you feel responsible for and find 2.5 inches x 10 inches...... $135 that a massive game of Pick-Em-Up- Two columns wide (W x H) Sticks effectively bars you from pro- 5 inches x 2.5 inches...... $95 ceeding on your merry way, you tem- 5 inches x 5 inches...... $135 porarily lose the lofty and instead be- 5 inches x 10 inches...... $235 come grounded in the nitty gritty. Your perspective narrows to the one foot in Half page (W x H) front of the other approach that says, 5.25 inches x 15 inches (vertical)...... $365 “Let’s get ‘er done.” That’s the beau- 10.5 inches x 7.5 inches (horizontal)....$365 ty and the beast of our dual citizen- Full page (W x H) ship: the local chapter and the national Carver work day - trash detail. 10.5 inches x 15 inches...... $720 organization. And it works! To borrow from the idea that all wrongs that had been visited upon us. Deborah’s specials politics is local, we’ll suggest that We were in the good company of our 17 2.5 x 15 full right column...... $175 all trail work is local, especially when equine partners and two pack animals 10.5 x 3.5 full width, you’re met with the aftermath of na- who carried all sorts of saws, ropes and across bottom of page...... $175 ture’s fury. For us members of the Buf- loppers. Carver, a lovely trailhead on falo River Chapter BCHA in northwest the lower end of the upper Buffalo Riv- 20% bonus for sponsorships in four is- sues (one year). All prices are for black and Arkansas, this fury came in the form of er, was our meeting place. Arlus, who white ads. Ask about full color prices. unusually heavy winter flooding and an was ready with a plan, quickly divided BCHA reserves the right to refuse advertising early March tornado. The tornado was us into four teams: cane cutters, trash space to any person or company. All ads must especially generous with its time, skip- collectors, and two groups of sawyers. be paid for before inserting in the newsletter. ping here and there to ensure multiple Now, cane cutting just comes along The 4-issue package must be paid at time of first and far-flung damage sites within the with any trail maintenance on the river insertion. area that we serve on the upper Buffalo (it’s voracious), and trash detail….well, Carver work day - Mike and tire. National River. you who ride public trails have that im- magnolias bloom in late spring, and Mechanical Requirements: Artwork is accepted in these formats: Adobe In light of recent weather events in age engraved in your memory (just add old tumbled-down rock walls, chim- Acrobat PDF, Photoshop JPG saved for PC our country, devastation is too strong an old canoe and truck tires embedded neys and civil war gravesites bloom all format. Images must be at a resolution of a word here, but I will just say that it in the gravel bars, and you’ve got the year long with stories to conceal. The 300 pixels per inch at the actual size used in will be awhile before there will be a picture). As for the folks who were magnitude of the storm damage here is the artwork. All ads will be black and white soft place for your eye to rest upon on sawing? Well, it’s hard to overstate the enough to rock you back on your heels unless special arrangements are made. certain parts of our beloved trails. No grim determination of that springtime and make you think what if there were Note: For questions or graphic design and whining, just fact. Any daydreams* of tornado, but its actions were well met. no BCHA? No Buffalo River Chapter layout of your ad, please contact Deborah members wandering down a perfectly I’m preaching to the choir here (know- BCHA? But, we are here, and again Schatz at (406) 314-1084 or manicured trail singing Don’t Fence ing that you will understand) when I we ride, saw, clip, and rework until old [email protected]. Me In in perfect three-part harmony say that the sawyers were the heroes of trail reaches out to meet old trail once Annual subscriptions for non-members are were laid to rest after we first rode the this story. Cut by cut, that mighty de- again. It happens so slowly, so seam- available by sending your name, affected sites. Abruptly laid to rest. bris field gave way. lessly; it’s almost as if the spirits that address and $45 to: Here’s where it really gets local. We Logistics aside, a fun, light-heart- we all feel here, but do not acknowl- BCHA did our usual trail work throughout the ed, simply wonderful day was had by edge, conspire to make it happen. 59 Rainbow Road year, staying busy, knowing that big- all participants. How is that even pos- Thick, grasping greenbrier gives way, East Granby, CT 06026 ger things were ahead. We clipped and sible considering the daunting task of deadfall falls, and old routes reform. or www.bcha.org lopped and picked up trash all along the clearing a Lincoln-log jammed trail? Make no mistake, there is a lot of ac- Subscription or Address Corrections to: upper Buffalo and its watershed. Some I don’t understand the magic, but this tual work involved, but the end result Erica Fearn, BCHA 860-586-7540 of us taught Leave No Trace classes. particular kind of alchemy that changes seems to transcend the physical. An- 1-800-893-5161 Some took advanced wilderness med- hard work into good times happens all other beautiful day goes by, horses, FAX: 860-586-7550 icine classes. Many participated in a the time here on the Buffalo. What I mules and riders work together, and a E-mail: [email protected] Kids’ Camp hosted this year by one of can say for sure is that by the end of hopelessly tangled trail reopens. Managing Editor Arkansas’ two new chapters. And, we this work day the trail from Carver to Reporting in, that’s the way it is Sherry Jennings waited. Mt. Hersey (a beautiful section of riv- here on the upper Buffalo River in PO Box 305 East Olympia WA 98540-0305 We waited on ticks and snakes to er) was declared open for business. northwest Arkansas as we approach E-mail: [email protected] settle into their wintering grounds, and But, we are not ones to rest on our the end of the year. Come, see for Design, Layout and Sponsorship Director we waited on a plan. Ticks and snakes laurels. Remember, there were multi- yourself. You are welcome here, just Deborah Schatz would work themselves out, and the ple assaults on our trails, and so, a few as many of you have made us feel wel- 4720 Trumble Creek Road plan would come from our Vice Pres- days later in early December we moved come on your trails. Meanwhile, we Columbia Falls MT 59912 ident and Trail Boss Arlus Trice. Re- on to the Upper Buffalo Wilderness (406) 314-1084 are thankful for the dual nature of our E-mail: [email protected] connaissance, regrouping, and then rid- Area, the main target of the earlier tor- relationship where national meets lo- ing – that’s how it would work. nado attack. cal. It’s at the junction where vision Printing Eagle Web Press So, on a beautiful day in late No- Wilderness tells much of the story and mission meet action and purpose. 4901 Indian School Rd. NE vember, just after Thanksgiving when here. It’s a place so rare and special that Salem OR 97305 we were still feeling especially grate- chain saws are unwelcome and pack *this particular daydream may be ful, 17 members of Buffalo River Chap- animals, on this day at least, are un- mine alone, and it is not reflective of ter BCHA set out to right the natural necessary. This is the place where wild our general membership

8 www.bcha.org Back Country Horsemen of America Wilderness Trail Clearing - South San Juan BCH Colorado Bear Country Containers By Kristie Hefling SIBBG (CA) approved and In late October 2017, San Juan Back IGBC certified bear resistant Country Horsemen (SJBCH) members aluminum PACK PANNIERS Mike Pluth and his wife Rena Gallant invited Annie Pack, a new neighbor and friend, to join them on a beautiful ride in the South San Juan Wilderness. SJBCH is located near Pagosa Springs, in southwest Colorado. Mike, Rena, and Annie rode on the Leche Creek trail #576, so Annie could experience riding in the wilderness and the beau- Durable, airline approved tiful views. Annie is a newer member Our products are made with GUN CASES to the SJBCH and fairly new to horse an all aluminum body and ownership. But she jumped right in as all stainless steel hardware a new hard-working member, on foot and corner ends are doubled, and on horseback with her new equine welded and gusseted for partner, Victor, a trustworthy and stur- greater durability. dy mountain horse. The plan was ride up with packed lunches, have lunch Various models of panniers and gun cases are available. then ride back. Little did they know what they would run into. See website for details: www.BearCountryContainer.com They rode the Fish Creek Trail up Contact us by email at: [email protected] to Opal lake, where it then turns onto the Leche Creek trail. It took 3 ½ hours Call 406.763.4364 Made in Montana to ride 3 miles. All 3 said it was unbe- Box 38, Gallatin Gateway, MT 59730 by Jerry Kawasaki lievable. Mike has ridden these trails for the last six summers and cleared the Leche Creek trail in 2016. Mike, Rena. and Annie saw an unbelievable number of downed trees on the trail, that looked like giant matchsticks, crisscrossing the Thank You! trail in every direction! BCHA Trails Forever Fund Donors: That was the beginning of a very Karyn Alamo Nicolas Martinez hard but rewarding late-season project, Jacque Alexander Stephen McClintock one that was not on a list of projects for Craig Allen Mike McGlenn SJBCH. Mike contacted SJBCH mem- Beth Andresen Kim Meyer ber John Nelson regarding the state of Phyllis Ausk Elaine Miller the Leche Creek and Fish Creek trails Lillian Baner Lani Olson in the Opal Lake area. John is retired Bob Bardes In Memory of Ingrid Fulcher Larry and Anita Bell Laura Patriquin Forest Service and the Forest Service Jerry Bentz Noel Poe Liaison and Trails Committee chairman Rena said it was so moving to get to see Dave Binney Jan Potterveld for the SJBCH. John and his wife Lisa first-hand what an impact their work on Harriett Blood Truman Prevatt are valuable members and assets. John the trails had on these kids! Christopher Bopp Randy Rasmussen brings a lifetime of knowledge of how They also met a couple from Phoe- Sherry Brown Dexter Rees the Forest Service works. Lisa, with nix, Arizona who wanted to know if they Richard Calvert Joann Reider Caleb Canby Barry Reiswig much journalism experience, brought were with the Back Country Horsemen. Ken Carmichael Vicki Ritz her ability to write up applications for After receiving affirmation, the couple John Chepulis Latifia Rodriguez grant requests for the SJBCH. asked, “Do you know Kristie Hefling?” Mary K Church Yvette Rollins Mike, Rena, Annie, John, Lisa, and Mike and Rena said, “Yes.” One of the Richard Cochran Leean Sahagun seven horses worked on the first day. couple said, “We have been following Marsha Copeland Donald Saner The group split up to cover more of the your San Juan Back Country Horsemen Sherry Copeland Karen Saner Roy Cornett Jody Schnell trail. Lisa, John, and Annie worked on on the SJBCH Facebook page. We pur- Freddy Dunn Paul Silvernail one area while Mike and Rena worked chased property in the Pagosa Springs Larry Dunn Judy Smith in another. Mike and Rena met a group area and when we move to Pagosa John Fite Debbie Spickermann on the trail from the Fish Creek Outfit- Springs, we want to join BCH.” Barbara Fleming Lynda Stafford ters. They had a family with them that Mike has continued to work on Kathleen Foxley Jennifer Storey had been coming up to this area from clearing up the trails going up to Opal Diane Freese In memory of James Reinhardt William Hackney Trena Stover another state for 25 years to elk hunt. Lake about twice a week since. More Chris Hall Mindy Taylor The Outfitters group wanted to know if clearing is planned, weather permit- Kathy Hardman Tom Thomas Mike and Rena were part of the BackPLEASE ting. Mike FILL said, OUT “What FOR CREDITwe are doing CARD DONATIONS:Don Herbert PLEASE MAILJoan Tilbury THIS DonationCountry Horsemen. When Rena and has an impact on the locals, the kids Mark Himmel FORM TO:Darrell Wallace Mike replied, “Yes.” The group said,Name and ______adults, visitors from out of state, Jim Holly Richard Webb thank you so much!! The Outfitters hikers, horseback riders and Outfit- Kate Kattnig Karen White Form Address ______Susan Kiley Back CountryRon and Horsemen Louise Whitt of group said it took them over three hours ters. Everyone we have met out on the Tatia Korver America Stephanie Williams I wouldto likeget throughto donate: three miles. Seven treesCity, trails State is andso grateful Zip ______for the Back Coun- Ruth Kosmalski 342 North RobertMain Woelk Street, were cleared on Leche Creek Trail andPhone try Horsemen!”(important!) He______added, “But we are Janet Koval Suite 301 Becky Wolf _____ 20Monthly trees wereor one-time cleared on Opal Lake/ also doing this for ourselves, we are us- Rebecca Krueger West Hartford,James CTWoodall 06117 Dana Landale Russell Wright Fishby credit Creek card trails. It was a long day!! Amounting the I canWilderness donate as(pick it was one) originally Mike and Rena went back out a intended, a place where you can refresh Donald Lawrenz In honor of Dennis Serpa _____ One time, by check ___ $5 a Month Steven Lindsey Questions?In honorContact: of Ingrid Fulcher of couple of days later to cut more trees. your spirit and re-connect with nature, Jaquelin Loyd Juniper Hills CA. On that day, they met two local teach-___that $10 is a whyMonth we have the Wilderness, so Bob Magee Erica Fearn ers with about 20 special needs kids___ there $15 aare Month wild places and to keep those Penny Marrs [email protected] who hiked up to Opal Lake. Mike and___ places $______wild for a allMonth people and for all 888-893-5161 Rena said the teachers asked if they generations to come.” Donate securely online: ___ One-time donation of $______were with the Back Country Horsemen. https://bcha.site-ym.com/donations/ CHECKMike andINSTRUCTIONS: Rena said, “Yes.” The teach- Makeers check thanked payable them and to: said it meant soCredit Card Information BCHAmuch to them because they could not Number (Visa or MC only) have hiked with the kids if the trails On memowere not line, cleared! write: The students were______-______-______-______DONATION FORM Trailsvery Forever interested Fund in the horses and veryExp Date ______/______happy to get to do something they don’t CSV Code (on back of card) ______often get to do, pet a horse! Mike and I would like to donate: Back Country Horsemen of America www.bcha.org 9 ______Monthly or one-time by credit card _____One time, by check

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!) ______

Amount I can donate (pick one) ☐ $5 a Month PLEASE MAIL THIS FORM TO: ☐ $10 a Month Back Country Horsemen of ☐ $15 a Month America ☐ $______a Month PO Box 1367 ☐ One-time donation of ______Graham, WA 98338-1367

Credit Card Information QUESTIONS? CONTACT: Number (Visa or MC only) Ginny Grulke [email protected] 859-940-4672 Exp Date _____/_____

BCHA Mission Statement My Trail Classification System By Doug West 1. To perpetuate the common You might wonder why I decided Jim had his sunglasses sense use and enjoyment to develop my own trail classification on, so I didn’t notice the of horses in America’s back system. Most websites and trail maps glint in his eye when he country and wilderness areas. will give you some information about told Robert to stop at the length, time, and difficulty. While these mouth of Huber Wash. 2. To work to insure that are adequate for most trails, they don’t Immediately, he tells us, include what I call the “Wild Jim” fac- “We can get there from public lands remain open to tor. Jim and I have been riding together here.” Check your maps. recreational use. regularly for a number of years. He is There isn’t an established a fearless rider who likes to create his foot or horse trail up the 3. To assist the various own trails: me, not so much. At my wash. Huber Wash is on government and private age, I prefer the typical 18” wide, well state lands that connects maintained, and signed backcountry with the Park. My imme- agencies in their maintenance public land agency trails. Jim regular- diate thought “How far and management of said ly gets me out of my comfort zone. and how bad?” resource. The sunglasses hide the mischie- At the start, I was en- vous glint in Jim’s eyes when he says, couraged to see hoof and 4. To educate, encourage and “We can get there from here.” My usu- boot prints as we let our- al response is “Are you kidding me?” selves through the gate. solicit active participation in To make this conversation as brief and It wasn’t long before we the wise and sustaining use objective as possible, we will now refer were following an old of the back country resource to My Trail Classification System. We stock or game trail full of have an understanding that I will ride deer tracks and an occa- The Scoggin’s Stock Trail is a by horsemen and the general all trails in Classes I-III and some in sional hoof print. A classic Class IV short connector which drops approx- public commensurate with our Class IV. However, he frequently for- trail. imately a fourth of a mile into Scog- heritage. gets to tell me about the one bad spot All of us are experienced riders gin’s Wash. While short, it is quite that instantly changes from III to V. used to rough country. However, Jim steep with a bit of exposure. It is 5. To foster and encourage easily negotiated on a good horse, so I classify it as a typical Class III the formation of new state Trail Classifications trail. There isn’t an established Park Back Country Horsemen’s Class I. Ho Hum Ride Through Central Park. An established bridle path Service Trail in the wash, but through organizations. that frequently parallels a well-established walking path. regular use, an obvious trail has been Class II. Follow the Yellow Brick Road. A two or single track shared with created by hikers and horses. It is an mountain bikes and ATVs. intimate place with interesting rock Class III. Backcountry Trail. An established, non-motorized Forest formations on both sides of the wash Coming soon... Service, BLM, or National Park Service trail which is passable with a stream of water in the upper reaches where your tired and thirsty when cleared, maintained, and signed. These trails all too often horses can get a drink. Using my sub- deteriorate to Class IV or V due to lack of maintenance. Check out our on-line calendar jective scale, I classify the approxi- Class IV. Game or Stock Trail. These are never found on any map which for up-to-date events at: mate 2-½ mile ride to the junction with https://bcha.site-ym.com/events/ usually causes uninitiated riders to loudly question, “Are you out Coal Pits Wash as an easy Class III. event_list.asp of your mind? When you reach Coal Pits Wash, Class V. No Trail at All. Usually only fit for good mules, where even the fun and challenging part of the ride experienced riders frequently scream “Are you nuts? I’m ends. Coal Pits Wash is named for the walking!” piles of black, volcanic rock found Class IV or V: Follow the Deer on the benches above the wash. It is Index of Sponsors beautiful in the fall when the cotton- wood trees are awash with color and American Endurance Ride and Robert were riding two relativity in the spring when leafed out. This Conference...... 11 Let’s try applying my Trail Clas- inexperienced horses. Both are young time of year, you ride on the banks sification system to an actual ride to and strong, but have spent most of through sage brush flats paralleling Back Country Store...... 11 see how it works. I live a short 40- their lives in the arena team penning the lower part of the wash to High- mile drive from Zion National Park. or reining. They are just learning way 9 approximately 12 miles from While Zion Canyon is overrun with the mouth of Huber Wash. The most Bear Country Containers...... 9 to negotiate the steep, rocky, ledges tourists, March to December, the found on this section of trail. While dangerous part of this ride is along area managed as wilderness sees a the riders were experienced on Class busy Highway 9, the main artery to Chris Tornow Saddlemaker...... 11 lot fewer visitors. In these areas, you IV and V trails, Dorey and Dodger Zion Canyon, where we parked the have to either use your feet or ride a were still at Class III. Fortunately for truck and trailer. High Desert Trail Riders...... 12 horse, substantially reducing, traffic them, they had an experienced teach- By now, it’s obvious that trail and crowds. The Chinle Trail, one er in my 20-year-old Walking Horse classification systems, especially Kinsey Horsemanship...... 6 of my favorite rides, provides mag- mare. Like Jim, my Rose is totally mine, are quite subjective. Degree nificent views of astounding red rock fearless, and goes anywhere I point of difficulty depends to a great extent North American Trail Ride formations. Using my rating system, her nose. Even with Rose leading the on a rider’s risk tolerance and expe- Conference...... 5 I would classify the trail as mostly an way, I thought seriously about turning rience. More importantly is the trust easy Class III. It has all the classic around, but there wasn’t room and I he has in his trail horse. While I have Outfitters Supply...... 3 features of most National Park trails: didn’t want to ride down what we had ridden most of my life, exposure still well maintained, well signed, and scrambled up. gives me pause, and I always like only a few rocky, steep spots. After a hard-rocky climb, we to ride Class IV and V trails uphill. Jim, Robert, and I decided to found hoof prints and boot tracks NOT down. At my age, I’m long past ride the Chinle Trail a few Saturdays again, a sure sign that we had reached trying to impress anyone, and I never SHOP ONLINE! ago. I thought we would take the tra- the junction with the Class III Chinle have had Jim’s tolerance for risk. My ditional route starting at the Anasazi Trail. It wasn’t long before we met mot to is “Live to ride another day.” Find direct links to our sponsors’ Way trailhead located in an upscale hikers. Their facial expressions led Doug is a member of the South- subdivision between Rockville and me to believe they thought we were west Chapter of BCHU. He lives in websites here: Springdale. The most difficult part of three ghost riders who had plummet- St. George, Utah with his wife Trea, the Chinle Trail is parking your horse ed from the sky. Rather than dropping dog Maynard, and three Walking https://bcha.site-ym.com/page/ trailer. The parking area requires a from the sky, we had climbed Jacob’s Horse mares. You can contact him at advertisers sharp left turn off Highway 9 and an Ladder to intersect the Chinle Trail [email protected]. immediate sharp right into the park- where they were hiking pleasantly. ing area. Maneuvering my 26-foot We continued on another two to three trailer around the blind turn is a bit miles to the junction with the Old unnerving. Scoggin’s Stock Trail.

10 www.bcha.org Back Country Horsemen of America Roland Cheek’s Presentation to Bitter Root BCH of Montana By Kathy Stroppel-Holl

Roland Cheek, the last living mem- ber of the four original Back Country Horsemen founders, was the featured speaker at Bitter Root Back Country Horsemen’s July general meeting at Larry Creek Trailhead in the beautiful Bitterroot Valley of western Montana. Roland provided an interesting and en- tertaining presentation on the origins of BCH and offered suggestions for BCH’s future. He regaled the crowd with the backstory about how the founders, Dennis Swift, Ken Ausk, Du- lane Fulton, and himself, met around campfires in the Bob Marshall Wilder- ity publication is what BCH should ness in the early 1970’s to talk about strive toward. He reflected that BCH backcountry use and deterioration and does a lot of work that goes unknown how it could be saved. These campfire and unrecognized, and that we need to talks and meetings resulted in the cre- toot our own horn more, promote our ation of BCH in 1973. accomplishments across the country, Roland recently exchanged emails and fly above the radar! The crowd with some outdoor writers and friends thoroughly appreciated the insight of and was surprised to discover one the last surviving founder, and many of his friends was uninformed about enjoyed looking through and purchas- BCH’s origins in Montana and that Ro- ing his numerous fiction and non-fic- land was a founder. He subsequently tion books. Check out his website at sent out a link to his video on the or- http://www.rolandcheek.com for more Compete. Have fun. (Or both.) igin of BCH and asked for advice on information and watch his video “The Try Endurance! how to better inform the general public Beginning of Back Country Horsemen, 25-50-100 mile rides on beautiful trails about our organization. A high-quality the Most Influential Trail Riding Group All equine breeds • Mileage awards programs magazine and wider distribution of his in America” at https://www.youtube. Interested? Call for free info packet video are two items he feels would re- com/watch?v=m27V3z8Bid8&fea- American Endurance Ride Conference www.aerc.org • 866-271-2372 ally enhance BCH’s image. Roland felt ture=youtu.be. that the Rocky Mountain Elk Founda- tion’s accomplishment of growing into Thank you, Roland, for continuing a major non-profit organization with to provide your historical perspective a high profile and a very high qual- and advice to BCH members!

Four Things That Can Save Your Life When Riding Horses By Robert Eversole, TrailMeister Outfit yourself and your family My summer of trail rides and while we were still on the trail. disposal Kim arranged for emergency horse camping was wonderful. Until it Your life may depend on it, so transportation and even let my wife and friends for safety while wasn’t. choose your riding partner wisely. know that there had been an accident. riding and volunteering on BCH You might have heard that I took a I was awfully grateful that I had op- tumble recently. It’s true. I was rid- Carrying first-aid kits and having tions other than sitting on the side of a projects! ing in the Three Sisters Wilderness in the knowledge to use them hill hoping that someone would come central Oregon when I joined the un- The second thing I did right was along. planned dismount club. Although I carry a first-aid kit and have the knowl- It’s important to carry communica- don’t remember all of it, I got to visit edge to use it. When we found that I tion devices that work in the area where the hospital ER, met some great doc- couldn’t move my arm, we were able you’re riding. Cell phones don’t work tors, toured the surgery, and now I have to stabilize it using the supplies in the everywhere and not all messengers are a shiny new shoulder! Fun times. first-aid kits we both carried. Between created equally. I’ve tried others and I can’t tell you with certainty what the two kits we were able to get an odd- I’m very glad that I could rely on my went wrong, although I think it was ly floppy arm stabilized enough that I Garmin InReach. bees. One moment I was in the saddle could make my way off the mountain. taking pictures and the next my head The emergency room staff was Wearing a helmet was impacting a tree followed by proof quite impressed with our efforts and the Lastly, I was wearing a helmet. that Newton’s law of gravity is true. ER nurses made a point of saying we If scars are sexy my helmet should As I’m finding that narcotic fueled did a good job of improvising in using be in a pinup calendar. According to dreams are anything but pleasant, I’ve a belt to immobilize my shoulder. They my helmet, my head hit a tree on my had plenty of time to ponder what went also made of point of mentioning that way to the ground. I certainly don’t right during my misadventure. most people don’t know how to help remember it. Having a multitude of themselves in an emergency. The inci- plates and pins in my shoulder is plen- Riding with a partner dent may have had a different outcome ty. I’m glad I don’t have shiny hard- The first thing that I did right was if we hadn’t carried first-aid supplies ware in my head as well. ride with a partner. and taken the time and effort to learn If you choose to wear a helmet (and Kim McCarell, author of the series how to use them, before the ride. I hope that you do) make sure that it’s Northwest Horse Trail Books, was my Having the knowledge to use a first ASTM / SEI certified for equestrian Oregon riding companion and guide as aid kit, and improvise if needed, is just use. My Troxel Sierra model took the we rode and horse camped around the as important as carrying the kit. beating so that my head didn’t. I guess Three Sisters area. Kim was not only it’s time for a new helmet. excellent trail company; she gave me Carrying a communications device Well, that’s about it for now. As a second set of eyes on my injury and Being able to call for help is a good you can see I’m still typing, slowly and was able to take care of my mule as we thing. Having good communications is with one hand but typing! I’ll be back made our way off the mountain. Had the third thing we did right. in the saddle as soon as the docs give Kim not been nearby to help I might Kim and I both carried tools to me the OK. For more trail riding tips, still be out there. She helped get my contact help in an emergency. We used and the world’s largest guide to horse For more great BCHA branded floppy arm stabilized and generally them that day. Between the two of us trails and camps, visit www.TrailMeis- items, visit us online at: https:// watched me like a hawk during the we had cell phones, a personal locator ter.com. bcha.site-ym.com/store/default. long slow walk out. She even arranged beacon, and a Garmin InReach (satel- aspx? transportation to the emergency room lite technology). With these tools at her Back Country Horsemen of America www.bcha.org 11 Bitterroot clan, honored for backcountry pack mule work, has some stories to tell Reprinted with permission by EVE BYRON, Ravalli Republic [email protected] Dec 11, 2017

N Oh, the stories the Schram/Dug- gan clan can tell about pack mules, the W E backcountry and Mother Nature. S Seated around the kitchen table, 31st Annual Julie Schram, her daughter Christy Horse Packing Wilderness Schram-Duggan and husband Ed Dug- Skills Expo gan fire off anecdotes about years of packing so quickly it’s tough to keep them straight. One involves packing Presented by High Desert Trail Riders Back Country Horsemen in four boxes of dynamite, detonation cords and blasting caps, making sure that the explosives were on different (Clockwise) Julie Schram, Beau Duggan, Ed mules. Duggan, Christy Schram-Duggan and John “Pete had the biggest load — we Renner were honored as the Volunteer Trail FRI-SUN, MAY 4-6, 2018 put 220 pounds on him because the Crew of the Year by the Montana Wilderness Southern Oregon’s Largest Educational rock drill weighed 110 pounds and we Association. & Interactive Equine Expo needed to keep it even,” Schram recalls. Schram-Duggan’s two sons, John Ren- Open to “We ended up going 22 miles and the F r i d ay 12PM the Public last mile and a half they had snowdrifts ner, 10, and Beau Duggan, 12. ★ Auction Mules Preview 12–2 pm up to their bellies. What happened was, “The award caught us totally off ★ Crosscut Saw Instruction for there was a landslide and we couldn’t guard,” Schram-Duggan said. “When Wilderness Trails go where the trail went, so we had to go he said our name, he had to coax us to down to this deep, steep spot with drifts go up there for the award. I was like, FridayEvening still there. This was around the Fourth ‘Crap, we have to stand up.’” Klamath Falls, OR ★ Talent Show of July!” They modestly counter that without Doors Open With the easy banter of family, they the trail crews and their fellow High Saturday 8:00 AM finish each other’s sentences while sip- Country Horsemen groups, many hik- Enter Our ★ Auction Mules Preview 12–2 pm ping coffee and tea. ers and horseback riders wouldn’t be EARLY BIRD ★ Educational and Interactive Clinics DRAWING able to get into backcountry. ★ Crosscut Saw Competition “We packed a 6-foot ladder in one 8:30 A M ★ Southern Horse & Carriage Club time,” Duggan said. “They do amazing work. Some- Interactive Demonstration “That was awkward,” Schram-Dug- times we ride in on a rough trail, and $100 ★ Kentucky Derby Party gan adds, laughing. come in the next week to pack them out each day “And then there was the 8-by-10- and you can’t tell it’s the same trail,” SaturdayEvening foot roll of canvas that we couldn’t Schram-Duggan said. ★ Dinner by Melissa’s Country Kitchen fold up,” Duggan said. “We took the Last summer, they packed in four Country Kitchen pack boxes, loaded them up and put the out of the five Continental Divide trail No-host bar – 5:30 pm, Dinner – 6:00 pm projects; the fifth began at the -trail ★ roll on the pack box. It stuck out past LOTS OF Silent Auction, Live Auction head. They take in bear-proof metal Mule Auction the mule’s head and past her tail. We KIDS food boxes, most of the crews’ person- Doors Open packed it on Lady — she looked at us ACTIVITIES Sunday 8:00 AM like ‘Really?’” al gear, tools and beverages. If the trail ★ Educational and Interactive Clinics They’ve packed mules since they is 8 miles or less, they’ll drop off the ★ Free Saddle Fitting 12 pm were in their teens, and all are mem- items, stick around for lunch, then head bers of the Bitter Root Back Country home. If it‘s one of the longer trips — Over 50 FREE Seminars! Over 100 Vendors! Horsemen, which works with the U.S. like 22 miles — they stay overnight. Silent Auction, Live Auction & Mule Auction Forest Service to help maintain trails. “Packing is a skill and an art rolled They’re also volunteers with the Mon- together,” Duggan notes. 541.884.2565 541.533.3400 541.591.9428 Clinic: • Vendors: • Mule Auction: tana Wilderness Association, packing When the trail crews are finished, in tools — and lots of food — for crews the family makes the return trip to pack as they take care of those places where them out. Hello from Iowa! mechanized equipment isn’t allowed. “And we always have cold beer for By Dorrine Norby, Back Country Horsemen of Iowa “MWA is a fun group, and have them when they come out,” Duggan Our BCH of Iowa has been a member of BCHA for the past two years. people come in from all over the coun- said. Even though Iowa does not have mountains or a whole lot of need for pack- try to work on the trails,” Duggan said. “And Gatorade, and Power-Ade,” ing in and out of our parks (but we do some packing once in a while), we “Remember the guy from New Schram-Duggan added. have worked very hard to maintain our trails, getting the public informed of York last year?” Schram-Duggan adds. They typically pack in with any- our purpose, and have had delegates at the national convention each year. In “And the guy from Texas who was a where from six to nine mules and a our first year, we had over $50,000 worth of volunteer efforts in our Midwest- vegan? He was hard to wrap your head handful of horses. In their pasture ern state. We thought that was a great accomplishment on our part. We are around. He’s from Texas and doesn’t on a cold winter morning, where excited to learn how much we did this year - we know that we are over that eat meat?” Schram-Duggan is the sixth generation, mark already! the livestock nuzzle them for scratches https://www.facebook.com/Back-Country-Horsemen-of-Iowa- All three agree that the trail crews or watch warily. BCHIA-917203195044931/ do amazing work, so they were sur- prised last week when they were hon- Duggan says the mules all have ored by the MWA with the 2017 Con- distinct personalities. Lady is an old tinental Divide Trail Crew Volunteer Forest Service mule and a “diva” who award. Sonny Mazzulo, the MWA stew- hates getting loaded but who is one of ardship coordinator, noted that Schram the best on the trail. Joe gets offended if and her late husband Dave have been he’s not carrying the tool box, and will helping out since 2008, and after Dave hit every tree on his way down the trail died in 2016, Schram, Schram-Duggan until he gets it. And don’t put Pete and and Duggan picked up the slack. Joe together on the string. “They’re damn good people,” Maz- “One will go one way around a zullo said. “Much of the Forest Service tree and the other goes the other way,” and BLM’s highest priority trail work Duggan said. “With mules, especially is deep in the backcountry. Without these characters, they’ll do things just the support of Backcountry Horsemen because it’s quiet or boring.” like the Schram-Duggan family, MWA And after listening to their sto- would be unable to get crews into these ries and laughter, it’s clear that the areas to work.” Schram-Dugan clan takes after their The award also included mules more than they’d like to admit. 12 www.bcha.org Back Country Horsemen of America