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Wednesday, October 20, 2010

Your source for weekly news and views in the Robson Valley

Volume 1 Issue 19

Two mills, 40 jobs, and China

TRC Cedar mill has been open for more than one week already, but Monday was a chance for about 50 people including Pat Bell, Minister of Forests and Range, and Shirley Bond, MLA for Prince George-Valemount, to partake in ribbon cutting ceremonies.

Together, TRC Cedar mill and National Choice Specialty saw mill will employ about 40 people. About 10 to 20 spin-off jobs related to timber supply will also be created.

While TRC`s cedar products will be bound mainly for American markets, National Choice will be shipping over half of their product to new markets opening in China. Neither mill will be affected by the most recent round of softwood trade disputes between B.C. and the United States.

See A2 Forklift operator John Defris and Millwright John Rivard took the cold day in stride on Monday during the official re-opening of McBride`s TRC Cedar mill, which will empl;oy 30 people.

Community forest for Tete-Jaune?

A9 More Inside:

Voices on geothermal in B.C. A7

New plans to conserve water A3

Photos: Laura Keil

Making biofuel at home - and avoiding bears A6 The Goat’s caption contest A15

A2 Wednesday, October 20, 2010

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It’s a new era for McBride mills Half of one mill’s timber headed to China Joseph Nusse jnusse@therockymountaingoat.com It was a hopeful day in McBride on Monday as workers, politicians and investors cut the ribbons to re-open two mills—TRC Cedar and the old “March Brothers Mill” now owned by National Choice Bio Fuels Industries Ltd. While the small National Choice mill can only produce 25,000 to 35,000 board feet per day, it is just the beginning in what CEO Denis Pelletier says he hopes will one day be a fully-integrated operation that will include biofuels.

“Initially, we have six people getting this mill going.

Within a few weeks, in total we will have 11 people plus some people supplying us with wood,” he says.

The mill will produce cants – rough timber with some rounded sides – for North American markets as well as rough-cut lumber for Chinese markets. Pelletier says half of the company’s production will be bound for China out of port in Vancouver. The rough-cut lumber will be used in China mainly for construction purposes, such as concrete forms.

“Our share of the Asian market currently available to us is substantially larger than what we can even supply at this stage.”

Photo: Laura Keil Sylvester is a Chinese lumber trader based out of Vancouver. He says that wood from the McBride mill will be bound for Hong Kong, Shanghai and southern China. He says that for now, the wood is sorted in Vancouver then put into containers bound for China. If the trial period for the mill is successful, he plans to help encourage onsite container processing, and shipping of the lumber out of port in Prince Rupert.

Denis Pelletier, CEO National Choice Bio Fuels National Choice’s log supply will come from a combination of private sales and the McBride and Valemount community forests. He says the company may consider small private sales if the wood fits its needs. National Choice will be using all softwoods and will be milling beetle kill pine as well. It uses short logs cut to length at 13.5 to 14 ft. Pelletier says he expects to process two thousand cubic metres per week.

The small operation was welcomed and celebrated by most involved in the valley’s timber industry, but Pelletier says he has more bold plans. He says National Choice will be looking for a solid biofuel plant to address the waste that comes with the production of wood in saw mills.

“Biofuel plants do not work economically on their own,” he says. “They need to be closely tied to sawmill productions.”

If the company can secure a future mill site large enough to accommodate a bigger mill and a solid fuel (wood pellet) plant, he says he hopes to integrate a biofuel power generation plant as well (co-generation). Several other larger local sites have already been explored.

For the short term, wood waste from the mill is going to be stored offsite until it can be processed as biofuel.

The most recent round of softwood trade disputes with the United States will not affect his winter operation, Pelletier says, but he sees expansion of the Chinese market share as key to his operation’s future.

“Our share of the Asian market that is currently available to us is substantially larger than what we can even

Photo: Laura Keil

supply at this stage.”

Pat Bell, Minister of Forests and Range, was also present to open both mills.“We have made tremendous headway in getting into the Chinese market,” he says, noting that this mill is the fourth in the province that will be sending the bulk of its product to Chinese markets.

“China is the future of B.C.’s forest industry. There is no question that is the transformation that is taking place.”

Small operations, Bell says, will play a key role in this new market. He credits much of the success in getting the

small mill going to the McBride Community Forest.

“This could not have happened without the McBride Community Forest. It was one of the very early community forests in the province. It has set an example.”

When you see a small mill in operation, he says, you know it is because the local mayor, council and community forest director have worked hard to figure out how they can supply fibre to the operation.

“Without that direct local access, it would be far more difficult.”

Wednesday, October 20, 2010

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A3

No trickle-down effect in McBride

21 customers using a quarter of Village’s water by half over the next 20 years, postponing the costly process of upgrading and expanding the The Village of McBride will water supply. be looking at ways to decrease The plan suggests water mewater consumption in light of a tering as the most effective tool new report. to reduce water consumption.

The draft Water Conservation When meters were introduced Plan, commissioned by the Vilin Vernon, water consumption lage from Radloff Engineering dropped by 25 per cent. Meters Inc., gives recommendations also make it easier to spot leaks, based on an analysis of village the report notes. water use, which preliminary The village’s 2010 capital plan is data suggests is above the proto install the meters for all multivincial average. ple-family residential, industrial, For over 60 years, the village commercial and institutional has drawn its customers. water from Do- “We know reasonably acFrazier says it minion Creek, curately where the water is not certain a mountain is going, but we can’t conyet whether Photo: Laura Keil creek south- tinue to increase our supc u s t o m e r s Jason Blaine dazzled a full house on Saturday in Valemount, as he wrapped up his Canadian tour. The west of the vilply of water outside the will continue young country musician sang tunes to over 100 people at the Valemount Secondary School theatre for the lage. The water to be billed a Valemount Arts and Cultural Society’s first event of the season. is treated and municipality.” flat rate and stored before it not based on flows through Mike Frazier, Mayor of how much the village’s wawater they McBride ter mains to 333 use. customers.

The concrete settling basin Canada guidelines for turbidity, and was 70 per cent funded un“If we found that one or two But each day, 25 per cent of the where water is treated is re- cryptosporidium and Giardia. der a federal-provincial infrausers were using 10 or 15 or 20 water from the creek is siphoned ported to be “in poor condition With the raw water containing structure grant program. The times the average water use and out of the system before it even with visible cracks in the con- total coliforms and E. Coli lev- works include the replacement they’re only paying for a housereaches the Village limits, the recrete walls,” according to the els above the Guidelines for Ca- of the chlorine gas disinfection hold hookup, (progressive billport says.

Village of McBride’s draft Water nadian Drinking Water Qual- system and the installation of a ing) may be considered,” he says.

The report suggests the probConservation Plan. ity it is likely that filtration and ultra-violet treatment system.

Education, leakage audits, and lem is due to long-standing It notes that a 2008 report enhanced disinfection will be The water intake facility and rules such as sprinkling regulaagreements between the Village prepared by the Associated En- required in the future. the reservoir, which were contions are the main conservation and 21 property owners that algineering concluded that the An upgrade to the water treat- structed in the 1940s, are both strategies suggested in the relow water mains to be located existing water treatment sysment plant is nearing comple- in need of replacement. port. on private land in exchange for tem does not meet the Health tion.

The project cost $525,000 Mayor Frazier says he doesn’t water. believe council has all the numMayor Mike Frazier says the bers yet in order to redraft conservation plan is a act to the plan’s findpreliminary part of their water ings. They do not yet study, and they are still monitorhave a year’s worth of ing users through metering. data from the meters, “We know reasonably accufor example, he says. rately where the water is going, The Village of Mcbut we can’t continue to increase Bride would like to Basements to roofing our supply of water outside the provide the commuBathrooms and decks municipality.” nity with an opporRenovations and retrofits If demand increases at two per tunity to review and cent a year, the village will need comment on the plan If you need a job done right, put 35 years of experience to work for YOU! to find another water source prior to final approval. within 10 to 15 years, the report Professional woodworking shop The entire report can says.

Completely self-equipped be viewed on the VilWith water conservation, the Concrete forms lage of McBride webreport says the village could deCall 250-566-4840, ask for Tim site. crease its water consumption Laura Keil lkeil@therockymountaingoat.com

More water upgrades

Nusse Construction

The Rocky Mountain Goat is issued every Wednesday

A4 Wednesday, October 20, 2010

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A new economic vision: quality versus quantity

Joseph Nusse jnusse@therockymountaingoat.com

I have recently had some very interesting conversations with valley residents from different demographic groups.

There seems to be a new buzz floating around. International forestry conferences have brought new ideas into the valley. Examples from different realities have inspired local people to start looking at what we do in a new light.

I have had conversations with several Swedish foresters and from them I have learned, with much awe, just what can be achieved when people decide to dig deep, grow roots, appreciate where they live, and decide to manage resources with a multi-generational outlook. What is even more exciting, to me, is willingness in many long-time and influential residents to listen to these new ideas, and start rebuilding what is admittedly a very sick local economy. Now with the excitement generated by two specialty mills re-opening in McBride, I am getting an overwhelming sense that the residents

of this valley are feeling ready to take our future into our own hands again.

As a younger person, there is nothing more inspiring than hearing the words of a long-time resident such as Joan Nordli encouraging change. We were talking about how amazing it is to get so much international traffic coming through the valley, especially traffic in the form of international conferences and forestry tours. Nordli noted how when she first arrived here many decades ago, the valley was very different. While in Sweden, forestry is built around the concept of quality rather than quantity, Nordli noted how when she arrived here, the entire economy was build around the idea of maximum quantity. Now there is an acceptance of the idea that we need to start building around quality as well, for a younger person, this willingness to change brings much hope.

In another conversation with a McBride mill owner, I was encouraged to hear a great appreciation for conservation efforts and responsible resource management. The owner noted that as a mill owner, old growth trees are obviously of high value, but as a local who loves the area and everything it entails, he would never support any practice that would threaten to permanently damage an eco-system, no matter what could economically be gained in the short term.

While resources such as trees can be

used for economic gain, they can also be managed in such a way that these gains do not simply equal environmental loss.

There was a time in this valley when the majority of residents believed old growth was a valueless, dying entity that should be harvested and replaced with younger, faster growing trees. We now understand that old growth wood is highly valuable as a resource in specialty wood products, and if managed, we can harvest old growth forests at a rate that is sustainable, and still even leave significant old growth stands completely untouched as well.

As someone who studied history and economics at university, seeing these changes brings me hope that societies can change and adapt to create a better future. In modern economics, the concept of qualitative growth replacing quantitative growth is very prevalent. Simply put, you can have two 1,000 square foot houses, both requiring an identical amount of natural resources to build. But you can make one house worth up to three times as much money simply by putting in more quality both through craftsmanship, and technology. One is a product of quantity, the other is a product of quality.

One encourages cheap short-term planning; the other fosters multi-generational planning and maximum sustainability. I am extremely happy to see an acceptance of this concept creeping into the valley, even into long-time residents who will

acknowledge economic mistakes of the past that are no longer acceptable.

Cheers Joseph Nusse

The Rocky Mountain Goat

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Laura Keil

Telephone: (250) 566-4606 E-mail: jnusse@therockymountaingoat.com, or lkeil@therockymountaingoat.com Web-site: www.therockymountaingoat.com Mail Address: Box 21, Valemount BC, V0E 2Z0

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The Rocky Mountain Goat is produced and distributed by ‘The Rocky Mountain

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Goat News’ and is subject to copyright. Reproduction, or distribution of any article, photo, or other content must recieve prior consent from Joseph Nusse (Co-Owner/ Publisher) or Laura Keil (Co-Owner/Editor).

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Illustrations by Luke Siemens

The Rocky Mountain Goat is a free distribution newspaper serving a population base of approximately 4,200 residents from Blue River and Valemount, to McBride and Dome Creek.

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Wednesday, October 20, 2010

Letters to the Editor Giving thanks

A better wage

We often forget to give thanks for what we have. What we all have is a small village with wonderful people who have great hearts. I had breast cancer for the second time this spring. After a bout of radiation in Vancouver, I am again a survivor.

What a pleasure I received that Saturday before Thanksgiving. The Quilters of Valemount presented me with a beautiful quilt to keep me warm. Thank you.

Yes, it will, but what keeps me warmer is the caring spirit of this small piece of paradise we call Valemount.

Dear Editor, and Mayor of Valemount, Mr.Bob Smith.

Recently, 20 mayors from around B.C. petitioned Premier Gordon Campbell,to raise the minimum wage in B.C. to $10 an hour. Would you, sir, be so kind as to let the good voters in Valemount know just what your “offical” stand is on this very important matter? Are you “For” or “Against” a minimum wage of $10 for the good people of Valemount and B.C.? You may answer in this very newspaper, for those of us who can’t make it to the regular town meetings. Thank you.

Tina Jarzebiak

Yours truly, Mr. Horsethief

A5

The Goat’s letter policy Please write to us! Letters to the editor must be 400 words or less. The editor and publisher reserve the right not to publish any material that is offensive or libelous. Letters must be signed and legible. letters@therockymountaingoat.com

Water treatment kickoff

Photos: Laura Keil

The Village of Valemounts new water treatment plant officially opened on Monday. The $1.93 million treatment system includes a new filtration plant, associated piping and electrical works and the installation of a low lift pump.

The new system is a mixture of chemical and sand filtration. Once chemical is added to the water and it passes through the filtration system (right) it snakes through piping to the UV filtration system (above).

Before the treatment plant was installed, local water had exceeding levels of turbidity and protozoa (cryptosporidium and giardia) and had been subject to a giardia outbreak. The water now meets the requirements of the Drinking Water Protection Act and the Guidelines for Canadian Drinking Water Quality.

Prince George-Valemount MLA Shirley Bond was there to cut the ribbon alongside village councillors and public works employees.

A6

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Wednesday, October 20, 2010

McBride subject of PhD research Harmeet Singh hsingh@therockymountaingoat.com

Photo: Laura Keil

Dunster resident makes biodiesel at home - with unexpected results Harmeet Singh hsingh@therockymountaingoat.com

Six years, thousands of litres, and one bear later, Seth Macdonald’s own personal biodiesel plant is taking shape.

“I hate the way our dependence on fossil fuel has shaped our society and I’m looking for alternatives,” says Macdonald, a Dunster resident.

So, he creates biodiesel, a fuel made by processing vegetable oil with alcohol. Macdonald gets his used vegetable oil from several area restaurants. The resulting fuel, Macdonald says, can be used in any vehicle that requires diesel, but with a much smaller environmental impact.

The by-products of biodiesel production, Macdonald says, don’t dissipate into the environment, which is much safer for plants, animals and water in the surrounding areas. The greatest risk, he says, is to himself during production. He says he can badly burn himself when handling the methanol if he’s not extremely careful.

His interest in biofuels began in 2004, with a focus on using vegetable oil and conventional diesel to run his truck.

“I was kind of scared off by the handling chemicals,” he says, so creating biodiesel was not yet in the cards. “I didn’t figure I had it in me.”

Unfortunately, simply mixing vegetable oil and diesel isn’t so great in the north, he says. Af-

ter freezing the fuel pump of his truck, Macdonald figured biodiesel was the way to go instead.

Biodiesel is more than mixing oil and diesel; it is essentially combining vegetable oil with alcohol until it can be burned.

He looked at various books until one friend turned him onto journeytoforever.com, a database website with numerous, precise biodiesel recipes. This is

“I noticed one day that the shop door was open and this barrel of oil was knocked over,” he says. “He got more and more stealthy.” where Macdonald found the recipe he now uses to create roughly 300L of biodiesel per week.

For the past year-and-a-half, he has been running his large Ford truck almost entirely on biodiesel. This means huge financial savings for Macdonald, who says he drives a lot and would be bankrupt if he ran his truck only on diesel.

Most of Macdonald’s property, in fact, is run on solar power and a biodiesel generator, he says.

Other people in his area have also used his biodiesel.

“Anyone else who’s used my fuel has been very happy with it.”

But it took a lot of experimentation to get to this point, he says. And there were some unforeseen challenges.

“The bear incident that I had this summer was a good lesson,” Macdonald says with a laugh.

The bear, attracted to the smell of the vegetable oil, trespassed into Macdonald’s workshop, creating what he says was a horrible, horrible mess.

“I noticed one day that the shop door was open and this barrel of oil was knocked over,” he says.

“He got more and more stealthy.”

The bear could soon open the shop door, remove the barrel cap and drink the oil without much of a mess. “He just wouldn’t leave!”

Macdonald eventually solved the problem with an electric fence, and the work continued.

While he’s still in the construction phase, in time, Macdonald says he hopes to create a biodiesel co-operative. A few already exist in B.C. and hundreds exist worldwide. He says there’s the potential to expand as he’s probably sitting on three to four thousand litres of unprocessed oil.

“It’s always nice and easy to talk about lobbying governments to make changes to emissions,” he says. For him, creating biodiesel is his own way of lowering emissions.

McBride residents might expect to see a new face around town, asking lots of questions and taking notes. Don’t worry— Wayne Crosby is not a reporter.

He is a PhD candidate and rural B.C. enthusiast, and McBride is one focus of his research.

Crosby is part of the University of Alberta’s Department of Rural Economy, where he is working toward his PhD in environmental sociology. His dissertation work, funded by the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada, brought him to McBride last week.

For his dissertation, he plans to look at how rural B.C. communities are dealing with transitions in the forest industry, with the spread of the mountain pine beetle and rising unemployment. Following the economic downturn, Crosby says, most Canadians have seen mainly numbers and statistics about the transitioning resource sector.

“We don’t hear much about what people go through,” he says. “I decided I wanted to focus on people’s responses.”

Crosby recently spent more than two months in Mackenzie, B.C., the other community he will be using for his research.

Now, he will be spending another two months in McBride, where he had only ever previously stopped for gas.

Crosby is from the Lower Mainland and was eager to return to his home province for

PhD candidate Wayne Crosby will be in McBride for the next two months conducting research for his dissertation.

his research.

“I’m really excited to be here.

It’s a beautiful area.”

And the people, he says, have been nothing but nice—a benefit, since he’ll be hoping to interview many of them. Crosby’s search is broad—he’s looking for McBride residents who have been living in the community for at least five years and have some tie to the resource or service sector.

“I think there are going to be some similarities,” he says of comparing McBride and Mackenzie—mostly in the residents’ determination to revive their communities. Since he won’t have access to people who have left, he says, his project is dependent on those who have stayed in McBride and want to build the community.

Got a comment?

Send it to us! lkeil@therockymountaingoat.com

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Energy

Six reasons to exchange your stove As winter approaches and valley residents light up their wood stoves to heat their homes, the air outside can get smoggy and grey. Replacing an old stove is not only more efficient but also better for your health and the health of those around you.

Geothermal: who’s responsible?

With anticipation growing for the results of the competitive bidding for three separate geothermal permit options south of Valemount, The Rocky Mountain Goat has interviewed a prominent energy policy analyst Michal Moore and our local MLA Shirley Bond to get their take on

Michal Moore

2. Advanced stoves produce at least 70 per cent less smoke than older stoves when operated properly. After a fire is ignited, you should see no visible smoke from the chimney, so neighbours won’t complain about the smell, and thick smoke won’t blanket your yard.

4. Fires ignite more easily and burn more completely in new stoves. The result is a far more convenient and pleasurable wood burning experience.

5. Most new stoves have a glass panel in the door and an air-wash system to keep it clear. No fire in a smoky, inefficient stove or fireplace can compare with the beauty of an efficient wood fire.

6. Seventy per cent less smoke means 70 per cent less creosote. This virtually eliminates the chance of chimney fire if the stove is operated correctly and maintenance is done. And the flue pipe and chimney will need cleaning less often, which is another way the new technology stoves save time and money.

These tips brought to you by Wildsight, an organization that works to protect Canada’s Columbia and Rocky Mountains ecoregions.

Got a comment?

Send it to us! lkeil@therockymountaingoat.com

A7

Shirley Bond

Joseph Nusse jnusse@therockymountaingoat.com

1. Advanced, EPA-certified stoves are about one-third more efficient than the old box, pot belly or step stoves. That’s one-third less cost if you buy firewood, or one-third less cutting, hauling and stacking if you cut your own.

3. Reducing smoke pollution in and around homes reduces the risk of heart attacks, stroke and asthma, especially for children and the elderly.

Wednesday, October 20, 2010

Economist Michal Moore is no stranger to geothermal development. Originally from the United States, Moore is now an energy policy analyst at the University of Calgary’s Institute for Sustainable Energy, Environment and Economy, an institute that looks at energy alternatives.

As a policy analyst, Moore says it is not just the B.C. government that may be lagging, although B.C. certainly has the highest potential for geothermal development.

He says the B.C. and Alberta governments do not fully understand the potential of geothermal systems. He says they have not put in enough time to understand how the grid needs to be managed 10 to 15 years before.

He says they also do not yet know how to fully integrate renewable energy of any kind into the grid, nor how to provide the right economic incentives to developers.

He says incentives could include longterm subsidies or long-term power purchase agreements.

In 2007, Moore testified at a B.C. provincial hearing where the government sought input from energy experts on how to include geothermal power in its energy mix.

The frustration of watching Canadian geothermal companies invest outside of Canada is certainly understandable, Moore says, but it may have a benefit when

what will likely happen in the near future.

Investing interests will be moving into the area, but in order for locally produced geothermal power to start supplying the provincial grid, Bond says both parties agree that there is a lot of work to do at all levels of government.

B.C. is finally opened up to development.

He says he spoke to one Canadian geothermal industry principal at a conference in Reno who said they are trying to stabilize their company so that when the regulatory process in Canada is streamlined, they will be able to do proceed with more confidence.

“They are trying to protect shareholder value, and it is hard to argue with that.”

But geothermal energy, Moore says, has many proponents and benefits because of its low environmental impact.

“In general, it is a very desirable form of power. It is cleaner than virtually every other form of power, and depending on how they design the system, you can have a pretty small footprint on the environment.”

Moore says that Enbridge’s very recent investment into a geothermal plant currently under construction in Oregon is a perfect example of what may be just around the corner for all oil-based energy companies.

“Where the rules are set up to pay a competitive price for that energy, it just makes sense to invest in it,” he says. “Secondly, there is a new world coming in terms of carbon accounting and trading. When it comes, the net credits that are produced from renewable energy are going to be very, very profitable.”

According to Moore, geothermal energy will be particularly valuable under such a scheme, since nearly every kilowatt generated by geothermal is tradable since there is virtually no carbon generated in geothermal power production.

“They are getting ready to use their own investments in geothermal to offset their own oil productions.”

But he says geothermal power’s competitiveness is limited by how close it is to the grid, something the government can help with.

He says the government can align grid upgrades with potential developments such as geothermal., which can provide a tremendous incentive to the investors.

Shirley Bond, M.L.A. for the Robson Valley, says while she is still not fully versed on the specifics of geothermal power production, if the Canoe Reach site south of Valemount is viable, she will do what she can to help private investors develop it.

“I have been a very active and aggressive supporter of looking at alternative energy, particularly green energy. I do not think this is any different; we need to look at it thoughtfully and strategically.”

“I am not an expert on geothermal, but I do know that we have and will embrace alternative energy.”

Bond says she is excited to see the outcome of the competitive permit tender results which will be released Oct. 27. She says the ministry is interested in continuing to look at permit options, which she would support.

“I am a big believer in the private sector.

If you look at what we have done in the oil and gas sector, we have provided royalty tax credits. We have looked at policies that now allow them to explore throughout the entire year not just in one season.”

She says that once there is an understanding of potential, the provincial government will need to decide where they are going to invest, in terms of grid upgrades. She says BC Hydro has been very open to talking about grid capacity, but it is a costly process.

“It is great if we have independent power here but if we cannot get it to the grid, this does not really help us that much. We need to expand our umbrella and ask ‘how realistic is our capacity to develop geothermal here in the valley.’”

She says the good news is that there is a task force already underway to look at grid capacity for the Robson Valley.

As an MLA, she says she will immediately look at the potential within her constituency, and then work to bring any policy issues or inhibitors to the forefront especially to Bill Bennett, Minister of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources.

“I do not think it is a lack of interest in geothermal; I think it is trying to find a balance. What are the most cost effective ways?”

Attention all Robson Valley tourism businesses: The Rocky Mountain Goat is distributed free in Jasper and Mt. Robson

A8 Wednesday, October 20, 2010

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Fall work bee closes summer for local outdoors club Left: Patricia Thoni helps puppy Pluto lay down some matting before wheel barrels of gravel arrive .

Right: Rhondi Hurlbut and Charlotte Smith take on the grunt work using pulaskis to take care of the worst roots sticking through the trail bed.

Photos: Laura Keil

YORA & Friends AGM: Good finances, big dreams for the near future Members of The Yellowhead Outdoor Recreation Association and Friend of Valemount enjoyed some beautiful fall weather on Saturday to hold a trail work bee on Cranberry Marsh. YORA and Friends held its annual general meeting October 12th. At the meeting, housekeeping issues were addressed involving local trails and three backcountry cabins maintained by the club. Ongoing projects such as the North Thompson Hut and Five-Mile road upgrades were also discussed and status updates were reviewed. Grooming of local cross-country ski trails will continue this winter at Jackman Flats Provincial Park, Camp Creek as well as on the local marsh as conditions permit. E-mail surveys regarding specific club issues and priorities will be sent out in the near future.

Election results for the 2010 AGM are as follows: President, Patricia Thoni. Vice-President Joseph Nusse. Secretary Darryl Polyk. Treasurer Barb Jensen. Director at large, Charlotte Smith.

Bruce Wilkinson puts his back into it, moving gravel down hill from McKirdy Road closer to the trail near the marsh shoreline.

Darryl Polyk fills a wheel barrel, one of several hauling gravel to where the newly-layed matts await. In all, about a dozen volunteers showed up on Saturday to help improve the trail around Cranberry Marsh. Trail upgrades have been supported by the Hotel Tax Committee with funding. Friends of Valemount has held several work bees over the past year. The help of B.C. Parks’ touring trail crews was also utilized. Local groups including the Hotel Tax Committee and Friends of Valemount envision many future upgrades to the marsh wildlife sanctuary including a paved trail part way in from the highway to accomodate wheel chairs, as well as a possible boardwalk completing the trail loop on the north side of the marsh.

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Wednesday, October 20, 2010

A9

Tete Jaune residents seek community forest Proposal overlaps with industry operating area and Simpcw-sought land

Map submitted

Planning Cells G006, F008, 9, 10, 11 and H071 are in Carrier Lumber’s traditional operating area and F003, F005 and F007 are in Hauer Bros. operating area (Small River) A sustainable annual cut for this area has been calculated at 15,000 cubic metres a year based on the 2006 Timber Supply Review . of agreement typically would provide the mill with an They are still in the early stages, but members of the and Hauer Brothers Lumber Ltd. Tête Jaune Community Forest Society are gathering Jackman says they’ll be asking for some of Hauer Bros. increased annual volume to harvest in exchange for support to create their own community forest. and Carrier’s operating area – meaning the area where monetary compensation ($/m3) and assistance with The Society has been meeting regularly for more than a those companies can log would be restricted, although the application process and the management of a community forest. year to discuss how they would prefer to see local for- their annual allowable cuts remain the same.

Hauer Bros. have an annual allowable cut of only ests managed. They have drafted a proposal that would Bill Kordyban, president of Carrier Lumber Ltd., says let them harvest 15,000 cubic metres annually from a they are open to discussing the changes with the Soci- 11,372 cubic metres of timber which provides less than swath of forest surrounding Tête Jaune Cache, a com- ety. He says Carrier has worked with many community half of the mill’s requirements. Jackman, who works for munity of some 200 people forests and has for example Hauer Bros., says they would be guaranteed more timnorth of Valemount.

“So much was happening so quickly, bought wood from the Mc- ber volume through a Tête Jaune Community Forest.

“The ministry knows Hauer is perennially short of Society secretary Ainslie Jack- residents thought, ‘Oh, my gosh. Is there Bride Community Forest. volume,” she says. A fibre flow agreement would be a man says local control of log“If they require a license, by nothing I can do to have some input?’” ging practises is the society’s all means we’d be delighted to win-win situation for the mill and for the society, she says, as more wood would be processed in the Valley biggest priority. She says in the Ainsley Jackman, talk with them,” he says. past residents have felt powHe says he would support the and it would help make Hauer’s employees’ jobs more Tete Jaune resident erless in the face of the large proposal if it means another secure.

If the society obtains the 25-year license for their deamount of harvesting by outsource of fibre for Carrier, but side companies, especially due to the mountain pine says he is wary of giving up land where the company is sired land, Gray says the Society could encourage logging practises that complement outdoor activities. He beetle infestation. licensed to log.

“So much was happening so quickly, residents thought, “If it’s a zero sum game where if we have the rights to says their proximity to Mount Robson Provincial Park ‘Oh, my gosh. Is there nothing I can do to have some in- a certain area and they are applying for an area that is an incentive to harvest in a way that enhances local put?’ A community forest is an effective way of having would remove it from our rights, then I would think we recreation.

They will be meeting soon with members the Simpcw your input recognized at a local level.” might have an issue with that.”

The forest would be located between the Dunster and Society president Bob Gray says it is still premature, First Nation, as that group as also applied for a commuValemount community forests, land currently within but they have discussed a fibre flow agreement with nity forest in the Tete Jaune area. the traditional operating areas of Carrier Lumber Ltd. the local sawmill belonging to Hauer Bros. This type Laura Keil lkeil@therockymountaingoat.com

A10

www.therockymountaingoat.com

Wednesday, October 20, 2010

The Potato Tuber Moth larva has been a pest in valley potatoes this year, as Valemount gardener Peter Fox has learned. It burrows in potatoes before maturing into grey brown moths.

Gardening with Pete

Peter Amyoony Special to The Goat

One of my favourite houseplants has always been the “geranium”. The true name of the houseplant members of this family is “pelargonium” but most of us refer to them as geraniums. True geraniums are the ones that winter over well in this area and are commonly known as garden geranium or cranesbill.

The name “pelargonium” is from the Greek word for stork. If you look at the seedpods after the flowers fall off, you will see the little storks.

The main reason I like these plants so much is because they can be used outdoors all summer and then brought in before a frost and if kept in a cool but bright window all winter they will continue to bloom. Having a rainbow of blooms on the windowsill during the short dark days of winter really brightens things up. I have one salmon colour one, which was given to me about twenty years ago. I have only repotted it two or three times, started dozens of cuttings from it and it is still blooming for me today.

There are hundreds of varieties of almost all colours. I have obtained cuttings from John Wassing and Theresa Van Vlissingen of McBride. Both grow a great variety of colours.

If you want to winter them over as a houseplant, you need to bring them in before frost and put them in a bright but rather cool (55-70F or 15-20C) window. They seem to do best if they are allowed to go rather dry between waterings. Usually the plants seem to do better if they are pot-bound so don’t be in too much of a rush to

report them.

The scented geraniums such as lemon, nutmeg, rose or peppermint are not so free blooming but are worth having around jut to pat or brush as you walk by.

You can take cutting in the fall if you want healthy blooming plants for early next summer. Cut a 3-4” (8-10cm) healthy shoot just below a node or leaf-joint.

Remove any flower buds and strip the leaves from the lower half of the cutting. Be careful not to take a strip of stem skin with the leaves. The cuttings should be left to callus for an hour or two. You can dip the end of the cutting into a rooting hormone powder (#1 for softwood cuttings) if you have it but it is not a necessity for geraniums. Fill a pot or seed tray with equal parts peat moss and sand or pearlite.

Moisten it well but be careful not to make it soggy, as the cuttings will rot. Poke a stick or pencil into the medium and set in the cutting being sure to firm the medium around the stem. Set it in bright light but not direct hot sun (among you house plants) where you will remember to water them on a regular basis until the root ball is formed. Don’t cover with plastic or over water, as more cuttings are lost to rot than any other cause. When the tips begin to grow, pot the new plants up in a loose potting soil with good drainage and pinch out the tip to encourage branching if they start to get leggy. The more branches you can develop, the more flowers you will enjoy as they bloom on the ends of the branches.

Pete Amyoony is a gardener in the Robson Valley of central B.C. high in the Rocky Mountains near Mount Robson. He has lived, worked and gardened in the Dunster area for over thirty years.

www.therockymountaingoat.com

Briefs:

Small Business driving B.C. economy Small businesses have been key in strengthening the B.C. economy following the economic downturn, according to a new report.

Iain Black, Minister of Small Business, Technology and Economic Development released Small Business Profile 2010, which suggests small businesses in B.C. are improving the province’s gross domestic product and are creating more jobs and better wages.

The Small Business Profile is produced by the provincial government, B.C. Stats and Western Economic Diversification Canada. The profile suggests that more British Columbians received wages last year from small business than anywhere else in Canada. Annual earnings for small business workers have also increased, according to the report.

Wednesday, October 20, 2010

A11

Local horsemen rediscover old Goat River trail Historic trail much more condusive to horse use Joseph Nusse jnusse@therockymountaingoat.com

Record-Breaking month for wood exports to China

August was a record-breaking month for B.C. softwood lumber exports to China, Forests and Range minister Pat Bell said Oct. 18, with 257 million board feet exported over a one-month period.

Exports to China through the first eight months of the year are valued at about $342 million, up 71 per cent from 2009. On Oct. 28, Bell will begin a forestry trade mission to China, expected to last until Nov. 8, where B.C. delegates will meet with government officials and pursue commercial trade with Chinese companies.

Highway 5 speed boards for Valemount Speed reader boards will be installed this fall along the Yellowhead Highway 5 in the Valemount area, Shirley Bond, MLA for Valemount and Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure, announced Oct. 18. This will be in addition to the newly created speed-reduction transition zones that went into effect on Sept. 15 and the pedestrian crossing going into place.

“Speed reader boards have proven to be an effective, inexpensive traffic education tool, both on ministry projects and in areas where travelled speed is a concern,” says Bond. “They remind motorists to check their speed against posted limits and to drive safely.”

Photos submitted Colton Ryan cooks up a storm as another cowboy already starts to dream of happy trails They have both been riding local horse trails for been slides. Trees have changed. many years, but local mill owner Tom Ryan and fel“It is hard to say exactly where is used to go, but it is low McBride resident Esser Clemens say the historic fun trying to find it.” trail through the Goat River to Barkerville needs to be He also notes that hikers have done a lot of work revisited for horse use. more recently, but their needs are different than horseRyan says they want to go back and find as much men. For instance, hikers will go around deep mud of the original trail as they can, and make it safe for holes and avoid river crossings, whereas horsemen all people to take a horse up there without worrying cannot use many of the really steep and short climbs about the danger. He says parts of the current hiking hikers use to get around obstacles. trail are particularly dangerous for greener horses and Cont’ on A16... riders.

“This is the fourth trip I have been on; we made it INCOME TAXES PREPARED FOR LESS through to Barkerville once. It was originally an old STARTING AT $30 PER TAX RETURN heritage trail for mule trains taking supplies from a cache on the Fraser River through to Barkerville,” exInexpensive bookeeping services plains Ryan. coming soon “The hikers do not want to ford the Goat River, and Call: 250-566-0173 I do not blame them because it is deep and cold. It is dangerous for hikers. So the hiking trail has veered off, up and over on a few steep side backs.”

Ryan says that this newly-established hiking trail • Starts October 27 Includes lunch! is potentially dangerous for horsemen. He says twice, they accidentally rolled horses on this steep side hill.

This trip, Esser found the old trail, which fords the Have fun while learning, with other river several times avoiding the steep section. parents, caregivers and young children!

“It is over 20 minutes to go up and over with a horse, but it is only five minutes to ford the river on the old Wednesdays, 10 - Noon trail.”

Valemount LiONS HaLL For Esser, the historic aspect of the trail is particuFurther information: Kim Thorn, 250-566-8467 larly appealing. It was established around 1886. But Free 15 week program since that time, the river has changed. There have

Play

&

Learn

A12

www.therockymountaingoat.com

Wednesday, October 20, 2010

Business Watch:

Photo: Joseph Nusse Andy Werner has been involved in the logging industry most of his life, but recently he has purchased some equipment to fulfill a unique demand in the valley’s changing forest industry. According to Werner he bought his self-loading logging truck in July from Prince George but it has taken a while to get his trailers in order. As far as he knows, he is the only self-loading truck in the valley. He says that he has had no problem keeping busy and he is already fairly booked up. He has even received calls for work in Alberta. He is in the process of getting a trailer for short logs. Rates are all custom quotes based on what services will be needed.

He is also a certified faller. He and his partner Dona Perkins run the Beanery 2 Bistro in McBride. He says they bought the truck in partnership, but she is going to continue to run the café.

Marsh open house draws small crowd Ducks Unlimited, the Nature Trust and the Ministry of Environment called an open house on October 14th to present plans for VAlemount’s Starratt Marsh. The Nature Trust and crown lands currently make up the majority of what locals call the “Starratt Wildlife Sanctuary.” There are many benefits to one cohesive wildlife management area, according to a member of Ducks Unlimited at the Open House. Dealing with trail upgrades and other projects will be made much easier for local managers. According to on representative, the sanctuary is one of the most accessible viewing areas in the province. Ducks Unlimited will continue to control water management in the marshlands. At the open house, options for getting more water in the marsh during cyclical lows were touched on, although currently there are no plans to alter water levels through artificial means. According to the representatives, drying wetlands is a provincial issue, not just localized.

Local residents Chris Zimmerman and Paul Johnson look over the planned changes.

Photo: Joseph Nusse

www.therockymountaingoat.com

Call Leigh at 250-569-8807 or sales@therockymountaingoat.com

The Tourism Directory

Open at 4:30 pm daily

CLOSED from October 11 5th Avenue till 1002 November 24 Valemount, B.C.

Wednesday, October 20, 2010

$40 for 4 weeks, or $20 for one week

Teepee Meadows Cottage

Spectacular mountain and marshland scenery Phone:250-566-9875

Eatery and Gift Shop

1152 - 5th Ave, Valemount B.C. 250-566-0154

Located 3 km west of Valemount

Visit us at www.caribougrill.com

A13

Hosts: Claude, Alke & Noland Germain 545 Jack Adams Road, Box 786 Valemount, BC V0E 2Z0

Place your ad here! _______________ sales@therockymountaingoat.com

The Business Directory New Construction, Renovations Additions, Framing, Finishing Cabinetry & Wood Doors

Certified Septic Installer Bobcat Skid Steer With Various Attachments

G & A Moore Ventures Gerald Moore Contractor

McBride, BC

Windshield Repair/Replacement Specialists

PET SUPPLIES-HOME ELECTRONICS SHAW DIRECT TV-SIRIUS RADIOS FLAT GLASS-MIRROR-SCREENS CUSTOM VINYL SIGNS-BANNERS-VEHICLE GRAPHICS-MAGNETIC SIGNS WOOD & PELLET STOVES & SUPPLIES WOOD PELLETS @ Country Wide Sales & Services Ltd Conveniently located downtown @ 1160-5th Ave

www.mooreventures.ca Tel: 250.569.2269

CRACKMASTER

Cell: 250.569.7147

Open 9 am -5:30 pm Monday thru Friday

250.566.4380

For Drywall Services CALL TODD @

WAHOO ENTERPRISES

250-569-0320

STR8 UP Renovations New Construction, renos, form building. shops, decks.

Journeyman carpenter, 17 years experience.

Call Jeff Wagner, 250-569-7906

A14

Wednesday, October 20, 2010

www.therockymountaingoat.com

Twenty for a Toonie: The Classified Ads

Plain Talk Horoscopes

By Craig Elder, M.A. Economics

Classified ads policy If it is for free, it is free.

Up to 20 words for $2, 30 words for $3, 40 words for $4 etc. If the asking price is over $499, then it is $5 for 20 words, $6 for 30 words etc. Non-business announcements are welcome at the same rates.

The Rocky Mountain Goat reserves the right to refuse to print any classified submission that is not an advertisement of a private sale, or rental arrangement.

Building Materials

For Sale

For Sale

Salvaged metal siding for sale. Perfect for any outbuilding or shop. Approximately 550-600 square foot coverage. Will consider any offer! Call Joe 250-566-1444

5th Wheel. 28.5’ Citation Supreme 1997 Excellent condition, Queen walkaround Bed, Oakcabinets, 2 DoorFridge, Microwave, 3 Burnersstoveoven, Full Bath, Awning, Airconditioning, $14900.00. Call 1-250-566-9884, Valemount or jvgeorgeca@yahoo.ca

Glass carboys, $20 each (retail $40) and multi-purpose plastic tubs 30L, $15 Call 250-566-4606

Trusses for sale. Approximately 42 foot span. 14 units. Single slant, could be modified with a chalk line and skill saw. Now considering offers! Call Joe 250566-1444 and skill saw. Now considering offers! Call Joe 250-566-1444

Flooring, Wide Plank Fir, 8”, T&G, new, kiln dried, select grade, $2.95/sqft. Please call 250-573-1817 evenings.

How to submit an ad Found

To submit your classified ad, e-mail or call the goat, or place your ad in an envelope with payment and drop it in our mailbox, 1070 5th Ave For Rent Shared Accommodation dwntwn McBride Incl: lge bdrm with private entrance, ADSL, phone/voice box, furniture. Shared: util, TV, house/yard. NS, ND/A (no drugs/alcohol), No Pets.

Refs plse. $450 - 569-8807 Older 2 bedroom house on 6th Ave. $450/month plus utilities. 250-566-4790.

1 pair of black, OR, Goretex gaiters on McKirdy Peak.

Call 250-566-4396 to claim.

Mobile Home with full addition, and large garage on a lot, in Valemount recently renovated. comes w/ fridge stove washer dryer.

Currently rented. Asking $110.000.00 O.B.O Call 778 328 7285 leave a message.

Mazda B4000 4/4 1994.

C/W Canopy, 2 sets of tires on rims, well maintained, kept all receipts, 293K. Reason for sale; family got bigger. Asking $2500. Call JF at 250-566-8411.

Post your ad online www.

_____________ Two used satellite dishes. As is, taken off of house. Open to offers, 250-566-1444.

Minolta 2050 copier with two bottles of toner. Asking $300 OBO. Black and White copying only. Upto 11x17 size, also double sided. Older machine but still reproduces well. Handy for someone who needs to make copies of maps, booklets, handouts, etc. Call Rashmi at Infinity 250-5664225. Available for testing / viewing at Infinity Office & health, Valemount.

Wanted Wanted: Coffee grinder. Call 250-566-4606.

Sudoku-Puzzles .net

Place your ad here

Sudoku, Kakuro & Futoshiki Puzzles

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Roommate Wanted $295 plus shared utilities.

1 bedroom in 2 bedroom apartment in Valemount.

250-566-4044

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Nanny Needed Nanny Required. Sept – Dec part time. Requires 2 days in Crescent Spur, 2 days in Dunster Jan–Apr – full time live in at Crescent Spur. Salary based on experience. Pls email resumes or inquires to Jessica@crescentspur.com.

You can reach me at 250553-2300 or 250-968-4486.

500 gal. single-wall fuel tank. Asking $200. Call 250566-5069, ask for Jared

Place your ad here

Aries: Cosmic rays will inspire many ideas in you this week, but keep in mind that ‘The cosmic rays told me to.’ is not a valid defence in a court of law.

Taurus: You have been fooling yourself for sometime now, and you must now ask yourself, who is the greater fool, the fool or the fool that was fooled by the fool?

Gemini: You have a minor flaw, rather than acknowledge it, cover it up and hide it from everyone around you.

Cancer: Telling the truth is always important, but maybe you could spice up some of your more boring stories.

Leo: Laughter is important and will be of great use to you this week as your random bursts of laughter put others off their game.

Virgo: You will be uplifted by what you overhear others talking about. You are taking it out of context.

Libra: You can never be 100% sure of anything, your imaginary friend may be real after all.

Scorpio: That sore throat you’ve had will finally get better.

Sagittarius: Your good deeds have earned you enough karma to do one of the following: Tell someone off, take the last cookie, or forget someone’s birthday.

Capricorn: You will be overwhelmed by an amazing idea this week, but don’t act on it. You are drinking with friends. And owning a bar is not actually a great idea.

Aquarius: Your creative side is working overtime this week, coming up with excuses for why your practical side isn’t getting anything done.

Pisces: You will meet the anvil to your Wile E. Coyote this week as he/she will make you see stars.

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www.sudoku-puzzles.net

Employment

I am looking to carpool periodically with someone who travels to Jasper, and to travel to other towns. I will pay for part gas! Call 5660173.

Quickway Pilot looking for part time drives. Phone 566-1722, or fax resume to 566-4207, or mail Box 69 Valemount.

Wanted

The most-read newspaper in the Valley!

ARE YOU BORED? I’m looking to start a friendship club for winter sports, hiking, events and activities in Jasper, and nighboring towns. Call Vanda at: 250566-0173.

Dresser and lamp. Phone 250-566-4606

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Get exposure for your ad

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Wednesday, October 20, 2010

Community Events October

Ongoing diversions

Oct. 27 McBride Secondary Talent Night 7 p.m. at the Roundhouse Theatre $5 admission, children free For details or to enter, contact: 250-569-2295

November

Every Wednesday Valemount Seniors’ Music Night, 7p.m.

Location: Valemount Golden Years Lodge Every Thursday Cribbage tournament, everyone welcome Location: Valemount Golden Years Lodge lower level 1-4 p.m.

Nov. 4 John Reischman Roots musician McBride Roundhouse Theatre

Every Friday In Valemount: Musical jam at The Gathering Tree cafe, 7 p.m.

Hamburgers and drinks at the Legion, 5:30 p.m.

Nov 6th McBride Elks and Royal Purple Garage Sale 10:00 2:00 p.m.. If you would like to book a table @ $10.00/ table, please call Barb Jackson: 569-2645.

Every second Saturday Valemount Circle Dance, 7pm - 9pm Contact Micah: 250-566-1782

Nov. 20 Valemount Arts and Crafts Fair Location: Valemount Secondary gym Contact Jan @250-566-4396 to book a table

A15

First Saturday of every month Dunster Family Dance 7pm to 10pm Instruction from 7-8pm and short sessions throughout the evening. Lots of variety dances (waltz, fox-trot, polka, cha-cha, two-step-schottische, etc). Pot luck snacks at 9pm and then more dancing until 10pm. Admission - $5 for anyone over 12 - maximum of $10 per family.

Got a community event or announcement?

Let us know! lkeil@therockymountaingoat.com

Did you know?

The Robson Valley is only one hour from Jasper. Ways to travel: By train: Three days a week, catch the 12:45 train from Jasper through Mount Robson Park to Dunster or McBride or all the way to Prince George or Prince Rupert. Cost to McBride (1-way)= $30 By bus: Catch a Greyhound bus to Valemount for $25 or to McBride for $36. By car: Take Hwy 16 west to Dunster or McBride. To get to Valemount or Blue River, turn onto Hwy 5.

Photo Caption Contest

Robson Valley Weather Wednesday 10 1 POP 40%

Thursday 11 -1

Friday 8 -3 P.O.P. 60%

Saturday 7 1 POP 60%

Sunday 7 2 POP 60%

Monday Email your best caption to contest@therockymountaingoat.com. Winning entry will be published in next week’s issue.

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A16

www.therockymountaingoat.com

Wednesday, October 20, 2010

Goat River trail should be an easier trip for horsemen...

Cont’ from A11

Esser Clemens is originally from Germany. He moved to McBride about 22 years ago. He says that he did do some horseback riding in Germany, but it was ‘clean cut horsemanship,’ equestrian, beaten path and a little bit of jumping.

He says that his interest in backcountry riding skyrocketed when he moved to McBride.

“There are a few of us in the Robson Valley that do this kind of thing, but there could be more if the trails were in better shape. A little bit of publicity and awareness would help,” he says. “It is so beautiful around here and not too many people really know the trails and what we have here.”

Clemens says that before moving here, he used to come over to visit almost every summer. He just fell in love with the country and the people, especially the friendliness. The big country and the openness, he says, along with all of the challenges that come with it, were what really drew him in. But he adds that despite his acquaintance to the area through visits, the backcountry took him for surprise when he started to venture beyond the main valleys.

“I really had no idea. You come from a crowded country to a wide open coun-

Fall colours were the highlight of the last trip up the Goat River by Tom and Colter Ryan with Esser Clemens. try and you have absolutely no idea. You think you do, but you don`t. It comes bit by bit.”

He adds that his love for the area only grew as he met other locals like fellow rider Tom Ryan with whom he could do longer, more adventurous trips.

“You start to understand what trail is where, how steep it is. Is it a horse trail or is it a hiking trail or a biking trail.

Now I know pretty well most trails in the Robson Valley now. You just do it,” he says with enthusiasm.

“You make a plan and once you’re out there, you cannot comprehend. No phones, no hassles, no traffic, no neighbours, it is different. It is not like in the movies. There is no background music,” he laughs.

Clemens says that one moment from

their most recent Goat River trip is particularly fresh in his mind.

“We were rounding up our horses in the morning. They were in a poplar stand where there was some grass for them to graze. It had frozen overnight, but the leaves were still on the trees. But the frost was heavy that morning and as the sun came out, all of the leaves dropped all at once. We were standing in this tree patch and it felt like confetti was falling from the sky.”

Clemens says that he would like to see many trails in the area get maintained more often. He says that if you ride a horse trail like the one to Blue Berry Lake up the Holmes River, it is more enjoyable than a trail with constant blow down and an unbeaten path.

“If enough people use it, then they keep it open themselves. If there is one tree, people will cut it out of the way.”

He says that his last trip up the Goat has left him excited for more future trips.

“It is breathtaking. The stillness and the peace and quiet as well as the historic value. These are all on the back of your mind.”

The last trip was over a weekend with Tom and his son Colton Ryan.

“We did a little bit of gold panning and we had a ball.”