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I n s i d e

t h i s

i s s u e :

Volume 30,

Number 3

Presidents page 1

Director Report 2

advertisers 3-4

Trail Boss Report 5-6

Legislative Report 7

Classified Ads 8

OVC Officers 9

recipes 10

Minutes 11

Upcoming Events 12

Membership form 13

Yearly caldendar 14-15

Rendezvous 16

www.OVCBCHW.COM

Cher Bower

Ahoy! I just got back from a wonderful cruise with 11 aunts

and cousins and my sister. We left from Houston and went to

Belize City, Roatan, Honduras, and Cozumel, Mexico. We

went to the Altun Ha Mayan ruins in Belize, Chichen Itza Ma-

yan ruins in Mexico and we went shopping and spent the rest

of the day basking in the sun and swimming at Roatan. Sorry

to have to tell you how much fun I had while you are all

snowed in. Steve stayed home and took care of business

while I ate wonderful chocolate desserts!

We have been riding with the Arizona BCH (we are members here too). They have

to work to find projects to volunteer for the BLM, DNR or Forest Service. Too bad

we can’t blink our eyes and have them up here to help us! I am sorry to be so far

out of the loop but hopefully the other reports will be very informative and keep

you all up to date. I will be back on track soon!

I was having chocolate withdrawals when I got back so I whipped up this tasty treat

last night. I know that it has been in our newsletter before but here it is again. Next

time I am going to add walnuts and Steve says to put in some chopped dates too!

So you all take care and laugh and have some fun everyday! See you soon.

Cher

The Picket Line

http://www.ovcbchw.com

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BoD Meeting Notes

Director Report

February 2016

Here are the highlights of what has transpired since the last BoD meeting:

We still need volunteers for many Rendezvous jobs. Please contact me or Lori Lenox with your availabil-

ity.

BCHW Legislative Day was February 3rd. I was glad to see some of our chapter members in Olympia.

The Volunteer Hours Committee has recently put a lot of work into a revised more user friendly form and

updated the directions. Each Chapter coordinator should have a copy of the newest release of the form.

Please get your hours into Cheryl in a timely manner. She needs to tabulate, correct, and send them on

to her regional coordinator. Please help her do her job by not waiting until the last minute.

That’s all for now folks. I hope to see you at Rondy.

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New Supporting Advertisers for 2016

Thank you

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Trygve Culp

Our first work party of the year will be here before you know it. In case you have forgotten or were not aware of it, the first work party will be a Whistler Canyon Trailhead cleanup and beautification on Saturday, March 12

th. Long

time Chapter member Cathy Kvistad, a WSU Master Gardner, will take the lead on planting dry site plants on the parking lot center mound and elsewhere. While that is going on, others will be moving the PNT trailhead sign currently

located in land owned the orchardist to the north of the trailhead (who plans to plant that block adja-cent to the highway next year). Still others of us will be doing vegetation control along the trail on the Kinross property and cleaning and maintaining the trail drainage structures up to the BLM ground. I will bring the Chapter tool trailer so participants need not bring tools, but should bring good work gloves. Hopefully, the County porta-potty will be at the trailhead by then. There is no potable water at the trailhead so participants will need to bring drinking water. A potluck lunch is planned; the Chapter will furnish paper plates, cups, napkins and flatware. Participants may want to bring a lawn chair, too, as there is no where to sit down at the trailhead. If you have questions, please contact me. I hope to see a good tunout!

The BCHW Rendezvous is coming up March 18th, 19

th and 20

th. This year, OVC is hosting the Pack-

ing Contest. I urgently need help judging the event. If you are planning to attend Rendezvous please consider volunteering a couple hours to help with the contest. It does not matter if you are a packer. We need folks to record, hold horses and mules and a myriad of other tasks. If this interests you please let me know as soon as possible.

As you are aware all saw operators in BCHW are required to have current first aid and CPR proof of proficiency cards. While I think this is a darned good policy, I think it is at least as wise to have many – if not all – work party participants first aid and CPR qualified. At the January business meeting a motion was approved for the Chapter to pay for first aid training for sawyers. At the upcoming March meeting, I intend to introduce a motion that the Chapter authoize the payment for first aid/CPR train-ing for any member who agrees to participate in one or more work party this year. There is a joint first aid/CPR training session planned with Ferry County Chapter for Saturday, March 26

th at the Re-

public Fire Station from 10:00 AM until 3:00 PM. Only 30 folks can attend the class and of course FCC members have priority for the slots. If you could attend the session in Republic, please let me know ASAP. If we have sufficient interest – that is, more people than a combined FCC/OVC total of 30 - we may have to schedule another class before field season.

OVCBCHW trail boss Report

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Stan Kvistad and I visited the Carter Mountain trail project site with Washing-ton Department of Fish and Wildlife Manager Justin Haug late last month to “finalize” the proposed trail re-route from the southern trailhead along Highway 97 around the pig farm and on to the north. We will be able to use a mini-excavator for the first ¾ mile and then it will be hand work for the next ½ mile to the water falls and beyond to the north side of the canyon. As my Dad you’d to say, we will need a bunch of number 4 hats and 24 collars, that is, strong bodies and weak minds to do some serious trail grubbing to widen existing cow

trails and construct several switchbacks. Early in March, Justin and I will be looking at a route to lengthen the new trail by coming back to the “coulee road” farther to the north. I’ll have more info in next months report. Stay tuned.

On Saturday, April 16th there will be a saw certification session at the Lambert Creek Horse Camp

northwest of Republic. The session will begin at 9:00 AM. This will be the only opportunity for Chap-ter sawyers to recertify this season. The session is jointly sponsored by OVC and the Ferry County Chapter. Normally, there is a potluck following the re-certification session. I will have more infor-mation in next month’s report.

Many of you have heard me say that if you ride or pack equines in the back country, you should be proficient with a firearm. There are many reasons I believe this to be true, not the least of which may be the necessity to dispatch an injured animal. In the past, the Chapter has scheduled firearms training with the Okanogan County Sherriff’s Department for members. Although we have no such training on our schedule of activities this year, the Sheriff’s Department is conducting a series of handgun classes for beginners through advanced shooters over the course of the spring and sum-mer that are open to the public. You must take their 4 hours duration “Essentials” class that focuses on firearms safety before you can take the “Fundamentals” and “Advanced” classes. I have asked Dave Sunde to post the schedule on the website for those who may be interested. You will need to make your own arrangements if you would like to attend.

In closing, I hope to see you at Whistler Canyon on the 12th, Rendezvous later in the month, and at

the first aid/CPR training session in Republic. Stay safe.

OVCBCHW trail boss Report

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OVCBCHW Legislative Report

Dear Back Country Horsemen Friends: I have received this notice from Washington State Parks that there will be two open meetings held on the subject of the John Wayne Pioneer Trail. The meetings will be conducted in Cheney at City Hall (evening of March 8) and Ellensburg, Central Washington University campus (Wed., March 9). These meetings are open meetings and your input is welcome and encouraged. Attached is the PDF file with the news release from State parks on the meeting, in-

cluding specific location and times. In addition, I am including a flyer for posting notice, if you would like to help promote and gather support for this event. Your input and support are greatly appreciat-ed in advocating for a positive future for the John Wayne Pioneer Trail and Iron Horse State Park as a cohesive cross-state trail recreational trail. Please distribute this information and material to your fellow Back Country Horsemen members and chapters. Working together we can not only fight back this short-sighted proposal to close the trail, but we can work to have the trail as a source of pride, showcasing the geographical diversity and wonder of Washington state.

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Classified Ads

FOR SALE: The Chapter has 1/2 inch, three strand, poly-propylene

rope for sale by the foot. Excellent for lead ropes, sling ropes, high line

ropes or what-have-you. $0.50 per foot. Can be back braided or have a

loop braided in one end for an additional fee. Telephone (509) 486-2061.

FOR SALE: 2002 Exiss XT 306 living quarters 3 horse slant load trailer w/6 foot short

wall ,hay rack, solar panel w/controller A/C furnace ,horse water tank /nearly new 14 ply tires Tucker

& Circle Y Saddles 11&17 year old Tennesse Walkers both are geldings all the tack ,horses and

trailer for $32,000.00 Steve Mckinney @509-429-8483 or 928-766-2846 also a decker pack saddle

w/sling ropes good pad $350.00

FOR SALE 17in Qrtho Flex Saddle very nice condtion $550 w/breachen 509-699-8014

FOR SALE – SANYO 42” flat screen LED TV. Model FW42D25T – 3 HDMI inputs, USB port, and

other features. $150.00 – Free delivery in Tonasket area. 1-509-486-1547 Home Office

Please patronize the businesses that

advertise in the Picket Line. While

you are shopping in their businesses

or utilizing their services remember

to thank them for supporting our ef-

forts to keep trails open on public

lands in the Okanogan.

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Elected Officers for 2016 Appointed Officers for 2016

President: Cher Bower Volunteer Hours Coordinator: Cheryl Johnson

Vice President: Catherine Woodfield LNT Coordinator: Steve McKinney

Secretary: Mary McHugh (S) Karla Stucker (N) Newsletter Editor: Ted Sharr

Treasurer: Trygve Culp Publicity Chair: Linda Oborne

Trail Boss: Trygve Culp Alternate Trail Boss: Trygve Culp

Director: Dave Sunde Legislative Chair: Gene Wehmeyer

Alternate Dir: Ted Sharr Social Director: Gail Sunde

Webmaster: Dave Sunde Immediate Past President: Stan Kvistad

Communications Chair: Cathy Kvistad

Okanogan Valley Chapter 2015 Officers

Please patronize the businesses that

advertise in the Picket Line. While you

are shopping in their businesses or

utilizing their services remember to

thank them for supporting our efforts

to keep trails open on public lands in

the Okanogan.

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Chers cake mix

Chocolate cake in a cup

¼ c flour

¼ c sugar

2 Tbs. unsweetened cocoa powder

¼ tsp. baking powder

1/8 tsp. powder or liquid vanilla extract

Mix the above and add

1 egg

3 Tbs. milk

3 Tbs. oil

Mix well and microwave on high for 2-2 ½ minutes. Yum!

Let cool slightly.

Eden Valley Guest Ranch

31 Eden Valley Lane

Oroville, WA 98844

Patrick and Robin Stice

www.edenvalleyranch.net

(509) 485-4002

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Okanogan Valley Chapter

Back Country Horsemen of Washington

NO GENERAL METTING HELD IN FEBUARY 2016

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Okanogan Valley Chapter BCHW

P.O. Box 812 Tonasket, WA 98855

Phone: 509-699-8014

E-mail: teddy_sharr@yahoo.com

Okanogan Valley Chapter &

Ferry County Chapter 2016 Chapter Events

March 2nd – FCC Membership Meeting at Freckle’s – 5:00 PM Dinner – 6:00 PM Meeting 12th – OVC Work Party: Whistler Canyon Trailhead Beautification – 9:00 AM, Cathy K. 14th – OVC Board Meeting: 3:00 PM – The Kuhler, Tonasket 16th – OVC Membership Meeting: 7:00 PM – South, location TBA 18th – BCHW BOD Meeting: Ellensburg 18th – 20th - BCHW Rendezvous: Ellensburg April 6th – FCC Membership Meeting at Freckle’s – 5:00 PM Dinner – 6:00 PM Meeting 9th - OVC Work Party: Carter Mountain Wildlife Area (WDFW) – 9:00 AM, Trygve C. 18th - OVC Board Meeting: 7:00 PM – Rancho Chico, Tonasket 20th - OVC Membership Meeting: 7:00 PM – Tonasket Senior Center 23rd – OVC Ride: Horse Spring Coulee –9:00 AM, Dave Sunde, Ride Leader 29th – 31st – MVC Spring Ride, Beaver Creek Camp Area May 2nd – 6th WOGA Ride to Rendezvous 4th - FCC Membership Meeting at Freckle’s – 5:00 PM Dinner – 6:00 PM Meeting 14th – OVC Ride: Peacock Meadows – 9:00 AM, Linda Oborne, Ride Leader 16th – OVC Board Meeting: 7:00 PM - Rancho Chico, Tonasket 18th – OVC Membership meeting: 7:00 PM – South, location TBA 21st – OVC Work Party: Carter Mountain Wildlife Area (WDFW) – 9:00 AM, Trygve C 29th – OVC Ride: Scotch Ck Wildlife Area – 9:00 AM, Linda Oborne, Ride Leader

To perpetuate the common use and enjoyment

of horses in Americas Back- Country and

wilderness.

Upcoming Activities

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Okanogan Valley Chapter &

Ferry County Chapter 2016 Chapter Events

January 20th – OVC Membership Meeting - 7:00 PM – South, location TBA 23rd – OVC Sleigh Ride and potluck: 1:00 PM – Kvistad’s in the Chiliwist 1:00 PM ( canceled) February 3rd – FCC Membership Meeting at Freckle’s – 5:00 PM Dinner – 6:00 PM Meeting 8th – OVC Board Meeting: 3:00 PM – The Kuhler, Tonasket 10th – BCHW/Big Tent Legislative Day in Olympia 17th – OVC Pot Luck & Dessert Auction: 6:00 PM – CCC March 2nd – FCC Membership Meeting at Freckle’s – 5:00 PM Dinner – 6:00 PM Meeting 12th – OVC Work Party: Whistler Canyon Trailhead Beautification – 9:00 AM, Cathy K. 14th – OVC Board Meeting: 3:00 PM – The Kuhler, Tonasket 16th – OVC Membership Meeting: 7:00 PM – South, location TBA 18th – BCHW BOD Meeting: Ellensburg 18th – 20th - BCHW Rendezvous: Ellensburg April 6th – FCC Membership Meeting at Freckle’s – 5:00 PM Dinner – 6:00 PM Meeting 9th - OVC Work Party: Carter Mountain Wildlife Area (WDFW) – 9:00 AM, Trygve C. 18th - OVC Board Meeting: 7:00 PM – Rancho Chico, Tonasket 20th - OVC Membership Meeting: 7:00 PM – CCC

May 2nd – 6th WOGA Ride to Rendezvous 4th - FCC Membership Meeting at Freckle’s – 5:00 PM Dinner – 6:00 PM Meeting 14th – OVC Ride: Peacock Meadows – 9:00 AM, Linda Oborne, Ride Leader 16th – OVC Board Meeting: 7:00 PM - Rancho Chico, Tonasket 18th – OVC Membership meeting: 7:00 PM – South, location TBA 21st – OVC Work Party: Carter Mountain Wildlife Area (WDFW) – 9:00 AM, Trygve C 29th – OVC Ride: Scotch Ck Wildlife Area – 9:00 AM, Linda Oborne, Ride Leader June 1st - FCC Membership Meeting at Freckle’s – 5:00 PM Dinner – 6:00 PM Meeting 4th – National Trails Day – OVC Work Party: 9:00 AM – Fourth of July Trailhead (USFS), Trygve Culp, work leader 5th – OVC Ride: 9:00 AM - Bonaparte trails out of 4th of July trail head, Trygve Culp, Ride Leader 11th – OVC Fund Raiser Yard Sale – Location TBA, Linda Oborne 13th - OVC Board Meeting: 7:00 PM – Rancho Chico, Tonasket 15th – OVC Membership Meeting: 7:00 PM – Tonasket Senior Center 18th – BCHW BOD Meeting: Ellensburg 18th – 20th OVC Wilderness Work Party: 9:00 AM - Windy Peak, Clutch Ck, Middle Fork trails - Camp at Middle Fork; trailer to Windy Peak trailhead if required (USFS), Trygve Culp work leader 25th – OVC Ride: Middle Fork/Windy Peak Loop Ride: 9:00 AM - Middle Fork trailhead, Trygve Culp. ride leader 29th – 30th – BCHW State Wide Work Party: Twisp River Horse Camp; Jason Ridlon, Work Leader

29th – 31st – MVC Spring Ride, Beaver Creek Camp Area

23rd – OVC Ride: Horse Spring Coulee –9:00 AM, Dave Sunde, Ride Leader

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July 1st – 4th – BCHW State Wide Work Party: Twisp River Horse Camp; Jason Ridlon, Work Leader 6th - FCC Membership Meeting at Freckles – 5:00 PM Dinner – 6:00 PM Meeting 15th – 17th - OVC Work Party/Campout/Ride: 9:00 AM - Tiffany Area Trails – camp at North Fork Trailhead, Trygve Culp, Work Lead-er; Frank Oborne, Ride Leader 18th – OVC Board Meeting: 7:00 PM - Home Town Pizza, Omak 20th – OVC Membership Meeting & Ice Cream Social: 6:00 PM - Triangle Park in Omak29th – 31st - FCC Lambert Creek Steak Ride August 3rd – FCC Membership Meeting at Freckle’s – 5:00 PM Dinner – 6:00 PM Meeting 5th - 8th – OVC Work Party: 9:00 AM - Loomis State Forest, Johnny Beall Trail System; Camp at Int’l Airport (WDNR), Trygve Culp Work Leader 11th – Stampede Ride-In 13th – OVC Ride: 14 Mile Loop Ride (Albert Camp/Sunny Pass/Boundary Trail): 9:00 AM 14 Mile Trailhead, Trygve Culp, Ride Leader 15th – OVC Board Meeting: 5:00 17th – OVC Membership Meeting: 7:00 PM - Tonasket City Park 26th - 28th – OVC Work Party: 9:00 AM - Loomis State Forest, Johnny Beall Trail System; camp at Disappointment Trailhead (WDNR) – if required to complete grant work; otherwise TBA. September 2nd – 5th - Pasayten Wilderness Ride and Camp (Spanish Camp/Cathedral Lakes area): 9:00 AM - Cathedral Driveway trailhead, Trygve Culp, Ride Leader 7th – FCC Membership Meeting at Freckles – 5:00 PM Dinner – 6:00 PM Meeting 17th – BCHW BOD Meeting: Ellensburg 17th – OVC/FCC Joint Ride: Granite Creek/Maple Mountain/Sweat Creek - 9:00 AM - Granite Creek trailhead; Trygve Culp and George Young, Ride Leaders 19th – OVC Board Meeting: 7:00 PM - The Kuhler, Tonasket 21st - OVC Membership Meeting: 7:00 PM – South, location TBA October 5th – FCC Membership Meeting at Freckles – 5:00 PM Dinner – 6:00 PM Meeting 8th – OVC Ride: Whistler Canyon/Wilcox Trailhead ride through – 9:00 AM, WC Trailhead, Catherine Woodfield, Ride Leader 17th – OVC Board Meeting: 7:00 PM – The Kuhler, Tonasket 19th - OVC Membership Meeting and Halloween Party: 7:00 PM – Tonasket Senior Center 29th - BCHW Wine Ride – Zillah, WA November 3rd - FCC Membership Meeting at Freckle’s – 5:00 PM Dinner – 6:00 PM Meeting 11th – OVC Veterans Day Ride: Carter Mountain Loop Ride: 9:00 AM - South CM Trailhead, Trygve Culp, Ride Leader 14th - OVC Board Meeting: 3:00 PM – The Kuhler, Tonasket 16th – OVC Membership Meeting – South, location TBA 19th – OVC Annual Planning Meeting: 1:00 PM – Whistler’s Restaurant, Tonasket December 2nd - BCHW Public Lands Meeting 3rd – Fourth Quarter BOD Meeting 10th – OVC Christmas Party: 6:00 PM, Tonasket Senior Center 17th – FCC Christmas Party- Location TBA 19th – OVC Board Meeting – 3:00 PM – The Kuhler, Tonasket Please check the monthly Chapter newsletter and website for updates and changes to this schedule. All Chapter rides meet at 9:00AM, depart at 10:00 AM unless otherwise noted; work parties begin promptly at 9:00 AM.

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