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C’mon, Let’s Bury the Hatchet:
Jan 13th, 2012 12:05pm
If you’re a boater familiar with the Ruby/Horsethief section of the Colorado River, west of Grand Junction, you might be able to relate to this blog. You and your friends haul all your gear to the Loma Boat Launch excited to be doing a fun river trip together. You sign up for a campsite and get there only to find another group already there. An argument follows as to who’s right and who’s wrong.
As a commercial outfitter on this river section I’ve seen this scenario get progressively worse over the last 10 years to point of being downright ugly. Fact is, we’ve loved this river section to death and I welcome a change. Starting this summer a non-monetary permit system will go into affect. The Grand Junction, BLM has stepped up to the plate with a program that will hopefully “Tame Dodge City.” I for one would like to put the past behind us and bury the hatchet. I’d like to see river runners return to the days when we all got along and helped each other when in need. If we all follow the rules this summer it should create a more pleasant outdoor experience for all of us.
If you’d like more information on this new permitting system, go to the Grand Junction, BLM website or click this link…
http://www.blm.gov/co/st/en/fo/gjfo.html
I invite your input and suggestions on how we can make this new program a success.
Marty
As serious as a "Heart Attack!"
Jan 11th, 2012 12:18pm
POP QUIZ: You and your family are hiking when Grandpa suddenly clutches his chest and begins to sweat profusely. Quick, what do you do?
This scenario is commonly taught in the Wilderness First Responder courses that Centennial river guides attend. However, all of us can forget life-saving procedures when under stress or a loved one is having a medical emergency. Therefore, you might consider buying the same manual many river guides carry. Here is a link to where you can buy it…
http://store.nols.edu/Store/pc/viewPrd.asp?idproduct=61
BTW, Grandpa’s is exhibiting the signs of heart attack. Don't worry, you did everything right and he's going to be fine.
Self Guided Canoe Trips
Nov 16th, 2011 2:32pm
Risk or Risky:
I don’t discourage adventurism or taking risks. Let’s face it, every river has been run for a first time by someone who has never seen it. After all, where would we be without our explorers? So let’s discuss whether or not you should run a river when you’ve never seen it before. There is such a thing as “risk & risky.” In my mind, running a river you’ve never seen before during spring run-off when the river is high and fast, not to mention icy cold, is risky! Here is a list of things to consider when that adventuresome urge hits you…
- Is my equipment in good shape?
- Do I have a current map of this river section so I know where I’m at all times?
- Do I have escape routes in case I have to walk out?
- Is my food secure and water proofed?
- Will my tent withstand heavy rain to keep me dry?
- Is my sleeping bag warm enough?
- Do I have multiple ways to make a fire?
- Have I checked with area authorities (BLM, Park Service, etc.) to see what equipment is mandatory i.e. portable toilet, fire pan, ground tarp, permits etc?
- Will I allow my ego to cloud my judgment?
- Are my traveling companions up to the challenge?
- Do I have the proper rescue and medical gear in case of an emergency?
I’m not a salesman trying to sell you something but taking a guided trip with people that know the river and are trained in dealing with backcountry emergencies can be a huge benefit when things go wrong. Consider going with an outfitter and ask the guides as many questions as you can think of. Then strike out on your own. Or maybe not when you consider the guides do all the cookin’.