By Mark Menlove, Executive Director
It seems everywhere I go these days someone asks how, as a nonprofit organization, Winter Wildlands Alliance is weathering the current economic storm. It’s a question I actually enjoy answering because it gives me opportunity to reflect on just how fortunate WWA is to have such dedicated supporters and partners. The fact is, WWA is enjoying our best year ever in terms of individual contributions. That’s not to say we haven’t taken a few financial hits, or that we won’t take a few more before this is over, but I am pleased to report that WWA remains fiscally solid.
Like everyone else right now, we’re watching expenses very closely and we’re finding ways to accomplish more with less (not an easy task since we’ve always run a lean organization) but we have a more robust work plan than ever, we’ve expanded our geographic presence along with our advocacy services, and we’re perfectly positioned to take advantage of what may be the best opportunity we’ve ever had to change national policy and to finally bring balance to the way our public lands are managed during winter. Thank you for making that possible!
Thursday, July 9, 2009
New Staff Members & Expanded Advocacy Resources
By Mark Menlove, Executive Director
I am thrilled to introduce two new staff members and to tell you what these staff additions mean for expanding our advocacy efforts and the services we’re able to provide our grassroots activists. Forrest McCarthy joined us Feb. 1 as Public Lands Director, replacing the position we previously called Grassroots Program Director. A long-time senior guide with Exum Mountain Guides a
nd a former wildlands organizer with Wyoming Wilderness Association, Forrest is already doing terrific work on several grassroots campaigns and has been busy on the national front as well including testifying before Congress on climate change issues. He received a Bachelor’s Degree in Outdoor Education from Prescott College and a Master’s Degree in Geography from the University of Wyoming. Forrest is based in Jackson, Wyoming, giving WWA an on-theground presence in the Northern Rockies.
Whitney
Rearick joined us March 16 as 2009 Sarah Michael Fellow/Advocacy Director. In addition to working on our national campaign to remedy the exclusion of snowmobiles from the Travel Management Rule, Whitney is responsible for expanding our community of members, funders and partners and for creating strategic campaigns and advocacy tools to engage the backcountry community directly in our work. Whitney was a policy specialist at Utah Issues in Salt Lake City and, most recently, the campus planner at Boise State University. She earned her master's degree in Urban and Environmental Policy and Planning from Tufts University, and her bachelor's in Biology from Lehigh University, Whitney works from our office in Boise.
Because Forrest and Whitney both have excellent strategic campaign and policy expertise, they’ll be working in tandem to assist our grassroots groups and individual activists on local issues.
All of us at WWA are excited to be able to offer this expanded resource to our members and constituents. Forrest and Whitney will each focus on a specific geographic area, with Forrest working directly in the Rocky Mountain States and Alaska, and Whitney leading our campaigns in the Pacific Northwest and California. And, as always, WWA Program Administrator/SnowSchool Coordinator Lana Weber and I are available as resources too. You can reach any of us through the main WWA phone number, 208-336-4203 or through the contact page at www.winterwildlands.org.
I am thrilled to introduce two new staff members and to tell you what these staff additions mean for expanding our advocacy efforts and the services we’re able to provide our grassroots activists. Forrest McCarthy joined us Feb. 1 as Public Lands Director, replacing the position we previously called Grassroots Program Director. A long-time senior guide with Exum Mountain Guides a
nd a former wildlands organizer with Wyoming Wilderness Association, Forrest is already doing terrific work on several grassroots campaigns and has been busy on the national front as well including testifying before Congress on climate change issues. He received a Bachelor’s Degree in Outdoor Education from Prescott College and a Master’s Degree in Geography from the University of Wyoming. Forrest is based in Jackson, Wyoming, giving WWA an on-theground presence in the Northern Rockies.Whitney
Rearick joined us March 16 as 2009 Sarah Michael Fellow/Advocacy Director. In addition to working on our national campaign to remedy the exclusion of snowmobiles from the Travel Management Rule, Whitney is responsible for expanding our community of members, funders and partners and for creating strategic campaigns and advocacy tools to engage the backcountry community directly in our work. Whitney was a policy specialist at Utah Issues in Salt Lake City and, most recently, the campus planner at Boise State University. She earned her master's degree in Urban and Environmental Policy and Planning from Tufts University, and her bachelor's in Biology from Lehigh University, Whitney works from our office in Boise.Because Forrest and Whitney both have excellent strategic campaign and policy expertise, they’ll be working in tandem to assist our grassroots groups and individual activists on local issues.
All of us at WWA are excited to be able to offer this expanded resource to our members and constituents. Forrest and Whitney will each focus on a specific geographic area, with Forrest working directly in the Rocky Mountain States and Alaska, and Whitney leading our campaigns in the Pacific Northwest and California. And, as always, WWA Program Administrator/SnowSchool Coordinator Lana Weber and I are available as resources too. You can reach any of us through the main WWA phone number, 208-336-4203 or through the contact page at www.winterwildlands.org.
WWA Testifies Before Congress on Climate Change
By Forrest McCarthy, Public Lands Director
In much the same way we look at indicator species as hallmarks of critical habitat protecton, Nordic and backcountry skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing can be seen as climate change “indicator activities” because we, as outdoor winter enthusiasts, are some of the first to experience the impacts of climate change on our public lands. To mobilize outdoor enthusiasts around better public policy regarding climate change and its impacts on public lands, Winter Wildlands Alliance has taken the lead within the Outdoor Alliance, a coalition representing climbers, hikers, paddlers, mountain bikers, backcountry skiers and snowshoers, in support of climate change legislation. In February WWA Public Lands Director Forrest McCarthy testified
before the US House Sub-Committee on National Parks, Forests, and Public Lands to express the outdoor community’s support of climate change legislation and to provide specific recommendations. Additionally, WWA submitted written testimony on behalf of the Outdoor
Alliance to several other Congressional hearings on climate change and met with Congressional staffers regarding climate legislation. In addition to advocating for comprehensive climate change legislation that caps carbon emissions and invests in clean renewable energy, WWA and Outdoor Alliance have utilized our unique perspective to make specific recommendations including:
1. A strong “adaptation policy” where the government helps our public lands and waters and the plants and animals they support to cope with a changing climate through progressive landconservation measures. Protecting landscapes and ecosystems also provides Americans the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors.
2. Consideration of both wildlife and recreation interests whendeveloping renewable energy on our public lands.
3. Protecting and reinvesting in open spaces to provide refuge forwildlife, establish natural “carbon sinks” where forests absorb and store millions of tons of carbon, and preserve opportunities for current and future generations to stay connected to the natural
world.
WWA and our members have a lot at stake in climate change and its associated legislation. It is critical that we stay informed, involved, and active in the coming months. Look for action alerts with details about when to contact your representatives in Congress to express your support for Climate Change Legislation that will stabilize our climate and protect our public lands.
In much the same way we look at indicator species as hallmarks of critical habitat protecton, Nordic and backcountry skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing can be seen as climate change “indicator activities” because we, as outdoor winter enthusiasts, are some of the first to experience the impacts of climate change on our public lands. To mobilize outdoor enthusiasts around better public policy regarding climate change and its impacts on public lands, Winter Wildlands Alliance has taken the lead within the Outdoor Alliance, a coalition representing climbers, hikers, paddlers, mountain bikers, backcountry skiers and snowshoers, in support of climate change legislation. In February WWA Public Lands Director Forrest McCarthy testified
before the US House Sub-Committee on National Parks, Forests, and Public Lands to express the outdoor community’s support of climate change legislation and to provide specific recommendations. Additionally, WWA submitted written testimony on behalf of the Outdoor
Alliance to several other Congressional hearings on climate change and met with Congressional staffers regarding climate legislation. In addition to advocating for comprehensive climate change legislation that caps carbon emissions and invests in clean renewable energy, WWA and Outdoor Alliance have utilized our unique perspective to make specific recommendations including:
1. A strong “adaptation policy” where the government helps our public lands and waters and the plants and animals they support to cope with a changing climate through progressive landconservation measures. Protecting landscapes and ecosystems also provides Americans the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors.
2. Consideration of both wildlife and recreation interests whendeveloping renewable energy on our public lands.
3. Protecting and reinvesting in open spaces to provide refuge forwildlife, establish natural “carbon sinks” where forests absorb and store millions of tons of carbon, and preserve opportunities for current and future generations to stay connected to the natural
world.
WWA and our members have a lot at stake in climate change and its associated legislation. It is critical that we stay informed, involved, and active in the coming months. Look for action alerts with details about when to contact your representatives in Congress to express your support for Climate Change Legislation that will stabilize our climate and protect our public lands.
Exploring the Winter Wilds of Glacier National Park
By Maci MacPherson, Winter Education Intern 2009
During the cold, snowy winter months, school groups from the Flathead Valley in Montana venture out into the white wonderland of Glacier National Park. As a park ranger, I’ve been fortunate to experience this wild place with children ranging from 1st through 7th grade. Even though the ages vary, most of the participants have one thing on their minds: snow! Whether it is playing winter ecology games, watching a wildlife puppet show, snowshoe hiking, conducting experiments and doing snow science, or even visiting Glacier Park for the first time, each student has their own favorite part of the field trip. For the 1st and 2nd graders, a highlight of the field trip is a puppet show that explores what different wildlife species do to survive the
winter season. A crowd favorite is often the big bald eagle that lost his fish, as well as the wolf that hopelessly chases potential “grub.” Our curious audience members often screech and laugh at these funny animals while learning how they live in the winter here in Glacier. The older groups spend the morning being scientists by doing snow stations. They learn about weather, snow crystals, and the insulating properties of snow. They also get to experience a quinhzee hut that is similar to snow shelters used by the Athabascan Indians. I always love how they come back saying “It was so warm in there even though it is made out of snow! I’d love to live in a hut like that.” They also conduct an experiment to see how much water is in the snow. It’s fun to see their shocked faces when they discover that the piles and mounds of snow really don’t add up to very much water. One 3rd grader commented “Wow, this snow is really important then, especially for the fishes. And I guess for us too if we want to swim and drink water”. One fourth grader called the field trip “the best day of my life.” I feel very privileged to be a small part of these children’s lives by exploring this beautiful park with them. The winter education programs at Glacier National Park provide stimulating and intriguing experiences for anyone eager to get outside in this wild winter wonderland.
During the cold, snowy winter months, school groups from the Flathead Valley in Montana venture out into the white wonderland of Glacier National Park. As a park ranger, I’ve been fortunate to experience this wild place with children ranging from 1st through 7th grade. Even though the ages vary, most of the participants have one thing on their minds: snow! Whether it is playing winter ecology games, watching a wildlife puppet show, snowshoe hiking, conducting experiments and doing snow science, or even visiting Glacier Park for the first time, each student has their own favorite part of the field trip. For the 1st and 2nd graders, a highlight of the field trip is a puppet show that explores what different wildlife species do to survive the
winter season. A crowd favorite is often the big bald eagle that lost his fish, as well as the wolf that hopelessly chases potential “grub.” Our curious audience members often screech and laugh at these funny animals while learning how they live in the winter here in Glacier. The older groups spend the morning being scientists by doing snow stations. They learn about weather, snow crystals, and the insulating properties of snow. They also get to experience a quinhzee hut that is similar to snow shelters used by the Athabascan Indians. I always love how they come back saying “It was so warm in there even though it is made out of snow! I’d love to live in a hut like that.” They also conduct an experiment to see how much water is in the snow. It’s fun to see their shocked faces when they discover that the piles and mounds of snow really don’t add up to very much water. One 3rd grader commented “Wow, this snow is really important then, especially for the fishes. And I guess for us too if we want to swim and drink water”. One fourth grader called the field trip “the best day of my life.” I feel very privileged to be a small part of these children’s lives by exploring this beautiful park with them. The winter education programs at Glacier National Park provide stimulating and intriguing experiences for anyone eager to get outside in this wild winter wonderland.
You Could Be In Pictures!
By Whitney Rearick, Sarah Michael Fellow
Are you a budding filmmaker? Do you know someone who is? Winter Wildlands Alliance is seeking entries for its FIFTH ANNUAL Backcountry Film Festival. You don’t need a degree from a film school. You don’t need footage shot while dangling precariously, camera in hand, from an ice wall in the Rockies. All you need is a compelling story, some quality footage and a keen eye for a fun, educational or juicy topic that celebrates the human-powered experience. Your film should be short—no longer than 30 minutes and under 10 minutes is even better—and tell a thought-provoking, interesting story of backcountry, non-motorized recreation or environmental preservation. Your film should take place or otherwise relate to the winter. Documentaries, fiction and experimental films are welcome. The Film Festival premieres in Boise November 13, 2009 and travels during the winter months to more than 30 locations throughout the west, and soon, the east coast. Submissions must be received in our Boise office by September 1 and include three copies and a $20 submission fee.
Contact Whitney Rearick at 208-344-8692, wrearick@winterwildlands.org for details.
Are you a budding filmmaker? Do you know someone who is? Winter Wildlands Alliance is seeking entries for its FIFTH ANNUAL Backcountry Film Festival. You don’t need a degree from a film school. You don’t need footage shot while dangling precariously, camera in hand, from an ice wall in the Rockies. All you need is a compelling story, some quality footage and a keen eye for a fun, educational or juicy topic that celebrates the human-powered experience. Your film should be short—no longer than 30 minutes and under 10 minutes is even better—and tell a thought-provoking, interesting story of backcountry, non-motorized recreation or environmental preservation. Your film should take place or otherwise relate to the winter. Documentaries, fiction and experimental films are welcome. The Film Festival premieres in Boise November 13, 2009 and travels during the winter months to more than 30 locations throughout the west, and soon, the east coast. Submissions must be received in our Boise office by September 1 and include three copies and a $20 submission fee.
Contact Whitney Rearick at 208-344-8692, wrearick@winterwildlands.org for details.
WWA Expands Grassroots & Backcountry Partners Programs
By Forrest McCarthy, Public Lands Director
WWA continues to grow and expand our vitally important Grassroots network. New additions include the Bend Backcountry Alliance, Bend, Ore; Biodiversity Conservation Alliance, Laramie,
Wyo; Friends of Pathways, Jackson, Wyo; Kongsberger Ski Club, Seattle, Wash; Southeast Alaska Conservation Council, Juneau, Alaska; and the Wyoming Wilderness Association, Sheridan, Wyo. WWA member Grassroots Groups are the lifeblood of our on-the-ground work and we are excited to support the work of these organizations in protecting winter wildlands and a quality human-powered snowsports experience. Similarly, in recent months WWA has added to our already impressive list of Backcountry Partners. We are proud to add All Seasons Adventures, Park City, Utah; Aerial Boundaries, Driggs, Idaho; The Ascending Path, Anchorage, Alaska; Kris Erikson Photography, Livingston Mont; Exum Mountain Guides, Moose Wyo; and Skinny Skis, Jackson, Wyo. This Backcountry Partners program is a unique partnership for
small businesses who support, and want their customers to know they support, Winter Wildlands Alliance’s mission of promoting and preserving winter wildlands and a quality human-powered snowsports experience on public lands. A huge thanks goes out to these businesses for sustaining the efforts of Winter Wildlands Alliance. Please support these great businesses and our mutual efforts to help keep the backcountry experience safe and pristine. If you are associated or know of a potential Backcountry Partner we would love to hear from you.
WWA continues to grow and expand our vitally important Grassroots network. New additions include the Bend Backcountry Alliance, Bend, Ore; Biodiversity Conservation Alliance, Laramie,
Wyo; Friends of Pathways, Jackson, Wyo; Kongsberger Ski Club, Seattle, Wash; Southeast Alaska Conservation Council, Juneau, Alaska; and the Wyoming Wilderness Association, Sheridan, Wyo. WWA member Grassroots Groups are the lifeblood of our on-the-ground work and we are excited to support the work of these organizations in protecting winter wildlands and a quality human-powered snowsports experience. Similarly, in recent months WWA has added to our already impressive list of Backcountry Partners. We are proud to add All Seasons Adventures, Park City, Utah; Aerial Boundaries, Driggs, Idaho; The Ascending Path, Anchorage, Alaska; Kris Erikson Photography, Livingston Mont; Exum Mountain Guides, Moose Wyo; and Skinny Skis, Jackson, Wyo. This Backcountry Partners program is a unique partnership for
small businesses who support, and want their customers to know they support, Winter Wildlands Alliance’s mission of promoting and preserving winter wildlands and a quality human-powered snowsports experience on public lands. A huge thanks goes out to these businesses for sustaining the efforts of Winter Wildlands Alliance. Please support these great businesses and our mutual efforts to help keep the backcountry experience safe and pristine. If you are associated or know of a potential Backcountry Partner we would love to hear from you.
SnowSchool Success!
By Lana Weber, Program Administrator
Surveys are still coming in, but early results show that SnowSchool had one of our most successful years ever. With the addition of eight new sites and more on the horizon, we reached more than 25,000 kids and 4,000 adults, and showed them the fun and excitement of being outside in the winter. As always, a huge thanks to REI, Atlas Snow-Shoe Company, Keen Footwear and MSR for generous support of SnowSchool! Before the snow begins to fly again, think about how you can support SnowSchool. By becoming a member of Winter Wildlands Alliance, you help support this program nationally and assure that our community of human-powered snowsports enthusiasts remains strong and vibrant into the future. If there is a SnowSchool site in your area, consider volunteering! Your active participation is extremely important. Together, we are the national voice for quiet winter recreation, and you can help be a part of the future advocates of our winter wildlands!
Surveys are still coming in, but early results show that SnowSchool had one of our most successful years ever. With the addition of eight new sites and more on the horizon, we reached more than 25,000 kids and 4,000 adults, and showed them the fun and excitement of being outside in the winter. As always, a huge thanks to REI, Atlas Snow-Shoe Company, Keen Footwear and MSR for generous support of SnowSchool! Before the snow begins to fly again, think about how you can support SnowSchool. By becoming a member of Winter Wildlands Alliance, you help support this program nationally and assure that our community of human-powered snowsports enthusiasts remains strong and vibrant into the future. If there is a SnowSchool site in your area, consider volunteering! Your active participation is extremely important. Together, we are the national voice for quiet winter recreation, and you can help be a part of the future advocates of our winter wildlands!
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