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.

On March 2, 2008 the Wind River Back Country Horsemen and Central Wyoming College Equestrian Club were partners at a horse-packing clinic held at the college horse barn. Approximately 20 students and an equal number of Back Country Horsemen participated in the event. Al Sammons of WRBCH chaired the activity which focused on providing the students experience with horse packing, familiarity with equipment, loading the animals and securing the loads. The WRBCH provided twelve head of pack stock, and a variety of pack saddles, pads, panniers, pack covers and items to load. Pictures to follow.

Club meetings are held on the first Tuesday of every month at the Town Hall in Hudson at 7:00 p.m. All interested recreational horsemen are invited. Dues can be sent to:Sam Ecker, P O Box 707, Riverton, WY 82501

For a social activity at our latest club meeting, we had a potluck supper with the theme "What do you eat on a pack trip?" No one shared their steaks!! However, we did get some useful ideas on recipes, food storage and lightweight foods to bring. We have also watched a DVD made by Judy Inberg on our work project of September 2007 on the Continental Divide Trail signing, pictures to follow.

Alex Wolfer is working on an application of a grant from the Recreation Board. If granted, this money will be used to purchase a chainsaw and storage trailer for our Chapter. This will be very helpful for our service projects. Our commitment to maintaining part of the Continental Divide Trail (CDT) located between Pine Creek and the Sweetwater Gap Ranger Station is tentatively planned for early June, depending on the snow and access in that area.

Up coming activities include:

Club Ride: National Trails Days

State Rendezvous June 20, 21, Black Hills National Forest Contact Carol Yake 686-2682

Ladies Pack Trip: Aug 7-10 Contact Candi Davis 332-7304

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

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: