Helping an Old Friend

   Take only pictures, leave only footprints. That’s been the credo of Grand Canyon boaters for at least the last 25 years. And we take rightful pride in the fact that the Canyon’s beaches are so clean that even a cigarette butt stands out. But we’ve found that even footprints can have an impact, and, over the years, the footprints can add up. Short of restoring 100,000 cfs of rolling, muddy water to the river each spring we can’t depend on Mother Nature alone to heal her wounds. She can use some help....from us.

   I’m sure nearly everyone is aware of the work done by the Park’s Resource Management office over the past several years in the river corridor. Led by Kim Crumbo, crews have worked each winter to eliminate multiple trailing, stabilize eroding trails, protect vulnerable cultural sites, and revegetate sensitive areas. The work has been good and usually very subtle, the object to do as little as necessary and let the Canyon heal itself. Now its a team effort.

   This year the outfitters are initiating an effort to make this program even more effective. The outfitters unanimously support it. The Park from Superintendent down endorse it. It’s a natural partnership of outfitters, guides, and the Park, a chance to work together to solve the problems we all share. And naturally enough, our part is on the river.

   We are the eyes, ears, and hands of the program. Our participation is critical in a variety of ways. First, it’s our home and this is an opportunity to take even better care of it. Second, we can learn from the techniques used and educate our friends and passengers in ways to further limit impacts. And perhaps most importantly, the work done to campsites, trails, and attraction sites must be done carefully and with sensitivity. The techniques are constantly evolving and our opinions and sensitivities are necessary in determining what is acceptable and appropriate. A forum to discuss appropriate and effective techniques will be held at the South Rim on October 2. Guide, Outfitter and Park input is needed. You are all encouraged to attend.

   The first trip is scheduled for Oct. 24 - Nov. 10. The 18 day row trip will be divided into two at Phantom and is limited to 13 guides on each half. Don’t kid yourself, it’ll be work but it will be rewarding as well. Those interested in the trip can sign up by contacting either Laurie Lee Staveley at Canyon Explorations (602) 774-4559 or Bill Gloeckler at Arizona River Runners (602) 527-0269.

Tom Moody