Since its inception, the Wind River Chapter has been a leader at both the state and national levels in promoting the goals and objectives of the Back Country Horsemen of America. Over the years the chapter has had an exemplary record of volunteer service for many work projects on national forest and BLM lands within Fremont County. Wind River members have represented Wyoming on numerous state and national boards related to recreational trails. Members have also served in leadership rolls at the national BCHA level. A cadre of members have participated in the Leave-no-Trace training program and several have earned their Master Trainer’s credentials.

Beginning in early 2005, the Shoshone National Forest began the rewrite of their forest management plan. Early in the plan development, the chapter created a working Public Lands Committee whose goal was to be involved in the process in order to safeguard and promote recreational pack and saddle stock use on forest lands. While this has required a great deal of participation on the part of the committee, results have been very positive. Concerns related to equine use on public lands may be addressed to the chapter Public Lands Chairman.

In addition to work on volunteer service projects and public land issues the chapter tries to hold monthly social functions or fun rides. These are often one day or weekend events and are suitable for all skill level of riders. These outings are held at various back country locations in the area. Several of the women members host an annual “ladies pack trip” for women who want to learn packing skills. Ladies who are interested in this event can contact the Activities Chair for information. Plans are being made for other “teacher-student” riding and pack trips for those wanting to learn about new places to ride and/or acquire packing skills and experience.

The Wind River chapter coordially invites anyone with equine interest to join the organization. Call 332-5027 or 856-7655 for membership information.

2007 Events

March 24 - 10:00 AM, ride with the CWC Equestrian Club - Government Draw south east of Hudson. Turn E. at Big Red’s Café - go 1.5 miles and stop at cattle guard.

April 3 - 6:30 PM, chapter meeting and Mexican carry-in, Hudson Town Hall. Bring your own dinnerware. Call 332-5027 or 856-7655 for more info.

April 24-28 - BCHA National Board meeting, Prescott, AZ.

May 1 - 7:00 PM, chapter meeting Riverton Library, 1330 W. Park Ave., summer plans, activities, state Rendezvous information.

May 4 - 11:00 AM, Wyoming BCHA Board meeting, Casper, location pending.

May 26-28 - Help Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation volunteers build corrals at the Bear Creek campground north of Dubois. Work a little, camp, ride and enjoy the holiday weekend. Details at the April and May meetings.

June 2 - National Trails Day- get out and ride - clear some trail.

June 5 - 6:00 PM - Executive Board and committee chairs meet at Sammons home, 57 Hawk Rd, Riverton - burgers on the grill.

July 21-22 - WY BCHA annual rendezvous camp and ride, Sawmill Flats north of Burgess Junction in northern Big Horns. Contact 332-7304 or the Cloud Peak Chapter at 307 674-8239 for details.

August - Ladies pack trip - time and place TBA, call 332-7304 for info.

August 12 - 4:00 PM, general membership meeting and Dutch oven feed at Serdiuks, 35 Valley Dr., Lander - bring own dinnerware and folding chairs, details to follow.

September 4 - 7:00 PM, officers and committee chairs meet at Hudson Town Hall.

October 9 - 6:30 PM, general membership meeting and meal, Hudson Town Hall.

As other projects and activities are scheduled throughout the summer and fall, members will be notified by phone, e-mail, or post card. Tentative service projects include signage of the Continental Divide Trail on the BT, packing supplies for the Forest Service, and an invasive species inventory on the Shoshone NF.

For information about the chapter to reach Wind River officers, state delegates, or committee chairs, contact:lserdiuk@wyoming.com

Officers:

Standing Committee Chairs: