Backcountry Horse Patrol

 

A few weeks ago, we got word that a grizzly bear had been systematically raiding some of out tack shed and horse feed storage buildings at backcountry cabins.  Initially, we flew in and patched up the damage as much as possible and installed electric fences around the most vulnerable locations.

 

Remote cameras were also set up to try and identify the perpetrator.  Some good photos were obtained, and no further raids were taking place.

But it was now time for an on the ground check for bear sign before removing a bear warning in the area.  Fortunately, I was able to leave the front country bears to others and ride some of my old haunts for a few days.  No fresh bear sign was seen in the area, and no new break-ins were occurring, so the bear may have moved on to greener pastures.

  

 

I guess the photos pretty much speak for themselves – which is the way I like it!  It is some pretty spectacular country, with clear mountain lakes, high mountain passes, and lots of trails to hike or ride.  Several years ago, I patrolled this area full time, so it was nice to be back to see what had changed.  Of course the scenery is still pretty much unchanged.  

It’s too bad politics have resulted in drastically reduced protection of the area and such patrols are now relatively rare.

Some of the small ponds in the high country were already starting to acquire a thin layer of ice overnight – a sure sign that fall is not far off.  The bears will be attempting to fatten up on berries before heading for their dens to hibernate away the winter.

RV’ers among us will be planning and preparing to head south again this winter !

See you down south!  With retirement now a real possibility for me, I may be able to stay in the warmer climates as long as I like from now on. Stay tuned …