Vol. 33 Issue 3. May/June Border Patrol Mustangs Come to BCHW Annual Meeting, Page 10

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1 Vol. 33 Issue 3 May/June 2009 Border Patrol Mustangs Come to BCHW Annual Meeting, Page 10 U.S. Border Patrol Agent Fred Bauman atop his Mustang, Okanogan Photo by Jim Thode, Lewis County Chapter

2 May/June 2009 ii 2009 State Officers & Chairs President & Spokesperson Bob Gish Vice President Darrell Wallace Exec. Assistant to the President Jeanne Koester Secretary Janelle Wilson Treasurer Teri Starke Membership Chair Heather Moorman BCHA Director Bob Shonka BCHA Director Trygve Culp BCHA Alternate Director Dave Jackson Leave Not Trace Chair Jane Byram Expansion Chair Darrell Wallace Governance & By-Laws Chair Teunis Wyers Jr. BCHW Chair Randy Darling Legislative Chair & Parliamentarian Bob Brooke Public Lands Co-Chairs Trygve Culp Jeff Chapman Ways & Means Dave Swanberg Grant Development/Writing Chair Jeanne Koester Finance Chair Darrell Wallace Publicity Chair & Editor Dick Yarboro Web Master Jim Thode visit Inside this Issue Prez Says A Word From the V.P Legislative Report BCHW General Meeting Awards BCHW Auction Donors BCHW Chapter Pride on Display BCHW Store BCHW Honors Traci Koch Border Patrol Mustangs Come To BCHW Annual Meeting Out on the Trails Spring/Early Summer Riding on The Other Side BCHW Mount St. Helens Work Party Weekend at Camp Cabela s Capitol Forest Gravel Haul Centennial Celebration Calendar of Events Optional Members BCHW Chapter Locations & Director Contacts.... Inside Back Cover Magazine Published: Jan/Feb, Mar/Apr, May/Jun, Jul/Aug, Sept/Oct, Nov/Dec BCHW Mailing Address 110 W. 6th Ave. PMB 393 Ellensburg, WA Public Relations & Publisher: Washington Media Services, Inc. Joyce Willms, President & Owner 407 West Bay Dr NW Olympia, WA Fax: joyce@wamedia.com Managing Editor l Joyce Willms Editor l Dick Yarboro Creative Director l Adriane Wolfe Editor l Crissy McGee l bchw@wamedia.com BCHW Volunteer Proofreader l Sondra Johnson Website Designer l Megan Panchot Article & Advertising Manager l Crissy McGee Article word count maximum is 400 words as space is limited. Photos must be accompanied by the location, name(s) of person(s) in photo and the name of the photographer. Please submit articles and ads to Crissy at bchw@wamedia.com or mail to PO Box 7184 Olympia, WA As a 501(c)(3) organization, The Back Country Horsemen of Washington State has enacted the following policy: Back Country Horsemen of Washington State does not endorse or oppose any political candidate, donate or contribute to any political candidate s campaign, participate or engage in political fundraising events, distribute statements for or against The Disclaimer Articles which appear in The do not necessarily reflect the position, opinion or endorsement of Back Country Horsemen of Washington State (BCHW), or its officers. BCHW and Washington Media Services, Inc. are not responsible for the accuracy of all material and advertisements. Appearance of an advertisement in the THN does not constitute a recommendation or endorsement by BCHW of goods or services offered therein. Prices subject to change without warning. BCHW, Washington Media Services, Inc. and its management shall not be held responsible for any typing errors or omissions other than a correction in the next available issue. The shall not be reproduced in any form or manner without prior written agreement. This includes reproduction of articles, photos, and the BCHW logo. The is the official publication of the Back Country Horsemen of Washington State, Inc. (BCHW). particular political candidates, nor engage in any other activity that may constitute favoring or opposing a political candidate. The forgoing applies to the official position of BCHW, it does not restrict or discourage individual members from representing them selves in support of a candidate.

3 May/June 2009 Prez Says No Doubt About It By Bob Gish, BCHW President No doubt about it, BCHW members work hard and play well. The annual BCHW gathering in March was just such an example of how well we combine work and play to get the job done. Some of us wondered if we weren t trying to pack too much into a short weekend, however, by all accounts, the weekend was a success. It was jam packed, fast-paced and fun-filled from the Friday eve- BCHW really knows how to throw a party! ning potluck through the Sunday morning classes. Those of you who didn t attend the dinner and auction missed a darn good time. One guest commented that BCHW really knows how to throw a party. During the live auction our crowd roared with laughter at the hijinxs and shenanigans, while we raised money to fund our organization s mission and support our goals. This year the classes focused on both internal operations and responsibilities and education. The usual classes were expanded to include the first half of chainsaw certification, trail maintenance and construction, and several BCHW operational trainings were offered on both Saturday and Sunday. Members that attended were relieved not to be on snow watch. The weekend program enabled travelers to come and stay awhile, so that the trip was more worth it. The only comment concerning leadership training was that it was hard for some folks, who were new officers, to get up to speed with their jobs if they had to wait for three months from taking office. While this could be a concern, it would be optimal in any case if the outgoing officer took time to share information, make introductions in December, and hook-up the newbies without leaving them hanging and ill-prepared until leadership training. This transitional support can and should occur initially at the chapter level, and leadership training can further enhance the specifics of BCHW policy and procedure. BCHW does have a fair amount of work in progress, so it is critical that we put effort into getting and staying informed. There are numerous mechanisms set up for that purpose, in addition to leadership training. The treasurers, volunteer hours coordinators, directors and other BCHW internet communication groups are useful tools, as is the yahoo group, which is an open forum discussion for all members. Thank you members for putting in your time, and thank you to those members who received awards for their hard work in I remain impressed with the depth of your commitment and the formidable strength of our combined energy. BCHW Mission Statement BCHW is affiliated with Back Country Horsemen of America (hereinafter BCHA ) and therefore adopts the BCHA mission statement as follows: The mission of this organization shall be: To perpetuate the common sense use and enjoyment of horses in America s back country and wilderness. To work to insure that public lands remain open to recreational stock use. To assist the various governmental and private agencies in their maintenance and management of said resource. To educate, encourage and solicit active participation in the wise use of the back country resource by horsemen and the general public commensurate with our heritage. To foster and encourage the formation of new chapters in the state organization. 1

4 A Word From The V.P. May/June 2009 What Are We Accomplishing, Anyway? By Darrell Wallace, BCHW Vice President Wow! That meeting last month in Ellensburg was a doozy! Combining leadership with our general meeting turned out to be lots of fun, with only one trip over the passes. We got a few new people at the auction, and everybody seemed to have a pretty good time. Plus, we raised a fair amount of money for BCHW looks like a win-win for everybody. Not everyone realizes that we also held a Board of Directors meeting there on Friday evening. We normally meet for at least five hours, but when we start the meeting at 7 p.m., you can guess that we try to get a lot done in a short time, and last month was no exception. The directors can be proud of themselves for having several spirited discussions when they all wanted to adjourn. Speaking of accomplishments: did you know that our organization volunteered over 70,000 hours last year? It keeps growing each year, thanks to you members. Getting those grants sure seem to help. We are applying for another two-year trails grant, so keep your fingers crossed (actually, I saw what our Grant Committee submitted, and it looks good!). What about the Okanogan folks? That Whistler Canyon trail project is a big deal, and they ve already accomplished the hardest part. And those awards! I am so proud of our Awards Committee. They recognized several members for lifetime achievement, because we know we should recognize more of our longtime hard-working members. Let s not forget that we forced the issue until the WWHAM program got going, so we can actually get certified hay to take to national forests. Nor should we forget the dozens of issues that the Public Lands Committee took up last year. Nor the dozens of visits, testimonies, and other works of the Legislative Committee. Having just returned from an LNT Basic Training, how can we forget what that committee has accomplished? Grants, trailer, classes, brochures and an overall great image for back country horsemen. Y know, we had a pretty darned good year let s celebrate it for a minute, then go out and make this year just as good! Happy Trails! Great Job Everyone! BCHW Publicity Chair: Dick Yarboro easyrider@scattercreek.com BCHW Editors: Joyce Willms bchw@wamedia.com Crissy McGee bchw@wamedia.com your articles to Crissy for the next issue of the! Trail Riding And Pack Trips In Washington Where to ride and how to get there With the special chapter on Map & Compass Use is again available because of requests for a 3rd reprint. This is a limited and final reprint! 36 trail maps, trail tips, stock first aid, 150 trail guides and over 300 pages. Copies may also be ordered from: Runnin W Inc. P.O. Box 1307 Wilsonville, OR for $18.95 plus $2.75 for postage. 2

5 May/June 2009 Legislative Report Politics Continue Year Round By Bob Brooke, BCHW Legislative Chair We had a grand time in Olympia on March 2nd. Many dedicated folks made the supreme effort to brave the passes and travel to the west side of the state. We had a meeting on Sunday night and had a chance to chat. Monday morning the Leave Not Trace (LNT) gang erected the new tent and found that all of the pieces did not match. It seems the frame was one section short of a tent, but between Doc and Deb Wesselius, Louise Caywood, Jerry Parsons, and Jane Byram, they somehow got it to work. Once the tent was standing, Tony Karniss and Sherri Wright from Lewis County chapter set up the inside displays. Heather Vobril and Karen Amaral of Pierce County chapter brought and set up a PowerPoint slideshow on a projector to show a number of trail work projects around the state. Were it not for the wind and the short frame, this might have been a perfect day. However, the wind constantly blew, and by noon, it was apparent that we needed to strike camp before the tent became a kite. There were more than 65 folks there and we made a favorable impression in the marble halls of the legislature. We will be working all this year to have a more concise approach to covering the entire legislative body next year. We had multiple visits to some and no visits to others. But, alas, we are a work in progress. The bills that we worked on this year did not gain much traction. House Bill 1733 is, at this writing, still alive and will probably pass. That is the bill that addressed the Department of Revenue attempting to disqualify equine business from the Open Space Act and collect taxes from up to seven years back. This met with an outpouring of contempt by many who work from their homes in the horse business. The level of citizen activity that descended on Olympia definitely caught the attention of all the lawmakers. There was not only sympathy for the position of the landowners, but also a rush of legislators to write bills that would address and fix the problem. Of the bills written, HB 1733 is the only one still standing. As we move into the summer, we tend to put politics on the floor of the tack room where we don t often see it. Although that provides some piece of mind, we still know it is there. So the request is for all the chapters to make politics a part of their fun time this riding season. Invite your district representatives and senator on a ride. Take them to an area were BCHW has done some trail work. Show them what some of over 68,000 hours of volunteer time, worth over 1.4 million dollars to the state of Washington, have accomplished in just one place. Then remind them that this effort is in fact a participation in land stewardship from the equestrian community. Remind them also that when we request money for our state land managers, we accompany that request with a pledge to leverage those funds for the benefit of all user groups. Explain to them that, in many cases, only equestrian support can transport needed tools and supplies to project areas. Recreation is an asset that this state sells on an ongoing basis. Recreation is what attracts many businesses and, consequently, employees to this state and which equals money and commerce. Man, horse and mule not only maintain the trails, they belong on them. We are an asset to this state and we need to assume the same demeanor. Have a great, safe, and productive summer riding the trails we love. 3

6 BCHW General Meeting Awards May/June BCHW Awards By Lori Lennox, BCHW Awards Chair, Grays Harbor Chapter The Mt. Adams Chapter had the daunting but honorable task of reading, judging and selecting the BCHW Award winners that were presented at this year s General Meeting. There were over a dozen nominees submitted for the Lifetime Achievement, Lopper and Camp Cook Awards and it took almost four hours for the process to finish, with a short time out for a wonderful lunch, of course! Outgoing Awards Chair Traci Koch and I as the incoming chair, traveled over three hours to White Salmon to the home of Gene & Connie Baugher who hosted this event. Eight MABCHW members graciously gave up riding on a beautiful February Saturday for the task. Many thanks to them! 2009 Lifetime Achievement Awards: George Brown Cascade Horse Club & Traildusters Diane & Gary Putney Island County Dolly & Ray Watkins Ferry County Lopper Awards (for work done in 2008 & prior): Larry Baysinger Peninsula Richard Guthrie Cascade Horse Club & Traildusters Dave Swanberg Okanogan & Methow Valley Camp Cook: (for work done in 2008 & prior): Traci Koch Oakland Bay, Grays Harbor and Mt. Adams Photos by Jim Thode Volunteer Hour Awards, chosen by outgoing Chair Traci Koch: Overall Coordinator: Peg Swanberg Okanogan Valley New Coordinator: Mary Jane Heggenes Methow Valley Outstanding Chapter Documentation: Lewis County Chapter & Deb Wesselius A bit of awards history: In or around 2003, then President Dave Jackson designated the first awards chairman. Before that, the President did this job. He appointed Traci Koch, who came up with the method for the judging process in which BCHW members would do the judging. Chapters from all over the state have since been involved. The BCHW Lifetime Achievement Award is relatively new. It was first handed out in In the subsequent years there was only one winner selected annually. That changed this year when the Mt. Adams judges, after reading all the submissions, declared that this should not be a contest, but rather a well-earned recognition to those deserving the Lifetime designation. President Bob Gish agreed and for 2009 there are three outstanding individuals and/or couples who were rightfully recognized. Members: these are YOUR awards that are given to you and your peers. As the new chair, I am reviewing the process to make sure it is how YOU want it done. Please give me your input and ideas regarding the judging, designations, the awards themselves, etc. llennox@centurytel.net or (no evening calls please). (Continued on page 5) Special Thanks to Volunteers! Live Auction Jeff LaBreck, Dir. Capital Riders Silent Auction Jim Thode Bucket Raffle JoAnn Yost, Grays Harbor Dinners Dave Jackson, Dir. Purple Sage Riders Registration Peggy Swanberg, OVC; Dolly Watkins and Gail Downs, Ferry Co. RV parking Bob Mayer, Dir. Crab Creek Riders Annual Meeting Co-chairs Bob Gish & Darrell Wallace We apologize if we missed you or space didn t permit us to mention you. Also, thank you to all of our wonderful bidders! 4

7 May/June 2009 BCHW General Meeting Awards Photos by Jim Thode 5

8 BCHW Auction Donors Thank You BCHW Auction Donors! May/June 2009 By Traci Koch Live Auction Capitol Riders Trail Saw 24" Whatcom Chapter Trail Saw 24" Carol Wilcox Bosal with Horse Hair Reins BCHW Ad Washington Media Services Camp Grill with Rotisserie Harbor Saw Stihl Hedge Trimmer Okanogan Valley Chapter Large Framed Print Okanogan Valley Chapter Eden Valley Guess Ranch Mt. Adams Chapter Fly Rod Mt. Adams Chapter Circle Y Trail Saddle Methow Valley Chapter Stihl Chain Saw, Hat, Case Olympic Chapter Western Ride for 3 days Glenco supply Your Trail to the future buckle Purple Sage Rider End of trail medial sculpture Glenco supply BCHW Logo Jacket Daniel Anderson Metal Sculpture Skull by BCHW Multi-Use Dump Cart Merten Ranch 1/2 Ton Certified Hay Inland Empire Chapter Hat Rack with Mirror Carol Wilcox Bosal with Horse Hair Reins Lewis County Chapter Cross Cut Saw Wall Deco Enumclaw Trail Riders Leather Rifle Scabbord BCHW Donation Funds Leather Tooled Purse Mac-a-bee Framed Photo Lewis County Chapter Milk Can Lamp BCHW Donation Funds Framed Hunt Print BCHW Donation Funds Summer Ride Shovel Mt. Adams Chapter Wooden Saddle Rack Chris Tornow Leather Cowhide Purse Jackie Angermeir Quilt Nisqually Chapter Horse Shoe Coat Rack Eco Teck Dist Co Hoofgrind Soil Stabilizer System 28sqft Trail Dusters Fancy Leather Headstall Cascade Mt. Grilling Catered Dutch Oven Dinner Donation Funds, Karen Johnson Tequila Basket Rattlesnake Ridge Riders Bench N.E. Chapter Certified Weed-Seed-Free Hay Laura Kingman Statue Laura Kingman Earrings 2010 Head Table Winners (Bid came to over $1,400) Trygve Culp, Okanogan County George Young, Ferry County Kim Merrick, Tahoma Jeff LaBreck, Capitol Riders Silent Auction Dave Swanberg Rick Glad Rene Ogan Jackie Angermier Tack Room 2 Willapa Hills Chapter Gail Caskey Youngs Darrell Wallace Sally Laib Darin & Heather Moorman Gerry Magnuson Enumclaw Trail Riders Northeast Chapter Donated Fund Service Supples Capitol Riders Whatcom Chapter Donated Fund Dels Willapa Hills Chapter Gail Caskey Colette Hones Wine County Rider Nisqually Tom Moran Tack Room 2 Capitol Riders Kipperts Korner Enumclaw Trail Riders Chris Tobey Capitol Riders Grays Harbor Chapter Left Over Gerry Magnuson Capitol Riders Dick Yarboro Tack Room 2 Peg Greiwe Myrna Conine Eagle Art Mariner Tickets 3 Trail Guide Books Painted Pony Head Stall Horse Head Folding Chairs Mule Bridle Lights & Pyrex Knifes Cee Dubs Cook Book Photo of Horse & Foal Cowgirl Sign Muck Accessories Pack Scall Cowboy Picture Collapsible Can Rain Chaps Puzzle Candles & Pillars Oilskin Chaps Blue Bucket JC Cookie Jar Folding Chairs Giddy Up Necklace and Earrings Set of 4 Ranch Glasses Bird House Wood Saddle Stand Shoe Lamp Montana Buckle Puzzle Groom Bucket Portable 4 Horse Highline Kit Framed Photo Cabin 5 Gal Water Container Horse Books Multi Use Table Quilt Hanging Spot Light Hand Made Magnet Outback Coat Party Cooler Wine Holder & Wine Wool Seat Pad Coleman Stand Wall Hanging Spur Straps 6 (Continued on page 7)

9 May/June 2009 Auction Donors BCHW Auction Donors (Continued from page 6) Whatcom Chapter Jeanne Koester Olympia Auto Service Chris Tobey Capitol Riders Jacksons Bucket Auction Lori Lennox Karen Johnson Carol Wilcox Myrna Conine Wooden Sculpture Figurine Magna Cart Racks & Towels Folding Funds Seahawks Tickets Framed Photo Fighting Elk Saddle Bags Mare & Foal Framed Mule Welcome Sign Wolf Earrings 12 Volt Heated Coffee Cup Leather Purse Outback Ball Cap Horse Clippers Olympic Chapter Note Cards Olympic Chapter Flannel shirt Myrna Conine Roping Reins Olympic Chapter Jeans Shirts Chair Brella Myrna Conine Leather Halter & Horse Myrna Conine Slip on Spurs Myrna Conine Leather Halter Olympic Chapter Shea wear Skin Care Wine County Riders Born to ride shirt Marvin & Shirly Starkel Canvas Feed Bag Hitch Cover Ellensburg Saddle Company Picture Frames Unknown Hobbie Horse and Yodal Book Auction Funds License frames Buckhorn Chapter Wine & Chocolate Flask & Funnel Set We apologize if we missed you on the list! If your name was missed, please Crissy at Names not on this list will be featured in the July/August 2009 issue of the. Thank you again for supporting BCHW! BCHW Chapter Pride on Display By Wanda Holloway, BCHW Crab Creek Riders Chapter Publicity Chair The Chapter Pride on Display competition, in its fourth year, has expanded to seven excellent displays, all vying for the First Place trophy. Two chapters have dominated the award; Whatcom Co. Chapter and Okanogan Valley Chapter. Since Crab Creek Riders, the sponsoring chapter, Okanogan Valley Chapter display. had a display, we found three individuals sitting around relaxing. They happily volunteered to judge and rate the displays from first to third, considering eye appeal, information given, creativity of design, etc. Participants were Alpine Lakes, Trail Dusters, Crab Creek Riders, Grays Harbor, Ferry Co. Okanogan and Whatcom Co. The challenge will continue in We want to see the walls lined with displays. The trophy, this year, was a keeper. Yes, Okanogan Valley Chapter got to take their trophy with them to hang wherever they wish. The Traveling Trophy will return in 2010 to Wanda Holloway, Bob Gish and Dave Swanberg awarding the trophy. sit with the Okanogan Valley display, ready to meet the challenge of the other chapters. A new, smaller version will again go home with the 2010 winner. Are you up to the challenge? See you in

10 BCHW Store May/June Quantity Item (check color where applicable) Price Total Baseball Logo Caps: o Dk Blue o Dk Green o Black $15.00 Scarves: o Green o Yellow o Red $ 6.00 Truck Decals $ 3.50 Bumper Stickers $1.50 Shoulder Patch $3.00 Volunteer Patch 50 Hr Chevron $ Hr Chevron $ Hr Chevron $ Hr Chevron $1.75 BCH Guide Book (If mailed) $1.75 (If not mailed) $0.50 BCHW Calendars (Calendar) $11.95 (Shrink Wrap) $0.50 Shipping $1.95 BCHW Silhouette Sticker: $10.00 o Black o White Wine Glasses/Beer Steins $7.00 Flask $14.00 T-shirts (Medium gray with black logo) Small $15.00 Medium $15.00 Large $15.00 X-Large $15.00 XX-Large $15.00 Leg Slickers Regular $33.00 Regular Tall $33.00 Husky $33.00 Husky Tall $33.00 New BCHW Brochure FREE TAX ( %) GRAND TOTAL ENCLOSED Send Order to: Donna Geerdes Allen West Rd. Bow, WA dnd.geerdes@gmail.com Name: (Please Print) Address: City State Zip Prices not including tax. Please fill out tax using the tax rate for your area. Wine glass, flask and beer stein Leg slickers The NEW BCHW Brochures are available at NO CHARGE. Call Donna Geerdes at to order yours TODAY!! Please clip out and mail!

11 May/June 2009 BCHW Honors Traci Koch By Doc Wesselius, BCHW Publicity Coordinator, Lewis County Chapter As back country horsemen ride into the 21st century, they are facing extraordinary circumstances that are often beyond their expertise. Budget cuts in all levels of public land management agencies are curtailing efforts to keep trails open for recreational stock use. In the past, BCHW supported various government agencies with maintenance and management of horse camps, trailheads, and trails; however, challenging economic times now call for other solutions. Acquiring grant funds for either local projects or combined BCHW trail projects is now a necessity. Securing money from grants is a daunting task; requiring proficiency in organization and record keeping. Photo by Jim Thode Traci Koch stepped up and took on the challenge for BCHW. BCHW owes a debt of gratitude to Traci for her efforts to lead the organization into the realities of finding solutions for the economic hardships we have encountered. Thank you, Traci, for your dedication to BCHW and all it stands for! 9

12 May/June 2009 Border Patrol Mustangs Come To BCHW Annual Meeting By Jeff LaBreck, BCHW Capitol Riders Chapter Ellensburg, WA The BCHW Annual Meeting was enhanced by the presence of U.S. Border Patrol Agents Fred Bauman and Jorge Vasquez and their Mustangs Okanogan and Bullet. All four had achieved celebrity status by their participation in the Presidential Inauguration Day Parade in Washington, D.C. The agents and their Mustangs easily became a part of our event and could be seen in their inauguration day finery riding around the area and visiting with BCHW attendees. As Agent Bauman commented, We enjoyed the event and talked with a lot of people and were able to answer many questions. A positive experience for the Border Patrol and BCHW. Photo by Jim Thode Our visitors came down from the Oroville Station of the U.S. Border Patrol s Spokane Sector. The Spokane Sector s Mustang Unit was formed in the spring of 2007 when they adopted eight wild horses through the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Wild Horse and Burro Program. Known for their strength, intelligence, endurance and sure-footedness, wild horses met the need for a durable animal physically capable of working in areas that are virtually inaccessible to motorized vehicles. The Spokane Sector Border Patrol s area of operations is characterized by mountain ranges, wilderness areas, national forests and parks. Through a cooperative agreement between BLM and the Colorado Department of Corrections, these wild horses received personal and extensive training as part of a unique inmate rehabilitative program at the Canon City, CO correctional institution before arriving at the Spokane Sector. By entering into this three-way partnership, the Border Patrol has seized the oppor- 10 tunity to use an integral part of American history to expand our enforcement efforts and ensure that our borders are safer. Over the past year, the Mustang Unit has participated in the 53rd Annual Chicago s St. Patrick s Day Parade as well as the 70th Annual Spokane Lilac Festival s Armed Forces Torchlight Parade, where they received the top award for Best Specialty Mounted Unit. Most recently, the Noble Mustangs traveled to the Ellensburg Rodeo and to Cheyenne, Wyoming for Frontier Days, the world s largest outdoor rodeo and western celebration, where they captured the Best Mounted Unit Award. Since a major BCHW focus is the clearing of trails on U.S. Forest Service and WA State Department of Natural Resources managed public lands, collaborative efforts are very important. During our visit Agent Bauman said, We are working with the Okanogan Valley Chapter to get our Explorer Unit involved in helping with the work on Federal and State managed lands. Photo by Jim Thode

13 May/June 2009 Out on the Trails Spring/Early Summer Riding on "The Other Side..." By Susie Drougas, BCHW Wenas Galley Chapter A lot of Backcountry Horsemen Chapters are pretty predictable on their rides. Every year it s Burke Lake, We- is a primitive camp. A beautiful grassy little meadow. There is meadow open up with the camp sign on your left-pull in. This nas, Conrad Meadows, Haney Meadows, Keenes Horse no human water or bathrooms, but there is a creek within walking distance for the stock. The Wenas BCHW clears the trails Camp. Sometimes it can be a little repetitive. Here s a couple choices of something different to try. up here every Memorial Day weekend, so I would suggest going up any time after that. There are two Beverly Photo by Jacque Sansaver This is accessed main trails that head by going south on I-90 out of here, Russell to the Vantage Bridge. Ridge Trail and the On the east side turn Kitten Creek Trail. right on Highway 26 Russell Ridge is a nice towards Mattawa. At long day ride that gives the split, stay on 243 you the opportunity towards Mattawa. Just for a beautiful lunch past the Beverly train spot overlooking Rimrock Lake. The Kitten tressel make a left on Lower Crab Creek Creek Trail is a little Road. Follow the road more difficult, but if approximately 8 miles. you head up to Burnt You will camp right Mountain at the top in the shadows of the you get breathtaking Saddleback Mountains. They are a spec- mountain views. tacular sight. The riding is cross-country, Photo by Jacque Sansaver Cabin at Beverly with lakes, lots of birds, and lava rock formations. On our trip, we headed out of camp east on the John Wayne Trail and went a couple miles until we saw a place we could ride up the rocky hills on our left. Heading up to what we thought would be a good lunch spot, we went a little further and came upon an old cabin. It appeared to be an old lineshack, and boy what a view they had out of their front door! This is a lot of fun for early riding. We went the first weekend of March. Wildcat Take White Pass (Highway 12) to the Camp Jubilee turnoff, Follow the road past the Thunder Lake Road and take the next right. You will know by the small road sign that will read VERY IM- PORTANT TO TAKE A RIGHT. Take another right at the next road, 370. There is a small FS sign back off the road a little. Stay on 370, take your time and you ll see a Michaela Drougas, Autumn Sansaver, Mike Drougas, Robin Granger and Susie Drougas gazing at Mount Adams from Burnt Mountain Trail. 11

14 Out on the Trails May/June 2009 BCHW Mount St. Helens Work Party By Vickie M Larson, BCHW Mount St. Helens Chapter Publicity Chair The Mount St. Helens BCHW is at it again. They have joined forces with six other clubs that are all outdoor enthusiasts; four of them are equine oriented. On February 28, they all came together to harden trail surfaces and prevent future water damage to the Tarbell Trail out of the Rock Creek Horse Camp, located close to Yacolt, Washington. Rock Creek Campground is maintained by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) in Clark County and really depends on the hours that BCHW donates to clear trails, maintain structures and help educate the community on the best practices of clean up so our resources will stay intact for future use. The BCHW has been an asset to DNR in working to partner on projects that will best enhance the most used areas, by people from all areas of local and distant communities. This is especially important when the State of Washington is struggling with a budget that is facing huge deficits and there are large shortfalls in their operational allowances. What better time to partner up and use what we have available! They were invited to join by Barb Thomas, President of Washington Trail Riders Association, and boy did they hop on it, 12 A remembrance of your loved one can be made to Back Country Horsemen of Washington. For more information, please call Teri Starke, BCHW Treasurer, at adding a little money to the kitty as well. It was very amazing to watch the mules from the Columbia River Longears wearing pack bags, pack gravel to areas that badly needed the rock and dump it part way up the trail. In these hard economic times when people are nervous about job losses and paying monthly expenses it was exciting to have over 38 volunteers show up and have local business like Dan s Tractor and Polar Trucking & Excavating donate their equipment and time to deliver gravel. Times might be tough but community spirit is still alive and the passion for maintaining the back country is still the mission of the Mount St. Helens BCHW. Official Okanogan Country Travel Planner Available Now! Okanogan Country... More to explore! IS YOU! IS YOU! Friendly Unbeatable hospitality = fun for the whole family Affordable 1,000 miles of scenic trails & 3 million acres of public lands = lots of free fun and always Open for Adventure! (888) Okanogan County Tourism Council OCTC is funded entirely by lodging taxes and the fees of its membership North Central Washington State

15 May/June 2009 Out on the Trails A Weekend at Camp Cabela s By Julianne Rice, BCHW Olympic Chapter Publicity Chair It all began when seeking a donation. The Events Coordinator for the Cabela s store, Arlen Veleke, invited the Olympic Chapter to participate in their Spring Great Outdoor Days on behalf of BCHW. I jumped at the opportunity to participate in any event to promote BCHW. During the next chapter meeting, I shared this opportunity with much excitement and recruited volunteer help. We called to obtain the State Leave No Trace (LNT) trailer for the event but it was previously booked for Leadership. On Legislative Day, our chapter president, Gerry Magnuson, approached Jane Byram, BCHW LNT Education Chair. The decision was made to support this event. Jane arranged for Larry Baysinger, a LNT Master Trainer, to come and put on a packing demonstration. We picked up the LNT Trailer and volunteers were signed up to work. The Olympic Chapter was well on its way! Friday afternoon found us in a torrential downpour, short a couple of horses. We quickly remedied that problem thanks to Photo by Joyce Willms Members, please visit and take the Washington Wilderness Hay and Mulch (WWHAM) survey. Your help is greatly appreciated! Photo by Joyce Willms Harold Jones. What great fun to learn how to set up the outfitter tent from the LNT trailer! Thankfully, Larry and Mike McCracken were extremely helpful and willing teachers. They were camping in their tent right there as part of the parking lot display, authentic wood smoke and all! Saturday dawned cold and foggy but not rainy. After putting the finishing touches on the display tent, we prepared for the public. Debra Boyer, another LNT Master Trainer, arrived to set up the indoor LNT display. What an awesome day!!! Thousands of people attended, the best being all the families with children who wanted to see and pet the horses. We handed out hundreds of pieces of information including the new BCHW brochure, LNT information, Join BCH of WA, our Olympic Chapter BCH flyer, etc. We also answered questions, shared pictures, our mission, and explained our partnerships. The weather even cooperated and gave us some sun. Larry s packing demonstration was informative and entertaining. His mule, Kate, stole the hearts of many. Sunday we awoke to rain on the roof, but by store opening, the clouds broke and it was just as successful as Saturday. Fortunately, we re invited back to future events to help BCHW become a well-known entity, inside and outside the horse community. THANKS to the Olympic Chapter members who spent their time and effort to make this event what it was YOU ROCK!! Also, special thanks to the Cabela s Store in Lacey, WA and Cabela s Events Coordinator, Arlen Veleke. The same goes for Larry, Mike and a special thanks to Debra for enduring a long Saturday with no relief! 13

16 Out on the Trails May/June Capitol Forest Gravel Haul By Doc Wesselius, BCHW Regional Publicity Coordinator The multi-chapter Back Country Horsemen gravel haul in the Capitol Forest had a rewarding turnout of volunteers from nine chapters. Buckhorn Range, Capitol Riders, Enumclaw Trail Riders, Grays Harbor County, Lewis County, Pierce County, Nisqually, Scatter Creek Riders and Willapa Hills chapters had members attending the work party. Ed Haeflinger, Capitol Riders Chapter, organized the work party that has been held for the past four years. This year the weekend weather forecast indicated that the trail workers were going to get drenched; however, the deluge subsided by starting time Saturday morning. Despite the intermittent rain, sleet, and snow throughout the day, the undaunted work crews completed their projects on the Mima- Porter #8 Trail. Photo by Jim Thode One hundred thirty-seven volunteers from various trail organizations showed up to assist the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) in graveling and maintaining the trail. In addition to Back Country Horsemen, there were representatives from Friends of Capitol Forest (mountain bikers), Competitive Mounted Orienteering, and the Silver Spurs 4-H Club. The trailhead is near the gun club and gets heavy use by many different types of trail recreationists hikers, bikers, and stock riders. (Continued on page 15) 14

17 May/June 2009 Out on the Trails Gravel Haul (Continued from page 14) DNR personnel, land management agency for Capitol Forest, were organized by Nick Cronquist, Community Outreach & Volunteer Coordinator. Twenty pack stock, escorted by mounted volunteers, were engaged to haul the gravel to trail work sites where causeways were constructed and ready to fill. Gravel at the trailhead was loaded by the ground crew into buckets and the Photo by Jim Thode 2009 Membership Application: Back Country Horsemen of Washington State, Inc. All adult members need to sign the form. Chapter Members: Turn in to chapter treasurer. Independent Members mail to: BCHW ATTN: MEMBERSHIP, 110 W. 6th Ave., PMB 393, Ellensburg, WA I would like to help preserve the Horsemen s rights to use horses on public lands. o New Member o Renewal/Past Member Mmbr #: County Legislative District Adult Names (please print) Children Names (please print) Phone ( ) Cell ( ) Chapter Address City State Zip Occupation Do you want to be a Volunteer? o Yes o No What would you like to volunteer for? State membership for 2009 calendar year. Family Membership $ 49 Single Membership $ 36 Additional State Donation $ Chapter Dues $ Optional Memberships (Includes Family or Single Membership) Contributing Member $ 65 Sustaining Member $ 100 Patron Member $ 250 Benefactor Member $ 500 TOTAL ENCLOSED $ weighed buckets were carefully loaded onto the pack stock. At both the staging area and work sites, safety was always an issue since ground crews were working in close proximity with stock. Stock handlers calmly restrained the horses and mules while loading and unloading the gravel. The gravel was unloaded at muddy segments in the trail by the trail crew. After the stock left the work site the trail was filled and leveled before the trail crew moved to another section to build a solid trail base. Eight tons of gravel was hauled for the trail surfacing. Radio equipped personnel coordinated the movements of the two pack strings as they traveled up and down the trail, avoiding the complications of stock passing on a trail. The announcement that it was time for a lunch break was received with enthusiasm. Warm food and drinks donated by Costco had been prepared by volunteer Back Country Horsemen cooks. After the day s accomplishments everyone was proud of the job well done. Especially appreciative was the DNR personnel that were grateful for the efforts of volunteer organizations helping to maintain their trails. It was rewarding to see various recreational user groups working together to improve trails for use on public lands.! Please clip out and mail! Recognizing the fact that there is a potential for an accident wherever horse use is involved, which can cause injuries to horses, riders, and spectators, and also recognizing the fact that Back Country Horsemen of Washington State, Inc., including chapters, officers, directors, or members cannot always know the condition of trails or the experience of riders or horses taking part in Trail Rides or other BCHW functions, I do hereby release the above named from any claim or right for damages which might occur to me, my minor children or horses. Signed Dated Signed Dated Signed Dated Dues are deductible as Charitable Contributions for Income Tax Purposes. Dues may be considered ordinary and necessary business deductions. BCHW is a 501 c 3 non profit organization. The information on this membership application will be shared with BCH of America, and if so designated by the applicant, the appropriate local chapter of BCHW. Otherwise, the information will not be divulged to any other person or organization without the express permission of the applicant. 15! Please clip out and mail!

18 Out on the Trails May/June 2009 Centennial Celebration By Wanda Holloway, BCHW Crab Creek Riders Chapter Publicity Chair Crab Creek Riders Chapter joined the City of Ephrata, WA to celebrate Grant County s 100th birthday. The Inland Empire County of Grant, in the great State of Washington, is 100 years old this year; and we wanted to be a part of the action. Why you ask? Anyone passing through the undeveloped areas of Grant County will still see open grassland and sagebrush and many little potholes of water. Until 1906, at least, Grant County was full of feral horses. In 1996 Crab Creek Riders joined in the celebration of the 100th year of the Last Grand Roundup. Even then there were wild horses in the basin for many, many years. There is horse history here! On February 24th, in front of a well-decorated courthouse, were Crab Creek Riders own president, Bill Bailey, leading his pack horse, and board director, Bob Mayer, with his pack mules and faithful dog, Buddy. BCHW Ad Rates Ad Ad Ad Cost Ad Cost Size Dimensions 1x Insertion 6x Insertion (eligible for web site ad, see right for details) Back Cover 3/4 page 8" H x 8" W $ $435x6=$2,610 (Save $90.00) Inside Front Cover 10" H x 7 1/2" W $ $435x6=$2,610 (Save $90.00) Inside Back Cover 10" H x 7 1/2" W $ $410x6=$2,460 (Save $90.00) Full Page 10" H x 7 1/2" W $ $385x6=$2,310 (Save $90.00) 3/4 Page 6 1/4" H x 7 1/2" W $ $285x6=$1,710 (Save $90.00) Half Page 4 3/4" H x 7 1/2" W $ $205x6=$1,230 (Save $90.00) Third Page 3 1/2 H x 7 1/2 W $ $165x6=$990 (Save $90.00) Quarter Page 4 3/4" H x 3 5/8" W $ $105x6=$630 (Save $90.00) Business Card 2" H x 3 5/8" W $75.00 $65x6=$390 (Save $90.00) Ad Deadline Dates Publish Date and Payment Due of Newsletter (or first business day after this date) December 1...Jan/Feb February 1...Mar/April April 1...May/June June 1...July/Aug August 1...Sept/Oct October 1...Nov/Dec Payment policy: Payment is due before insertion date of ad. Make payment payable to: Back Country Horsemen of Washington State Send check along with ad to: Washington Media Services, Inc. P.O. Box 7184, Olympia, WA (360) Fax (360) Conditions: Washington Media Services, Inc. and the Back Country Horsemen of Washington State Trailhead News magazine assumes no financial responsibility for typographical errors or omissions. The advertiser assumes liability for the content of the advertisement and any claims that may arise there from against the publisher. When a contract is signed to run an ad for 1 year, you are eligible to have an ad on the BCHW web site for free. Call (360) for more information. Ads must meet professional publishing standards. Modifications are billable for design at $75.00 per hour, $40.00 minimum charge, billed to the advertiser. For questions about production standards, please call Crissy at Washington Media Services, Inc. (360) All ads subject to approval by BCHW. Ads must be the same size for all six insertions and must be paid in advance at first insertion for discount and a free ad on website on insertion. $ per issue spot color charge Any advertising questions please contact: Crissy McGee or Adriane Wolfe (360) bchw@wamedia.com visit: 16 cm_2_19_09

19 May/June 2009 Calendar of Events 2009 Calendar of Events Be sure to check with the ride host about whether or not weed-seed-free feed is required by law. If you are going to any of the events, be sure to contact the ride host to check for updates. Please clean up around your trailer. We want the ride host to be able to use the land again next year. Horse-N-Around 4-H Club Prize Ride May 2, 2009, Pack Forest Robin Harris: Lewis County Chapter Oak Creek Ride/Campout/Potluck May 2 & 3, 2009 Naches (Eastern WA) Tom Herrin: Inland Empire Chapter Annual Poker Ride Fund Raiser May 9, 2009 Cost: pre-registered by May 2, $13, $4 extra hand; register at the event $18, $5 extra hands; kids under 18 ride free. Fish Trap Lake, WA (24 miles west of Spokane) Ken: or Information and registration Kitsap Saddle Club Capitol Forest Prize Ride May 9, 2009 Susan: JSBK@aol.com Lewis County Chapter Fun Ride May 9, 2009 Burnt Ridge Trail near Onalaska. $10 donation (includes prize drawing. $5 donation for children under 12. Jim Thode: jthode@myhome.net or Larry Davis: larry232@aol.com Pierce County Poker Ride May 9, 2009, Elbe Mike Lentz: pccbchw.org Alpine Lakes Trail Riders Annual Poker Ride May 16, 2009, first rider out at 9 am $5 per hand, profits go to our scholarship account Joe Watt Canyon, about ten miles west of Ellensburg Debbie Cernick: rcernick@gmail.com Oakland Bay Chapter 8th Annual Fun Ride May 16th 2009 Kennedy Creek, Mason County Cost: $10.00 Marie Schacher: blonderosa_2@yahoo.com Pierce County Sheriff Ride at Nicholson Trail System May 16, 2009, Elbe piercecountysheriffsposse.org Nisqually Chapter Prize Ride May 17, 2009, Yelm First rider out: 9 am, Last rider out: 11 am Venders, yard sale. Three hour loop, fun trail. Donation: $10.00/person Free raffle ticket drawing to receive a prize! No dogs or stallions on trail. Gloria: , gpsranch@msn.com or Lana: baldhillsmules@hotmail.com Lewis County Chapter Memorial Day Ride & Campout May 23-25, 2009 The Nile (Eastern WA) Joe & Cindy Chenier: Roslyn Riders Ride May 24, 2009 Playfield SR 903, Roslyn Maria Fisher: WTA Pack-in May 30, 2009, Packwood Lake Doc Wesselius: (Continued on page 18) FREE LISTING (For BCHW Chapters Only) If you are having a ride or an event that is open to all BCHW members, please your event to Crissy at bchw@wamedia.com for the Calendar of Events at no charge (refer to the form on page 19) or mail it to: PO Box 7184, Olympia, WA

20 Calendar of Events May/June Calendar of Events (Continued from page 17) WTA Pack-out June 7, 2009 Packwood Lake Doc Wesselius: Eastern Washington AQHA Prize Ride June 7, 2009 Silver Ridge Ranch, Easton ewqha.com Camping info at silverridgeranch.com BCHW Board of Directors Meeting June 13, 2009, Ellensburg Gray s Harbor Chapter First Annual Paul Eveleth Memorial Ride June 20, 2009, in Shelton Trailhead is off the California Rd. First rider out at 9:00 am. $7.00 for the first hand. Lunch available for additional. Tom Moran: tommasonco@yahoo.com. Wenatchee Valley Chapter 20th Annual Steak/Poker Ride June 20, 2009 Near Leavenworth, WA. Darlene Walton: msum607288@aol.com Capitol Forest WSU Ride for Research June 20, 2009, Mt. St. Helens BCH Funride June 20, 2009, Kalama Horse Camp just west of Cougar, WA off Hwy 503 Lots of prizes, food, and fun!! Jim & Terri Anderson: jimterrimustride@aol.com Judy Smith: trailridenbuddy@yahoo.com Nancy Rust: arust@bigfoot.com Gentlemen on Horseback June 21-26, 2009 Oak Creek Wildlife Area near Naches Glen Gower: ghgower@aol.com Willapa Hills Chapter June 27, 2009, Oxbow Hills Eva: freewebs.com/willapahillsbchw/ index.htm NW Region Summer Fest (Skagit/ Traildusters/Whatcom/Cascade/ Island Chapters BCHW) July 11, 2009 Les Hilde Trailhead, Lyman Jenny McCall (360) Pierce County Sheriff Ride July 18, 2009 Nicholson Trail System, Elbe piercecountysheriffsposse.org Inland Empire Chapter Chewelah Creek Trail Ride July 22-24, 2009, NE Washington Don Dyer: DDyer8036@aol.com Ferry County Chapter Annual Steak Ride July 25, 2009, Lambert Creek Horse Camp, Republic Gail Downs: kozykabin@rcabletv.com Linda Peterson: fccbchw.org Enumclaw Chapter Ride August 1, 2009, Buck Creek enumclawbchw.org Olympic Chapter Western Dream Ride August 7, 8 & 9, 2009 Cost: $110/person, child rate available Register by: July 17th, 2009 Flying Horseshoe Ranch, Cle Elum Phone: Bill Mason: mason1350@yahoo.com Pierce County Poker Ride August 29, 2009, Elbe Mike Lentz: pccbchw.org (Continued on page 19) Did You Know? Under state law, abandoning a horse, or any other animal, is a misdemeanor or gross misdemeanor. The Washington Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act (RCW 16.52) defines abandons as the knowing or reckless desertion of an animal by its owner or the causing of the animal to be deserted by its owner, in any place, without making provisions for the animal s adequate care. The law provides that economic distress of the owner can be a defense to some animal cruelty crimes, but not for abandonment. As with all crimes, the investigation is under the jurisdiction of local law enforcement and cases are prosecuted by the county prosecutor. The maximum punishment for a misdemeanor is 90 days in jail, a fine of up to $1,000 or both. The maximum punishment for a gross misdemeanor is one year in jail, a fine of up to $5,000 or both. 18