Photo © Ralph Hopkins, BCH Flathead DeckerDecker DispatchDispatch

www.bchmt.org The Newsletter of the Back Country Horsemen of Montana February 2017 Cabinet Back Country Horsemen and Montana Conservation Corps Team Up to Improve a Section of the Pacific Northwest Scenic Trail By Deena Shotzberger, President, Cabinet Back Country Horsemen

OUR PURPOSES • To perpetuate the common sense use and enjoyment of horses in America’s back country and wilderness. • To work to ensure that public lands remain open to recreational stock use. • To assist various agencies responsible for the maintenance and management of public lands. (Left to right - Josh, Anya, Deena, Kaleigh, Sam and Joe in the back row; Cindy and Anna in the front row) • To educate, encourage, and Three Cabinet Back Country Horse- is higher than the water table. The con- solicit active participation in men and six Montana Conservation struction process includes installation of the wise and sustained use Corps crew members spent the first week log retainers to hold fill material, laying of the back country resource of August constructing turnpikes and filter cloth, filling the structure with suit- by horsemen and the general digging drainage ditches to improve a able material such as onsite soil and on public, commensurate with spring laden section of the Midge Creek or off site gravel, and ditching to divert our heritage. Trail #177 in the far northwest corner of water from the structure and to lower • To foster and encourage Montana. Over the course of four long the water table adjacent to the structure. formation of new Back day these nine individuals constructed This drainage work will reduce damage Country Horsemen organizations. three sections of turnpike totaling 144 to fragile habitats around the trail, and feet, excavated 330 feet of drainage will allow hikers and stock users to easily ditches, installed seven culverts, and and safely traverse a once difficult sec- IN THIS ISSUE restored an additional 20 feet of an ex- tion of trail. Letter from the Chair...... 3 isting turnpike. In addition to the labo- The Midge Creek Trail provides ac- National Forest System Trails rious construction work, each individual cess to the Northwest National Scenic Stewarship Act becomes law...... 3 had a two mile hike into and out of the Area and is part of the 1,200 mile Pacif- work area each day. ic Northwest National Scenic Trail that In the News...... 4 A turnpike is a labor intensive connects the Continental Divide Trail to National Director’s Column...... 5 structure that elevates a trail above wet the Pacific Crest Trail. Convention Information...... 12-15 ground by building up the trail base so it [continued on the page 2] Decker Dispatch 1 BCHMT Contacts Chairman Brad Pollman 406.546.6491 [email protected] Vice-Chairman Rich Carl 406.899.5248 [email protected] Treasurer Sherry Lionberger 208.691.6218 [email protected] Secretary Nancy Pollman Many hands make light work! Upper Turnpike. 406.546.6492 [continued from front page] [email protected] There were three areas between the 1.5 National Directors and 2 mile section of this trail that traversed John Chepulis 406.581.6507 through numerous springs, seeps, and bogs. [email protected] These areas desperately needed drainage Mark Himmel and surfacing to maintain and improve the 406.771-0809 trail and protect water and recreational re- [email protected] sources. This phase of the project complet- Connie Long (alternate) ed installation of the turnpikes and drainage 406.644.7889 structures, but the overall project was far [email protected] from complete. Advisory Throughout the fall, five Cabinet Back Connie Long (above) Country Horsemen packed 5,000 pounds of Defensive Horsemanship gravel to get the first layer of gravel on the John, Elmer and Ross filling and weighing buckets to Smoke Elser 160 feet of turnpike. Cabinet Back Country load on pack stock. 406.549.2820 Horsemen plan to haul an additional 10,000 [email protected] pounds of crushed gravel in the summer and Highway Trust Fund, and represent a por- Education fall of 2017 to complete surfacing the struc- tion of the motor fuel excise tax collected Connie Long (above) tures and also plan to install an additional from non-highway recreational fuel use: fuel Expansion/Membership 25 smaller drainage features to divert water used for off-highway recreation by snowmo- Ron Stuber 406-837-0360 off the two mile section of trail up to the con- biles, all-terrain vehicles, off-highway mo- [email protected] struction area. torcycles, and off-highway light trucks. RTP Issues While this year’s work accomplishments provides funds to the states to develop and Chuck Miller were extraordinary, this project started long maintain recreational trails and trail related 406.961.5453 before the Montana Conservation Corps facilities. In Montana, the RTP grants are ad- [email protected] crew rig pulled into the worksite on August ministered by Montana Department of Fish, Newsletter Editor 1st, and will continue through the summer Wildlife and Parks. These grant funds are Deborah Schatz of 2017. The Three Rivers District of the highly competitive and Cabinet Back Coun- 406.314.1084 Kootenai National Forest has been trying try Horsemen were thrilled to have their [email protected] to address drainage problems on the Midge Midge Creek proposal selected for funding. Public Relations Creek Trail for many years and hasn’t been The RTP grant allowed Cabinet Back Scott Kiser 406.260.8398 able to secure funding to complete the work. Country Horsemen to fund a Montana Con- [email protected] As trail budgets continue to decline, Cabi- servation Corps crew for one week to help in- Travel Plan net Back Country Horsemen decided to try stall the drainage structures and turnpikes. Mack Long and help with some of the more costly trail Cabinet Back Country Horsemen members 406.644.7889 improvement work. We knew the chapter designed and laid out the project, packed [email protected] would need additional funds for these con- all the tools and construction materials, and Webmaster struction projects, so the chapter president worked alongside their Montana Conserva- Dan Marsh (Deena Shotzberger) got serious about writ- tion Corps partners. The grant also allowed 406.587.7578 ing grants. In October of 2015, the Cabinet Cabinet BCH to build five gravel pannier sets [email protected] Back Country Horsemen were awarded a and to reimburse members for their expens- Youth Challenge $10,000 two-year expense reimbursement es such as gas, food, horse and trailer use. Greg Schatz 406.261.5450 grant from the Recreation Trails Program Once the surfacing work is completed [email protected] (RTP). in 2017, the Midge Creek Trail will provide The RTP funds come from the Federal much easier access to some of the most sce- nic lands in Northwest Montana. 2 Decker Dispatch Letter from the Chair

Hello, Back Country Horsemen! I hope this newsletter finds you well and able to deal with the real winter we are having. Even though it’s winter, BCH has been busy – some packing food boxes for those who need a little help over the hol- idays, others preparing for both state and national BCH meetings coming this spring. Okay, can’t wait til spring! By the time you get this BCH will have attended a public land rally at our state capitol. Thank you to all who attended. I also want to thank Greg Schatz for bringing that rally to our attention and Kerry Bartlett for stepping up to attend the meetings in Helena for the Montana Trails Coalition. There are many of you who are doing good things for the mission of BCH in the background. I thank you; your actions are Brad Pollman appreciated! Chairman Our 2017 state convention will be upon us in no time. I have heard a flurry of what’s on the agenda BCH Montana and the weekend promises to be full of informative and interesting topics. If you have not already regis- tered, please do so right away. Registration forms are already on the state’s website; agendas will be added as they become finalized.

As always, if you have any questions, give me a call. See you in Polson! Respectively, Your Chairman,

Brad Pollman

National Forest System Trails Stewardship Act Youth Challenge Report becomes law By Greg Schatz and Kathy Hundley By Don Saner, Chairman, BCHA Dear BCHA member: Country Horsemen of [your state]. I I have great news. On November am calling/writing to thank Represen- 18th, President Obama signed into tative [last name] for co-sponsoring law the National Forest System Trails H.R. 845, the National Forest System Stewardship Act (H.R. 845/S. 1110, or Trails Stewardship Act. As you may the “Trails bill”). know, the bill recently was signed into Your calls and letters of support law. It will keep more trails across the to Congress over the past few years nation open and accessible by expand- proved crucial to its passage. ing the use of volunteer and partner You are receiving this email be- organizations, like mine, who assist cause your member(s) of Congress the U.S. Forest Service.” signed on early as a cosponsor of this To members of the U.S. Senate: important bill. As such, they demon- “I am a volunteer with the Back strated how important trails are to the Country Horsemen of [your state]. I American public and the important am calling/writing to thank Senator role that volunteers serve in maintain- [last name] for co-sponsoring S. 1110, This young lady was a camper at ing these trails. the National Forest System Trails the River of No Return Youth Camp Would you please take a moment Stewardship Act. As you may know, held at the Magruder Ranger Station to call or write your member of Con- the bill recently was signed into law. It on the edge of the Frank Church Wil- gress to thank them for supporting the will keep more trails across the nation derness. The camp was sponsored National Forest System Trails Stew- open and accessible by expanding the by Montana conservation groups in- ardship Act? use of volunteer and partner organi- volved with the Teller Youth Expo in Contact information for your zations, like mine, who assist the U.S. Corvallis, including chapters of the Representatives and Senators who Forest Service.” Back Country Horsemen of Montana. co-sponsored HR 845 can be found Visit BCHA’s website here if you The campers learned how we use stock here. would like more information on the in the back country, how to use man- Your correspondence with need for, and anticipated benefits of, ties and panniers, and how to be pre- member(s) of Congress can be as the Trails bill. pared to leave no trace. straight-forward as saying: I thank you for being a dedicated If you have a suitable venue in your To members of the House of Rep- member of BCHA and for helping us to area to start a youth packing camp, resentatives: gain the attention of Congress. please contact Greg or Kathy for help “I am a volunteer with the Back and additional information. Decker Dispatch 3 In the News Comments sought on proposed action for Revised Forest Plan for the Helena- Lewis and Clark National Forest www.fs.usda.gov/goto/hlc/forest_plan_revision The Helena-Lewis and Clark Na- Plan is to provide for long- tional Forest will be accepting public term sustainability of eco- comments on a revised Forest Plan. system values and desired For more information, visit http:// ecosystem services; and the www.fs.usda.gov/detail/helena/ proposed action identifies home/?cid=stelprd3798801. suitable uses of NFS lands The Helena-Lewis and Clark Na- to meet those purposes. It tional Forest (HLC) is seeking public also identifies priority wa- comments on the recently released tersheds for restoration, proposed action for the revised Land and includes the evaluation and Resource Management Plan (For- of wilderness inventory ar- Badger Creek in the Badger-Two Medicine est Plan). Members of the public are eas and eligible wild and (photo by Tony Bynum/tonybynum.com) invited to review the proposed action scenic rivers. the Federal Register. Comments may on the HLC website (www.fs.usda.gov/ Members of the public can review be submitted one of three ways: helena/) and submit their comments the proposed action, along with nu- • E-mailed to https://cara.ecosys- within the next 120 days. merous associated plan revision anal- tem-management.org/Public/Com- The proposed action for the revised yses, maps, forest assessment, public mentInput?Project=44589; Forest Plan includes management di- meeting summaries and notes, etc., on • Facsimiled to 406-449-5436; or rection to support a variety of possible the HLC Forest Plan Revision website • Sent or hand-delivered to the actions that may occur on the plan area at: www.fs.usda.gov/goto/hlc/forest Helena–Lewis and Clark National For- over the next 15 years, approximately. plan revision. est Supervisor’s Office, ATTN: Forest The proposed action describes the Once people have had the opportu- Plan Revision, 2880 Skyway Dr., Hele- HLC’s distinctive roles and contribu- nity to review the proposed action, we na, MT 59602. tions across central Montana, and out- invite folks to join us at one of the fol- For more information, contact lines desired conditions, goals, objec- lowing community meetings planned, Forest Plan Revision Team Leader tives, standards, and guidelines, on a beginning in January 2017: Deb Entwistle at 406-449-5201, or go both forest-wide and geographic area Public comments must be received to the Forest Plan Revision website level. within 120 days from the date of publi- at www.fs.usda.gov/goto/hlc/forest_ The purpose of the revised Forest cation of the Notice of Intent (NOI) in plan_revision. Devon Energy relinquishes its 15 leases in the sacred Badger-Two Medicine www.wildmontana.org A historic milestone has been “It is both spectacular, but more im- Devon’s relinquishment of the leas- reached in the 35-year-old struggle to portant, a sacred site and very important es offers hope that conservation values free the Badger-Two Medicine from the to the culture and the values and the sto- need not run in opposition to energy de- oil and gas leases blanketing the Bad- ry of the Blackfeet Nation and its people velopment. Devon’s actions should stand ger-Two Medicine. going back since time immemorial,” Sec. as an important lesson to the incoming Devon Energy, the holder of 15 leas- Jewell said. “It should not have been administration – that there are places es in this sacred area, voluntarily relin- leased to begin with.” on American public lands that should quished its leases at a signing ceremony “Our pursuit to protect the Bad- remain off-limits to oil and gas drilling. with Secretary of Interior Sally Jewell. ger-Two Medicine has lasted more than On January 10, 2017, thanks to you She was surrounded by Blackfeet Chief three decades, and it will continue until and your enduring support of Montana’s Earl Old Person, Tribal Chairman Harry all the illegal oil and gas leases are can- wild places, the Department of the Inte- Barnes, Senator Jon Tester, and Devon celed and the area is permanently pro- rior cancelled and refunded payments Energy CEO Dave Hager as she made the tected,” said Chairman Barnes for the for the last two of these leases. This is an announcement. Blackfeet people. enormous victory for the people of Mon- Senator Jon Tester, who has cham- Devon CEO Hager shared that he tana, especially the Blackfeet Nation, pioned the removal of the leases and the was an avid and hiker and backpacker, who consider the Badger-Two Medicine protection of the Badger, said, “This re- and was now eager to spend some time the cradle of their culture. gion carries great cultural and historical in the Badger. This is also an enormous victory for significance to the Blackfeet Tribe. To- “We appreciate how important [the Montana’s wildlife. The fight isn’t quite day’s announcement will ensure that the Badger-Two Medicine] is to the Black- over, since one of the leaseholders, So- Badger-Two Medicine will remain pris- feet people,” Hager said. He later add- lenex LLC of Louisiana, is challenging tine for both the Tribe and the folks who ed, “We think is a good opportunity to the cancellation of its lease in court. But love to hunt, hike, and fish near Glacier demonstrate we can be a good neighbor we will do everything in our power to en- Park and the Bob Marshall Wilderness.” in this area.” sure all of the cancellations hold. 4 Decker Dispatch National Director’s Column By John Chepulis National Director, BCH Montana A recap of 2016 The year ness trails. of Congress about the Bikes-in-Wil- 2016 started Chairman Saner spent four days derness Bill (S-3205). It may not go out with the visiting with land managers and mem- anywhere, but represents a high level resignation of bers of Missouri BCHA. His visit was of threat to the Wilderness Act. Peg Greiwe be- well received and resulted in a stron- Randy Rasmussen attended the cause of health ger relationship with Missouri BCHA annual National Wilderness workshop reasons. Association Resources of and the possibility of MOUs with state in Missoula MT in November. It was Hartford CT was hired as BCHA’s as- organizations, resulting in opening hosted by the National Wilderness sociation management company, ef- more trails in Missouri. Stewardship Alliance and the Society fective Feb 1, 2016. Jim McGarvey, Executive Direc- for Wilderness Stewardship. While in BCHA signed an MOU with the tor of BCHA has been appointed to Missoula, Randy went to the national Bureau of Land Management in Feb- the Board of Directors of the Certified headquarters for the National Forest ruary, which will promote formalizing Horsemanship Association in Middle Foundation to discuss future partner- trails not currently managed by BLM. Tennessee State University. ship opportunities. BCHA sent public scoping letters in Randy Rasmussen went to Wash- On November 18, President February on the Yosemite Wilderness ington D.C. joining forces with The Obama signed into law the National Stewardship Plan and Mt. Rainier Wil- Wilderness Society, Pacific Crest Trails Forest System Trails Stewardship Act derness Stewardship Plan. Association, American Horse Council, (HR845/S.1110). Please contact our Randy Rasmussen was sent to and Outdoor Industry Association in House and Senate members, thanking Washington D.C. February 8-11 to September to help educate members them for their support of the Bill. Hike the Hill. He was joined by other groups including The American Horse Council. Randy spoke to 70 people on Backcountry Horsemen of America the need for a trails bill and pushed for co-sponsors. HR845/S.1110 was one of Volunteer Hours Report the key topics at Hike the Hill. Backcountry Horsemen of Montana Mack Long, BCHMT, was appoint- 2016 Rate per ed as BCHA’s Education Committee Totals hour/mile/day Total Value Chair in March to replace Pete Kriger Total Basic Hours 5095 $23.56 $120,038.20 Calculated per hour from California. The Trails Forever Total Skilled Hours 6079 $35.34 $214,831.86 Calculated per hour Fund ($ 5.00 a month club) was estab- Total Trail Recon Hours 387 $23.56 $9,117.72 Calculated per hour lished in March with Jerry Bentz, OR, Total LNT - Education 3201 $23.56 $75,415.56 Calculated per hour volunteering to be chair. Thirty per- Total Public Meetings 891 $23.56 $20,991.96 Calculated per hour cent, to be determined annually, will Total Administative Service 2146 $23.56 $50,559.76 Calculated per hour be put into the BCHA Education Fund. Total Travel Time 3488 $23.56 $82,181.99 Calculated per hour The National Board Meeting was Total Hours 21287.2 held in Las Vegas. Thirty-one states were represented at the four-day Wilderness Trail Miles 1543 event. The actual value of our volun- Other Trail Miles 2841 teer services nationally in 2015 was Total Trail Miles 4384 $11,238,376. Personal Vehicle 40276 $0.90 Calculated per mile BCHA Executive Director Jim Mc- $36,248.40 Stock Hauling 65427 $1.10 $71,969.70 Calculated per mile Garvey was invited to be in the Amer- Total Travel Miles 105703 ican Quarter Horse Association Public

Policy Committee. He also attended Power Equipment 921 $26.00 $23,946.00 Calculated per hour the American Horse Council annual Heavy Equipment 65 $81.00 $5,265.00 Calculated per hour meeting June 12-15. Total Equipment Hours 986 The new USFS Saw Policy was im- plemented on July 20, 2016. Total Stock (Pack and Sadd 1580 Senate Bill S.3205, the Total Stock Days 1996 $100.00 $199,600.00 Calculated per day Bikes-in-Wilderness Bill, was intro- duced by Utah Senators. The bill would amend the Wilderness Act of 1964 and Total Donations ######## $58,049.29 would force bike use on most wilder- Total $968,215.44

Decker Dispatch 5 Upper Clark Fork Hard at Work By Cheri Fisher, Upper Clark Fork Back Country Horsemen Upper Clark Fork (UCF) BCH is a including youth riders Kepler, Kayin, small family oriented club. We do not Kelsey, Olivia, and Leah. The youth have a lot of members but the mem- rode their horses, ponies, and mules bers we do have are very active. while proudly waving American flags. One of our first events in 2016 Kelsey went on her first pack trip. was educational training at the Blue Wade and Lonnie Murphy, Kimm Ribbon Arena in Deer Lodge. Wade Fisher, and Mike Fisher cleared Baggs Murphy spent several Sundays work- Creek Trail while Kelsey helped Cheri ing with our club members on horse- Fisher gather firewood and finish set- manship, focusing on safety. We also ting up the camp. She spent two nights worked on improving packing skills. sleeping in the tent she helped put up. Youth members Kepler (age 3), Kelsey Kelsey learned a lot on this trip and had (age 5), Olivia (age 7), and Leah (age a great time. We all enjoyed watching 12) practiced with their animals. They her dance to Wade’s harmonica. sure had fun learning new skills. Leah competed in the 4-H pack- Upper Clark Fork annual Moth- ing project at the Deer Lodge Fair. She ers Day ride was held at Tyler Creek was awarded Grand Champion Packer! trail. We had 16 riders and rode about Leah proved she deserved this honor a 9 miles. Youth members Kelsey, Oliv- few weeks later when she helped pack ia, Leah, and Freja (age 14) enjoyed the in the CDT trail crew. She did an ex- ride, too. They kept us entertained on cellent job weighing out and mantying the ride with their smiling faces. After loads. Leah’s packs made it all the way the ride Kepler and her father joined into camp without a hitch. Leah was us for a potluck dinner. BCH members also a big help on the Eastside trail sure know how to fix a great meal. clearing project. She helped with the Youth member Freja went along stock and with clearing trails. on the Monture trail clearing project. Freja went on several pack trips We removed over 150 downed trees. last summer, including an eight day It took three days of hard work with trip into the Bob Marshall Wilderness. Freja helping to move trees from the We rode over 100 miles; Freja helped trail. She also used her saddle saw to round up the stock and pack the mules cut small trees and branches. Wade every morning. Freja also took her turn Murphy saved the day by showing up as camp cook - she is a better cook than to remove a dangerous widow mak- I am. Freja got to see North Fork Falls, er. Kepler joined in the hard work. In Carmichael cabin, watch beaver swim the morning, while the work crew was in the Danaher, listen to wolves howl, getting ready, she rode her Grandma’s and watch a very large grizzly bear go mule and moved small branches from right past our camp. It was an exciting the trail. Kepler was excited to see bear trip for all. poop on the trail. The hard working This is just a few of the things we crew got the trail cleared just in time did in 2016. It may seem like I am for the Regional Forest Service pack in. bragging about these kids, I guess I am. Several club members attended They worked hard, rode hard, and al- Mission Valley’s pokers ride, includ- ways did their best. They never stopped ing youth members Olivia and Leah. It smiling no matter how hard the job. was a great ride and fun was had by all. They are all a joy to have in camp or on Upper Clark Fork’s fun ride was the trail. We need to continue educat- held on July 9; we had 87 riders and ing, encouraging and praising them. served over 100 meals. We could not They are our future and, after spend- have pulled it off without the help of ing time with these kids, I know that our youth members. Freja and Tyler the future of Back Country Horsemen (age 15) helped mark trails and man is a bright one. I am so very proud of Top: Kelsey dancing in the backcountry. check stations, Kepler, Kelsey, and Ka- each and every one of these kids. Middle: Kepler helping Grandpa clear Monture yin (age 5) also worked hard. The kids Creek Trail. all worked hard and never complained. Bottom: Leah helping clear the Eastside Trail. UCF BCH was well represented at the Deer Lodge parade by 14 members

6 Decker Dispatch Bitter Root BCH members tackle multiple trails project near historical Fales Flat Campground By Karen Philips, Bitter Root Back Country Horsemen

On the weekend of September 9 was passable on foot or horseback. through 11, 2016, eleven hardy Bitter Carol Johns and Bonnie Morgan start- Root BCH members tackled three trails ed out with Taylor and Katie along up the West Fork of the Bitterroot Riv- the Divide Trail (FS #16) but found er from their base camp at Fales Flat little to clear on that trail, so after a Campground. few miles they rode back to camp and Trail worker Joe Rogish provid- worked their way up from the bottom ed this background on the historical of Sheephead Creek Trail (its begin- camping area: ning starts near Fales Flat). With only “Fales Flat campground is named saddle saws available they were able to for Wesley Fales, a trapper, woods- clear it for about half a mile before a man, and early Forest Service employ- big tree across the trail stopped them. ee, who built a homestead on the flat In the second group were Mike around 1914. The cabin he built there Foster and Joe Rogish who cleared burned about 1940. Fales Flat was also Castle Rock Trail (FS# 627) partway. the site of a CCC camp in 1933.” Lots of deadfall made it slow going for And more information on Wesley them and they headed back to camp Fales, from Bitterroot Trails, published late that day. by the Bitter Root Historical Society The third group included Dan, (pages 216-218): Becky Brandborg, Patty and Max and “He came to the Bitterroot Valley in Kathy Stroppel. They spent hours the 1890s and bought a home in Ham- searching for the upper part of the ilton, after years of successful guiding unmarked Nez Perce Trail and finally and trapping in the Bitterroot and Sap- located its intersection with the Divide phire mountains and the Selway river Trail near the historic Salish Indian drainage. He was employed by the U.S. gravesite that is located about 3⁄4 of a Forest Service as a fire guard, lookout, mile above Nez Perce Pass. The upper trail builder and packer...Wes Fales part of the Nez Perce Trail required was a respected carpenter and his log several hours of tough bushwhacking work in his cabins was some of the just to find it. best. His cabin, built on the flat that On Sunday morning, Dan, Joe, bears his name on the Nez Perce Trail Bonnie, Patty, Katie and Taylor head- into the Selway at the southern end of ed back to the Castle Rock Trail and the valley, was an example of his skill.” cleared it to within a mile of Bear Cone Located at Fales Flat Campground Mountain. is an old blazed ponderosa pine that The group camped Friday and Sat- marks part of the Nez Perce Trail (FS urday nights and they were especially #12). Project leader Dan Brandborg grateful for the dinners, lunches and found and pointed out that historical breakfast provided by Bitter Root BCH trail sign to the group. Who says we ar- cooks. Max and Kathy fixed breakfast, en’t modern day scouts! lunches and dinner Friday night. Re- The project began on Friday after- becca and Dave Jones prepared and noon when Dan, Patty Martin, Bonnie brought dinner to the crew Saturday Morgan and Joe Rogish explored the night. It was great work by the cooks lower section of the Nez Perce Trail and their efforts were much appreciat- from Fales Flat Campground. They ed. There is nothing like a delicious hot got up the steepest part to a lookout by meal provided to you before you head navigating around fallen trees. After a out in the morning and after a day lot of time and effort bushwhacking, working on trails! Top: After a safety meeting, the crew met at the they called it a day. A big thank you goes out to Dan historic Salish Indian gravesite before heading On Saturday morning after traile- and his crew and cooks Rebecca, Dave out in three groups. ring to Nez Perce Pass, the crew divid- and Max and Kathy. Everyone worked Next: Taylor Orr and his Highlanders are packed and ready to tackle the upper section of Sheep- ed into three groups: very hard and the trail crew removed head Creek Trail. Taylor Orr and Katie Phillips hundreds of obstacles. This was quite Next: Dan Brandborg makes sawdust fly on the cleared the top section of Sheephead an accomplishment in an area of his- historic Nez Perce Trail. Creek Trail (FS #142) enough that it toric trails! Bottom: Bonnie and Dan point out Bear Cone Peak to Carol, Becky and Patty. What a view!

Decker Dispatch 7 Shosoni-Bannock Trail, also known as the Slip and Slide Trail By Dale A. Olson, Beartooth Back Country Horsemen Little has been written about this while returning to Wyoming after buy- and put my hands on his ears. The fire historic trail leading to the Beartooth ing supplies in Red Lodge, Montana. would not show on my hands, but as Plateau south of Red Lodge, Montana. “One night in late August of that soon as I removed them, the two balls This trail was historically used by the summer, one of the stockmen who of light reappeared and shone bright- Shoshoni and Bannock Indians to lived on upper Ghost Creek came up to ly and distinctly on each ear tip, and it cross the mountains to reach the plains see me. His name was Bill Greenough, was so dark I could not see the horse at for the purpose of obtaining their win- and a better all-around cowman, horse- all. This condition continued for twelve ter supply of buffalo meat and hides. man, and mountain man never stepped or fifteen minutes.* In a few minutes As the nickname Slip and Slide Trail in shoe leather. He and I planned to go the storm had passed over. I knew it implies, the ascent and descent leaves to Red Lodge by way of the old Sheri- would be useless to go back that night one with the impression that there are dan Trail that led across the Beartooth and try to locate my gun and spurs, so steep and rocky places to be encoun- Plateau and the Chain Lakes country. we kept on. tered. Bill needed some grub, and I was get- When we reached my camp on the General Phil Sheridan crossed the ting short myself. He knew the country lake that night, I asked Bill if he saw mountains from Cooke City in 1882, thoroughly, as he made the trip several anything unusual during the electric intending to forge a route across un- times each summer. I had been as far storm, and he told me he had seen fire known country to Billings where he as Rock Creek, but no further. balls on each ear of his horse–and Bill would take the Northern Pacific train We put the camp in order and had not been drinking, either! I never back east, as the railroad had just been started out, crowding the horses into had any repetition of that occurrence built into Billings that spring. His par- a trot where there was level going. We and never heard of it happening to ty came down into the valley on the reached Red Lodge late that night. anyone else. I didn’t go around telling south side of Mount Maurice. There we met Bill’s brothers, Ben and of it, because I knew people would not Although not clearly indicated, the Wright. I also met John and Hank believe me. first suggestion of the use of the Sho- Weaver, at whose stable we left our The following day Bill packed up shoni–Bannock Trail is by E.E. Van- horses. The next day we purchased his outfit and headed down off the Dyke as he traveled from the Cooke supplies and packed up for our return, mountain for his cabin on Ghost Creek. City area to Red Lodge. In 1883 his fa- as we wanted to reach camp that night. I saddled up and rode to the slide-rock ther came out from New York for the We got as far as Tin Can Camp, on the trail to look for my spurs and gun, summer. Together they blazed a trail upper end of Mirror Lake, and just as blaming myself the while for being over the Beartooths from Cooke City we came to the slide-rock trail we saw such a coward as to fear a little thunder to Red Lodge. They built rock monu- it was storming in the low country and lightning. However, bright morn- ments for trail marking which could north of us in Montana. We were then ing sunshine is much different from a be seen easily from a distance. This close to the Wyoming line. Almost be- dark, stormy night when one’s courage became known as the “VanDyke Trail.” fore we knew it, the storm swept down is questioned. Remnants of this famous route are still on us, and the lightning cracked. Bill I soon located my gun and spurs, visible from the Beartooth Highway. was riding in the lead of the several right where I had dropped them on the In his book, Pony Trails in Wyo- pack animals, and I was following. The trail. On my return I stopped at three ming, John K. Rollinson writes of an trail was narrow and all in slide-rock. different sheep camps on the plateau interesting experience on this trail The lightning became worse, and near the head of Line Creek, Bennett it was absolutely pitch-dark between Creek, and Little Rock Creek. The herd- flashes, and the lightning ran across ers were all Basques and did not speak the trail on the rocks. It would, for a much English. These men are said to second, light up the lake with a weird, make fine sheepherders, but they are greenish-blue light, and the thunder not very good company for one who was almost one continual crash. I will does not speak their own lingo. I had acknowledge that I was badly fright- to use an improvised sign talk, make ened, and I got off my pony. I was pictures, and use the words which they wearing my short slicker and a pair of did understand, like “ sheep,” “ camp,” Angora chaps, so I kept fairly dry. I was “tent,” and “water.” A bear had killed a so rattled that I shed my six-shooter few sheep that belonged to one of the and spurs right there on the trail. The men. Some had lost sheep by poison- lightning was so terrific. I saw small ous plants. I was able to show them a balls of fire on each of the ears of the plant of that sort, and with a diagram pony I was riding. I could not under- scratched on the ground, I pointed stand, nor even believe my eyes when out the spots where they should use I would reach out, between flashes, the most caution. All the herders were General Phil Sheridan. [continued next page] 8 Decker Dispatch [Slip and Slide continued] Back Country Horsemen armed with .30-30 Winchester car- employed during the winter months of Montana bines. I got a hindquarter of a sheep to ascend drainages near Red Lodge that had been killed a couple of days and fell trees and cut them into lengths State Chapters before and tied it behind my saddle. I that were to be used in Red Lodge and Beartooth BCH determined to build up a Dutch oven Bearcreek. These timbers were assem- PO Box 614, Absorakee, MT 59001 full of slumgullion with leg of mutton, bled in or near the creeks. As spring and season it with onion and potatoes came, they would be pushed into the Bitter Root BCH PO Box 1083, Hamilton, MT 59840 I had bought from Red Lodge. tumbling stream and guided down- On my way back to my camp I trav- stream to a holding pond on the south Cabinet BCH eled a new route which was previously edge of town. PO Box 949, Libby, MT 59923 not accessible, due to old snowbanks. As one ascends this trail, there is Charlie Russell BCH I passed a long narrow lake, and as I evidence of the logging days along the PO Box 3563, Great Falls, MT 59403 had been told of an old log stockade way. Although some of the trash left East Slope BCH or enclosure there, I soon located it. behind may have been left by hunters, PO Box 967, Conrad, MT 59425 I do not know what it was used for. It the cables would definitely be from is quite badly rotted down, but it had logging. BCH of the Flathead PO Box 1192, Columbia Falls, MT 59912 been a rectangular affair, about eight Today this trail is all but forgotten. feet high, built of a double wall of rath- Only a few hearty fishermen who want Gallatin Valley BCH er light logs, with an eight- or ten-inch to try their luck in Mirror Lake venture PO Box 3232, Bozeman, MT 59772 space between the two walls which had up it. Judith Basin BCH been filled in with rocks. Three or four To reach it you have to drive south PO Box 93, Lewistown, MT 59457 old rock fireplaces had once been in from Red Lodge on U.S. Highway 212 Last Chance BCH use there. All the ax marks were those ten miles. Turn off the highway to your PO Box 4008, Helena, MT 59604 of a hand ax or tomahawk, as the cuts right at Parkside, cross the bridge, turn showed the tool had a narrow bit. I to the left on the road to Glacier Lake, Mile High BCH PO Box 4434, Butte, MT 59702 concluded that squaws had done the which follows Rock Creek. There is work. On a line running due north and no trailhead. It is the second drainage Mission Valley BCH south, through scattered pine timber, on your left, you will have to do a lit- PO Box 604, Ronan, MT 59864 all the trees had been peeled halfway tle bushwhacking and looking around BCH of Missoula around up to a height of about five some to find the trail. Once you start PO Box 2121, Missoula, MT 59806 feet. North of the stockade the blaze up the trail you cross Rock Creek, and Northwest Montana BCH was facing north, and south of the en- pass Quintuple Peaks to Mirror Lake. PO Box 9242, Kalispell, MT 59901 closure the blaze faced south. Each There is a tree at the lake that has ‘L. line ran a distance of about a hundred W. Russell, 1906’ carved into it. Short- Selway-Pintler Wilderness BCH PO Box 88, Hamilton, MT 59840 yards. Some trees had been belted and ly after the lake is a tree with small were therefore dead. None had any In- hatchet marks and the bark removed Three Rivers BCH dian picture writing on them.” from it. From this point you will be PO Box 251, Dillon, MT 59725 *Note by E. A. Brininstool: This going in a southeasterly direction. The Upper Clark Fork BCH peculiar phenomenon is mentioned in trail now leaves the timber and heads PO Box 725, Deerlodge, MT 59722 Capt. J. H. Cook’s Fifty Years on the towards the Beartooth Highway, inter- Wild Horse Plains BCH Old Frontier, during a trip with trail secting it near the East Summit. Cross PO Box 640, Plains, MT 59859 cattle from Texas to the Kansas mar- the highway and you can descend into If you would like to join us, please contact kets. Stockade Lake or any way you choose a chapter in your area. More information is The completion of the Beartooth from here. The last time I was up there available on our website: Highway (then called Red Lodge- was in 2003, and Mirror Lake was as Cooke City Highway) in 1936 would far as I went. I feel the urge to go and www.bchmt.org negate the need to travel this route. explore it again next summer. There is Schedule for Chapters’ News Article Submissions However, during the years that the lots of scenery to enjoy so make sure to E-mail to: [email protected] coal mines were operating in Red take your time and spend a few nights Spring Issue Lodge there was a need for timbers out in the backcountry. Articles due May 5th, 2017: Charlie Russell, East used in the mines. Many men were The Beartooth Plateau Slope, Flathead, Gallatin, and Judith Basin Fall issue Articles due September 5th, 2017: Last Chance, Mission Valley, Missoula, Northwest Montana, Selway-Pintler Wilderness Winter Issue Articles due January 5th, 20184 Beartooth, Bitter Root, Cabinet, Three Rivers, Upper Clark Fork, and Wild Horse Plains Decker Dispatch 9 The Unexpected Happened By Eve Gillespie, Northwest Montana Back Country Horsemen On September 11, 2016, I expect- ed to have a great trail ride with my 14 year old black and white paint Tennes- see Walker gelding, Flash. I had been riding him for two years, and he was the only horse that I could ride away from the rest of the herd, and go into the woods alone without a fuss. In fact, he would stand in a park stretch while I would mount, and would not walk until directed. It was a cloudy day and looked like it might rain. I asked my- self if I really wanted to ride that day, because of the potential for thunder or lightening, but didn’t really worry Eve Gillespie about it, so I continued getting ready. I tacked Flash up carefully, as usual. He me, and slightly recall go- has a short back and is very round so ing into the CT scanner I made sure the saddle was just right. a few times. I suffered a The bridle went on easily, as usual, concussion, subarachnoid and he seemed calm and nothing un- brain hemorrhage, six usual was going on around me. The broken ribs, and lacerated other horses were still eating their hay liver. They took my hus- about 20 feet from where I mounted. I band into a room and told usually wait a little longer to ride after him they didn’t know how feeding, but because of the oncoming good I would “come out” rain, I started earlier. The last things of this. Top: Ron Trippet, with helmet, packing Boy Scouts to Elk Lake. I remember were fastening my helmet, I was in the ICU for Bottom: Kobi Mathies, Patrick Totten, Melanie Totten, Selene and tying the reins in a knot, which I four days, then went to the Totten and Ron Trippet, all with helmets, packing to Castle Lake. do when I mount, then usually untie inpatient rehab unit for a them when I am riding. I recall step- week. The nausea and vertigo subsided time, or gotten him out of unless he just ping onto the mounting block. after a day, and the double vision last- reared up and hit me in the head with We estimate that about 15 minutes ed for three months but is now gone. I his head, which would have knocked later, my husband found me laying on had to take two months off work to re- me out and I would have then fallen my back. All of the horses, including cover. The rib pain was substantial and on my back. But why would that have Flash, were up in a corner about 50 made it difficult to lay down. I have happened? There are mountain lions yards away, and none were by the hay just about totally recovered now, and periodically on our property at Ashley where they had been eating. Flash was, I am ready to ride again. It is just what Lake, and perhaps one showed up just of course, on the outside of the fence. I have always done, and always will do at that time. Perhaps he made a move My husband, Brian, asked me if I was as long as I am able. But the question of towards the horses that were still eat- OK and I said, “no.” I knew I couldn’t what happened and the lack of knowl- ing their hay. However, this horse does move and asked him to call an ambu- edge of the horse’s behavior loom as not even try to nibble grass when I ride lance. I did not try to move. The ambu- big unknowns for the future. him. He once bucked when we first got lance crew and neighbors arrived. I just If there was a forensics team that him when he was scared of a dominant kept thinking there was a rock behind could come and investigate and figure horse that had picked on him, getting my right scapula. I had no headache, out what happened, I sure would ap- too close, but none of the horses were and no back or neck pain. If I turned preciate that. I have been bucked off near him. I have to give him the ben- my head or changed position I would about 10 times during my 50 years of efit of the doubt, that it was a freak oc- vomit. It was at that time that I turned riding, but there were no buck marks currence triggered by something that I down the helicopter for the ambulance on my thighs. When I have fallen, I will never know. Perhaps there was a because I was afraid that the motion have never fallen on my back. There bee under his saddle pad. would cause the vomiting to be worse. was one mark on my right biceps from The neurologist and neurosurgeon Somehow they got me into the am- the reins and it is possible that my arm kept telling me how good it was that I bulance and took me to Kalispell Re- was caught in the loop and I could have had been wearing a helmet. The hel- gional Medical Center, where I work as pulled the horse down with me. There met was found about six feet from me. a cardiologist. I recall throwing up on isn’t much he could have done that I I hadn’t fastened it tight enough and it just about everyone who tried to move couldn’t have sat to for some period of came off, but it did minimize my head

10 Decker Dispatch injury. I had written an article about foam padding. The combination of Public access upheld on wearing helmets for the Back Country these three characteristics reduces im- Horsemen of the Flathead about six pact, reduces acceleration, and reduc- popular Beaverhead- years ago, because it was a subject that es the amount of energy absorbed by Deerlodge National I have always believed was important. the head. A helmet will not necessar- I cited some statistics about head in- ily prevent a head injury from falling, Forest trail juries in riders, and showed pictures but will reduce central nervous system Press Release from the Department of Justice By Melissa Hornbein, October 24, 2016. www. of one of our most experienced pack- damage from 50% to 25%, will reduce justice.gov/usao/mt ers who never takes his hat, boots or skull fracture from 40% to 25%, will gloves off in public, with an English reduce severity of brain injury from a riding helmet. I think we all had a great score of 13 to 2.8, and can reduce ICU laugh but I don’t know if I changed the admissions and death. habits of any of the club members. So In my case, I have been riding here I am again giving some statistics since age nine. Every summer I went and sharing my story. to Camp Bobbin Hollow, a horse- According to the Journal: Neuro- back riding camp, and they drilled logic Focus, the sport that causes the safety into us on a daily basis. I went most traumatic brain injuries is horse- to Meredith Manor School of Horse- back riding. The national trauma da- manship for nine months after high tabase found that between 2003 and school for a Horsemasters degree so I 2012 horseback riding was the cause of could teach riding during college. I am the most brain injuries for adults. For- by no means the rider I was 30 years Judge Sam E. Haddon issued an ty-five percent of all traumatic brain ago. I did some trail riding in the east order finding that the United States injuries in adults are due to horse re- but mostly did dressage, jumping and Forest Service possesses an easement lated activities. Head injuries comprise “ring riding” until moving out here by prescription on behalf of itself and the leading cause of hospital admission 12 years ago. The skill it takes to ride the public for use of Forest Service and leading cause of death in people in the mountains in the presence of Trail No. 328, commonly known as who ride horses. We think of football predators is different. The predomi- the Indian Creek Trail, in the Mad- players getting brain injuries, but they nance of walking on trails reduces the ison Ranger District of the Beaver- are usually from repeated episodes, skills we may have had when younger, head-Deerlodge National Forest. This whereas in the horse world, it is usual- and it is more of a psychological sport popular trail provides public access ly one good one that does it. If you take now. There are many articles written into the Lee Metcalf Wilderness. all of the potential injuries you can get about middle aged women losing the The order comes as a result of lit- dealing with horses, lacerations com- confidence, braveness and skills, and igation filed against the U.S. Depart- prise 40%, sprains and strains occur so many of the natural horsemanship ment of Agriculture under the Quiet 42% of the time, fractures occur 33% trainers have made careers out of help- Title Act. The Quiet Title Act allows of the time, and concussions 27% of ing middle aged riders continue to the United States to be named as a all horse related injuries. Collecting enjoy the sports we love. I have done defendant in a civil action “to adjudi- the data on this can come from sev- the three day Clinton Anderson clinic cate a disputed title to real property in eral sources. They are mostly collect- with one of my other horses, which was which the United States claims an in- ed from ER information, thus many grueling and extremely useful. But as a terest.” Under the terms of the Quiet outpatient visits are not collected. In weekend rider, it is difficult to be suc- Title Act, state law governs determi- Oklahoma, surveys were sent out to cessful in maximizing skill and safety. nations of property ownership. Under riders between 1992 to 1994. There was Nevertheless, I am looking forward Montana law, a public easement by no difference in injuries between men to riding again. I will get myself a new prescription is established through at and women. The ages spanned from helmet, since after impact a helmet least five years of continuous and open 3-71. There was no difference accord- must be replaced. I will have a train- use that is adverse (i.e. not by permis- ing to experience. Most of the injuries er work with Flash before I ride him sion) to the interests of the underlying occurred during the spring and half of again. I love to wear a cowboy hat and landowner. The Court found that am- them on the weekend. Ninety-five per- love the way it looks. But when I ride, I ple precedent existed in Montana law cent of head injuries were due to fall- will take it off and put the helmet on. I to uphold a prescriptive right of access ing, 1% of people fell due to a head in- hope some of you will do the same. by the Forest Service and the public jury (which could have been me), and I give great thanks to all the peo- for the Indian Creek Trail, and that 4% were kicked or a horse rolled on ple from Back Country Horsemen of the right had been established no later them. In some databases English rid- the Flathead and Northwest Montana than 1973. ing was found to be more dangerous Back Country Horsemen for their Read more at: https://www.justice. than western riding. cards, calls, and general support of this gov/usao-mt/pr/public-access-up- So how do helmets work? A riding unfortunate event. I look forward to held-popular-beaverhead-deer- helmet has an external shell, stiff foam seeing you all on the trails. in the middle, and an internal spongy lodge-national-forest-trail Decker Dispatch 11 March 24th, 25th and 26th, 2017 “ Your Mission ~ To Protect and Enjoy the Back Country ” Hosted by: Mission Valley Back Country Horsemen At The Best Western KwaTaqNuk Resort in Polson, Montana 2017 State Convention Convention Delegate Participant Registration * Due March 3, 2017

Back Country Horsemen Chapter:______Voting Delegate: Yes____No____ Name:______Mailing Address:______City:______State:______Zip:______Phone:(____)______E-mail:______

Participant Choice at Saturday Banquet: (Circle One) Sliced New York Strip Pecan Crusted Salmon Registration Fee: Until March 3, 2017 $90 per person After: March 3, 2017: $100 per person Participant Registration Fees Include: Lunch and Banquet

Registration Fee for Participant: (Circle One) $90 before March 3rd or $100 after March 3rd (Include in total below)

NonDelegate/Spouse/Guest of Participant Registration * Due March 3, 2017 Name:______Name: ______

Name:______Name: ______Guest Meal Choices Saturday Lunch Fee Per Guest Lunch Number of Meals Guest Lunch Total $ Indian Tacos $20 X = Saturday Banquet Selection for Guests Meal Choices Fee Per Guest Banquet Meal Number of Meals Guest Banquet Total $ Sliced New York Strip $35 X = Pecan Crusted Salmon $35 X = Guests Meal Total $ Full Participant Registration Fee (From Above): $90 or $100 . $ Payment Details Check # Total Paid $

Please make checks payable/mail form to: Room Reservations at KwaTaqNuk Resort Mission Valley BCH 49708 US Hwy 93 E., Polson P.O. Box 604 4068833636 / 18008826363 www.kwataqnuk.com Ronan, MT 59864 For Special Convention Rate, make reservations by; Registration to be received by: March 3, 2017 FEBRUARY 24, 2017. Please refer to group name Mission Valley BCH. For further assistance please contact: Charley Hahn - Phone (406)-270-9476 King Lake View: $89.99/day E-Mail: [email protected] DBL Queen Lake View: $89.99/day

Bonnie Kiser - Phone (406)-253-0177 DBL Queen Street View: $79.99/day E-mail: [email protected] DLX King Suite: $159.99/day

12 Decker Dispatch Mission Valley Back Country Horsemen PO Box 604 Ronan, MT 59864

Attend the 2017 State Convention of the Montana Back Country Horsemen! March 24, 25 & 26, 2017 in Polson, Montana

Our Mission - To Protect and Enjoy the Back Country “Mission Impossible - NOT” The Mission Valley Back Country Horsemen welcome you to the 2017 Convention to be held in the heart of the Mission Valley. On our agenda is an opportunity to learn from our political representatives about their vision for the future of Public Lands in the US. We hope to provide detailed information on how to contact our representatives to let them know our opinions.

The KwaTaqNuk Resort will host our event and are offering discounted room rates thru February 24, 2017. They will also provide our Saturday evening Banquet. You will have a choice of Sliced New Your Strip or Pecan Crusted Salmon and all the fixins. There will be dancing to the music of Southern Comfort. A good www.KwaTaqNuk.com ole’ fashioned country band well known throughout the Mission 1-800-882-6363 Valley.

Plan to attend the presentation on Back Country First Aid for people and horses given Dr. Michael Righetti, Orthopedic Surgeon and fellow Back Country Horsemen.

The Downtown businesses welcome Back Country Horsemen members with a Main Street Stroll to be held on Friday, March 24th from 4-5:30pm. Many businesses will be offering appetizers and special discounts to members of the BCH. Visit our local restaurants and thank them for sponsoring our convention. We have some fabulous raffle items, Connie and Mack Long donated a week-long pack trip for 2 into the Bob next summer, a combined package rifle and revolver and a $500 gift card good in any Murdochs store. Contact Scott Kiser for more tickets: 406-260-8398. Tickets are $5 each or 5 for $20. Please bring an item representing your chapter and valued at $100 or more to be auctioned in the live auction. Proceeds from these donated items will benefit the State of Montana BCH. Our auctioneer this is year is Reed Tobol of Ronan. Many of you will recognize him as he travels Montana offering his skills as an auctioneer. Tired of winter? Want a tropical getaway? Bring your bidding skills!!! During the live auction you might be the lucky winner of a weeks stay on the Island of Maui, Hawaii. Air fare not included in the package.

There will be an abundance of vendors to quench your shopping thirst. Do you know a vendor interested in participating? Please have them contact Connie Plaissay for details. Please contact us if you have any questions either before or at convention. It is our “MISSION” to make YOUR convention SPECTACULAR!!!! See you there, The Mission Valley Back Country Horsemen Connie Plaissay, Convention Committee Chairman Phone (406) 240-8099 Decker Dispatch 13 Montana State Back Country Horsemen State Convention 2017 ~ Photo Contest and Display ~

Photo Contest Categories  Animals: Horses, Wildlife, Dogs, Cats, etc.  Scenery: Mountains, Lakes, Stream, Trees, Prairie, etc.  People: Friends, Kids of All Ages, Family, etc.  Back Country Horsemen at Work: Work projects, Club projects, Activities or Events

Photo Contest Rules  Photos taken by amateur photographers & current BCH members only.  Photo size 5x7 or 8x10, must be mounted or matted. (no frames please).  Please place on the back of photo: Photographers BCH Chapter, Photographers Name and Address.  Register your photo Friday evening or Saturday morning before 9:00 A.M.  Winning photos will be chosen by convention attendee votes.  Awards announced and presented on Sunday morning.  One over all favorite photo will be awarded “People’s Choice” of the 2017 Convention. Photos may be picked up Sunday morning. Photo Contest contact: Carol McCrum 406-676-8114 Announcement - The Convention Slide Show Following in the footsteps of last year’s convention, we will be offering an alternative to the “Chapter Boards”. We will compile a digital slide show highlighting each chapter into a combined show, all on one CD and including music. To make this happen, each chapter must send us photos. Your chapter photos need to be submitted by February 15th. Due to the size of our venue, we will not be displaying the “Chapter Boards”. We know and appreciate how hard the members have worked on them and we thank you for your understanding and cooperation in this decision. Thank you.

NO CHAPTER BOARDS WILL BE DISPLAYED. An ALL Chapter show will be shown at convention. For more details, please visit our website: http://bchmt.org/wp/mission/ Or contact Bonnie Kiser: 4062530177

14 Decker Dispatch Montana Back Country Horsemen State Convention Drawing held March 26, 2017 - KwaTaqNuk Resort Polson, MT

Raffle Tickets 1 for $5 or 6 for $20 *Need not be present to win!!!* For Additional Tickets contact: Scott Kiser 406-260-8398 Please make checks payable to: Mission Valley BCH

5-7 Day Pack Trip in the “Bob” Summer 2017

Donated by Owners of Bob Marshall Wilderness Outfitters Mack and Connie Long www.BobMarshallWildernessOutfitters.com

Rifle and Revolver Combination Rifle: 44 Remington Magnum Model 1894 with Micro Groove Barrel Marlin Arms of North Haven, CT ~ And ~ Revolver: 44 Remington Magnum Super Black Hawk Both guns contributed by the original owner. Strum Ruger Co., South Port. CT

$500 Gift Card

Donated by Murdoch’s Ranch & Home Supply Good for purchases in your favorite Murdoch’s store. $500 Gift Card Donated by Murdoch’s Ranch and Home Supply. Good for purchases in your favorite Murdoch’s store.

Decker Dispatch 15 NONPROFIT ORG Back Country Horsemen of Montana U.S. POSTAGE 2130 9th Street W. #109 PAID Columbia Falls, MT 59912 BUTTE MT PERMIT NO 593

6th Grade Campout By Jean Nemeth, Wild Horse Plains Back Country Horsemen Wild Horse Plains Back Country on each subject. Wild Horse Plains BCH horse, not talking, to get the ‘horse’ to Horsemen have been involved with the presents trail etiquette, introduction to do a particular task. Another simulation Plains Elementary 6th Grade Campout horses, light on the land camping, bal- is one student being the horse (down on the last five years, and will continue as ancing pannier weight, and simulations all fours), another the rider. The rider is long as invited. of horse and rider. directed through different ways of sitting The 6th Grade Campout originated Trail etiquette is valuable informa- the horse, which emphatically influences in 1989. Since then, that teacher retired tion most of these young people will use how the ‘horse’ can move (usually just in 2011. Could be a coincidence that she at some time. the front end - the human horse is not was asked back to participate with hors- In the introduction to horses, we packing its rider any distance.) The sim- es (consequently BCH), just to keep her learn that several students have been ulations have a tendency to get rowdy (me) involved in the rather large un- around horses, but most students have (fun!), but it makes an impression about dertaking! The 6th Grade Campout in- never touched a horse. We incorporate how a horse feels when a human is not volves 40-50 students being bused to the how to approach a horse, how to groom thinking ‘horse-wise’. historical Ben Guard Station. From the (which tool and etc.), examples of body The volunteers from Wild Horse moment they step off the bus, they are language communication, picking up Plains BCH average four volunteers ev- to be outdoors until time to get back on feet and etc. Sometimes we include pack- ery 6th Grade Campout. Some bring the bus, about 28 hours. Meantime they ing saddle panniers. horses and stay overnight. It is a com- attend active classes in outdoor sciences Light on the land camping is demon- mitment of time, horses, equipment, presented by the Department of Natural strated through examples of good camp and travel. This program supports Back Resources and US Forest Service. Class- versus bad camp. Country Horsemen’s philosophy to edu- es include stream habitat, soils, wildlife, Simulations can involve three stu- cate, encourage, and solicit active partic- range management, fire ecology, and dents hooked together bunny-hop style ipation in the wise and sustained use of timber management. Since 2011, Back to be the horse; representing the head, the backcountry resource by horsemen Country Horsemanship has been includ- ribs, and hindquarter sections. The and the general public, commensurate ed. fourth student is the human trying to with our heritage. We need to involve Classes are split into optimum stu- communicate to the ‘horse’ through and encourage younger generations. dent numbers to rotate through sessions body language, the language of the

16 Decker Dispatch Web Extra Page America’s Public Lands Explained Copied from the U.S. Department of Interior website: www.doi.gov/blog/americas-public-lands-explained and edited for Montana Our national parks are America’s National forests tend to be located National conservation areas are just crown jewels, inspiring awe and wonder. near national parks and frequently are one part of the Bureau of Land Manage- Iconic locations like Yosemite and Yel- less crowded than parks. For example, ment’s National Conservation Lands, a lowstone attract visitors from all over the Great Smoky Mountains National Park system of public lands that contain some world, but our public lands are so much is next to three national forests -- Chero- of the nation’s most spectacular land- more than just the big 59 national parks. kee, Pisgah and Nantahala. These forests scapes. They include 873 federally rec- They’re also scenic rivers, national ma- often also act as a protective buffer zone ognized areas, encompassing approxi- rine monuments, national battlefields around parks. mately 32 million acres, primarily across and wildernesses. 12 western states. In addition to national Here at Interior, we work every day National Wildlife Refuges conservation areas, national conserva- to protect our nation’s special places so If national parks are America’s best tion lands include certain national mon- current and future generations can ex- idea, then national wildlife refuges are uments, wildernesses, wilderness study perience our natural and cultural trea- America’s best kept secret. Ninepipe areas, wild and scenic rivers, and nation- sures for years to come. With more than National Wildlife Refuge along the Mis- al scenic and historic trails. 400 national parks, 560 national wildlife sion Mountains is a refuge and breeding refuges and nearly 250 million acres of ground for native birds. National Monuments other public lands managed by Interior, The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service National monuments protect a spe- there’s at least one public land near you. manages wildlife refuges to conserve cific natural, cultural or historic fea- What’s the difference between a na- America’s fish, wildlife and plants. ture. These could be places like Upper tional park, national forest and national Created in 1903 when President Missouri Breaks National Monument in monument? What about national wild- Theodore Roosevelt established Peli- Montana, Devils Tower National Monu- life refuges, national historic sites or na- can Island National Wildlife Refuge, the ment in Wyoming, Utah’s Grand Stair- tional conservation areas? We’re break- Refuge System has grown to more than case-Escalante National Monument or ing down America’s public lands for you: 560 sites. With at least one wildlife ref- Chicago’s Pullman National Monument. uge in every state and U.S. territory (and Some special places -- like Grand Can- National Parks one within an hour’s drive of most major yon, Badlands and Zion -- were first National parks, like our own Glacier cities), they offer a chance for urbanites protected as national monuments before National Park, tend to be large swaths of and so many others to connect to nature. later becoming national parks. land that protect a variety of resources, While national wildlife refuges work Since 1906, 120 national monu- including natural and historic features. to safeguard wildlife populations and ments have been created, and they can National parks can only be created by their habitats, more than 500 of them be managed by any of seven different Congress -- our first national park was provide a wealth of recreation opportu- agencies -- either individually or jointly. Yellowstone -- and are managed by the nities, including hiking trails, canoeing National Park Service. National parks and kayaking, auto tours, wildlife view- Wildernesses strive to keep landscapes unimpaired for ing, hunting, fishing and more! These Montana has 15 designated Wilder- future generations while offering recre- natural treasure troves see more than 47 ness areas throught the state, including ation opportunities. million visits from the public each year. the famous Bob Marshall Wilderness in There are also national preserves -- northwest Montana. like Florida’s Big Cypress or Lake Clark National Conservation Areas Wilderness areas are places untamed National Park & Preserve in Alaska. Ac- King Range National Conserva- by humans. The Wilderness Act of 1964 tivities like hunting, fishing or oil and gas tion Area has long been recognized as a allows Congress to designate wilderness extraction may be permitted at national crown jewel of the Pacific Coast, preserv- areas to ensure that America’s pristine preserves if they don’t jeopardize the ing 35 miles of the dramatic meeting of wild lands will not disappear. Wilder- park’s natural resources. land and sea. Established by Congress ness areas can be part of national parks, In total, the National Park System in 1970, King Range National Conserva- national wildlife refuges, national forests has 28 different types of designations, tion Area became the first location in the or public lands managed by the Bureau but they’re all considered national parks Bureau of Land Management’s National of Land Management. There are more Conservation Lands. Montana has no than 680 wilderness areas -- protecting no matter the name. National Conservation Areas (NCAs). over 106 million acres in 44 states -- with National Forests National conservation areas are the most recent one designated being National parks may protect some of public lands managed by the Bureau of Boulder White Clouds in Idaho. the best-known natural landmarks, but Land Management that are set aside for The Bureau of Land Management national forests, like the Flathead Na- the benefit and enjoyment of present also has 517 wilderness study areas -- tional Forest, have just as remarkable and future generations. Similar to na- lands unspoiled by roads or other devel- landscapes. The U.S. Forest Service, tional parks, national conservation areas opment that provide outstanding oppor- which is part of the Department of Ag- are designated by Congress and feature tunities for solitude. Often these places riculture, manages 154 national forests scientific, cultural, historical and recre- have special ecological, geological or under a multiple use concept -- meaning ational features. They’re places like Cali- scenic values, like Handies Peak in Colo- they provide Americans with a number fornia’s Lost Coast, King Range National rado or Slinkard in California. Some wil- of services, including lumber, grazing, Conservation Area, and Utah’s Red Cliffs derness study areas have been designat- minerals and recreation. National Conservation Area. ed as wilderness areas or national monu- Decker Dispatch 17 Web Extra Page ments, while others have been opened to history. Protecting places like Shiloh Na- cans with great outdoor recreation. Key non-wilderness uses. tional Military Park or Cowpens Nation- to wild and scenic rivers is that they are al Battlefield ensures that Americans can free-flowing streams that haven’t been National Historic Sites learn from our past. dammed or altered in any way. While Although the National Park Service the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act of 1968 is best known for protecting some of our National Recreation Areas offers different levels of classification de- country’s most inspiring landscapes, it is The southern boundary of the Rat- pending on the state of the river, in total also America’s storyteller. Over half the tlesnake National Recreation Area and it has protected more than 200 rivers in national park locations preserve places Wilderness is four miles north of Mis- 35 states and Puerto Rico. and commemorate people, events and soula, Montana. The National Recre- activities that are key to our nation’s ation Area (NRA) lies south and adjacent National Seashores and National history. National historic sites, like Bear to the wilderness and receives heavy use, Lakeshores Paw Battlefield near Chinook, contain particularly in the south, within about National seashores and nation- a single historical feature, but national three miles of the main trailhead. al lakeshores preserve shorelines and historical parks, like Glacier National National recreation areas are usually some surrounding islands. Plus, they Park, discuss multiple stories from dif- lands near large reservoirs that offer vis- are amazing places for water recreation. ferent times. No matter the name, these itors a chance to experience water-based While national lakeshores can be on any places tell iconic American stories that outdoor activities -- from swimming and natural freshwater lake, the four existing define who we are and what we stand for. kayaking to fishing and boating. These national lakeshores are all on the Great recreation areas also often include im- Lakes. The 10 national seashores are on National Memorials portant natural and cultural features. National memorials are sites that America’s three coasts: Atlantic, Gulf National recreation areas are managed and Pacific. commemorate a historical person or either by the National Park Service or tragic event. Many national memori- the Forest Service, and several of these National Trails als are located in or near the District of are near urban areas, providing great op- The Continental Divide National Columbia (think the Lincoln Memorial, portunities for Americans to connect to Scenic Trail is considered the “King of Washington Monument and Thomas nature near them. Trails” -- more difficult than its sister Jefferson Memorial), but several others long distance trails, the Appalachian and are scattered across the country. One Wild and Scenic Rivers Pacific Crest. It navigates dramatically of the most recognizable: Jefferson Na- Congress designated 149 miles of the diverse ecosystems through mountain tional Expansion Memorial in Missou- Upper Missouri as a component of the meadows, granite peaks and high-desert ri, which is home to the Gateway Arch National Wild and Scenic River System surroundings. (commonly called the St. Louis Arch). in 1976, calling it an irreplaceable legacy National trails fall into one of three National Battlefields of the historic American west. groups: scenic, historic and recreation. The Flathead River contains 138 Congress designates national scenic On August 9, 1877, gun shots shat- miles of wild and scenic river corridor, tered a chilly dawn on a sleeping camp of trails, like the Continental Divide Na- including the North Fork from the Ca- tional Scenic Trail, and national histor- Nez Perce. By the time the smoke cleared nadian border downstream to its conflu- on August 10, almost 90 Nez Perce were ic trails, like the Pony Express National ence with the Middle Fork; the Middle Historic Trail, a historic route that spans dead along with 31 soldiers and volun- Fork from its headwaters to its conflu- teers. Big Hole National Battlefield was eight states and symbolizes the spirit of ence with the South Fork; and the South the American West. When it comes to created to honor all who were there. Fork from its origin to the Hungry Horse There are a number of titles used national recreation trails (including na- Reservoir. tional water trails), the Secretary of the for battlefields -- national military park, Wild and scenic rivers preserve riv- national battlefield park, national battle- Interior or Agriculture can designate ers and the land surrounding them in these in response to an application from field site and national battlefield -- but their natural state -- providing Ameri- they all conserve our nation’s military the managing agency or organization.

The Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument covers about 375,000 acres of BLM-administered public land in central Montana. 18 Decker Dispatch