1. trails
toiyabe JANUARY FEBRUARY - MARCH 2010
Win
Out ter
ings
Issu
e
ENVIRONMENTAL NEWS OF NEVADA AND THE EASTERN SIERRA FROM THE TOIYABE CHAPTER OF THE SIERRA CLUB
From the Chair Chapter & group
ExCom election results
BY DAVID HORNBECK BY DAVID VON SEGGERN
FIRST, CONGRATULATIONS to
those elected to the Chapter and T he 2009 election ballot count
was conducted the evening of
December 10. Six counters and two
Group ExComs. Thank you all observers, including Toiyabe Chapter
for stepping forward as leaders Chair David Hornbeck, were present.
in the Club to undertake impor- About 460 ballots were counted, rep-
tant work for the environment resenting about 11.7% of the mem-
and our planet. (See article on bers of the Toiyabe Chapter. This 9%
this page for details.) is more than triple the typical return
Votes received up 350%! David rate in recent chapter elections.
For the chapter ExCom, in the order of
von Seggern deserves our special number of votes received, from highest
thanks and accolades for the tremen- to lowest, the candidates’ rankings are:
dous job he did as Chair of the Elec- 1. David Hornbeck
tion Committee. He was responsible 2. Glenn Miller
3. Erik Holland
the new individually mailed ballot 4. Jean Stoess
procedure. The result was a new Spring Mountains Acastus Checkerspot 5. Kris Cunningham
high for the Toiyabe Chapter with 6. Mary Winston
587 ballots returned, for an 11.7% 7. Launce Rake
return. The 11.7% return was about a 8. Pat Mulcahy
350% fold increase over the response Eastern Sierra update 9. Lisa Stiller
10. Michael Garabedian
of 167 ballots in last year’s elec-
tion conducted through the Toiyabe Motorized vs. non-motorized The top five candidates have been
provisionally elected to Toiyabe Chapter
Trails. In addition, Jane Feldman
did an outstanding job as Chair of winter recreation ExCom for a term of two years. Formal
acceptance of the results will be at the
the Chapter Nominations Commit- Sherwin Working Group’s consensus January 2010 ExCom meeting.
tee. The NomCom nominated 10 None of the groups had contested Ex-
overturned by outside groups Com elections (only as many candidates
Please see CHAIR’S COLUMN, page 2.
BY MARY K PRENTICE ran as were seats available), and so all
T
he Sherwin Working Group* and the USFS held a seven-month candidates for all groups were automati-
cally elected. For the groups, the follow-
Don’t forget planning process to recommend summer and winter recreation ing members will be serving.
uses for Mammoth Meadows and the Sherwin range to the • Great Basin Group ExCom: Bob Tre-
to visit the USFS. The goal was to deliver a negotiated consensus on competing gilus, Jeff Harcastle, Cathy Schmidt,
recreational uses and to be a model for future recreation planning and Graham Stafford.
Chapter website around Mammoth Lakes and beyond. • Southern Nevada Group ExCom:
Last April the group quickly came to Maxine Miller, Kristine Cunningham,
in the winter. The approximate boundar-
<http://toiyabe.sierraclub.org> consensus that there should be a separa- ies were to extend from the town bound-
Scott Stevens, and Thomas Ainley, Jr.
tion of motorized and non-motorized use • Range of Light Group ExCom:
Please see OVERTURNED, page 5.
Rosemary Jarrett, Mary Kay Prentice,
and Brigitte Berman.
Kudos to David Hornbeck Please see EXCOM ELECTION, page 2.
Sierra Club, Toiyabe Chapter, P.O. Box 8096, Reno, NV 89507
BY TINA NAPPE
PAID
D avid Hornbeck, Chair of the Toiyabe
Chapter of the Sierra Club for the past
three years, received the annual Pinecone
IN THIS ISSUE
Motorsports Racetrack. . . . . .. . 2
award in November. Hornbeck was chosen Winter Desert Trips . . . . . . . . . . . 3
2010 W. Wilderness Conference. 3
Range of Light Group . . . . . . 4-5
Pinecone awards have been offered annu- E. Sierra Land Trust Events . . . . 5
ally at a dinner sponsored by EcoNet. Channel Islands Fundraiser . . . . 5
Court Victory in Water Wars. . . 6
Chapter Excom in the l980s. He joined the op- Disabled to Lose FS Benefits . . . 6
position to the proposed MX missile racetrack, Ruby Gas Pipeline . . . . . . . . . . . 6
which was designed to utilize 45,000 acres in Horse Talk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Nevada and Utah. A number of Sierra Club mem- New Nat’l Monument? . . . . . . . . 7
bers, along with ranchers, miners, rural com- Carson Valley Trails Assoc. . . . . . .8
munities, and ultimately the Catholic Church, Trash Mountain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
worked together to oppose the project. Protect Gold Butte . . . . . . . . . . . .8
During his second term of service on the Great Basin Group . . . . . . . . . 8-9
Toiyabe Chapter ExCom, Hornbeck, in addition to administrative duties, has
S. Nevada Group . . . . . . . . 10-11
Please see GOLDEN PINECONE AWARD page 2.

2. 2 JANUARY - FEBRUARY - MARCH 2010 TOIYABE TRAILS
From the Chair In Memoriam
DONALD HUBER, 81, of Truckee and Carson
City, passed away on October 30. He joined and
positions! became a lifetime member of the Sierra Club in the
New election procedure. This 1950s, often staying at the Clair Tappaan Lodge
very effective election procedure on Donner Summit. During his early tenure with
resulted from budget constraints the Sierra Club, he assisted in the construction of
on national Sierra Club revenues some of the Sierra Club huts lining the crest of
due to the current economy. These the Sierra Nevada. He was also involved with
constraints meant it was necessary
to reduce the Toiyabe Trails publica- around Lake Tahoe. To see his full obituary, go
tion schedule from six to four issues to <http://www.sierrasun.com/article/20091105/
this year. >.
A paperless
Tr a i l s ? Wi t h CONSERVATION . . .
coming chang-
es to Chapter
funding by the
national Si-
Motorsports racetrack near Poppy Reserve?
BY KATHERINE ALLEN
erra Club, your
Chapter leaders have been discuss-
ing whether someday there will T he staff of the Los Angeles County egional Planning Commission has
recommended approval of a plan to build a motorsports racetrack next
to Fairmont Butte, 1.5 miles north of California State Poppy Reserve in
need to be a conversion to a digital,
paperless Toiyabe Trails. The Chap- Antelope Valley. There will be at least one more Commission hearing on the
ter ExCom will be discussing this subject and, if approved, it will go to the LA County Board of Supervisors
further in 2010, but rest assured, if for approval of the required zoning change.
this happens, consideration will be The racetrack could host high perfor- There are also other problems with this
mance race vehicles 365 days a year. project. It requires a zone change from
given to our members who prefer a
The noise would affect visitors to the residential/agricultural to industrial/
paper Trails. Poppy Reserve, who come there to ex- commercial, which would open the door
perience nature. A survey taken during to more development -- development
the height of the poppy season indicated which is incompatible with the rural Toiyabe Trails
TOIYABE CHAPTER DIRECTORY that many people would not return to nature of the area. Development would
CHAPTER EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE OFFICERS & MEMBERS the Reserve if there were a motor ve- have a negative impact on the property SERVING NEVADA
Chair
Vice-Chair
Dave Hornbeck*
Dorothy Hudig*
775-323-6655
775-323-4835
hicle racetrack nearby. Even more said values of nearby residents, and would & CALIFORNIA’S E. SIERRA
Secretary Jane Feldman*
janefeldman@
cox.net - draw additional illegal off-road activity Toiyabe Trails is published six times each year
Treasurer (Apptd) Kris Cunningham 702-285-6832
At Large Eric Blumensaadt* 702-566-9429 crease. Fewer visitors mean decreased to the area. by the Toiyabe Chapter of the Sierra Club,
At Large Ann Brauer* 702-879-3376
At Large Charlotte Cox
charcox@
charter.net
revenue for the reserve, funds that are Both this development activity and P.O. Box 8096, Reno, NV 89507, to help keep
At Large
At Large
Jean Dillingham*
Erik Holland*
760-648-7109
775-322-3582
crucial during this time of budget cuts the racetrack itself would destroy prime our members well-informed and better able to
Sharon Marie in California. protect the environment—for our families, for
At Large 775-852-5075
Wilcox* our future.
GROUP CHAIRS (EX-OFFICIO VOTING EXCOM MEMBERS) Please see POPPY RESERVE, page 5. Editor – Lynne Foster (94 Mountain View
Great Basin David von Seggern 775-303-8461
Drive, Swall Meadows, Bishop, CA 93514-9207;
Range of Light
Southern NV
Tahoe Area SC
Malcolm Clark
Kris Cunningham
Roger Rosenberger
760-924-5639
702-285-6832
775-588-8101
EXCOM ELECTION . . . 760-387-2634; <lfoster@schat.net>; fax avail-
DELEGATES & REPRESENTATIVES
CA/NVRCC-Del.** Wilma Wheeler 760-934-3764
DESERT TRIPS . . . Assoc. Editor – Kathy Morey (760-938-2050).
-Delegate** Eric Blumensaadt* 702-566-9429
-Alternate Michael Donahue 775 588-5466
• Tahoe Group ExCom: The Group Kathy does the July- August-September issue.
-Alternate Erik Holland* 775-322-3582
Deadlines – Contributions are due by the
CA/NVRCC-CHAPTER REPRESENTATIVES
ran their own election, and ExCom Dome. Primitive car camp at Sunrise 1st of the month for publication in the following
-Nevada Vice-Chair Lois Snedden 775-827-2353 officer results will be announced Rock. Sunday morning, visit museum/ month’s issue: December 1 for January-Febru-
-Desert Comm John Hiatt 702-361-1171
-Wilderness Comm Marge Sill 775-322-2867
epillard@
separately. visitor center at Kelso Depot then hike ary-March; March 1 for April-May-June; June
PLAN Board
SC Council-Delegate
Ellen Pillard
Jane Feldman*
nvbell.net
702-648-0699
A full report on the 2009 election pro- Kelso Dunes. These dunes have various 1 for July-August-September; September 1 for
-Alternate Sharon Marie Wilcox* 775-852-5075
cess and the details of the ballot count nicknames including “singing dunes” October-November-December.
COMMITTEE, TASK FORCE & ISSUE CHAIRS Submissions – Call or e-mail editor before
Chapter Funding TF
Conservation Co-Chair
Eric Blumensaadt*
Dennis Ghiglieri
702-566-9429
775-329-6118
will be submitted to the chapter ExCom and “moaning dunes” due to sounds deadline for late submissions. Submit news, sto-
Conservation-Co-Chair Eric Blumensaadt*
Energy Jane Feldman*
702-566-9429
702-648-0699
at the January 2010 meeting. that they often make. Whatever you ry ideas, photos, and letters-to-the-editor to the
Env. Education
Financial Review
Jean Dillingham*
Kris Cunningham
760-648-7109
702-285-6832
call them, they’re impressive. Option editor (contact info above). Please include your
Fundraising Charlotte Cox* charcox@
to spend another night camping at name, phone/fax, e-mail address, and group with
GOLDEN PINECONE
charter.net
Legal Compliance Burt Patterson 702-562-1571 all contributions. You may send contributions by
Legislative-Co-Chair Joe Johnson 775-348-7192 Granite Mountains. Reservatilons: con- e-mail or on a PC-compatible disk (Word, text,
AWARD . . .
Legislative-Co-Chair Lois Snedden 775-827-2353
Membership
Sharon Marie
775-852-5075
tact leader, Carol Wiley (desertlily1@ or ascii). Please send hard copy by snail mail
Wilcox*
Mining-Co-Chair Lois Snedden 775-827-2353
glennm@unr.
verizon.net, 760-245-8734). for all submissions on disk. For photo or disk
Mining-Co-Chair Glenn Mille
Nominating Jane Feldman*
edu
702-648-0699 CNRCC Desert Committee return, please include a stamped, self-addressed
Outings Eric Blumensaadt* 702-566-9429 dealt with key issues facing the Chap- envelope. The Toiyabe Trails reserves the right
Political-Co-Chair Erik Holland* 775-322-3582 APRIL 24-25 (SAT-SUN) to edit all contributions for reasons of space,
Political-Co-Chair Ellen Pillard
epillard@
nvbell.net ter. These include suggesting changes ROCK ART IN EASTERN CALIFOR- clarity, slander, or libel.
Public Lands
Public Rel./Outreach
Rose Strickland
Charlotte Cox
775-329-6118
charcox@
charter.net
incorporated in the White Pine County NIA Subscriptions – Toiyabe Trails is free to all
Sierra Student Coalition Trisha Mynster 530-680-4483
emily.
Lands Bill, providing ongoing sup- Comfortable spring weather is ideal Toiyabe Chapter members. Subscription cost for
Emily Rhodenbaugh rhodenbaugh
port to the Great Basin Water Network non-members is $12 per year. To subscribe, send
Staff Oversight Dave Hornbeck* 775-323-6655 time to go exploring. Saturday, visit check for $12, payable to “Toiyabe Chapter,”
Sustain. Consumption Philip Moore 775-224-1877 (which is opposing Southern Nevada’s three rock art sites in S Owens Val-
Trails Editorial Marge Sill 775-322-2867 to Toiyabe Trails Subscriptions, Sierra Club,
Trails Redesign
emily.
Emily Rhodenbaugh rhodenbaugh efforts to strip eastern Nevada of water), ley area bordering Coso Mountains. Toiyabe Chapter, c/o Treasurer, 1621 Foster Dr.,
@sierraclub.org
Video Conf. TF
Water Campaign
Ann Brauer*
Rose Strickland
702-879-3376
775-329-6118
strengthening the recently approved Sunday, we’ll be escorted to (the as- Reno, NV 89509-1111.
Wilderness
Wildlife-Co-Chair
Marge Sill
Tina Nappe
775-322-2867
775-786-1178
Carson public lands bill, opposing the tonishing) Little Petroglyph Canyon on Change of address – Postmaster & Members,
Wildlife-Co-Chair Rose Strickland 775-329-6118 route of the Ruby pipeline in northern please send address changes to Sierra Club, Change
OTHER CONTACTS & STAFF China Lake Naval Weapons Station. As of Address, P. O. Box 52968, Boulder, CO 80322-
emily. Nevada, and addressing the problem of government restrictions apply here, all 2968 or <address.changes@sierraclub.org>.
SC Staff-Reno Emily Rhodenbaugh rhodenbaugh
@sierraclub.org
robert.disney
excess wild horses.. Membership information – There is a mem-
SC Staff-Las Vegas Rob Disney
Foundation Liaison (Vacant)
@sierraclub.org A native Nevadan, Hornbeck practices be completed by April 1 (no joking). bership coupon in each issue of Toiyabe Trails.
Listserve Manager
Chapter Webmaster
Dennis Ghiglieri
Dennis Ghiglieri
775-329-6118
775-329-6118 law in Reno and enjoys skiing, hiking, You can also call the Chapter Membership Chair
TRAILS STAFF
and bicycling. He believes “we have (see Chapter Directory, this page) or the Sierra
Trails Editor
Assoc. Editor
Lynne Foster
Kathy Morey
760-387-2634
760-938-2050
hiking; Saturday eve potluck. Group
Distribution Carol Tresner 775-786-0489 to stop abusing the environment and limit, 14. Reservations: contact leader, Other Sierra Club information – Call the Toiyabe
-Co-Coordin. Bill Bowers 775-786-3259
-Co-Coordin. Dennis Ghiglieri 775-329-6118 preserve what we have if we want it to Craig Deutsche (310-477-6670, craig. Chapter Chair or Conservation Chair (see Chapter
Directory, this page) or the Sierra Club Information
* = Elected ExCom Members
remain a stable and healthy environ- deutsche@gmail.com). Center in San Francisco (415-977-5653). Also, see
ment.” CNRCC Desert Committee group pages for website addresses of groups.

3. TOIYABE TRAILS JANUARY - FEBRUARY - MARCH 2010 3
DECEMBER 28 - JANUARY 2, 2010 Western Wilderness
(MON-SAT)
HOLIDAY SERVICE IN CARRIZO Winter Desert Trips Conference 2010
PLAIN NAT’L MONUMENT. “New Aims, New Allies”
Celebrate end of one year, beginning of
T he CNRCC Desert Committee’s purpose is to work for protec- BY VICKY HOOVER
next in one of our new national monu- tion, preservation, and conservation of California/Nevada desert. DON’T MISS THE WESTERN Wilder-
All Desert Committee activities, unless stated otherwise, are suitable ness Conference 2010, which will take
is vast grassland, home to pronghorn for anyone who enjoys the outdoors. The average car or high clearance place April 8-11, 2010, on the campus of
antelope, tule elk, kit fox, wide variety the University of California, Berkeley,
vehicle will be adequate for most trips. For a good guide to desert travel we California. Visit the conference website:
of birds. Welcome hike Dec. 28, 3.5
days of service modifying barbed wire recommend the Sierra Club book, Adventuring in the California Desert, <www.westernwilderness.org>.
fencing, full day for hiking exploring by Lynne Foster. Save the date now! For anyone who
are planned. Use of accommodations at For questions about, or to sign up for, a particular outing, please cares about the wild places of the
Goodwin Ranch included. Limited to 14 contact leader listed in write-up. For questions about Desert Com- West—this is one event not to miss!
mittee outings in general, or to receive outings list by e-mail, please This is your opportunity to give back,
contact leader: Craig Deutsche (craig. to make a difference and to help secure
deutsche@gmail.com, 310-477-6670) or
contact Kate Allen (kjallen@wildblue.com, 661-944-4056). the grand wild places of the American
co-leader Melinda Goodwater (mgoodwa- West for future generations. Dynamic
ter@sbcglobal.net, 408-774-1257). speakers, workshops, music, meals,
CNRCC Desert Committee outings! It’s all part of the celebration
JANUARY 22-24 (FRI-SUN)
Sierra Club California/Nevada of the West’s wild places.
WILDERNESS RESTORATION: Regional Conservation Committee Although the event takes place in the
DEATH VALLEY NAT’L PARK San Francisco Bay Area, wilderness or-
EXPLORATORY TOUR Assist Nat’l Park Service in eradicating ganizations and advocates from around
Help protect Death Valley NP from the West are invited to participate in this
Sample some of many wonders offered Russian olive from Escalante River.
in this NP. Beginning in Shoshone on Work under direction of Park Ranger grand event. Some 600 to 800 partici-
wilderness restoration project along pants from all western states will gather
Saturday morning, travel N on Hwy 178 Bill Wolverton, gathering up slash from
park’s scenic E boundary in Amargosa to focus on the role of wild lands in an
with stop at Badwater, easy 2-mi hikes previous service trips and burning it.
Valley involves installation of signs, era of global climate change.
at Natural Bridge and Golden Canyon. Since 2000, over half of river has been
raking out of vehicle tracks moving Plenary sessions, dynamic speakers
Camp at Texas Springs ($14/site). If cleared. Meet in Escalante, Utah Sunday
rocks. Meet late Friday afternoon, or and intensive workshops will help con-
time allows, drive to Zambriskie Point morning, March 14, caravan to trailhead,
early Saturday morning, work Saturday, nect wild places with climate change and
Dante’s View. Sunday morning, visit then hike in. Work four days, day hike
part of day on Sunday. Camp Friday- give lessons on how to advocate more
museum visitor center in Furnace Creek, one day, hike out Saturday morning,
Saturday night in Park Service camping
March 20. Expect knee to thigh deep
area (no water, portable toilets). Leader: The Toiyabe Chapter is one of 22
mi hike to highest sand dune. Possible river crossings, overnight lows near
Kate Allen, kj.allen@wildblue.net, Sierra Club western chapters which
hike into Mosaic Canyon. Want to stay freezing, mild temperatures during day.
(661-944-4056). are already conference sponsors. Other
CNRCC Desert Committee Sunday night? Camp at Stovepipe Wells Participants responsible for their own
($12/site). Option of primitive camping leather work gloves (highly recom- sponsors nearby are Friends of Nevada
JANUARY 30-31 (SAT-SUN) on Friday night. Reservations: contact mended), food, gear on trail. Contact Wilderness, Nevada Wilderness Project,
FENCING WILDERNESS: leader, Carol Wiley (desertlily1@veri- Leader Paul Plathe: (209-476-1498). and Friends of the Inyo.
GOLDEN VALLEY WILDERNESS zon.net, 760-245-8734). Delta-Sierra Group (Mother Lode Chapter) What you can do. Register online at
During past year, a long fence has been CNRCC Desert Committee <www.westernwilderness.org>. “Early
MARCH 20-21 (SAT-SUN)
constructed along N boundary of Gold- bird” registration fee is $100. Some
MARCH 13-14 (SAT-SUN) OVERNIGHT BACKPACK:
en Valley Wilderness to prevent illegal scholarships available; contact Vicky
FENCE REMOVAL, HIKING: PANAMINT MOUNTAINS
motorized vehicle entry. Where this Hoover, Planning Committee Co-chair,
CARRIZO PLAIN CAR CAMP In N of Surprise Canyon on W side of for info (vicky.hoover@sierraclub.org,
fence is still high above ground, we’ll
Help remove fences on Cal Dept. of Panamints, Hall Canyon and Jail Canyon 425-977-5527).
assist Marty Dickes of Ridgecrest BLM
Fish & Game Reserve. At this time of descend into Panamint Valley from slopes
-
year, Carrizo may be turning green, if of Telescope Peak. Loop trip taking in volves protecting several springs by
ward will be in knowing that intrusions
winter has been wet, there should be lower reaches of these canyons. On Satur- earth work, stabilization work, putting
day, hike to Hall Canyon camp. On Sun- up fence and some infrastructure in and
stay over on Monday, when there will be
dinner that evening. Hike Sunday. day, hike across dividing ridge between around a qanat. We’ll be directed by
hike up nearby peak. Car camping; pot-
Bring leather gloves, warm clothes with Hall Canyon and Jail Canyon, descend staff from Mojave Nat’l Preserve. Hike
luck Saturday evening. Contact leader:
long sleeves and legs, dish for potluck 4WD route to road. The canyon mouths planned for Friday for those arriving
Craig Deutsche, (310-477-6670), craig.
on Saturday night. Leaders will be at are short enough car shuttle not needed. in morning. If rains are good this year,
deutsche@gmail.com.
CNRCC Desert Committee Selby Camp on Friday night for those Info: contact leader John Wilkinson (408-
who want to arrive early. Leaders: Cal 876-8295, johnfw1@mac.com). Work all day Saturday until noon on
FEBRUARY 15-17 (MON-WED) & Letty French (805-239-7338; prefer CNRCC Desert Committee
Sunday. Ranger talk about Preserve on
GOLD BUTTE INTRODUCTORY TOUR e-mail, lettyfrench@gmail.com). APRIL 5-10 (MON-SAT) Saturday eve. Camping is rustic. Res-
Explore this proposed Nat’l Conserva- Santa Lucia Chapter / CNRCC Desert Committee
WILDFLOWERS FENCE REMOVAL: ervations: contact leader, Rich Juricich
tion Area in SE Nevada. See many beau- MARCH 13-14 (SAT-SUN) CARRIZO PLAIN NAT’L MONUMENT (rich.sac@pacbell.net, 916-492-2181).
tiful and interesting sights, including GHOST TOWN EXTRAVAGANZA Three half-days of service to monu- CNRCC Desert Committee
petroglyphs, Joshua trees. Climb a peak, ment, removing modifying fences to
Visit this spectacular landscape near APRIL 17-18 (SAT-SUN)
enjoy splendid views. Central commis- allow resident pronghorn to travel
sary. Leader: Vicky Hoover, (415-977- Death Valley to see desert leprechauns, OWENS VALLEY WORK PROJECT
5527), vicky.hoover@sierraclub.org. explore ruins of California’s colorful Maybe bash tamarisk along Owens
past. Camp at historic ghost town of season, so our schedule allows at least
CNRCC Wilderness & Desert Committees River, but this could change. Work on
a day for exploring, either hiking or
Saturday, enjoy extensive birding op-
FEBRUARY 27-28 (SAT-SUN) On Saturday, very challenging hike to driving backcountry roads. With lon-
portunities on Sunday. Camp at Diaz
MECCA HILLS CAR CAMP ghost town, Lookout City, with expert ger daylight hours there may also be
Lake just S of Lone Pine. Group pot-
Explore Mecca Hills Wilderness Area Hal Fowler, who will regale us with time to visit sights in monument after
luck Saturday night. Bring all camping
east of Indio, CA. Hike through gravel tales of this Wild West town. Later, work. Because we are privileged to be
gear, or stay in motel in nearby Lone
washes, rocky hills, to several well- return to camp for Happy Hour, St. staying at one of old ranch houses, our
Pine. Info: contact leaders, Cal & Letty
known spectacular sites. Saturday, visit trip is limited to 14 participants; $30
French (805-239-7338; prefer e-mail,
Hidden Springs Grottos, Sunday, explore Sunday, quick visit to infamous Riley covers five dinners. Contact leader:
lettyfrench@gmail.com).
Painted Canyon. Car camping includes town site before heading home. Group Craig Deutsche, (310-477-6670, craig. Santa Lucia Chapter / CNRCC Desert Committee
civilized amenities, potluck supper, size strictly limited. Contact leader: deutsche@gmail.com).
- Lygeia Gerard (760-868-2179). CNRCC Desert Committee APRIL 24-25 (SAT-SUN)
ticipants. Ldr: Craig Deutsche, craig. CNRCC Desert Committee. EXPLORING MOJAVE
APRIL 16-18 (FRI-SUN)
deutsche@gmail.com (310-477-6670). NAT’L PRESERVE
MARCH 14-20 (SUN-SAT) MOJAVE NAT’L PRESERVE
CNRCC Desert Committee
SERVICE TRIP Meet Saturday morning, 9 am, on Cima
GLEN CANYON NRA, ESCALANTE
MARCH 6-7 (SAT-SUN) RIVER CANYON: SERVICE TRIP/ Rd. Hike to Teutonia Peak on Cima
Help restore historic water feature to
DEATH VALLEY NAT’L PARK BACKPACK provide water for wildlife. Work in- Please see DESERT TRIPS, page 2.

4. 4 JANUARY - FEBRUARY - MARCH 2010 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.
Snow play, cross-country
Range of Light Group skiing, & snowshoe tours
BY BRYCE WHEELER, ROL OUTINGS CHAIR
ARE YOU READY FOR FUN IN THE SNOW? Come out with
Group News us and work off holiday feasting calories. We’re going to have a varied
winter outings program of cross-country ski and snowshoe tours. For more
info, call or email leaders: John Walter (760 934-1767; salt1143@gmail.
Letter from the Chair com); Jean Dillingham (760 6487109; jdill@qnet.com); or Bryce Wheeler
BY MALCOLM CLARK (760 934-3764; telebry@verizon.net).
Rosemary Jarrett is our new ExCom member. January-April 2010: Thursday and do, although waxless, patterned skis
We thank retiring ExCom member Dick Baggett for his service to Sunday cross-country ski trips. First are preferred. The new, lightweight
RoL 2010 x-c ski outing will be Thurs- snowshoes are preferable. Rental
the group. Dick continues to lead our Wednesday evening hikes. day, Jan.7. Meet at ML Union Bank equipment is available locally if
Also note that CD Ritter has replaced Mary Ann Dunigan as our parking lot, 10 am. Sunday x-c ski trips needed. Dress in layered clothing to
Publicity Chair. Thanks to Mary Ann for her service and also to will start Jan.10. Meeting time and place be prepared for changeable weather.
retiring Chapter ExCom (and ROLG) member Jean Dillingham. are same for both Thursday and Sunday Wear sunscreen, hat, and gloves and
Schedule changes. ROL ExCom trips. Winter tours will continue through bring water and lunch or snacks.
third Tuesdays, potluck at 6:30, an- April or until the snow runs out. Weather and snow conditions de-
- nouncements followed by program Thursday morning snow play. We termine where we go. If you have a
day of each month, but the time has at 7 pm. You are welcome to skip the concentrate on conditioning, technique favorite trip, let us know and will try to
switched back to 3 pm from 3:30 potluck and come at 7 pm. practice, and learning about our local put it on the list. We would like to have
p.m. We rotate meetings among Conservation. In separate articles landscape and critters. All skill levels more trips scheduled out of Bishop and
ExCom members’ homes so check or in future newsletters we’ll report welcome. We like to help beginners involve more local people there. We
with me (wmalcolm.clark@gmail. on current conservation issues: Sher- get started. Bring water, lunch or would welcome more winter outings
com, 760-924-5639) regarding win Working Group’s plan for recre- snack, ski equipment or snowshoes; leaders. Getting out in the forest in
ation in the area adjoining Mammoth wear sunscreen, hat, gloves and lay- the winter offers opportunities to see
the monthly meeting has not been Lakes on the south; proposed expan- ered clothing. Thursday treks tracks of animals seldom seen, such as
canceled. In January, we meet on sion by the Mammoth Lakes Geo- will last about two hours. pine martin and other elusive critters,
the 2nd Monday, January 11, rather thermal plant (topic of our January Sunday trips. These will and enjoy the serenity and spectacular
than on January 4. 19 monthly meeting); the Inyo-Mono be easy tours (about 5 miles) beauty of our public lands.
Potlucks return. We’ll again be County water management plan; and and are open to both snowshoers and Unfortunately, sometimes we
having potlucks before the monthly skiers; however, snowshoers must encounter snowmobile tracks in
meetings held at the Crowley Com- facilities in the Eastern Sierra. be able to keep up. Sunday outings wilderness areas where such intru-
munity Center (no potlucks allowed Outings. See this page for informa- will usually be longer and could sion is illegal. We hope to educate
at the Mammoth Lakes library). A tion on our Thursday morning and be described as snow hiking, as we the public by assisting the Forest
poll of members indicated over- Sunday snowshoe and cross-country won’t usually be on groomed trails. Service in putting up signs to dis-
whelming support for the potlucks. ski outings which begin in January, Most Nordic track or touring skis will courage illegal entry.
People also said they were willing snow permitting. If you live near
to share the work for organizing
You’re Invited!
Mammoth, you’ll be glad to know
the potlucks so the burden does that Mammoth Nordic is resuming
not always fall on the same person. grooming cross-country ski trails in
The schedule remains the same: the Shady Rest area. Range of Light Group Monthly Meeting
Everyone welcome!
Group ExCom meetings Jan. 19 (Tues) Feb. 16 (Tues)
WE USUALLY MEET
of the month. All Sierra Club members are
Deadline! Full Potluck & Social 6:30 pm! Full Potluck & Social 6:30 pm!
New Crowley Lake Community Ctr New Crowley Lake Community Ctr
welcome. Meeting dates and places are MARCH 1 (next to Crowley Lake Store) (next to Crowley Lake Store)
subject to change. Information: for date,
time, and locations, please call the Chair, Please bring your own non-disposable Please bring your own non-disposable
TRAILS table setting and a dish for 6-8 people. table setting and a dish for 6-8 people.
Malcolm Clark (760-924-5639).
Program 7:30 pm Program 7:30 pm
RANGE OF LIGHT GROUP
“What’s New at the Geothermal Plant” “Roof Pendants of the E. Sierra”
OFFICERS with Brigitte Berman, ROL ExCom
for Apr-may-june issue Regulatory Affairs Mgr. at Ormat
Chair Malcolm Clark* 760-924-5639
Vice Chair Open Ron will present the basics of geothermal energy, Roof pendants are remnants of ancient sedimen-
Secretary Brigitte Berman* 760-924-2140 describe operations at the Mammoth Lakes geo- tary and volcanic rocks into which Sierra Nevada
Conservation
Cons. Asst.
Mary K. Prentice*
Henning Jensen*
760-934-0355
805-564-8374
760-934-7176
ROL Group Website thermal plant, compare geothermal energy plants
with other types of non-renewable and renewable
granite was emplaced. Brigitte will focus on
the Mt. Morrison and Mt. Ritter pendants: their
Treasurer Lyle Gaston 760-387-2634 energy plants, and discuss possible expansion distribution, structure, age, lithology, and pale-
At Large Rosemary Jarrett* kaljar@qnet.com <http://nevada.sierraclub. plans at the facility. ontology.
Chapter Del. Jean Dillingham 760-648-7109
Editor Lynne Foster 760-387-2634 org/rolgroup/>
Mar. 16 (Tues) Program 7:30 pm
&
Hway Cleanup John Walter 760-934-1767
Hospitality Wilma Wheeler 760-934-3764
LORP Mark Bagley 760-873-5326
Full Potluck & Social 6:30 pm! “Devils Postpile: Challenges”
Chapter website
Membership Shalle Genevieve* 760-934-9668
Outings Bryce Wheeler 760-934-3764 with Deanna Dulen, Supt., Devils Postpile NM
Outings Asst. Dick Baggett 760-924-5749 New Crowley Lake Community Ctr The Postpile is known for its striking basaltic columns,
Programs Claus Engelhardt 760-872-4596 (next to Crowley Lake Store) but there is much more to this small jewel. Surveys
Publicity
Webmaster
CD Ritter
Owen Maloy
cdritter@mono.ca.gov
760-934-9511 <http://toiyabe.sierraclub.org> Please bring your own non-disposable table of the park’s resources reveal it is situated at a sig-
* ExCom member setting and a dish for 6-8 people.

5. TOIYABE TRAILS JANUARY - FEBRUARY - MARCH 2010 5
Eastern Sierra Land Trust coming events SHERWIN WORKING GROUP
BY MARY MCGURKE, ESLT DEVELOPMENT & OUTREACH DIRECTOR CONSENSUS OVERTURNED . . .
Fare preserving it, pleaseEasterntomoreof our upcoming events. Visit our
at the
or a close up look
come one
new website at <www.eslt.org> for
Sierra’s winter landscape and how we
information.
ary (UGB) to the top of the Sherwin
Range, with motorized use to the east
consensus believe proper procedure was
violated. The subcommittee did not
In January, ESLT and non-motorized use to the west. report back to the full committee, but
will host a Volun- On Oct 13, a furious winter storm blew simply asked the facilitator to explain its
teer Orientation into Mammoth and turned away many -
Evening. This is a regular participants. As a result, the six- mittee consensus was altered at the 11th
wonderful opportu- month consensus was negated. For some hour by outside phone calls and e-mails
nity to get involved reason, no minutes of the meeting were from the snowmobile community.
with the amazing sent as in the past. In an e-mail a few days Non-members overturn consensus.
community of ESLT Thus, the consensus was altered by
volunteers! Learn would be put into subcommittee to work people who did not participate in the
more about how as open committee. Why did the facilita-
an ESLT volunteer Facilitators violate proper proce-
you can contribute dure. The full committee received the public comment period by the USFS was
to preserving excep- always to be a part of the process.
tional lands in the Note that the committee had always
Eastern Sierra. committee meeting on Tuesday, Novem- been completely open to all user groups.
In February, join Wheeler Ridge Wildlife Migration Corridor: 72 acres of ber 3. No new substantive changes were The nearly 70 of us who volunteered
ESLT for a Moon- ESLT conservation easements permanently protect the allowed. Rather, a celebratory party was -
light Ski Tour on migration habitat for the Round Valley mule deer herd, and planned, to approve the subcommittee sensus by the presence and participation
lands that have been other wildlife and plant communities. Photo: Stephen Ingram consensus and end our work. of all user groups. The committee recom-
permanently preserved by an ESLT and migration corridor habitats. Expe- mendations would than go to the USFS
conservation easement. We will quietly had deleted the heart of the winter plan: for the open public comment period.
swish through beautiful meadows and migration corridor and wildlife habitat the boundary separation of motorized What you can do. We’ll keep you
end the evening with warm drinks and that has been permanently protected for use to the east and non-motorized use alerted! The plan is called SHARP (Sher-
dessert. This is an exclusive opportunity plant communities and wildlife. to the west. win Area Recreational Plan). When
What you can do. Visit ESLT’s The reason for this was calls from the you get our alert please tell the Forest
preserving the Eastern Sierra’s working new website (address above) for more snowmobile community. To appease Service to “reinstate the original com-
and wild lands. information, event details, and other op- those who had come to the original mittee consensus to separate motorized
In March, join ESLT for a Wildlife portunities to connect with our treasured consensus, the subcommittee enlarged and non-motorized winter use in Mam-
Migration Corridor Field Trip. Local lands. Also, please join our e-mail mail- a section to include a non-motorized moth Meadow and the Sherwin Range.”
biologists will share their knowledge ing list for monthly updates (info@eslt. “developed” zone only in the meadow This is urgent!
and research on Eastern Sierra wildlife org) or give us a call (760-873-4554). and only after a ski trail system could be *a volunteer citizens’ committee, convened by
developed sometime in the future. the Town of Mammoth Lakes, Mammoth Lakes
Those who had agreed on the original Trails & Public Access (MLTPA)
POPPY RESERVE . . .
important prehistoric sites on Fairmont is scheduled for February 6, 11 -5 pm
Island Hopping in
Butte, and disrupt a sensitive ecological at the Regional Public Library, 601 Channel Islands National Park
area for birds of prey. W. Lancaster Blvd., Lancaster, CA.
What you can do. The next hearing May 7-9; Jul 16-19; Aug 6-9; Sep 10-12, 2010
C
where to write to support a NO vote on alifornia’s Channel Islands are Galapagos USA! Marvel at the sight
this project, visit the Save the Poppy
TAHOE GROUP Reserve website at <www.sio2.com/sa-
the wild, windswept trails. Kayak the rugged coastline. Snorkel in pristine
OFFICERS vethepoppyreserve>.
Chair Roger Rosenberger* 305-298-6191 waters. Discover remnants of the Chumash people who lived on these islands
Vice-Chair
Secretary
Carla Ennis
Bryan Holzbauer*
530-573-1834
775-265-1586
for thousands of years. Or just relax at sea. These 3 and 4-day, live-aboard
Treasurer
At Large
At Large
At Large
Jerry Yeazell
Grace Anderson*
Bob Anderson*
Patricia Hickson*
530-588-8216
530-401-1397
Deadline! fundraiser cruises are sponsored by the Angeles Chapter Political Commit-
tee and Sierra Club California Political Committee.
Depart from Santa
Cons. S. Shore Michael Donahoe* 775-588-5466
Cons. N. Shore Ron Grassi
Membership Kay Edwards*
Newsletter Ed Josh Benin
775-588-4565
530-541-1371
MARCH 1 Barbara aboard the
Truth. Fee ($590 for
Outings Glenn Polochko* 530-587-5906 May and Sep; $785
Webmaster
* ExCom member
Bryan Holzbauer* 775-265-1586
for Apr-may-june issue for July & August)
includes an assigned
bunk, all meals,
snacks, and beverag-
es, plus the services
of a ranger/natural-
ist who will travel
with us to lead hikes
on each island and
Built by Sierra Club members in 1934, this rustic, hostel-style point out interesting
lodge stands atop historic Donner Pass, less than an hour features.
from Reno, an hour and a half from Lee Vining, two hours To make a reser-
from Mammoth Lakes, and two and a half hours from Bishop. vation, mail a $100
Expect convenient access to all mountain activities, excellent check payable to Si-
family style meals, friendly staff, and a casual atmosphere. erra Club to leaders: Joan Jones Holtz & Don Holtz, 11826 The Wye St , El Monte,
The Lodge grooms its own cross-country ski and snowshoe CA 91732. Contact leaders for more information (626-443-0706; jholtzhln@aol.
trails, rents equipment for these activities, and offers cross-
country ski lessons. Quick, easy access to the backcountry!
Announcement: Golden Trout Wilderness Camp 2010
walk-in camp located in the southern Sierra in Golden
Trout Wilderness near Mt. Whitney. Three one-week nat-
ural history sessions will be held this summer. The $495
tuition includes all meals, canvas tent cabins with cots,
and daily guided naturalist-led hikes. Please go to<www.
goldentroutworkshops.org> for detailed information.

6. 6 JANUARY -FEBRUARY - MARCH 2010 TOIYABE TRAILS
conservation roundup I only went out for
a walk and finally
concluded to stay
out till sundown, for
going out, I found,
20th anniversary celebration of Nevada wilderness International was really going in.
BY MARGE SILL Symposium on — John Muir
On December 5, 1989, the Nevada Wil- on this bill is invited to submit memories to Terminus Lakes
derness Protection Act designating 733, Marge Sill (msill@juno.com) who is com-
piling a short history of Nevada wilderness BY ROSE STRICKLAND Ruby Gas Pipeline
signed into law. This marked the end of a
25-year effort to achieve wilderness in Ne-
and its heroes. FOR THREE DAYS in October, 2009, would scar landscape
over 150 scientists, government agency
vada which previously had only one small Seniors & disabled - & habitat
wilderness area: the Jarbidge in northeast vationists listened to presentations on BY DENNIS GHIGLIERI
Elko County.
Hearings were held in nearly every Nevada
BY MARGE SILL research done on Walker Lake and other THE PROPOSED RUBY GAS PIPELINE
The U.S. Forest Service has announced n rare lakes all over the planet which would cross spectacular 12 Mile Creek
community and in Washington, D.C. This i Canyon on the Nevada-Oregon Border. The
legislation was introduced by Jim Bilbray in the December 1 Federal Register that it will have no outlet. Walker Lake is now on
no longer give a 50% discount on camping the world map as scientists compared proposed pipeline would cut a swath of up
the House and Harry Reid and Dick Bryan
fees to holders of the Golden Age, Senior our Nevada lake (which is threatened to 192 feet across northern Nevada from
in the Senate; it was signed by President
Pass, and Access (disability) passes. This Utah to Oregon. This action would leave a
Ronald Reagan. with declining lake levels and rising permanent scar (and road) over hundreds of
Areas designated were Alta Toquima, will apply to all concession-operated Forest levels of salts) with similar lakes in
Arc Dome, Boundary Peak, Currant Moun- Service Campgrounds. miles of prime sage grouse habitat.
Antarctica, Uzbekistan, the middle east No utility corridor or road now exists
tain, East Humboldt, Grant Range, Mount Free day use of sites will also no longer be
available to holders of these lifetime passes.
and China. Most of the research done where Ruby wants to go. The draft EIS,
Charleston, Mount Moriah, Mount Rose, in Nevada was conducted as a part
Quinn Canyon, Ruby Mountains, Santa Comments on this change (which evidently which studied only Ruby’s selected route
Rosa, Table Mountain, and the Jarbidge has been brought about by lobbying from of the Walker Basin Project, a feder- in detail, should be redone to study less
Extension. large concession companies) will be ac- ally funded project, with Senator Harry environmentally damaging routes.
Many Sierra Club members worked cepted by the Forest Service until Feb. 1. Reid’s assistance.
tirelessly to achieve this victory. Among If the Forest Service makes this change, Participants learned that Walker Lake
these were Roger Scholl, Karen Boeger, the Bureau of Land Management and the waters originate in the East and West
Dennis Ghiglieri, Rose Strickland, Glenn Park Service may follow suit. If many of Walker Rivers in California. These rivers
Miller, Kirk Peterson, Bert Young, Ann us had to pay the full fee to enter a national
and Greg Ebner, Ross Smith, Don Molde, park or monument, we’d no longer have the Walker River in Mason Valley, and
Pete Sferrazza, and particularly Lois Sagel access to the national treasures we helped
and her wonderful Soroptimist group in Las create.
What you can do. For further informa- Hawthorne, in central Nevada. These wa-
Vegas. Sadly, many of the key players in
the effort are no longer with us, including tion, please contact Kitty Benzar (ws-
nofee@gmail.com). Those of us who will be and wildlife. Walker Lake is one of only
Director of Friends of Nevada Wilderness), affected by this change should also contact three desert closed lakes with a freshwa-
Catherine Smith, and Amy Mazza. our Senators and Representatives.
What you can do. Anyone who worked Some questions addressed by the
researchers included: What are the
best ways to deliver water, purchased
Huge court victory in water wars from willing sellers, to Walker Lake?
BY ROSE STRICKLAND How can water deliveries be managed
to sustain both the economies of local
On October 19, 2009, Judge Norman Robison overturned the Nevada State communities and the river-lake eco-
Engineer’s granting of water rights to the Southern Nevada Water Authority system? Are alternative crops feasible
(SNWA) in three remote dry valleys in eastern Nevada. The judge bluntly ruled agriculturally? How best can water
conserved by switching to alternative
and oppressively.” crops be delivered to Walker Lake under Twelve-mile Creek Canyon. Photo: Dennis
Attorneys for the Great Basin Water requires the state engineer to protect senior Ghiglieri.
Network had appealed the decision on behalf water rights, his vacated ruling would have existing federal and state water laws?
of local farmers, ranchers, residents, and con- meant that local residents whose livelihoods What you can do. Find more in- The Sierra Club is not necessarily opposed
servationists. These groups feared removal are based on access to scarce water resourc- formation on these and other research to building a gas pipeline but wants several
of 6 billion gallons of groundwater per year es would have to sue the SNWA each time questions at Toiyabe Chapter website, alternatives studied in detail, including ones
from Cave, Delamar, and Dry Lake Valleys its pumping adversely affected their wells <www.toiyabe.sierraclub.org>. which would follow existing road, rail,
and springs. This court “remedy” would power and gas utility corridors.
and also harm the threatened and endangered repeatedly pit rural residents against the
species dependent on apparently unlimited Wildlife damage management: January 2010. See the latest at <http://toi-
yabe.sierraclub.org/RubyPipeline.html>.
rare desert springs financial and legal What does it mean?
supported by the resources of the wa-
BY DON MOLDE
groundwater aquifer. ter authority.
The judge found An SNWA spokep- A FEW YEARS AGO, the Nevada legisla- to sage grouse). Despite that expenditure
that the state engi- erson quickly at- ture passed a law which assesses sports- and the fact that there has been no increase
neer had arbitrarily tacked the court men a special $3 fee when a license/tag in deer numbers, the theory lives on. And
increased the esti- ruling, claiming is purchased. That fee goes to the Nevada NDOW has over $600,000 in its predator
mate of water avail- it was biased and Department of Wildlife (NDOW) to be management budget to start FY 2010.
able in the valleys “flat wrong” and used for predator management. The theory, NDOW does not kill coyotes and cougars
without specific threatening an ap- espoused by some sportsmen, is that preda- directly. Rather, it contracts with APHIS/
empirical data. The peal to the Nevada tors (coyotes, cougars) are the direct cause Wildlife Services (formerly ADC) to do so
judge also noted A September 25,oral arguments on the GBWN
2009 Ely Court hearing by Judge Supreme Court. In of Nevada’s “low” mule deer population
Robison to hear (100,000 instead of twice that, last seen
that the engineer “is lawsuit against the State Engineer’s 3-basin ruling a press release from might occur. NDOW has made modest
simply hoping for was crowded by local farmers and residents, tribal the Great Basin Wa- about 30 years ago). Therefore, they argue, attempts to monitor game populations, pre/
the best while com- representatives, a county commissioner, and ter Network, Susan killing predators will enhance deer popula-
mitting to undo his conservationists. Photo: Dennis Ghiglieri. Lynn responded to tion for hunters, and increase NDOW rev- study designs, the results are inconclusive.
decision if the worst occurs.” SNWA’s attack on the Judge by saying enue through license/tag sales. A persistent irritant for those sportsmen
According to testimony at the water hear- “Such a response is consistent with SNWA Although NDOW biologists published and Commissioners has been an inability
ing, the state engineer had cut the amount management’s inability to engage in self- to obtain higher numbers of cougar kills
of water to be reserved for future growth years of history with the animal, showing (currently about 150/year). Recently, a
as required by the interbasin water transfer expensive, utterly misguided, and environ- that degraded habitat conditions/drought/ Commissioner suggested declassifying the
requirements in state water law. The engi- mentally catastrophic pipeline project.” cougar from game species (can’t be hunted
What you can do. For more details on population levels, some sportsmen and po- by air) to “varmint” status so it could be
of existing water rights was needed since the water wars, see the Chapter website litically appointed Wildlife Commissioners hunted/killed by fixed-wing aircraft or
pumping impacts would not likely impact at <www.toiyabe.sierraclub.org>, and the were not persuaded. They have spent about helicopter.
GBWN website at <www.greatbasinwater- $2,000,000 since FY 2000 to kill coyotes, What you can do. For further informa-
Although the Nevada state water law network.org>. cougars and ravens (thought to be a threat tion, contact me at skyshrink@aol.com.