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Backcountry Horsemen 101 Training Event On March 15, 2009 the Pecos Chapter held it’s first “Back Country 101” event for new members. Nineteen participants and nine presenters, along with their equines, braved cold and windy weather at Dick Rahal’s property, near Stanley, to learn about what to expect on BCH trail work projects. Members rotated between four activities set up in corrals and the barn area. Each activity had two, or more presenters. Safety was emphasized in each group, with tips and strategies to help avoid accidents before they happen. Kit Weidner got everyone signed in and provided members with packets loaded with information on safety, leave no trace strategies, equipment, first aid, BCH club history, knots, a typical work project day, and other related information. Mary Ann Ende brought a generous supply of food and helped everyone get started with hot coffee, tea, and breakfast muffins. One activity was “Back Country Stock Containment”, presented by Cheryl Nigg and Amber Kingsbury. Cheryl and Amber demonstrated how to tie a high line and use hobbles correctly. Several horses were tied to a high line and kept contained and contented while Amber and Cheryl presented information on tree saver straps, knot eliminators, safety, and various types of hobbles. Protection of trees and the ground was emphasized to encourage low impact on the environment. A small area with portable electric fencing was also setup for participants to see. Another activity was “Packing Tools and Trail Safety”, presented by Richard Kingsbury and Diane Simmons. Richard packed panniers with tools usually used on trail work, showing members how to get all the saws, loppers, and other tools put onto the pack stock safely. Richard provided more information on handling pack and saddle stock. He also had several types of panniers available to see. Diane gave an in-depth talk on important general safety procedures and routines such as saddling, riding on the trail, stopping for others, and managing stock on the trail. Out in the woods, away from the barn, Jim Gore and Dick Rahal were busy giving members hands-on during the “Cross Cut Saw and Draw Saw” activity. New members started a little reluctantly, but soon found out how easily two people can cut through a tree fallen across the trail, with the cross cut saw. They then became enthusiastic with their newfound skill, and will most likely be helping on work projects, soon. Also out in the woods Jim and Sandy Edmiston, along with Anita Smith, were guiding riders in the “Simulated Trail Ride” activity. New members rode together to learn about what to expect with trail conditions and managing animals on the trail safely. They rode up and down hills, in and around trees, and helped their animals become comfortable and confident. Common items such as tents, tarps and plastic bags were placed near the trail to simulate typical trail surprises. In addition, a backpacker with dogs and bicyclists walked or rode near the horses during the ride. Trinity Kingsbury and Bradley Smith, got a lot of exercise with the dogs, and commented that the horses seemed to be able to take most of the encounters in stride. Professional trainer, and Pecos Chapter member, Mark Bohannon, was available throughout the day to provide guidance and recommendations to participants. Even though the day started with strong wind, the sun was shining brightly and the wind died down later in the day. The Pecos Chapter provided lunch for all the attendees. Mary Ann Ende grilled hamburgers and hot dogs with assistant Anne Wright, and set up lawn chairs so everyone could sit and relax. There was even a huge tub of homemade brownies! A thank you to everyone who participated and especially the Board of Directors for all their planning and work to make this event a success. Thank you also to Dick and Vicki Rahal for the use of their property and being gracious hosts to help us have this event in a safe, roomy location. |
      
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