1. trails
toiyabe OCTOBER-NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2009
FAL
OUTI L
Is NGS sue
ENVIRONMENTAL NEWS OF NEVADA AND THE EASTERN SIERRA FROM THE TOIYABE CHAPTER OF THE SIERRA CLUB
Bear Scat or Rice 2009 Chapter election
Krispies Treats? ballots to be MAILED
BY SIERRA CLUB’S THE GREEN LIFE
to members!
WHEN WE SAT DOWN TO DO A BLIND BY DAVID VON SEGGERN
taste-test of energy bars from 25 compa- NOMINATING AND ELECTION com-
nies that work to preserve the environ-
mittees of the Toiyabe Chapter and
ment, well, let’s just say that the flavor
comparisons were all over the map. We its groups are working to make
won’t name names when it comes to this 2009 election have the highest
which brand provoked the comparison turnout in recent memory. Chapter
to ursine calling cards (and what kind of members will receive ballots by
person knows what that tastes like in the U.S. mail this year, in the first week
first place?), but we’ll be happy to point of November. There is no election
you to our ranked listing of 28 different material in this Toiyabe Trails.
bars, as well as reviews of the five that The election schedule was pub-
our judges found most appetizing. lished in the July-August-September
The Taste of Power: 2009 Toiyabe Trails, along with rel-
Top Ecofriendly Energy Bars evant contacts. One clarification is
Energy bars have come a long way. that ballot counting will take placeat
When introduced more than two decades 6 pm on December 13 at the home
ago, they sacrificed taste for function of the Election Committee Chair.
and were “enjoyed” almost solely by The proposed Ruby Gas Pipeline route would traverse rugged, rocky plateaus All candidates are welcome to view
hard-core athletes and hikers. Today, and deep canyons leaving a permanent scar on the landscape. The route is the process. Call David von Seggern
thanks to a boom in competing brands, proposed across northern Nevada including along the entire southern boundary
of the Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge. (Photo: Dennis Ghiglieri.)
(775-303-8461) for directions.
some are actually worth savoring--while
others are still harder to swallow than
compressed wood shavings.
list the bird under the Endangered
To determine the best and worst, 15
Sierra Club staffers blind-tasted and
scored bars from 25 companies that
Ruby Pipeline: Species Act. Other sagebrush-de-
pendent wildlife which would be
work to preserve the environment. Our
eaters didn’t sugarcoat their opinions: Eco-disaster for impacted by this proposed industrial
development include pygmy rabbits
and a host of birds.
Please see ENERGY BARS, page 12.
Northern Nevada Toiyabe Chapter conservationists
developed and submitted 28 pages
of comments to the Federal Energy
Don’t forget BY ROSE STRICKLAND
Regulatory Commission (FERC) on
to visit the
Chapter website
W hat would cut through over 350 miles of mostly undisturbed
sagebrush country on public lands in Northern Nevada? Si-
erra Club members were shocked to learn this summer of a proposal
the draft Environmental Impact State-
ment. The DEIS is missing dozens of
critical studies, plans, and reports;
it does not substantively study any
for a natural gas pipeline and right-of-way in Nevada’s backcountry
<http://toiyabe.sierraclub.org> alternatives to the proposed route;
in order to get a glut of natural gas from the Rocky Mountains in and it provides little documentation
Wyoming to possible markets in Pacific coast states. of the actual need for the natural gas
The size and scope of the potential of the MX missile proposal for Great in Nevada or elsewhere.
Sierra Club, Toiyabe Chapter, P.O. Box 8096, Reno, NV 89507
environmental impacts rivals those Basin valleys in the 1980s, except
Non-Profit Org.
Please see RUBY PIPELINE, page 2.
Permit No. 356
Reno, Nevada
U.S. Postage
that it is a linear proposal from the
PAID
Utah to the Oregon border.
Instead of following already dis- IN THIS ISSUE
turbed road and utility corridors, the LETTERS: Wild Horses . . . . . .. . 2
proposed pipeline route appears to Fall-Winter Desert Trips . . . . . . . . 3
have been drawn with a ruler on a Americorps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
map without knowledge of or appre- 2010 W. Wilderness Conference. 3
ciation for the fairly intact sagebrush Range of Light Group . . . . . . 4-5
steppe ecosystems on public lands Motorized Travel Mgt . . . . . . . . 5
in Nevada and three other Western Clair Tappaan Lodge Events. . . . 5
states. Walker Lake: Water . . . . . . . . . . 6
State and federal agencies as well Nevada-Utah Water Split . . . . . . .6-7
as conservationists, sportsmen, and How Much Do Hoofed Animals Eat? . . 7
ranchers have developed and are Wild Nevada Calendar 2010 . . . .7
implementing plans to protect the Great Basin Group . . . . . . . . . 8-9
The pipeline route would cut up to a declining populations of sagebrush- S. Nevada Group . . . . . . . . 10-11
200-foot swath through prime sage dependent sage grouse and grouse
grouse habitat both in and adjacent Glacier Nat’l Park Service Trip . . . . 12
to the Sheldon National Wildlife
habitat, so that it is unnecessary to Chapter ExCom . . . . . . . . . . . .12
Refuge. (Photo: Dennis Ghiglieri.) Please see NO COAL page 2.

2. 2 OCTOBER - NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2009 TOIYABE TRAILS
RUBY PIPELINE . . . Letters
continued from page 1
The Sierra Club urged FERC to correct Wild horses are to be removed . . . . In a vast area
the many problems in the pipeline EIS and Dear Editor: covering thousands of acres in BLM’s
especially to include study of an alterna- Winnemucca District in northern Ne-
tive using the West-Wide Energy Corridor
America’s last remaining wild horses
routes through Nevada. These routes were and burros are being systematically vada, plans have been announced to
designed (finalized in 2008) by federal eliminated or nearly so by the very take off all but 10 wild horses — the .
agencies to avoid sensitive resources and agencies charged with their protec- . . “Appropriate Management Level”
the proliferation of rights-of-way across tion and management . . . . In BLM’s . . . . As I write these words, the fa-
Western public lands as well as to minimize mous Pryor Mountain mustang herd
the environmental footprint from develop- eastern Nevada Ely District, 1.4
ment of energy corridors. The proposed million legal acres are planned for of Montana is being gutted, reduced
Ruby pipeline appears to be exactly the type zeroing out, in spite of . . . public to a non-viable population level by
of project which the WWEC is supposed outcry. Here, the sparsely distributed BLM roundup contractors. It bears
to prevent. 620 stout wild horses that remain are mentioning that of Montana’s seven
The Sierra Club comments on the FERC
draft EIS are posted on the chapter website: in fact quite under-populated, and original herd areas, only one still has
<www.toiyabesierraclub.org>. greatly outnumbered by livestock and any wild horses left and that in terms
game animals. In southern Califor- of acreage this represents an 83%
Deadline!
nia, one of the last remaining burro reduction. And the list goes on. To
herds (Owl Creek) is also slated for claim there is an overpopulation of
complete removal by BLM, though wild equids today on the public lands
only about one dozen remain. Wyo- is in no way objective . . . .
TRAILS ming’s historic Red Desert mustang Sincerely,
herd is to be gutted, ca. 1000 horses Craig C. Downer, Wildlife Ecologist
Range of Light Group
DECEMBER 1
continued from page 5
for jan - feb- mar Bridgeport kids on first-ever
2010 issue ROL group ICO outing.
Photo by outing leader
Mauriça Anderson. Toiyabe Trails
TOIYABE CHAPTER DIRECTORY
CHAPTER EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE OFFICERS & MEMBERS SERVING NEVADA
Chair Dave Hornbeck* 775-323-6655
Vice-Chair Dorothy Hudig* 775-323-4835
janefeldman@
& CALIFORNIA’S E. SIERRA
Secretary Jane Feldman* cox.net
Treasurer (Apptd) Kris Cunningham 702-285-6832 Toiyabe Trails is published six times each year
At Large
At Large
Eric Blumensaadt*
Ann Brauer*
702-566-9429
702-879-3376
by the Toiyabe Chapter of the Sierra Club,
At Large Charlotte Cox
charcox@
charter.net
P.O. Box 8096, Reno, NV 89507, to help keep
At Large Jean Dillingham* 760-648-7109 our members well-informed and better able to
ESLT & AmeriCorps partnership
At Large Erik Holland* 775-322-3582
Sharon Marie
protect the environment—for our families, for
At Large 775-852-5075
Wilcox* our future.
GROUP CHAIRS (EX-OFFICIO VOTING EXCOM MEMBERS) Editor – Lynne Foster (94 Mountain View
Great Basin
Range of Light
David von Seggern
Malcolm Clark
775-303-8461
760-924-5639
ESLT IS PROUD TO ANNOUNCE the renewal “The AmeriCorps program is an excellent Drive, Swall Meadows, Bishop, CA 93514-9207;
Southern NV
Tahoe Area SC
Kris Cunningham
Roger Rosenberger
702-285-6832
775-588-8101
of their partnership with the Sierra Nevadaopportunity for the member and the host 760-387-2634; <lfoster@schat.net>; fax avail-
DELEGATES & REPRESENTATIVES AmeriCorps Partnership. For the past three organization. It not only gets important proj- able, call first.
CA/NVRCC-Del.** Wilma Wheeler 760-934-3764 Assoc. Editor – Kathy Morey (760-938-2050).
-Delegate** Eric Blumensaadt* 702-566-9429 years, ESLT along with other non-profit ects done in our community, but it provides
-Alternate Michael Donahue 775 588-5466
community groups or natural resource agen- the member an amazing experience they can Kathy does the July- August-September issue.
-Alternate Erik Holland* 775-322-3582
(** = Ex-Officio Non-Voting ExCom Members) cies working throughout the Sierra Nevada Deadlines – Contributions are due by the
CA/NVRCC-CHAPTER REPRESENTATIVES
build on for the rest of her or his life,” said 1st of the month for publication in the following
-Nevada Vice-Chair Lois Snedden 775-827-2353 have hosted AmeriCorps members. In 2010, Mary McGurke. month’s issue: December 1 for January-Febru-
-Desert Comm John Hiatt 702-361-1171
-Wilderness Comm Marge Sill 775-322-2867 ESLT will continue to host an AmeriCorps ESLT and AmeriCorps are currently re- ary-March; March 1 for April-May-June; June
epillard@
PLAN Board Ellen Pillard nvbell.net member for a year of national service doingcruiting members for 2010. The AmeriCorps 1 for July-August-September; September 1 for
SC Council-Delegate Jane Feldman* 702-648-0699
-Alternate Sharon Marie Wilcox* 775-852-5075 work throughout the Eastern Sierra. member will receive skills and training, a October-November-December.
COMMITTEE, TASK FORCE & ISSUE CHAIRS
Chapter Funding TF Eric Blumensaadt* 702-566-9429
This year, Serena Dennis joined the monthly stipend, and an education award at Submissions – Call or e-mail editor before
Conservation Co-Chair Dennis Ghiglieri 775-329-6118 AmeriCorps program and ESLT team as the the end of their year of service. If you know deadline for late submissions. Submit news, sto-
Conservation-Co-Chair Eric Blumensaadt* 702-566-9429
Energy Jane Feldman* 702-648-0699 Education and Outreach Coordinator. “The someone interested in conducting restora- ry ideas, photos, and letters-to-the-editor to the
Env. Education
Financial Review
Jean Dillingham*
Kris Cunningham
760-648-7109
702-285-6832 AmeriCorps service gave me the opportuni- tion, working with volunteers, coordinating editor (contact info above). Please include your
charcox@ name, phone/fax, e-mail address, and group with
Fundraising Charlotte Cox* charter.net ty to live in this beautiful place while gaining
community events, and providing education
Legal Compliance Burt Patterson 702-562-1571 all contributions. You may send contributions by
Legislative-Co-Chair Joe Johnson 775-348-7192 vital job skills,” says Serena. “I am proud to
programs, please visit www.easternsier- e-mail or on a PC-compatible disk (Word, text,
Legislative-Co-Chair Lois Snedden 775-827-2353
Membership
Sharon Marie
775-852-5075
know that my service made a difference for ralandtrust.org to learn more. or ascii). Please send hard copy by snail mail
Wilcox*
Mining-Co-Chair Lois Snedden 775-827-2353 ESLT and the local community.” This valuable work in our community is for all submissions on disk. For photo or disk
glennm@unr.
Mining-Co-Chair Glenn Mille
Nominating Jane Feldman*
edu
702-648-0699
possible through the collaboration return, please include a stamped, self-addressed
Outings Eric Blumensaadt* 702-566-9429 of many organizations. ESLT is a envelope. The Toiyabe Trails reserves the right
Political-Co-Chair Erik Holland* 775-322-3582
epillard@ local non-profit organization based to edit all contributions for reasons of space,
Political-Co-Chair Ellen Pillard nvbell.net
Public Lands Rose Strickland 775-329-6118 in Bishop that works with private clarity, slander, or libel.
Public Rel./Outreach Charlotte Cox charcox@ Subscriptions – Toiyabe Trails is free to all
charter.net landowners and the public to pre-
Sierra Student Coalition Trisha Mynster 530-680-4483 Toiyabe Chapter members. Subscription cost for
emily.
Emily Rhodenbaugh rhodenbaugh serve working farms and ranches, non-members is $12 per year. To subscribe, send
Staff Oversight
Sustain. Consumption
Dave Hornbeck*
Philip Moore
775-323-6655
775-224-1877
natural areas and historical and check for $12, payable to “Toiyabe Chapter,”
Trails Editorial Marge Sill 775-322-2867
emily.
biological resources in the Eastern to Toiyabe Trails Subscriptions, Sierra Club,
Trails Redesign Emily Rhodenbaugh rhodenbaugh
@sierraclub.org Sierra. The Sierra Nevada Alli- Toiyabe Chapter, c/o Treasurer, 1621 Foster Dr.,
Video Conf. TF Ann Brauer* 702-879-3376
Water Campaign Rose Strickland 775-329-6118 ance is a non-profit organization Reno, NV 89509-1111.
Wilderness Marge Sill 775-322-2867 that works to protect and restore Change of address – Postmaster & Members,
Wildlife-Co-Chair Tina Nappe 775-786-1178
Wildlife-Co-Chair Rose Strickland 775-329-6118 Sierra lands, water, wildlife, and please send address changes to Sierra Club, Change
OTHER CONTACTS & STAFF
rural communities. AmeriCorps of Address, P. O. Box 52968, Boulder, CO 80322-
emily.
SC Staff-Reno Emily Rhodenbaugh rhodenbaugh 2968 or <address.changes@sierraclub.org>.
@sierraclub.org is a part of the Corporation for Membership information – There is a mem-
robert.disney
SC Staff-Las Vegas Rob Disney @sierraclub.org National and Community Service, bership coupon in each issue of Toiyabe Trails.
Foundation Liaison (Vacant)
Listserve Manager Dennis Ghiglieri 775-329-6118 whose mission is to build lives, You can also call the Chapter Membership Chair
Chapter Webmaster Dennis Ghiglieri 775-329-6118
TRAILS STAFF strengthen communities, and (see Chapter Directory, this page) or the Sierra
Trails Editor Lynne Foster 760-387-2634
Assoc. Editor Kathy Morey 760-938-2050 foster civic engagement through Club office in San Francisco (415-977-5663).
Distribution Carol Tresner 775-786-0489
Serena Dennis (center), current AmeriCorps service and volunteering. Other Sierra Club information – Call the Toiyabe
-Co-Coordin. Bill Bowers 775-786-3259
Chapter Chair or Conservation Chair (see Chapter
-Co-Coordin.
* = Elected ExCom Members
Dennis Ghiglieri 775-329-6118 Outreach and Education Coordinator at ESLT, — submitted by Mary McGurke, Directory, this page) or the Sierra Club Information
and a Girl Scout crew restore habitat at Crowley Development & Outreach Director, Center in San Francisco (415-977-5653). Also, see
Hilltop Preserve. Eastern Sierra Land Trust group pages for website addresses of groups.

3. TOIYABE TRAILS OCTOBER - NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 3
Club activists swarm Capitol SAVE THE DATE!
to boost clean energy & parks bills Fall-Winter Desert Trips 2010 Western Wilderness
BY BILL MAGAVERN, SIERRA CLUB Conference: New Aims, New Allies
CALIFORNIA BY VICKY HOOVER, CHAIR, SIERRA CLUB
SIERRA CLUB CALIFORNIA’S 2009 LOBBY DAY
was a smashing success! Dedicated vol-
T he CNRCC Desert Committee’s purpose is to work for protec-
tion, preservation, and conservation of California/Nevada desert.
All Desert Committee activities, unless stated otherwise, are suitable
CA/NV WILDERNESS COMMITTEE
The 2010 Western Wilderness Conference
unteers from around the state travelled to will take place April 8-11, 2010, on the cam-
Sacramento to urge their legislators to ramp for anyone who enjoys the outdoors. The average car or high clearance pus of the University of California, Berke-
up clean energy requirements and preserve vehicle will be adequate for most trips. For a good guide to desert travel we ley, California. Please visit the conference
our state parks. recommend the Sierra Club book, Adventuring in the California Desert, website at www.westernwilderness.org.
On August 23, participants gathered in Save the date now! For anyone who
the Capitol for briefings on how to lobby on by Lynne Foster. cares about the wild places of the
the four bills we focused on this year. Two For questions about, or to sign up for, a particular outing, please West—this is one event not to miss!
of them — SB 14 (Simitian) and AB 64 contact leader listed in write-up. For questions about Desert Com- Although the event will take place in
(Krekorian) — would both require electric the San Francisco Bay Area, wilderness
utilities to get 33% of their power from
mittee outings in general, or to receive outings list by e-mail, please
organizations and advocates from all
clean, renewable sources by 2020. Also, SB contact Kate Allen (kjallen@wildblue.com, 661-944-4056). twelve western states, including Alaska,
372 (Kehoe) and SB 679 (Wolk), would both are invited to participate in this grand
establish public processes to protect parks event. The Toiyabe Chapter and fifteen
from inappropriate uses. other Sierra Club western Chapters have
On August 24, the volunteer lobbyists kept already signed on as event sponsors.
Why attend? Western Wilderness Confer-
California/Nevada Regional Conservation Committee ence 2010 will:
SEPTEMBER 25-27 (FRI-SUN) What could be more ap- • inspire interested new advocates,
propriate this Halloween including students
SERVICE & HIKING • re-inspire longtime dedicated wilder-
IN CARRIZO PLAINS weekend than to visit
ghosts and ruins of Cal- ness advocates
Visit, assist in an outstanding, relatively un- • focus on the role of wild lands in an era
ifornia’s colorful past?
known national monument. Optional, scenic of global warming
Come with us to this eerie
hike high in Caliente Mountains on Friday. • explore how to incorporate wildlands
desert landscape near
Others may join us for Nat’l Public Lands advocacy with Native American tradi-
Death Valley. Camp at historic ghost town
Day on Saturday when we participate with tional land-ethics and cultural values
of Ballarat (flush toilets, hot showers). On
other volunteers working on improvements • promote getting children outside into
Saturday, a challenging hike to ghost town
for Soda Lake Overlook. On Sunday, tour a Nature’s wild places!
of Lookout City with expert Hal Fowler.
number of historic, prehistoric, geologic sites • train activists to advocate effectively
A group of activists paid close attention Hal will regale us with tales of this wild
in Monument. Leader: Craig Deutsche (craig. for wild places
as Sierra Club California lobbyists (not west town. Saturday eve, Happy Hour and
deutsche@gmail.com, 310-477-6670). And we’ll all have fun!
pictured) provided talking points and tips potluck feast, followed by midnight visit
CNRCC Desert Committee Speakers, plenary sessions, workshops,
on how to lobby the California Legislature. to Ballarat’s graveyard. On Sunday, quick
OCTOBER 3-4 (SAT-SUN) visit to infamous Riley town site before music, meals, outings! It’s all part of the
a busy schedule of meetings with legislators celebration of the West’s wild places.
ANTELOPE PROTECTION WORK heading home. Group size strictly limited.
and their staff, letting them know that their Sierra Club, California Wilderness Co-
PARTY IN CARRIZO PLAIN NAT’L Info: contact leader, Lygeia Gerard (760-
constituents support greening our electrical alition, and Northwest Parks and Wilder-
MONUMENT 868-2179).
grid and protecting parks. Our participants re- ness Conference are leading the planning.
CNRCC Desert Committee.
ported very positive results from their meet- Help remove fences to allow beautiful, en-
ings, with many saying they were impressed dangered, pronghorn antelope unobstructed NOVEMBER 6-8 (FRI-SUN)
by how interested the legislators were in what access to all areas of Plain. We succeeded in recreational hike either from work site or in
MOJAVE NAT’L PRESERVE nearby Indian Pass Wilderness. Info: contact
Sierra Club California has to say. clearing American Ranch area; join us as we SERVICE TRIP
Midway through work on Panorama Ranch. Camp at Selby leader, Craig Deutsche (craig.deutsche@
Help Preserve clean up large, illegal dump gmail.com, 310-477-6670).
the day, Sierra Club campground, bring food, water, heavy leather
built up over the years. Work all day Sat- CNRCC Desert Committee
California present- work gloves, camping gear for weekend.
urday and until noon on Sunday Preserve
ed our Byron Sher Potluck Saturday night. Meet at Goodwin DECEMBER 28 - JANUARY 2, 2010 (MON-SAT)
staff will provide barbecue Saturday eve.
Award, which rec- Visitor Center, 9 am Saturday. Rain cancels.
Hike planned for those arriving in morning HOLIDAY SERVICE TRIP, CARRIZO
ognizes outstand- Resource specialist: Alice Koch. Info: contact
on Friday. Ranger talk about Preserve on PLAIN NAT’L MONUMENT
ing achievements leaders, Cal & Letty French, (805-239-7338;
Friday. Camping will be rustic, but portable Celebrate end of one year, beginning of
in environmental lettyfrench@gmail.com, e-mail preferred).
restroom provided. High clearance vehicle next in one of our new national monuments.
protection by Cali- Santa Lucia Chapter/CNRCC Desert Committee
recommended to access site, but we can Carrizo Plain, W of Bakersfield, is a vast
fornia public offi-
OCTOBER 5-6 (MON-TUE) shuttle people, gear if needed. Info: contact grassland, home to pronghorn antelope,
cials. This year’s
WILDERNESS RESTORATION leader, Rich Juricich (rich.sac@pacbell.net, tule elk, kit fox, a wide variety of birds.
honorees are Sena-
Senator Fran IN DEATH VALLEY NAT’L PARK 916-492-2181). Welcome hike Dec. 28, 3.5 days of service
tor Fran Pavley and
Pavley accepted CNRCC Desert Committee modifying barbed wire fencing, and full
Air Resources Board Finish conversion to trail of N end of old
the Byron Sher day for hiking and exploring are planned.
Chair Mary Nichols Mesquite Flats/Death Valley crossover road, NOVEMBER 7-8 (SAT-SUN)
award presented Use of accommodations at Goodwin Ranch
(ARB Legislative Di- which used to join Scotty’s Castle Rd near “BOWLING ALLEY” CAR CAMP &
by Sierra Club included. Limited to 14 participants; $30
rector Rob Oglesby Red Wall Canyon. Meet Sunday eve or early HIKE, DEATH VALLEY PROPOSED
California. (Photo: covers five dinners. Info: contact leader,
accepted the award Monday morning; work Monday-Tuesday. WILDERNESS ADDITION
John Kokaska.) Craig Deutsche (craig.deutsche@gmail.
on Nichols’ behalf). Potluck Monday night. Wednesday, ranger-
We honored Senator Pavley and Chair Nich- A narrow strip of land between Death Valley com, 310-477-6670) or co-leader Melinda
led hike for those who stay over. (Project
ols for their pathbreaking work in passing Nat’l Park, Fort Irwin is lovingly referred Goodwater (mgoodwater@sbcglobal.net,
may change). Info: contact leader, Kate Allen
and implementing California’s major laws to as “Bowling Alley.” It is also an ideal 408-774-1257).
(661-944-4056; kj.allen@wildblue.net, e-
to curb greenhouse gas emissions. Senator wilderness candidate. With unique, beautiful CNRCC Desert Committee
mail preferred). CNRCC Desert Committee
Pavley addressed the very appreciative geology, several perennial springs, habitat
OCTOBER 17-18 (SAT EVE-SUN) for desert tortoise, bighorn sheep, we’ll MARCH 14-20, 2010 (SUN-SAT)
activist group.
EXPLORING SODA MOUNTAINS have lots to explore! Drive in on some rough GLEN CANYON NRA, ESCALANTE
It did not take long for our Lobby Day to
– MOJAVE DESERT routes, then day hike from car/tent campsite. RIVER CANYON: SERVICE TRIP
bear fruit; on August 27 the Assembly Ap-
Explore ridges, deep washes of this rela- Four wheel drive (4WD) recommended. BACKPACK
propriations Committee passed SB 14 and
SB 679. These bills can now join SB 372 on tively unknown, rugged Wilderness Study Potluck dinner Saturday night. Leader: Assist Nat’l Park Service in eradicating
the Assembly floor. The Senate Appropria- Area (WSA), located E of Barstow, N of Carol Wiley (760-245-8734, desertlily1@ Russian Olive from Escalante River. With
tions Committee approved AB 64, which I-15. Arrive late Saturday afternoon at camp- verizon.net.) Reservationist: Kate Allen (kj. direction of Park Ranger Bill Wolverton,
now moves to the Senate floor. ing area in open flats near Cronese Lakes. allen@wildblue.net, 661-944-4056). gather up slash from previous service trips
Sierra Club California staff thanks everyone Potluck Saturday night. Full day hike on CNRCC Desert Committee and burn it. Since 2000, over half the river
who participated in this year’s Lobby Day, Sunday will help us appreciate a unique has been cleared. Meet in Escalante, Utah
place and comment on its future, which is DECEMBER 12-13 (SAT-SUN)
and we hope to see you again next year. Sunday morning, March 14, caravan out
uncertain. Hike mod. difficult. Info: contact SERVICE & HIKING IN S. DESERT to trailhead, hike in. Work four days, day
leader, Craig Deutsche, (310-477-6670, This cooler season is a good time to visit hike one day, hike out Saturday morning,
DESERT TRIPS . . . craig.deutsche@gmail.com). southern deserts. Our project on Saturday March 20. Expect knee to thigh deep river
CNRCC Desert Committee will be on E side of N. Algadones Dunes crossings, overnight lows near freezing,
continued from right column
Wilderness, approximately 20 miles E of mild temperatures during day. Participants
(highly recommended), food, gear on trail. Info: OCTOBER 31 - NOVEMBER 1 (SAT-SUN)
Brawley, CA, where we will rebuild facili- responsible for own leather work gloves
contact leader, Paul Plathe (209-476-1498). GHOST TOWN
ties at Watchable Wildlife Site. Saturday eve
Delta-Sierra Group (Mother Lode Chapter) EXTRAVAGANZA Please see left column, this page .
is a car camp with potluck dinner. Sunday,

4. 4 OCTOBER - NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2009 TOIYABE TRAILS
Range of Light
Calendar
ALL OUTINGS INCLUDE CONSERVATION EDUCATION ACTIVITIES!
All phone numbers are 760 unless otherwise noted.
CST 2087766-40. Registration as a seller of travel does not constitute approval by the State of California.
Summer summary & Winter outings
Range of Light Group BY BRYCE WHEELER, ROL OUTINGS CHAIR
2009 summer fun
ROL outings leaders have led many interesting and fun hikes this past summer, in-
Group News cluding 18 weekend hikes and 16 Wednesday evening fun and fitness hikes. During
October, Novem-
ber, and Decem-
Letter from the Chair ber we have no
BY MALCOLM CLARK scheduled outings
so leaders can en-
Outings. Summer outings are over. mally attends the monthly meetings.
joy a break. Most
Ski outings begin in January. (4) The Sherwin Working Group, un
likely they will be
State Parks. Some state parks (but der sponsorship of the Forest Service,
out hiking, kayak-
not as many as originally anticipated) the Town of Mammoth Lakes, and
ing, backpacking,
will be closed as a result of the budget Mammoth Lakes Trails Public Access
volunteering, and
compromise passed this summer. Also, (MLTPA,) is moving towards October
looking forward
the freeze on state bond funds that sup- submission of a plan for management
to the ski season.
port environment projects in the Sierras of forest service land between the south
Winter and
remains in effect. urban boundary of Mammoth Lakes
spring outings
Bristlecone Pine Forest visitor cen- and Sherwin Mountains Crest. Several
will be published
ter. Destroyed by arson last September, ROLG members have actively partici-
and announced in local media. Info? Contact leaders: John Walter (760 934-1767,
it will be rebuilt next year. The new cen- pated along with many other commu-
walter@qnet.com); Jean Dillingham (760 648-7109, jdill@qnet.com); or Bryce
ter will include modern solar power and nity members in developing a plan for
Wheeler (760 934-3764, telebry@verizon.net).
updated exhibits on the effect of global the use of this prime recreational asset.
warming on the Bristlecones. (See article on next page.) ROL members enjoyed
ROL Group area projects moving Four-wheel drive outing. Finally, a joint outing with E.
forward. (1) The first ICO (Inner worthy of note was an outing this sum- Sierra 4-Wheel Drive
City Outing) of kids from Bridgeport mer in which 11 vehicles of the Eastern Club. Participants had
schools was led by Mauriça Anderson Sierra 4-wheel Drive Club took 19 a fine view of South
in July. (See photo on page 2.) ROL hikers up to Coyote Ridge east of Lake from Coyote
(2) Inyo National Forest approved Bishop. We then hiked down to South Ridge before hiking
(with modifications) Alternative 6 for Lake. We look forward to a repeat out- down to the lake. (Top
the Forest’s Motorized Travel Man- ing next summer which will hopefully group photo by Anon.,
agement Plan. Bryce Wheeler and other improve our relations with people who bottom photo of South
ROLG members participated exten- have not been our traditional allies Lake from the ridge by
sively in the citizen group that produced in environmental endeavors in Inyo C.D. Ritter.)
Alternative 6. The Toiyabe-Humboldt County. (See photos in Calendar.)
National Forest is currently developing
its Motorized Travel Management plan.
(See article on next page.)
Help requested Please see ROL CALENDAR, page 5.
(3) The application of Inyo-Mono with programs!
County IRWMP (Integrated Regional
Water Management Plan) for recog-
FOR MANY YEARS THE ROL GROUP
has organized and presented regular You’re Invited!
nition as a state-approved IRWMP will monthly programs for the enjoy-
likely be approved. A ROL member nor- Range of Light Group Monthly Meeting
ment of our membership. We want to
continue these very popular and well Everyone welcome!
attended events, but we need your
Group ExCom meetings help to keep the effort going. If you,
Oct. 20 (Tues) Nov. 17 (Tues)
WE USUALLY MEET on the first Monday or some one you know, is interested Refreshments & Social 6:30 pm Refreshments & Social 6:30 pm
of the month. All Sierra Club members are in presenting to our group, please New Crowley Lake Community Ctr New Crowley Lake Community Ctr
welcome. Meeting dates and places are contact our Program Chairman Claus (next to Crowley Lake Store) (next to Crowley Lake Store)
subject to change. Information: for date, Engelhardt at engelhardt@cebridge.
time, and locations, please call the Chair, Please bring appetizers and non-alco- Please bring appetizers and non-alco-
net or by phone (760-872-4596). holic drinks or dessert to share. holic drinks or dessert to share.
Malcolm Clark (760-924-5639). He’d appreciate it very much. Sierra
RANGE OF LIGHT GROUP Club people have diverse interests Program 7:00 pm Program 7:00 pm
— adventure travel, environmental “Virtual Field Trip to Owens Lake” “Mono Lake Update”
OFFICERS subjects/local controversies and the with Bartshe Miller, Education
with Mike Prather, E. Sierra
arts among them. Take your pick!
Chair
Vice Chair
Malcolm Clark*
Open
760-924-5639 Environmentalist Extraordinaire Director, Mono Lake Committee
Secretary Brigitte Berman* 760-924-2140 Mike will discuss the changing situation with Mono Lake is on the rise. Learn how in-
Conservation
Cons. Asst.
Mary K. Prentice*
Henning Jensen*
760-934-0355
805-564-8374
760-934-7176
ROL Group Website construction of 9 more sq. mi. of shallow
flooding. Tens of thousands of shorebirds and
stitutional amnesia threatens management
of Mono Lake. Get a snapshot of what’s
Treasurer Lyle Gaston 760-387-2634 waterfowl are returning.. happening at the other end of the LA Aque-
Chapter Del. Jean Dillingham 760-648-7109 <http://nevada.sierraclub. duct.
Editor Lynne Foster 760-387-2634
Hway Cleanup John Walter 760-934-1767 org/rolgroup/> Dec. 15 (Tues)
Hospitality Wilma Wheeler 760-934-3764
LORP
Membership
Mark Bagley
Shalle Genevieve*
760-873-5326
760-934-9668 & Holiday Party & Potluck 6:30 pm!
Outings Bryce Wheeler 760-934-3764
Outings Asst.
Programs
Dick Baggett*
Claus Engelhardt
760-924-5749
760-872-4596
Chapter website Home of John & Nancy Walter (760-934-1767
(240 Mammoth Knolls Drive, Mammoth Lakes)
Publicity Mary Ann Dunigan 760-924-5982
Webmaster
* ExCom member
Owen Maloy 760-934-9511
<http://toiyabe.sierraclub.org> Please bring your own non-disposable table setting
& a special dish to share for 6-8 people to share.

5. TOIYABE TRAILS OCTOBER - NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 5
Range of Light Inyo NF releases Final EIS for
Motorized Travel Management
Calendar BY WILMA WHEELER
INYO NATIONAL FOREST SUPERVISOR, jor environmental contributors were James
continued from page 4 Jim Upchurch, has announced the release of the Wilson (Audubon and Friends of the Inyo)
Motorized Travel Management Final Environ- and Frank Stewart (Friends of the Inyo),
Cross-Country Ski & Snowshoe Tours mental Impact Statement (FEIS) and Record of conservationists and business owners.
On January 7, 2010, our winter outings will start with the Thursday morning Decision. Supervisor Upchurch signed a Record of Under the Plan, public motorized use is
snow play event and continue through winter and spring as long as snow Decision approving the selection of Modified Alter- restricted to National Forest Transportation
native 6. The project started five years ago with route System (NFTS) roads, trails and areas. The
conditions and weather permit. The Sunday trips will begin January 10. inventory by volunteers/users, environmental analy- selection of Modified Alternative 6 does close
The meeting place and time for both Thursday and Sunday outings will sis, and extensive some dirt roads
be the Mammoth Lakes Union Bank parking lot at 10 am. Suitable rental public involvement and adds others
equipment is available locally. and discussion. to the system.
Supervisor Added to the
Thursday morning snow play and easy ally on groomed trails. Upchurch said, existing system
treks will last about two hours. We’ll Most Nordic track or touring skis will “I believe my de- roads are 850
concentrate on conditioning, technique work, although waxless, patterned skis are cision provides miles of high-
practice, and learning about our local preferred. Newer, lightweight snowshoes a transportation clearance na-
landscape and critters. All skill levels are preferable. Dress in layered clothing, system for the tive surface road
welcome. We like to help newcomers wear sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, gloves, future by pro- as roads open to
get started. Bring water and lunch or a Bring water and lunch or hearty snack. viding a sustain- all vehicles, 122
snack and skis or snowshoes. Wear sun- Weather and snow conditions de- able system of miles of motor-
screen, sunglasses, hat, gloves, appro- termine where we go. If you have a roads and trails Volunteer members of the CAT (Collaborative Alternative Team). ized trails open
priate footwear, and layered clothing to favorite trip, let us know and we will while protecting to all trail vehicles, 20 miles of ATV trails, and
important resource values.” 15 miles of motorcycle trails. The Plan removes
be prepared for changeable weather. try to add it to our list. We welcome The modified version of Alternative 6 was many duplicate routes, and provides intercon-
Sunday trips will usually be easy tours new participants and qualified leaders. crafted by the Collaborative Alternative nected loops and linkages into backcountry land-
(about 5 miles) and open to both snow- If you are interested in becoming a Team (CAT) at the end of 2008 after several scapes, including a key north/south connector
shoers and skiers; however, snowshoers leader, call for more information. Until years of work. CAT participants (see photo) between the White and the Inyo Mountains.
must be able to keep up. Occasionally, the snow arrives, enjoy fall colors and included representatives of environmental Public meetings to introduce the plan were
the trips will be longer. We are not usu- our spectacular mountains. groups (Sierra Club, Friends of the Inyo, held in September. This Forest Service will
Audubon Society, etc.,) and members of complete a Motor Vehicle Use Map depicting
the public representing off-highway users, the designated system on the Inyo National
MLTPA & Mammoth Trails: gem collectors, Town of Mammoth Lakes, Forest, which will be available to the public at
From Gate to Gateway
BY MARY K. PRENTICE
Deadline! Inyo and Mono County Supervisors, mo- no cost. The map will be revised and reissued
torcyclists, ATV users, climbers, business as needed. Contact Marty Hornick (760-873-
owners, etc. Bryce Wheeler represented the 2461) or Susan Joyce (760-873-2516) for a
FOUR YEARS AGO I WAS DRIVING UP to a
DECEMBER 1 Sierra Club Range of Light Group in this CD of the Final EIS and Record of Decision
newly installed gate across Ranch Road for Jan-Feb - Mar issue effort. Paul McFarland and Bill Mitchell or view the documents at http://www.fs.fed.
represented Friends of the Inyo. Other ma- usr5/inyo/projects/ohvroute5.shtml.
in Mammoth. As the gates swung open I
noticed three backcountry skiers sport-
ing wide grins climbing over a mound
after an exhilarating ski down the face
Tahoe Group Clair Tappaan Gala Weekend a slam-dunk success!
of the Sherwins. This historic ski route BY ERNIE MALAMUD, CHAIR, GALA CELEBRATION COMMITTEE,
has long been a favorite challenge for Clair Tappaan Lodge & OLIVIA DIAZ, CO-CHAIR, CLAIR TAPPAAN LODGE COMMITTEE
the best skiers & boarders. FALL EVENTS
I asked if I could hold the gates open for them.
“Thanks, but I think we have made it”, said one
of the tall, tanned skiers who emerged. “My
October 31. Saturday,
Halloween. We are plan-
W hat fun! The Gala Celebration of the Anniversaries of the two lodges at
Donner Summit owned by the Sierra Club — Clair Tappaan Lodge (75
years) and Hutchinson Lodge (85 years) — was a great success. The weather
ning a costume parade,
name is John Wentworth and it is kind of you to games, pumpkin carving was mild, as it usually is in August at Donner Summit in the Sierra Nevada,
let three tired skier pass through your gate.” (bring your own pump- and there was music, music, and more music all weekend long.
Now, four years later, John Wentworth kin and tools) a piñata,
has moved from the controversial “Gate” There were many highlights to the August Christa Baker* of Nevada City and Kevin
and other fun ghoulish
as an obstacle to creating “A Gateway” to 14 –16 weekend. Saturday afternoon, the Brown from Reno. The program emphasized
activities that are not just for kids. Bring
“Mammoth Lakes Trails & Public Access” wine and cheese reception was at Hutchinson the importance of preserving the history and
kids for a safe, sane, and fun Halloween.
(MLTPA). John’s passion for the backcoun- Lodge. In the woods, the Lost Quartet, 16 and tradition that make the Sierra Club unique
November 1, Sunday, Day of the Dead
try and the right of public access, combined 17 year-old members of the Santa Rosa Youth among environmental organizations.
(El Día de los Muertos). This is an invita-
with his non-aggressive style, has forged an Symphony, played beautifully and profession- Squads of Sierra Club volunteers ran the
tion to explore another cultural view of the
organization of public agencies, fund raising ally. People sat around on tree stumps, benches, event. Participants came from all over the U.S.
passing of loved ones. You are invited to
sources and user groups. and chairs in the shade while the Sierra breezes Donations will benefit the 501(c3) CTL Sierra
make and bring a remembrance of someone
MLTPA’s motto, “connecting people with caressed us. The afternoon felt magical and Club Foundation account to help bring students
in your past you would like to honor. You
nature,” has garnered a wide range of pub- blessed. The 15 dif- to Clair Tappaan and
can prepare it in advance or you can just
lic opinion about recreation, trails, public ferent hikes, all led by Hutchinson lodges
bring a photo or some other reminder of your
access, and opportunities in the Mammoth certified leaders and for environmental
loved one to add to the “Ofrenda”(offering)
Lakes area. MLTPA has created a data base superbly organized education programs.
that Olivia Diaz, co-Chair of the Clair Tap-
of existing winter and summer trails using by Rick Ramos, were C T L’ s e x p a n d i n g
paan Lodge Committee, will prepare. This
GPS methods for accuracy. highly popular. p r o g r a m o f
Mexican celebration offers a different way
MLTPA was largely responsible for the Melissa Hutchinson environmental
to view our ancestors, a joyous way, not at
passage of Measure R with a 72% vote last was a special guest. education is nurturing
all macabre.
June. These special tax funds can only be She is a great-grand- the next generation of
Where is Clair Tappaan Lodge? The
used on trails, parks, and recreation. niece of the Hutchin- activists!
Lodge is located at 19940 Donner Pass
A major spin-off project, “Mammoth son brothers, Lincoln CTL, the “Sierra
Road in Norden, CA. For information and
Trails,” is a new confederation of recreation and James, who built Club at Donner Sum-
reservations, contact the Lodge (800-679-
user groups like the Sierra Club which meets the Lodge. Another Professor Milton Hildebrand, one of mit,” is located at
monthly to discuss common goals of stew- highlight was a reunion the builders of CTL, and Christa Baker. 19940 Donner Pass
ardship, opportunities, and programs. TAHOE GROUP of old timers who built Road in Norden, CA.
MLTPA has recently assisted the USFS the Warming Hut and used or operated the Signal * Christa was part of a group of students from
OFFICERS Hill rope tow. Some of the stories were hair-rais- Nevada City who came to the Lodge with Syn-
and the town to form the “Sherwin Working Chair Roger Rosenberger* 305-298-6191
Group.” The Group has over 40 volunteers Vice-Chair Carla Ennis 530-573-1834 ing since those were “pre OSHA” days. ergia Learning Ventures to make a documentary
Secretary Bryan Holzbauer* 775-265-1586 Sierra Club President, Allison Chin, was DVD about the Lodge and the experience of
to help design a recreational plan for a land- Treasurer Jerry Yeazell 530-588-8216
mark area, including the Sherwin Range and At Large Grace Anderson* our keynote speaker on Saturday night. Diana being there. Synergia won a grant from our local
Mammoth Meadow. At Large Bob Anderson* Vanderburg and her father George Homsey, group, the Sierra Nevada Group, to bring stu-
At Large Patricia Hickson* 530-401-1397
As in many mountain towns, it takes a few Cons. S. Shore Michael Donahoe* 775-588-5466 the well-known San Francisco architect who dents to CTL for environmental education. In the
passionate, dedicated nature lovers to turn Cons. N. Shore Ron Grassi designed the Warming Hut, set up a mag- DVD, Christa introduces viewers to the various
Membership Kay Edwards* 775-588-4565
obstacles, such as an exclusive gate, into an Newsletter Ed Josh Benin 530-541-1371
nificent photo display. Other speakers were rooms of the lodge. It will be used to encourage
opportunity — a gateway to access public Outings Glenn Polochko* 530-587-5906 Milton Hildebrand, one of the builders of schools or other groups to bring their youth to
lands. Thank you, John. Webmaster Bryan Holzbauer* 775-265-1586 CTL (he was 17 then), and two young people, the Lodge for environmental education.
RANGE OF LIGHT GROUP continued on page 2.