Dear Eddy

Regarding Dear Eddy by Glen Rink, bqr 14:2
This article is in reference to Mr. Glen Rinks' Dear Eddy contribution regarding the overturned block of quartzite on the Thunder River trail. Coming upon that spot during a river trip last summer, I was taken back by the sight of the block removal. Although I disagree with the comparison to the outrageous act of “improvement” of Quartzite Falls on the Salt River, I do agree that this particular trail “improvement” is pushing the limits of acceptable change. I think the main message in Mr. Rinks' editorial is that enough is enough with major trail construction on threshold level trails of Grand Canyon. I have been working trails for over twenty years, many in the Canyon on those very “well intentioned caretaker” trips. I do believe so much of the work done down there is invaluable to mitigate the high impacts bestowed upon the inner canyon by both commercial and private groups. Just the fact of shear numbers in such a defined area constitutes some care and you

have to admit that use levels on trails such as Thunder River are very high. The very old-time boaters can certainly tell tales of how things have changed due to the fact of increased user numbers. I understand that there are still “caretaker” trips going on by outfitters and guides. Is that any different? Hopefully, four-foot wide cut steps in Elves Chasm is not on the list of trail deeds, but some level of maintenance is due when heavy use begins to degrade the very resource we are all drawn to. It is important for all concerned to voice opinions to the park if there is an issue regarding work along the river corridor or anyplace else in your National Park. I hope trail workers, guides and the public think about their impacts while working and enjoying the Canyon.
Don Sharlow
Trails Supervisor,
Big Bend National Park