Bill sent a post about getting even with trash dumpers:
Ever wonder how to help the river area? Recently someone dumped a load of trash/garbage at the equestrian staging area by the automatic gate at Panorama Vista Preserve. So I got out and searched through it. I hit pay dirt! Finding several pieces of junk mail and some UNPAID bills I drove immediately to the K.C. Sheriff's office on Norris Road. They were helpful and I filled out a complaint. The next day I saw a couple picking up their own trash as a couple of deputies drove by! If you see things like this please report it. It helps. Bill
Ed.Note: I love this!!! Billy Robertson has told me horror stories of times people have dumped "truck loads" of trash on his property, one time right in the tunnel that goes under Manor Drive. His experience wasn't as good as Bill's. He found the name of the person who "owned" the trash, but she claimed she had paid someone to haul her trash away, therefore, it wasn't her responsibility and Billy had to haul it off himself! Oh well, let's keep our eyes open and take the time to at least try to catch these creeps. Kudos to Bill for taking the time and initiative.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Thursday, September 10, 2009
HART PARK, WALK AND TALK
I saw another blog on bakersfield.com (The Bakersfield Californian newspaper), concerning plans for Hart Park. The blog was from Kenny Beal, sorry, I don't know him, but would like to hear from any of you who could let me know what group(s) he is working for/with...
Anyway, he is suggesting that interested parties walk the park on Saturday morning. I know most equestrians will be riding this beautiful Saturday, but I have an early wedding so I will go to Hart Park to meet with Kenny and whoever else shows up. If you know any equestrians who are interested and not riding Saturday morning, let them know and maybe we can make a "presence".
I know that Bill Cooper and the Kern River Parkway group is trying to work with the County and Park on some issues at the Park. Perhaps they will be involved with this.
Here's Kenny's message, posted Thursday:
Hey there citizen of the community.
Want a world class park? What does that mean to you?
Are you up for a community walk in The Park? Perhaps just to observe.
Here is your chance to bring your ideas for revitalizing The Park. near and long term. If you want things to improve at the Park, PARTICIPATE. September 12, 8:00 am, Small Pond near entrance to park. See you there right? We will start with a walk from the small pond to the picnic area by the Peacocks. I'll then capture all your ideas on paper, then we will walk back to the pond. Please feel free to show up at any point.
Best Regards to all,
Kenny Beal
Anyway, he is suggesting that interested parties walk the park on Saturday morning. I know most equestrians will be riding this beautiful Saturday, but I have an early wedding so I will go to Hart Park to meet with Kenny and whoever else shows up. If you know any equestrians who are interested and not riding Saturday morning, let them know and maybe we can make a "presence".
I know that Bill Cooper and the Kern River Parkway group is trying to work with the County and Park on some issues at the Park. Perhaps they will be involved with this.
Here's Kenny's message, posted Thursday:
Hey there citizen of the community.
Want a world class park? What does that mean to you?
Are you up for a community walk in The Park? Perhaps just to observe.
Here is your chance to bring your ideas for revitalizing The Park. near and long term. If you want things to improve at the Park, PARTICIPATE. September 12, 8:00 am, Small Pond near entrance to park. See you there right? We will start with a walk from the small pond to the picnic area by the Peacocks. I'll then capture all your ideas on paper, then we will walk back to the pond. Please feel free to show up at any point.
Best Regards to all,
Kenny Beal
Saturday, August 15, 2009
THE AMAZING EQUINE ATHLETE
As seen on "Animal Makeover" of RFD TV: According to Chris Goodwin, Equine Marketing Manager:
The resting heart rate of an equine athlete is 30-40 beats per minute. The stroke volume (amount of blood pumped by the heart per beat) is about 1 liter. So the amount of blood that is pumped through the heart of a resting horse is about two 5-gallon buckets!!!
At maximum performance ( a horse running 25-30 miles per hour) the heart rate will increase to about 250 beats per minute and the stroke volume will increase to about 2 liters per beat, or about 500 liters of blood pumped through the heart per minute. That would be equal to two overflowing 55-gallon drums in ONE minute!!!!
The resting heart rate of an equine athlete is 30-40 beats per minute. The stroke volume (amount of blood pumped by the heart per beat) is about 1 liter. So the amount of blood that is pumped through the heart of a resting horse is about two 5-gallon buckets!!!
At maximum performance ( a horse running 25-30 miles per hour) the heart rate will increase to about 250 beats per minute and the stroke volume will increase to about 2 liters per beat, or about 500 liters of blood pumped through the heart per minute. That would be equal to two overflowing 55-gallon drums in ONE minute!!!!
Friday, August 14, 2009
OPEN LETTER RE: MOHAWK EXTENSION TRAIL
This photo is construction underway on August 12th at the Mohawk Extension.I received the following email from Janet Wheeler:
"Construction on the Mohawk Street Extension project has begun. The contractor will soon begin work on the river bridge, which will cause an interruption in the use of the equestrian trail through the construction zone. Please see the attached letter for details.
I would appreciate your assistance in disseminating this information to other members of the equestrian community. If you need additional information, please contact me at 661.326.3491."
The following letter does not indicate a completion date, I will try to get that info., Patty
Members of the Greater Bakersfield Equestrian Community,
Security Paving Company, SPC, the contractor for the Mohawk Street Extension Project, plans to begin construction on the new river bridge the week of August 24, 2009. This construction will require a temporary closure of the equestrian trail, located on the north side of the Kern River, through the construction zone.
This closure will remain in place while the bridge is under construction and while the work compromises the safety of horses and riders. The City of Bakersfield and the Thomas Roads Improvement Program (TRIP) appreciate your patience during construction, and we regret any inconvenience this may cause the equestrian community.
The equestrian trail will be restored as part of the Mohawk Street Extension project. Upon the project's completion, the restored trail will continue along the Kern River's secondary flood plain and re-connect with the existing trail on either side of the bridge. The restored trail will be 20 feet wide and have a vertical clearance of 13 to 14 feet beneath the bridge.
For additional project information, please contact Janet Wheeler at 661.326.3491 or visit the TRIP website at http://www.bakersfieldfreeways.us/ .
Sincerely,
Theodore D. Wright
Civil Engineer IV - TRIP
"Construction on the Mohawk Street Extension project has begun. The contractor will soon begin work on the river bridge, which will cause an interruption in the use of the equestrian trail through the construction zone. Please see the attached letter for details.
I would appreciate your assistance in disseminating this information to other members of the equestrian community. If you need additional information, please contact me at 661.326.3491."
The following letter does not indicate a completion date, I will try to get that info., Patty
Members of the Greater Bakersfield Equestrian Community,
Security Paving Company, SPC, the contractor for the Mohawk Street Extension Project, plans to begin construction on the new river bridge the week of August 24, 2009. This construction will require a temporary closure of the equestrian trail, located on the north side of the Kern River, through the construction zone.
This closure will remain in place while the bridge is under construction and while the work compromises the safety of horses and riders. The City of Bakersfield and the Thomas Roads Improvement Program (TRIP) appreciate your patience during construction, and we regret any inconvenience this may cause the equestrian community.
The equestrian trail will be restored as part of the Mohawk Street Extension project. Upon the project's completion, the restored trail will continue along the Kern River's secondary flood plain and re-connect with the existing trail on either side of the bridge. The restored trail will be 20 feet wide and have a vertical clearance of 13 to 14 feet beneath the bridge.
For additional project information, please contact Janet Wheeler at 661.326.3491 or visit the TRIP website at http://www.bakersfieldfreeways.us/ .
Sincerely,
Theodore D. Wright
Civil Engineer IV - TRIP
CALIENTE TEAM PENNING AND MORE
Tammie W., a teacher at Piute Mountain School, sent the following info on the upcoming fundraiser for Piute and Caliente Schools. Team Penning is $25 per person/$75 per team and ALL proceeds go to supporting the schools.
For special events info and entries:
Call Christine Angulo: (661) 867, 0310
There was a number to call to volunteer or make donations, but the phone number wasn't complete, so call the school if you have more questions.
All events held at the Lawrence Snow arena. (Sorry, I don't have an address or directions.)
Schedule of Special Events: (all times are approximate)
September 5th - Saturday
7 - 10:00 am Country Breakfast at the Arena
8:00 a.m. Grand Entry - Opening
8:30 a.m. Queen, Prince & Princess Contestant
Introductions followed by contest of patterns & penning
10:00 a.m. Spirit Bar Opens with adult beverages served throughout the day and evening
11:00 a.m. Lunch/Snack Bar Opens
2:00 p.m. Team Penning
Calcuttas and Auctions begin & held throughout the events
3:00 p.m. Crowning of Queen. Prince & Princess Calcuttas and Auctions
4:00 p.m. * Jackpot Barrel Race - Open to Everyone(time approx.)
5:00 p.m.* Bike Barrels (Bring your bicycles!) Calcuttas and Auctions
6:00 p.m.* Team Branding - Open to Everyone
5:00 p.m. Lou's Deep Pit BBQ Dinner Begins ($9/plate ...•.. $4/12 &. under •••. 3 &. under free)
8:00 p.m. Western Dance at Arena with Live Band
* Each Event is $25.00 per person
** Queen, Prince &. Princess Drawing Tickets for a $500.00 drawing on sale all day!!!
If you know Taylor Payne (Claudia's daughter), she is selling tickets, so buy up.
For special events info and entries:
Call Christine Angulo: (661) 867, 0310
There was a number to call to volunteer or make donations, but the phone number wasn't complete, so call the school if you have more questions.
All events held at the Lawrence Snow arena. (Sorry, I don't have an address or directions.)
Schedule of Special Events: (all times are approximate)
September 5th - Saturday
7 - 10:00 am Country Breakfast at the Arena
8:00 a.m. Grand Entry - Opening
8:30 a.m. Queen, Prince & Princess Contestant
Introductions followed by contest of patterns & penning
10:00 a.m. Spirit Bar Opens with adult beverages served throughout the day and evening
11:00 a.m. Lunch/Snack Bar Opens
2:00 p.m. Team Penning
Calcuttas and Auctions begin & held throughout the events
3:00 p.m. Crowning of Queen. Prince & Princess Calcuttas and Auctions
4:00 p.m. * Jackpot Barrel Race - Open to Everyone(time approx.)
5:00 p.m.* Bike Barrels (Bring your bicycles!) Calcuttas and Auctions
6:00 p.m.* Team Branding - Open to Everyone
5:00 p.m. Lou's Deep Pit BBQ Dinner Begins ($9/plate ...•.. $4/12 &. under •••. 3 &. under free)
8:00 p.m. Western Dance at Arena with Live Band
* Each Event is $25.00 per person
** Queen, Prince &. Princess Drawing Tickets for a $500.00 drawing on sale all day!!!
If you know Taylor Payne (Claudia's daughter), she is selling tickets, so buy up.
Sunday, August 2, 2009
ANSWER TO SAVE THE TREES
The following is a response from Andy Honig, who has put in MANY hours of labor, planning, and researching the Panorama Vista Preserve, you can access his web site for further information at http://panoramavista.org/
"Users of the Panorama Vista Preserve need to know that alterations to the Preserve (This would include placing wire around tree trunks) would have to be authorized by the Board of Directors of the Kern River Corridor Endowment, the owner of the Panorama Vista Preserve.
I, as a member of the Board of Directors, have seen no evidence that sycamores in the Preserve are threatened by beavers and have strong reservations about placing wire around the trunks of mature trees. I would find this aesthetically unpleasing.
Almost all the sycamores on the river bank in the Preserve have multiple trunks and can readily withstand beaver activity.
I would not want to remove the beavers because I have observed that the beaver dams have, during periods of low water, held water in the river, benefitting the riparian vegetation. On our website, www.panoramavista.org, there is a picture of a beaver dam holding back water. See www.panoramavista.org/fauna.html "
Ed. Note: I can't add anything to this, Andy knows this area, the trees, and the wildlife as well or better than anyone I know. Thank you Andy for sharing your knowledge with us.
"Users of the Panorama Vista Preserve need to know that alterations to the Preserve (This would include placing wire around tree trunks) would have to be authorized by the Board of Directors of the Kern River Corridor Endowment, the owner of the Panorama Vista Preserve.
I, as a member of the Board of Directors, have seen no evidence that sycamores in the Preserve are threatened by beavers and have strong reservations about placing wire around the trunks of mature trees. I would find this aesthetically unpleasing.
Almost all the sycamores on the river bank in the Preserve have multiple trunks and can readily withstand beaver activity.
I would not want to remove the beavers because I have observed that the beaver dams have, during periods of low water, held water in the river, benefitting the riparian vegetation. On our website, www.panoramavista.org, there is a picture of a beaver dam holding back water. See www.panoramavista.org/fauna.html "
Ed. Note: I can't add anything to this, Andy knows this area, the trees, and the wildlife as well or better than anyone I know. Thank you Andy for sharing your knowledge with us.
Saturday, August 1, 2009
SAVING THE TREES UPDATE
Noonshyne has left a new comment on your post "SAVING THE TREES":
A few years ago, Marci Cunningham received the okay (and gate key) to take a pickup east on the bike path at Manor to haul off junk and a car door that was on a trail going up to Panorama Dr. I think she got $8 at the scrap yard for the door. Her husband (me) was volunteered to help!
Ed. Note: Thanks Mr. C! A lot of times we women have some great ideas but couldn't pull them off without husbands and male friends who "volunteer".
A few years ago, Marci Cunningham received the okay (and gate key) to take a pickup east on the bike path at Manor to haul off junk and a car door that was on a trail going up to Panorama Dr. I think she got $8 at the scrap yard for the door. Her husband (me) was volunteered to help!
Ed. Note: Thanks Mr. C! A lot of times we women have some great ideas but couldn't pull them off without husbands and male friends who "volunteer".
Friday, July 31, 2009
SAVING THE TREES
Linda has left a new comment on your post "New Member":
I am also a new member to Ride the River Kern...although I have been riding the river off and on for 40 years. I board at Rancho Notso Grande for the last year (love my new home!) and previously at Robertson's for 2 years...would like to comment on a couple of my concerns.
I ride almost daily so am fortunate to see the changes along the banks of the river. However one feels about the beaver activity - they are a part of the natural environment that we all enjoy so much when we ride. In the interest of co-habitating with these wonderful creatures wouldn't it be great to protect the trunks of the equally wonderful sycamore trees that line the banks of our precious riding area. We all have our favorites, but the sycamores are at the top of the food chain in my book. Rather than fret after the fact when one is gnawed and felled by a beaver can we be proactive and organize a group to nip it in the bud? Anyone interested in this endeavour?
My other concern - hazards on the trail - whether they be pieces of wire or broken glass - what are the rules and regs concerning taking a non-motorized vehicle (golf cart) and picking up some of these hazards? Should signs be posted to warn riders that there is a vehicle on the trail, etc. etc. Input please...
Ed. Note: Hi Linda, how's that new horse doing? (actually it's probably been a year...) I agree about the trees, I'm sure this has been a subject of discussion with the Panorama Preserve group (which is why we should all support them). Maybe we will get a response here, if not, I'll try to contact someone "in the know". But I agree, at least a sizeable number should be identified and protected. My experience with beavers is that they target young trees with trunks or limbs under three inches in circumference. The older, larger trees do get hit if the limbs are low to the ground. (This is NOT a scientific fact, just observation from an untrained eye.)
Regarding the motorized vehicle, again we need to contact someone from the PP but I've been told that cleanups have to be cleared through the PP. This might seem like it's silly, (I mean who wouldn't want someone to go help cleanup?!), but I think it effects their ability to negotiate grants, funds, and liability.
I have posted designated clean up days in the past and will post again when I hear of one coming up. For small things, we will just continue to hop off our horses and bring it home. Thanks for your concern.
I am also a new member to Ride the River Kern...although I have been riding the river off and on for 40 years. I board at Rancho Notso Grande for the last year (love my new home!) and previously at Robertson's for 2 years...would like to comment on a couple of my concerns.
I ride almost daily so am fortunate to see the changes along the banks of the river. However one feels about the beaver activity - they are a part of the natural environment that we all enjoy so much when we ride. In the interest of co-habitating with these wonderful creatures wouldn't it be great to protect the trunks of the equally wonderful sycamore trees that line the banks of our precious riding area. We all have our favorites, but the sycamores are at the top of the food chain in my book. Rather than fret after the fact when one is gnawed and felled by a beaver can we be proactive and organize a group to nip it in the bud? Anyone interested in this endeavour?
My other concern - hazards on the trail - whether they be pieces of wire or broken glass - what are the rules and regs concerning taking a non-motorized vehicle (golf cart) and picking up some of these hazards? Should signs be posted to warn riders that there is a vehicle on the trail, etc. etc. Input please...
Ed. Note: Hi Linda, how's that new horse doing? (actually it's probably been a year...) I agree about the trees, I'm sure this has been a subject of discussion with the Panorama Preserve group (which is why we should all support them). Maybe we will get a response here, if not, I'll try to contact someone "in the know". But I agree, at least a sizeable number should be identified and protected. My experience with beavers is that they target young trees with trunks or limbs under three inches in circumference. The older, larger trees do get hit if the limbs are low to the ground. (This is NOT a scientific fact, just observation from an untrained eye.)
Regarding the motorized vehicle, again we need to contact someone from the PP but I've been told that cleanups have to be cleared through the PP. This might seem like it's silly, (I mean who wouldn't want someone to go help cleanup?!), but I think it effects their ability to negotiate grants, funds, and liability.
I have posted designated clean up days in the past and will post again when I hear of one coming up. For small things, we will just continue to hop off our horses and bring it home. Thanks for your concern.
Friday, July 24, 2009
FUNDING FOR TRAILS
I found this information on Horsecity.com regarding funding for trails. I'm concerned about the bridge in Hart park, it has been "out of order" for several months. Perhaps an equestrian group could raise some funds and we could pay for it. I'll try to contact the Park authorities next week and find out how much it would cost. In the meantime, here's the information regarding federal funds for local trails...
Recreational Trails Program Up for Reauthorization
Posted on Horsecity.com: Thursday, May 7, 2009
The American Horse Council (AHC) is working to preserve the Federal Highway Administrations Recreational Trails Program. If Congress does not take action this year this program could no longer be available to recreational riders.
The RTP provides funding directly to the states for recreational trails and trail-related facilities for both non-motorized and motorized recreational trail uses. It was created in 1991 as part of the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 and was last re-authorized in 2005 as part of the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, and Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users, this law is about to expire. The RTP will have to be re-authorized in the next national surface transportation program bill if it is to continue.
Since its inception the RTP has provided approximately $677 million for thousands of state and local trail projects across the country, including many that benefit equestrians. RTP projects consist of construction, maintenance and restoration of trails and trail related facilities as well as the acquisition of easements or property for trails.
Although each state manages its own program, 30% of RTP funds must be spent on non-motorized projects like equestrian trails, 30% on motorized, and 40% percent on multiuse projects.
The RTP is one of the few sources for federal funding of trail projects that are not on federal land. The program is a great resource for equestrians to fund projects in their state and local parks, said AHC Legislative Director Ben Pendergrass.
In the coming months Congress is expected to begin work on the next 5 year highway bill. The AHC, in conjunction with a broad coalition of recreational trail users is requesting that Congress not only re-authorized the RTP, but also increase funding for the program to $555 million to be spent over the five years of the bill.
The AHC urges recreational riders to contact their members of Congress to voice support for this program. This is a great program and I hope equestrians will take the time to call or write their Representatives and Senators and let them know this program is important to the horse community, said AHC President Jay Hickey.
Recreational Trails Program Up for Reauthorization
Posted on Horsecity.com: Thursday, May 7, 2009
The American Horse Council (AHC) is working to preserve the Federal Highway Administrations Recreational Trails Program. If Congress does not take action this year this program could no longer be available to recreational riders.
The RTP provides funding directly to the states for recreational trails and trail-related facilities for both non-motorized and motorized recreational trail uses. It was created in 1991 as part of the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 and was last re-authorized in 2005 as part of the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, and Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users, this law is about to expire. The RTP will have to be re-authorized in the next national surface transportation program bill if it is to continue.
Since its inception the RTP has provided approximately $677 million for thousands of state and local trail projects across the country, including many that benefit equestrians. RTP projects consist of construction, maintenance and restoration of trails and trail related facilities as well as the acquisition of easements or property for trails.
Although each state manages its own program, 30% of RTP funds must be spent on non-motorized projects like equestrian trails, 30% on motorized, and 40% percent on multiuse projects.
The RTP is one of the few sources for federal funding of trail projects that are not on federal land. The program is a great resource for equestrians to fund projects in their state and local parks, said AHC Legislative Director Ben Pendergrass.
In the coming months Congress is expected to begin work on the next 5 year highway bill. The AHC, in conjunction with a broad coalition of recreational trail users is requesting that Congress not only re-authorized the RTP, but also increase funding for the program to $555 million to be spent over the five years of the bill.
The AHC urges recreational riders to contact their members of Congress to voice support for this program. This is a great program and I hope equestrians will take the time to call or write their Representatives and Senators and let them know this program is important to the horse community, said AHC President Jay Hickey.
Friday, July 10, 2009
UPCOMING EVENTS
This is a re-post of summer events, but I wanted to move it to the top:
July 15th: ETI Corral 65 meeting at Cataldo's on Stockdale Hwy at 7 p.m.
July 18th: Cowboy Race Murrieta, CA (951) 677-5985 This sounds FUN!!!
July 26th, Sunday: Mt. Pinos Day Ride and lunch: ETI Corral 65 contact Helen (661) 837-2766 sorry, wrong date was listed earlier... the correct date is Sunday.
July 25-27: Pack Supplies for ACE: contact Peg (559) 310-3176 (Sequoia) Are you a "packer"? Call the Sequoia Unit and help pack into the backcountry. ACE stands for American Conservation Experience, where students from around the world literally pay to come work on volunteer projects across the US.
July 26th: "Rancho Rio Open Horse Show Buckle Series" contact Joy at joygirado555@yahoo.com
August 1: Day Ride with Kern Sierra Unit (more information to follow)
August 6-9: Maggie Lakes Work Project. contact Joy (661) 399-3603 (Kern sierra Unit) Do you like packing or riding into the backcountry and want to help preserve our access? Call Joy.
August 9: "Rancho Rio Open Horse Show Buckle Series" contact Joy at joygirado555@yahoo.com
August 8-10: Pack Supplies for ACE: contact Peg (559) 310-3176 (Sequoia Unit)
August 22-24: Pack Supplies for ACE: contact Peg (559) 310-3176 (Sequoia Unit)
September 24-28: Montano de Oro Camp and Ride: contact Crystal (559) 972-4299 Join the Sequoia BCHC unit at beautiful Montano de Oro.
July 15th: ETI Corral 65 meeting at Cataldo's on Stockdale Hwy at 7 p.m.
July 18th: Cowboy Race Murrieta, CA (951) 677-5985 This sounds FUN!!!
July 26th, Sunday: Mt. Pinos Day Ride and lunch: ETI Corral 65 contact Helen (661) 837-2766 sorry, wrong date was listed earlier... the correct date is Sunday.
July 25-27: Pack Supplies for ACE: contact Peg (559) 310-3176 (Sequoia) Are you a "packer"? Call the Sequoia Unit and help pack into the backcountry. ACE stands for American Conservation Experience, where students from around the world literally pay to come work on volunteer projects across the US.
July 26th: "Rancho Rio Open Horse Show Buckle Series" contact Joy at joygirado555@yahoo.com
August 1: Day Ride with Kern Sierra Unit (more information to follow)
August 6-9: Maggie Lakes Work Project. contact Joy (661) 399-3603 (Kern sierra Unit) Do you like packing or riding into the backcountry and want to help preserve our access? Call Joy.
August 9: "Rancho Rio Open Horse Show Buckle Series" contact Joy at joygirado555@yahoo.com
August 8-10: Pack Supplies for ACE: contact Peg (559) 310-3176 (Sequoia Unit)
August 22-24: Pack Supplies for ACE: contact Peg (559) 310-3176 (Sequoia Unit)
September 24-28: Montano de Oro Camp and Ride: contact Crystal (559) 972-4299 Join the Sequoia BCHC unit at beautiful Montano de Oro.
Local Stables
I'm back from vacation! It was cool at the coast, but I still love Bakersfield...
I recently received an email from an "out of towner" interested in finding a stable. It made me think that it would be a good idea to establish a list of local stables, so here's a beginning (very incomplete, I'd love to have more added. If you know of one, or would like to send a description of the amenities I will add that. I will not get into "ratings" because there is always someone who loves a facility and someone else who hates it...)
Robertson Stables: Corner of Manor and Roberts Lane 393-2976
Rancho Rio Stables: 5320 Peacock Park Lane 395-0213
Silverado Stables: 4600 Alfred Harrell Hwy. (Next to Ethel's) 872-9462
Rio Bravo Equestrian Center: East of Lake Ming 872-5050
River Oak Stables: 7931 Garrin Road 834-4985
Shady Grove Riding Club: 10811 Muller Road 363-6959
Triple C Ranch Horse Hotel: 5818 South Fairfax 845-6937 website: www.crittercleaners.com
Valley Tree Ranch: 843 Moon Ranch St. 589-8704
On the Go Farm: 4500 Cosmo 872-7147
Banner Farms Inc.: 2707 South Fairfax Road 366-2128
I recently received an email from an "out of towner" interested in finding a stable. It made me think that it would be a good idea to establish a list of local stables, so here's a beginning (very incomplete, I'd love to have more added. If you know of one, or would like to send a description of the amenities I will add that. I will not get into "ratings" because there is always someone who loves a facility and someone else who hates it...)
Robertson Stables: Corner of Manor and Roberts Lane 393-2976
Rancho Rio Stables: 5320 Peacock Park Lane 395-0213
Silverado Stables: 4600 Alfred Harrell Hwy. (Next to Ethel's) 872-9462
Rio Bravo Equestrian Center: East of Lake Ming 872-5050
River Oak Stables: 7931 Garrin Road 834-4985
Shady Grove Riding Club: 10811 Muller Road 363-6959
Triple C Ranch Horse Hotel: 5818 South Fairfax 845-6937 website: www.crittercleaners.com
Valley Tree Ranch: 843 Moon Ranch St. 589-8704
On the Go Farm: 4500 Cosmo 872-7147
Banner Farms Inc.: 2707 South Fairfax Road 366-2128
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Day Ride to Griffith Park
I just got my newsletter from ETI and they have added a ride to Griffith Park on July 12th. Contact Laura at 366-1390 if you would like to join up and ride.
UPDATE on Aera staging area
The staging/parking area at Stockdale and Jewetta is adjacent (part of?) the Aera baseball field: Marci Cunningham has been following the developments of this area and has the following update:
The Aera Park staging area is still a work in progress. There will be equestrian access at the opposite end from the bridge as soon as additional fencing is installed to keep people out of the canals. The KC Water Agency just met last week to discuss this access and fencing so it will take some time for it to get installed. This access will be adjacent to the double gate so there will be no need for horses to go across the bridge. However I felt comfortable riding my Arabian horse across the bridge even with its proximity to Stockdale and the posts at either end of the bridge. Signage will be placed on the fence indicating horse trailer parking only and the turn around will have no parking signs placed in it. I think those who tie their horse on the park side of their trailer will always need to be aware of vehicles and people since there will often be kids playing baseball. Carolyn Belli asked that the city stripe the length of the trailer parking area to allow for some separation but it won't be much more that a couple of feet off the edge of the asphalt. Keep up the good work with this blog as it is a great way to disemminate information.
The Aera Park staging area is still a work in progress. There will be equestrian access at the opposite end from the bridge as soon as additional fencing is installed to keep people out of the canals. The KC Water Agency just met last week to discuss this access and fencing so it will take some time for it to get installed. This access will be adjacent to the double gate so there will be no need for horses to go across the bridge. However I felt comfortable riding my Arabian horse across the bridge even with its proximity to Stockdale and the posts at either end of the bridge. Signage will be placed on the fence indicating horse trailer parking only and the turn around will have no parking signs placed in it. I think those who tie their horse on the park side of their trailer will always need to be aware of vehicles and people since there will often be kids playing baseball. Carolyn Belli asked that the city stripe the length of the trailer parking area to allow for some separation but it won't be much more that a couple of feet off the edge of the asphalt. Keep up the good work with this blog as it is a great way to disemminate information.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Grand Opening of Allen Road Bridge
Three of us rode out to watch the Grand Opening and I should emphasize "watch" because we were down below the embankment and couldn't go up to join because of locked gates. But our presence was recognized as one of the dignitaries said he was happy to see several groups represented, including cyclists and "esquarians"! Bob and Marion and I looked around to try to spot one of those "square" something or others. Never caught a glimpse so we decided that maybe he meant the equestrians.
We checked out the staging area and the trail, here's our analysis:
The staging area is "passable" but needs some work to become safe.
1. We would like to see a degree of separation between the cars parked for the baseball games and our horses/trailers. As it stands, if you park your trailer on the side of the asphalt and tie two horses on the canal side and another on the baseball side, you had better have someone available to watch your horse and make sure a passing car or wandering child doesn't come up on your horse.
2. We would like signs posted stating that this is a staging area for equestrians.
3. We would like the turnaround end of the parking lot to have red curbs to indicate no parking and have it enforced. I drove by at 5:30 p.m. the other night and even though there weren't many cars in the parking lot, two vehicles still parked in the turnaround. If a horse trailer came in at that time, they would be forced to back up several hundred feet to get out.
4. In addition to the painted curbs, we would like to have a sign stating that vehicles will be towed if parked in that area.
5. The bike/ped bridge is unacceptable. It is too close to Stockdale Hwy and has a post in the middle at both ends to stop vehicles. (Some will say that this is no big deal, and it won't be a big deal until some goofball horse gets itself and a rider hurt. A friend of mine who has won many awards for her expertise in riding , said she would not risk her animal even though her animal is well trained and reliable and they have been through many difficult situations. Her opinion was "why put your animal in a situation that you know can be dangerous.)
6. When coming back from the river trail, we have to cross the bike path, but a tree leans out and you can only see about 30 feet. Either the tree needs to be cut back to allow us to see oncoming bikes (and them see us), or a sign needs to be posted warning cylists that there is a horse crossing coming up. I prefer cutting the tree back.
What we liked:
1. Since we are right next to the baseball diamonds, there are bathrooms!!!!!!!!!!
Although the underpass under Stockdale is a little too close to the water line for me, it is dry now and probably will stay dry unless there is a LOT of water. (won't be soon)
2. The underpass under Allen is super. It's up high above a possible water line and there is plenty of head clearance. It's also nice and open so your horses should feel secure.
3. We rode out on the dirt road for a ways west of Allen. It's a good road, but not as interesting as finding a path (or making one) out in the grassy area. Be careful in the grassy area, we found a lot of short lengths of barbed wire and occasional trash with glass and plastic. Not really bad, just be cautious.
Altogether, we had a great ride once we got away from the staging area. Hopefully, the water company or the city will figure out a way for us to get safely on the trail. Marion, thank you for the pictures, I'll post them when I get back from vacation.
We checked out the staging area and the trail, here's our analysis:
The staging area is "passable" but needs some work to become safe.
1. We would like to see a degree of separation between the cars parked for the baseball games and our horses/trailers. As it stands, if you park your trailer on the side of the asphalt and tie two horses on the canal side and another on the baseball side, you had better have someone available to watch your horse and make sure a passing car or wandering child doesn't come up on your horse.
2. We would like signs posted stating that this is a staging area for equestrians.
3. We would like the turnaround end of the parking lot to have red curbs to indicate no parking and have it enforced. I drove by at 5:30 p.m. the other night and even though there weren't many cars in the parking lot, two vehicles still parked in the turnaround. If a horse trailer came in at that time, they would be forced to back up several hundred feet to get out.
4. In addition to the painted curbs, we would like to have a sign stating that vehicles will be towed if parked in that area.
5. The bike/ped bridge is unacceptable. It is too close to Stockdale Hwy and has a post in the middle at both ends to stop vehicles. (Some will say that this is no big deal, and it won't be a big deal until some goofball horse gets itself and a rider hurt. A friend of mine who has won many awards for her expertise in riding , said she would not risk her animal even though her animal is well trained and reliable and they have been through many difficult situations. Her opinion was "why put your animal in a situation that you know can be dangerous.)
6. When coming back from the river trail, we have to cross the bike path, but a tree leans out and you can only see about 30 feet. Either the tree needs to be cut back to allow us to see oncoming bikes (and them see us), or a sign needs to be posted warning cylists that there is a horse crossing coming up. I prefer cutting the tree back.
What we liked:
1. Since we are right next to the baseball diamonds, there are bathrooms!!!!!!!!!!
Although the underpass under Stockdale is a little too close to the water line for me, it is dry now and probably will stay dry unless there is a LOT of water. (won't be soon)
2. The underpass under Allen is super. It's up high above a possible water line and there is plenty of head clearance. It's also nice and open so your horses should feel secure.
3. We rode out on the dirt road for a ways west of Allen. It's a good road, but not as interesting as finding a path (or making one) out in the grassy area. Be careful in the grassy area, we found a lot of short lengths of barbed wire and occasional trash with glass and plastic. Not really bad, just be cautious.
Altogether, we had a great ride once we got away from the staging area. Hopefully, the water company or the city will figure out a way for us to get safely on the trail. Marion, thank you for the pictures, I'll post them when I get back from vacation.
New Member
Karen recently became a new member to Ride the River Kern and I thought I would post her personal info because I think it is probably true for many of us:
As an endurance rider, trails preservation is very important to me. I regularly ride the trails from Coffee Road to Lake Ming, including the available trails in the foothills between Alfred Harrell Highway and Highway 178. I think it is of the utmost importance that equestrians share their needs with the community at large in an effort to prove that meeting our needs is for the betterment of our community.
As an endurance rider, trails preservation is very important to me. I regularly ride the trails from Coffee Road to Lake Ming, including the available trails in the foothills between Alfred Harrell Highway and Highway 178. I think it is of the utmost importance that equestrians share their needs with the community at large in an effort to prove that meeting our needs is for the betterment of our community.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
GRAND OPENING TOMORROW!!!!!!!
I just received the following message:
Allen Bridge, road, bike re-route and Allen Road access for bikes (north and south) and the equestrian underpass will have their grand opening this Friday at 10 AM!
The elms were replaced with oaks (valley oak no less). Now I get to work on the revegetation plan for fall planting.
Marcia H. WolfeMH Wolfe and AssociatesEnvironmental Consulting, Inc.
I think equestrians should probably go out for an early morning ride then cross the river to the south side where the new Allen Road bridge crosses the river. STAY OFF THE ALLEN ROAD BRIDGE, cars will be coming across. Saddle up and bring your horse, or just drive out and join the festivities.
Allen Bridge, road, bike re-route and Allen Road access for bikes (north and south) and the equestrian underpass will have their grand opening this Friday at 10 AM!
The elms were replaced with oaks (valley oak no less). Now I get to work on the revegetation plan for fall planting.
Marcia H. WolfeMH Wolfe and AssociatesEnvironmental Consulting, Inc.
I think equestrians should probably go out for an early morning ride then cross the river to the south side where the new Allen Road bridge crosses the river. STAY OFF THE ALLEN ROAD BRIDGE, cars will be coming across. Saddle up and bring your horse, or just drive out and join the festivities.
A MESSAGE FROM RICH ONEIL
ED. NOTE: The following was a post under Bakersfield Life Magazine, but I thought you all might miss it, so I'm posting it separately. The highlights and text enlargements were added by me because I want to draw your attention to these facts. This has been a LONG effort that many of us are just getting involved in. Contact Rich, listen to what he has to say, and give him your support.
Equestrians;
Hello. Allow me to introduce myself. (I have never blogged. so I hope this works). My name is Rich Oneil. I am a member of the Kern River Parkway Foundation and Committee. I have worked on the Kern River Parkway or aka, River corridor through Bakersfield since 1974. I have worked on (with many other people) the trail systems along the Kern River since then. That includes the Horse Trail, the Jogging Trail, and the Bike Path--seeking funding. purchase of property, signing, and preservation. --as well as Yokuts Park, Riverwalk Park, staging areas, etc.
I mention this little bit of local history so that I might encourage everyone to " work together ".
The River is used by many people and folks of many varied interests. If we can work together, we can continue to build, map, plan, fund, and preserve the equestrian trail from the mouth of the Kern Canyon to Lake Buena Vista.
For purposes of introduction, I count as my friends and co-workers on the River Plan, the following: Roberta and Billie Robertson, Marian Vargas, Carolyn Belli, Marci Cunningham, Donna Yowell..
I would like to share with you much more current and possibly (of which you might already know) news about the Horse trails along the River. I know that you have much information that also might be useful to the Kern River Parkway Foundation.
My phone number is 706-1096.
e-mail is richoneil99@hotmail.com
Sincerely, rich oneil
Also, this is another note from Rich received through an email from Marion,
Judging from recent BC news articles about the river trails and Parkway features, we (us) do not do a good enough job of communicating with one another (organizations). How about , we have a meeting or party whereby all non-profit and other organizations using the Kern River Corridor, get together and share ideas and plans. We all want and need clean water and shady trails along the river. Melissa, are you still willing to help plan this party? Keep brain storming! rich
Equestrians;
Hello. Allow me to introduce myself. (I have never blogged. so I hope this works). My name is Rich Oneil. I am a member of the Kern River Parkway Foundation and Committee. I have worked on the Kern River Parkway or aka, River corridor through Bakersfield since 1974. I have worked on (with many other people) the trail systems along the Kern River since then. That includes the Horse Trail, the Jogging Trail, and the Bike Path--seeking funding. purchase of property, signing, and preservation. --as well as Yokuts Park, Riverwalk Park, staging areas, etc.
I mention this little bit of local history so that I might encourage everyone to " work together ".
The River is used by many people and folks of many varied interests. If we can work together, we can continue to build, map, plan, fund, and preserve the equestrian trail from the mouth of the Kern Canyon to Lake Buena Vista.
For purposes of introduction, I count as my friends and co-workers on the River Plan, the following: Roberta and Billie Robertson, Marian Vargas, Carolyn Belli, Marci Cunningham, Donna Yowell..
I would like to share with you much more current and possibly (of which you might already know) news about the Horse trails along the River. I know that you have much information that also might be useful to the Kern River Parkway Foundation.
My phone number is 706-1096.
e-mail is richoneil99@hotmail.com
Sincerely, rich oneil
Also, this is another note from Rich received through an email from Marion,
Judging from recent BC news articles about the river trails and Parkway features, we (us) do not do a good enough job of communicating with one another (organizations). How about , we have a meeting or party whereby all non-profit and other organizations using the Kern River Corridor, get together and share ideas and plans. We all want and need clean water and shady trails along the river. Melissa, are you still willing to help plan this party? Keep brain storming! rich
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
SUMMER AND FALL EQUESTRIAN EVENTS
Most of the following events were shared by Kern Sierra Unit of Backcountry Horsemen or the Sequoia Unit, thank you to both.
Some of these events are open for the flat land trail rider and some require experience in packing and backcountry riding. Call for more information and join if you are not already a member. Also, many clubs have meetings at private homes, so I will not list meetings unless they are at a public location. Call the organization if you would like to attend meetings and become involved.
June 20th: UC Davis Animal Science Production Sale (530) 754-4156
June 20th: Trout Day Ride: contact Jamie (559) 784-7836 (Sequoia Unit)
June 20th: The Golden Hills Equestrian Center is hosting a benefit Horse Show for United Pegasus Fondation on June 20th, 2009 at the Golden Hills Equestrian Center on 22347 Woodford-Tehachapi Road in Tehachapi, CA .
June 21st: "Rancho Rio Open Horse Show Buckle Series" contact Joy at joygirado555@yahoo.com
June 26-28 Kernville, CA Mule and Donkey Days (760) 378-2222 jporter@lightspeed.net
June 27-29 Food Booth (Springville?) contact Jamie (559) 784-7836
June 27-29 Pack Supplies for ACE contact Peg (559) 310-3176 (Sequoia)
July 9-12 Grey Meadow work project and ride: contact Joy (661) 399-3603 (Kern Sierra Unit)
July 11- 13 Pack Supplies for ACE: contact Peg (559) 310-3176 (Sequoia)
July 15th: ETI Corral 65 meeting at Cataldo's on Stockdale Hwy at 7 p.m.
July 18th: Cowboy Race Murrieta, CA (951) 677-5985
July 25th: Mt. Pinos Day Ride and lunch: ETI Corral 65 contact Helen (661) 837-2766
July 25-27: Pack Supplies for ACE: contact Peg (559) 310-3176 (Sequoia)
July 26th: "Rancho Rio Open Horse Show Buckle Series" contact Joy at joygirado555@yahoo.com
August 1: Day Ride with Kern Sierra Unit (more information to follow)
August 6-9: Maggie Lakes Work Project. contact Joy (661) 399-3603 (Kern sierra Unit)
August 9: "Rancho Rio Open Horse Show Buckle Series" contact Joy at joygirado555@yahoo.com
August 8-10: Pack Supplies for ACE: contact Peg (559) 310-3176 (Sequoia Unit)
August 22-24: Pack Supplies for ACE: contact Peg (559) 310-3176 (Sequoia Unit)
September 24-28: Montano de Oro Camp and Ride: contact Crystal (559) 972-4299
Some of these events are open for the flat land trail rider and some require experience in packing and backcountry riding. Call for more information and join if you are not already a member. Also, many clubs have meetings at private homes, so I will not list meetings unless they are at a public location. Call the organization if you would like to attend meetings and become involved.
June 20th: UC Davis Animal Science Production Sale (530) 754-4156
June 20th: Trout Day Ride: contact Jamie (559) 784-7836 (Sequoia Unit)
June 20th: The Golden Hills Equestrian Center is hosting a benefit Horse Show for United Pegasus Fondation on June 20th, 2009 at the Golden Hills Equestrian Center on 22347 Woodford-Tehachapi Road in Tehachapi, CA .
June 21st: "Rancho Rio Open Horse Show Buckle Series" contact Joy at joygirado555@yahoo.com
June 26-28 Kernville, CA Mule and Donkey Days (760) 378-2222 jporter@lightspeed.net
June 27-29 Food Booth (Springville?) contact Jamie (559) 784-7836
June 27-29 Pack Supplies for ACE contact Peg (559) 310-3176 (Sequoia)
July 9-12 Grey Meadow work project and ride: contact Joy (661) 399-3603 (Kern Sierra Unit)
July 11- 13 Pack Supplies for ACE: contact Peg (559) 310-3176 (Sequoia)
July 15th: ETI Corral 65 meeting at Cataldo's on Stockdale Hwy at 7 p.m.
July 18th: Cowboy Race Murrieta, CA (951) 677-5985
July 25th: Mt. Pinos Day Ride and lunch: ETI Corral 65 contact Helen (661) 837-2766
July 25-27: Pack Supplies for ACE: contact Peg (559) 310-3176 (Sequoia)
July 26th: "Rancho Rio Open Horse Show Buckle Series" contact Joy at joygirado555@yahoo.com
August 1: Day Ride with Kern Sierra Unit (more information to follow)
August 6-9: Maggie Lakes Work Project. contact Joy (661) 399-3603 (Kern sierra Unit)
August 9: "Rancho Rio Open Horse Show Buckle Series" contact Joy at joygirado555@yahoo.com
August 8-10: Pack Supplies for ACE: contact Peg (559) 310-3176 (Sequoia Unit)
August 22-24: Pack Supplies for ACE: contact Peg (559) 310-3176 (Sequoia Unit)
September 24-28: Montano de Oro Camp and Ride: contact Crystal (559) 972-4299
Monday, June 8, 2009
UPDATE ON STOCKDALE STAGING AREA
Marci Cunningham said...
"Carolyn Belli and I met with KC Water Agency staff and city staff at the staging area in May. We proposed a solution to the equestrian access problem that solved everyone's concerns but it has to go to the water agency's board for approval. The board meeting is not until later in June so we won't have a final solution to announce until after their board meeting."
Sunday, June 7, 2009
EAST OF MING UPDATE
Marci Cunningham has left a new comment on your post "East of Lake Ming" in response to Karen's comment:
"The Nickel property between the golf course and Rancheria Road has a specific trail plan to provide multi use public trails when the property is developed. This specific trail plan was adopted by the city many years ago thanks to the dedicated work of Carolyn Belli. She has recently been working with Jim Nickel on the location of trails as he looks at future development. Most of the continuous equestrian trails will be through the middle portion with trails going to the river for scenic stops. Until the property is developed there is no public access through the ranch but development will include equestrian, hiking and bicycle trails which will be open to the public. "
Karen Sweaney has left a new comment on your post "East of Lake Ming":
"About 14 years ago I boarded my horse at Rio Bravo. The trail that Mary is describing, east from Lake Ming to Rancheria Road, was passable at that time. The service road that I believe she is describing belongs to the Rio Bravo Ranch and is utilized in the Nickell's orange groves, which is where that trail used to funnel out. Once on the ranch property, we would ride to the barn. From that point, there was no access to Rancheria Road without using the dirt roads on the ranch property. The ranch has horse pastures that use the river itself as the northern fence line, so there is no way to pass along the river. When we wanted to get to Rancheria Road, we simply rode out the main entrance road to Rancheria Road.
On a similar note, the trail heading WEST from the day park area, that Mary describes, is well established, and one that I frequent regularly. The trail heads west on the river, just below Lake Ming. As you continue riding, you will share the bike path for about a hundred yards as you pass through the campground. Continue west behind CALM and the soccer park and you will arrive at Hart Park. Again, continue west toward the homes at Goodmanville Road. There is an easement behind these homes, but please pass through QUIETLY as you will be riding in their back yards. The last owner has illegally installed a gate, but the lock is only for looks, reach down and lift the chain. (the red is the editor's note) You will ride along Goodmanville Road for about half a mile before you reconnect with dirt. From here, the trail runs parallel, and very close, to Alfred Harrell Highway. As you crest the top of the hill, you will see Ethel's in the distance."
Thank you Karen for the additional info.
"The Nickel property between the golf course and Rancheria Road has a specific trail plan to provide multi use public trails when the property is developed. This specific trail plan was adopted by the city many years ago thanks to the dedicated work of Carolyn Belli. She has recently been working with Jim Nickel on the location of trails as he looks at future development. Most of the continuous equestrian trails will be through the middle portion with trails going to the river for scenic stops. Until the property is developed there is no public access through the ranch but development will include equestrian, hiking and bicycle trails which will be open to the public. "
Karen Sweaney has left a new comment on your post "East of Lake Ming":
"About 14 years ago I boarded my horse at Rio Bravo. The trail that Mary is describing, east from Lake Ming to Rancheria Road, was passable at that time. The service road that I believe she is describing belongs to the Rio Bravo Ranch and is utilized in the Nickell's orange groves, which is where that trail used to funnel out. Once on the ranch property, we would ride to the barn. From that point, there was no access to Rancheria Road without using the dirt roads on the ranch property. The ranch has horse pastures that use the river itself as the northern fence line, so there is no way to pass along the river. When we wanted to get to Rancheria Road, we simply rode out the main entrance road to Rancheria Road.
On a similar note, the trail heading WEST from the day park area, that Mary describes, is well established, and one that I frequent regularly. The trail heads west on the river, just below Lake Ming. As you continue riding, you will share the bike path for about a hundred yards as you pass through the campground. Continue west behind CALM and the soccer park and you will arrive at Hart Park. Again, continue west toward the homes at Goodmanville Road. There is an easement behind these homes, but please pass through QUIETLY as you will be riding in their back yards. The last owner has illegally installed a gate, but the lock is only for looks, reach down and lift the chain. (the red is the editor's note) You will ride along Goodmanville Road for about half a mile before you reconnect with dirt. From here, the trail runs parallel, and very close, to Alfred Harrell Highway. As you crest the top of the hill, you will see Ethel's in the distance."
Thank you Karen for the additional info.
Friday, June 5, 2009
UPCOMING SUMMER EVENTS
June 6th: Red Cross fundraiser ride. 5 p.m. Start at Rancho Rio and ride to Ethel's. $20 includes ride and BBQ at Old Corral Cafe (Ethel's)Contact: 324-6427
June 11 - 17th: Montano de Oro, contact Laura with ETI. 366-1390
June 29th: The Golden Hills Equestrian Center is hosting a benefit Horse Show for the United Pegasus Foundation at the Golden Hills Equestrian Center. see web site for more information: http://www.ghequestriancenter.com/
July 15th: ETI: 7 p.m. meeting at Cataldo's on Stockdale.
July 25th: ETI: Mount Pinos day ride and lunch.
(check back Saturday p.m., I will add BCHC itinerary)
June 11 - 17th: Montano de Oro, contact Laura with ETI. 366-1390
June 29th: The Golden Hills Equestrian Center is hosting a benefit Horse Show for the United Pegasus Foundation at the Golden Hills Equestrian Center. see web site for more information: http://www.ghequestriancenter.com/
July 15th: ETI: 7 p.m. meeting at Cataldo's on Stockdale.
July 25th: ETI: Mount Pinos day ride and lunch.
(check back Saturday p.m., I will add BCHC itinerary)
Thursday, June 4, 2009
The Trails Draw New Citizens to Kern County
Pat M. blogged: "When my husband's Dad, Cliff M., was transferred here to work for Worthington Pump Company to install the pumps for the aquafir and various canal projects, he said he was given a map of greater Bakersfield showing all the riding trails along the river, and a promise that they would remain and be a permanent part of this city's future. This helped him to accept the transfer, since his daughter, Diana, my husband's sister, rode and showed Arabians, and horses were a big part of their life.
Ed. Note: Yes, my friends. Many residents have moved to Kern County or remained here because of the outstanding Equine activities here. Let's keep it country.
Ed. Note: Yes, my friends. Many residents have moved to Kern County or remained here because of the outstanding Equine activities here. Let's keep it country.
Saturday, May 30, 2009
May update on Stockdale staging area
Ed. Note: This was posted by Betty on May 30th and will be found under comments, but I didn't want it to get lost, so here it is again.
I went by the staging area today. (5-30-09) A new chain link fence has been installed that cuts off all access from the East end of the staging area. We used to ride around the end of the fence at the edge of the canal but that is impossible now. Is riding across the bicycle bridge our only option at the moment? I was told horses were not to use the bicycle bridge, has that changed? Betty
Betty, I was just told at a recent meeting that this East end was going to be OPENED UP for us with a gate just for us...guess it didn't happen. Well, back to the city planning meetings and council meetings.
Again, I can't encourage each of you enough to 1) ride these areas 2) document with pictures 3) send pictures and letters to ALL council members and supervisors, 4) go to County and City meetings, and 5) Join equestrian groups.
I went by the staging area today. (5-30-09) A new chain link fence has been installed that cuts off all access from the East end of the staging area. We used to ride around the end of the fence at the edge of the canal but that is impossible now. Is riding across the bicycle bridge our only option at the moment? I was told horses were not to use the bicycle bridge, has that changed? Betty
Betty, I was just told at a recent meeting that this East end was going to be OPENED UP for us with a gate just for us...guess it didn't happen. Well, back to the city planning meetings and council meetings.
Again, I can't encourage each of you enough to 1) ride these areas 2) document with pictures 3) send pictures and letters to ALL council members and supervisors, 4) go to County and City meetings, and 5) Join equestrian groups.
Bakersfield Life Magazine
I would like to thank Bakersfield Life Magazine for their article covering the River Trail issue, http://www.bakersfieldlife.com/ . Lisa Kimble, the writer, was gracious to come out to the river with a photographer and interview quite a few interested riders. Our purpose was to bring a cross section of riders to show that we are a diverse group, that we need the river to train and condition our horses for a myriad of uses, and that it is a non-renewable resource. I would like to thank all of the riders who joined us for this purpose: Wayne Ketcherside, representing the posse, Captain of Mounted Search and Rescue, and a roper, Anthony Mungary, representing the posse, Leeann Fleetwood, representing MSAR (and top contributor for 2008), performance horses and gymkhana, Claudia Payne with daughter Morgan, representing MSAR and gymkhana, Lynn Joiner, representing Backcountry Horsemen of California as state treasurer, Kern Sierra unit president and California Wilderness Rider of 2008, Patty Montoya, member of ETI, BCHC, and MSAR, not shown: Helen Ordway, president of ETI, Roberta Robertson, co-owner of Robertson's Stables on Roberts Lane, and Marian Vargas, member of ETI and interested trail riders all!!!!!
I'd like to thank Lisa, Bakersfield Life Magazine, and all of the riders for showing up to share their concerns. We need all of the exposure we can get.
I attended a recent County Parks meeting and again heard some very encouraging news, equestrians are on the plan...and although I am the eternal optimist, I am new to this struggle. Those who have been on the forefront, although they are not giving up, are frustrated and probably more realistic than I am.
I met Bill Cooper and just received this email from him,
The public land along the river is part of the expanding Kern River Parkway. The Kern River Parkway Committee was fighting for the equestrian trail 30 years ago and still is. Through the committee's efforts there is still river access.There are some things equestrians need to consider. Carving out new routes with chain saws and other equipment is illegal. Some areas are biologically sensitive. Riparian zones are fully protected by state law.If you would like to meet wih us just let us know. We've been at this for a very long time.
Bill Cooper,
Pres.Kern River Parkway Foundation
wtcooper47@AOL
Bill, Rich O'Neil, Marci Cunningham, Carolyn Belli, and W.C. "Billy" and Roberta Robertson are but a few of the county residents who have been working hard to preserve our rights to the river trails. If it weren't for these individuals, and many others (I'd like to have their names) we wouldn't have river trails to fight for!!!
I spent quite a while with Billy today and he gave me a lot of historical information. Unfortunately, I didn't record his comments or take notes (next time I will), but I'd like to note a couple at this time: Billy told me that he has seen records as early as 1936 showing the efforts of the Kern County Rangers and Rangerettes (the early posse?) attempting to preserve a trail along the river. He also said that around 1951, Lloyd Ming, (a county supervisor?) worked with Kern County Land Company, (later Tenneco West and now Castle and Cooke), to develop an extension of Alfred Harrell Highway all the way to Stockdale Hwy and a river parkway all along the route. Too bad this didn't happen. It amazed me to learn about these visionaries. It's easy to come along now when we can see our access being lost, but for individuals in the 30's and 50's to see the importance of preserving that which was essentially "no man's" land really impressed me. Get the word out, attend meetings, help existing groups with getting involved and supporting the work they have been doing for all of US!
I'd like to thank Lisa, Bakersfield Life Magazine, and all of the riders for showing up to share their concerns. We need all of the exposure we can get.
I attended a recent County Parks meeting and again heard some very encouraging news, equestrians are on the plan...and although I am the eternal optimist, I am new to this struggle. Those who have been on the forefront, although they are not giving up, are frustrated and probably more realistic than I am.
I met Bill Cooper and just received this email from him,
The public land along the river is part of the expanding Kern River Parkway. The Kern River Parkway Committee was fighting for the equestrian trail 30 years ago and still is. Through the committee's efforts there is still river access.There are some things equestrians need to consider. Carving out new routes with chain saws and other equipment is illegal. Some areas are biologically sensitive. Riparian zones are fully protected by state law.If you would like to meet wih us just let us know. We've been at this for a very long time.
Bill Cooper,
Pres.Kern River Parkway Foundation
wtcooper47@AOL
Bill, Rich O'Neil, Marci Cunningham, Carolyn Belli, and W.C. "Billy" and Roberta Robertson are but a few of the county residents who have been working hard to preserve our rights to the river trails. If it weren't for these individuals, and many others (I'd like to have their names) we wouldn't have river trails to fight for!!!
I spent quite a while with Billy today and he gave me a lot of historical information. Unfortunately, I didn't record his comments or take notes (next time I will), but I'd like to note a couple at this time: Billy told me that he has seen records as early as 1936 showing the efforts of the Kern County Rangers and Rangerettes (the early posse?) attempting to preserve a trail along the river. He also said that around 1951, Lloyd Ming, (a county supervisor?) worked with Kern County Land Company, (later Tenneco West and now Castle and Cooke), to develop an extension of Alfred Harrell Highway all the way to Stockdale Hwy and a river parkway all along the route. Too bad this didn't happen. It amazed me to learn about these visionaries. It's easy to come along now when we can see our access being lost, but for individuals in the 30's and 50's to see the importance of preserving that which was essentially "no man's" land really impressed me. Get the word out, attend meetings, help existing groups with getting involved and supporting the work they have been doing for all of US!
Thursday, May 14, 2009
JUNE EQUESTRIAN EVENTS
June 6th: Trail Ride from Rancho Rio to Ethel's, starts at 5 p.m. "Riding for the Red", organized by the Red Cross Kern Chapter. All proceeds go to the local disaster relief fund. $20 ticket includes the companionship of other equestrians, beautiful scenery through the Panorama Preserve, a tri-tip sandwich with salad or fries and a non-alcoholic drink. (Will that be one of those fantastic Old Corral Cafe tri-tip sandwiches? Why do their sandwiches taste so much better than all others? Mmmmm) There will be 50/50 tickets, door prizes...(is that a horse trailer door?) and did I mention, a lot of fun! (If I'm reading the moon phases correctly, there will be a full moon rising at 7:42 p.m. Sounds like a nice ride back in the moonlight. If you're an astronomer, let me know.) (posted 5/14/09)
Contact: 324-6427
Contact: 324-6427
Friday, May 8, 2009
East of Lake Ming
Ed. Note: The following blog may be too long for some of you, but I guarantee it has some very good info for all of us in determining the resources and problems of the trail East of Lake Ming. Thank you to Mary for hiking in and documenting this info. Also, thank you for the photos, but I couldn't grab them from the Adobe file, I'll try to get them from Mary on a disc. Someday, we will collate all of this info to present to the County and City.
From MaryNMo, VP of ETI 65. I picked the chunk of trail to explore east of Lake Ming, from that overflow parking lot behind the large group picnic area behind the golf course out there. I had done the Lake Ming to Hart Park ride several times from that parking lot, and once I had seen some people riding horses into it from a trail coming from the east, but I didn’t have time to explore it.
Also, I have friends at Robertson Stable that said that years ago they packed out from Robertson’s Stable, up Rancheria Road, all the way up to their cabin in Alta Sierra. I was just talking to one of them, Alex, the other day, and he was on that pack trip; so maybe he can find the route they used – if it hasn’t been developed over, that is.
However, this past Saturday, I took my camera and hiked that trail that heads east from that parking lot, to see if it was passable enough to explore from on horseback, and these are my findings, so you can post them to the blog.
Well, it was a good thing I didn’t take a horse, because I ran into obstacles within the first quarter mile.
Here are the pics I took, beginning at the parking lot. It is pretty much just a foot trail that fishermen use to get to fishing spots along the river, close to the river bank, and sometimes too close.
A little ways down the trail from the parking lot – good view of the river, not too close to it at this point.
Maybe a couple of hundred yards from the parking lot, fairly close together, were sizeable fallen trees. I think most horses could step over, but the logs were big enough some horses might be tempted to leap, which could cause less experienced riders to get thrown. Trail grooming would be a must here – a good chainsaw could solve these obstacles.
The next picture is of the live growth at the tip of this fallen tree – it is still alive, but the live growth may or may not be considered of significant enough value ecologically to warrant not clearing the path of the log.
The next obstacle across the trail is a low-hanging branch of a live tree. Again, this could be cleared with a chainsaw. But with this obstacle as well as with the fallen trees, there is no way around – only through. This last obstacle would render the trail impassable to horses – even with getting off and leading the horse, the branch too low to walk under and too high to step over – right smack-dab in the middle.
After this point, the trail veers uncomfortably close to the river bank, with way too sheer drop offs on the north side. The trail goes along a fairly narrow lip up against a hill. In some places, it might be possible to widen the trail or push it to the south enough to keep off the edge.
The next shot was taken a short way past the narrow area and is of a tree that had a wild hive of bees in it. I walked very quietly through the middle of the tree, which also was hanging low enough to need to be trimmed back high enough for horses to pass, but it was doable. Relocation of the hive is another issue!
In the earlier photo of those men walking on the trail, I had asked them if they knew how far the trail went. They were a group of fishermen who frequented the area and said the trail went on a bit further then there was a gate. I continued east on the trail, which continued to come too close to the sheer drop-offs to the river for my comfort til I got to an opening in a fence.
The trail had pulled inland a bit by now and I was still able to proceed – the ‘gate’ was mostly just a missing section in the fence where the wire was cut and hanging to the side.
Next, I came to an enclosure for what looked like some pumping equipment, possibly for the nearby housing developments or possibly for the golf course. There was a trail leading towards the river, that may have lead to some fishing holes, but it was so overgrown from disuse, I didn’t want to go down that way to explore it further for fear of snakes. However, I may go back with a big stick to poke vegetation before stepping into it, to see if there might be a way that a trail could be cleared through the area, since the trail to the south side of the compound goes up a steep slope, and although it is passable, it is very steep and ends up on a service road at the top of the incline.
The next photo is of the trail to the river side of the compound.
The next photo is of the trail that goes to the south and inland side of the pumping compound. It was steep, but not impossible for a fairly fit horse – I’ve been on steeper – although a rider may want to let their horse rest a few times; and there are no ledges or obstacles.
This ascent ends at a service road at the top of the incline.
The next picture is of the view across the river from the top of the hill above the pumping compound.
This next pic is of the way eastward, via the service road, toward the canyon. Can’t really see where it might go from this point – but that’s another episode.
When I was talking to those fisherman earlier on the trail, they said there were trails on the north side of the river too that they had used, but they didn’t know if development had interrupted the trails. The above picture was of what I thought I could see of some possible trails on the other side of the river.
Although I might have proceeded toward the canyon on the service road, I was out of time (and I was hiking in my riding boots and my feet were complaining) so I turned back at that point. I headed back west on the service road toward the golf course, hoping maybe to find a different route back to the parking lot, which might also be a candidate route – hopefully wider, not so close to the river drop-offs, with fewer obstacles. No such luck. I had to skirt through a utility yard at the golf course, behind the care-takers home (nice doggy, nice doggy, don’t eat me, I’m just passing through), clinging to the chain-link, hunting for a trail along the fence-line, before realizing there was none. At this point, fairly near the parking lot, my only option was to virtually ski on my boots in the loose dirt down the least steep embankment I came to, in order to descend back to the original river trail.
Synopsis and Forward Thoughts
Well, that was an adventure! I’d like to explore a few more areas in that direction on both sides of the river. I think if we can get a trail going all the way from at least Rancheria Road west to Enos Lane and then put a horse campground in the vicinity of Rancheria Road that it would provide riders to have a variety of options:
Ride up to Alta Sierra via Rancheria Road, or ride down to the horse camp from there.
Ride into the foothills near the Kern Canyon. I know there are some horse properties near the mouth of the Canyon and riders there likely know trails in the area; and the wild flowers in the spring would be a draw to the area for riders from all over the region.
Riding various portions of the Kern River Trail system. Endurance riders may want to do the whole thing (which also means we might in the future be able to attract endurance rides to be held in our area, which might be a boost to local economy). However, to have some nice doable chunks of trail for more casual riders, with nice stopping places with tie-ups, restrooms, refreshment/picnic areas, especially in the vicinity of the more picturesque areas of the river trail. Some chunks might be:
I5 to the staging area at the Aera Park (I’ve heard of a horse camp being proposed at I5, for travelers. A doable chunk during a layover on a trip, to exercise the horses, might be a nice attraction, with some sort of picnic area at Aera Park (yeah right we barely got a staging area).
Aera Park to Yokuts/Beach Park
Yokuts/Beach to Rancho Rio/Robertsons
Rancho Rio/Robertsons to Ethyls
Ethyls to Hart Park Pony Barn
Pony Barn to Lake Ming
Lake Ming to Rancheria Road
Rancheria Road to Alta Sierra (this would probably need to be broken up further)
Having rest areas at each transition point, with staging areas, where feasible, tie-ups, water for horses, picnic tables, restrooms, maybe even further development, such as snackbars/eateries, like at Ethyl’s.
Anyway, these are some of my visions for the trail system. Happy Trails to us all!!!
From MaryNMo, VP of ETI 65. I picked the chunk of trail to explore east of Lake Ming, from that overflow parking lot behind the large group picnic area behind the golf course out there. I had done the Lake Ming to Hart Park ride several times from that parking lot, and once I had seen some people riding horses into it from a trail coming from the east, but I didn’t have time to explore it.
Also, I have friends at Robertson Stable that said that years ago they packed out from Robertson’s Stable, up Rancheria Road, all the way up to their cabin in Alta Sierra. I was just talking to one of them, Alex, the other day, and he was on that pack trip; so maybe he can find the route they used – if it hasn’t been developed over, that is.
However, this past Saturday, I took my camera and hiked that trail that heads east from that parking lot, to see if it was passable enough to explore from on horseback, and these are my findings, so you can post them to the blog.
Well, it was a good thing I didn’t take a horse, because I ran into obstacles within the first quarter mile.
Here are the pics I took, beginning at the parking lot. It is pretty much just a foot trail that fishermen use to get to fishing spots along the river, close to the river bank, and sometimes too close.
A little ways down the trail from the parking lot – good view of the river, not too close to it at this point.
Maybe a couple of hundred yards from the parking lot, fairly close together, were sizeable fallen trees. I think most horses could step over, but the logs were big enough some horses might be tempted to leap, which could cause less experienced riders to get thrown. Trail grooming would be a must here – a good chainsaw could solve these obstacles.
The next picture is of the live growth at the tip of this fallen tree – it is still alive, but the live growth may or may not be considered of significant enough value ecologically to warrant not clearing the path of the log.
The next obstacle across the trail is a low-hanging branch of a live tree. Again, this could be cleared with a chainsaw. But with this obstacle as well as with the fallen trees, there is no way around – only through. This last obstacle would render the trail impassable to horses – even with getting off and leading the horse, the branch too low to walk under and too high to step over – right smack-dab in the middle.
After this point, the trail veers uncomfortably close to the river bank, with way too sheer drop offs on the north side. The trail goes along a fairly narrow lip up against a hill. In some places, it might be possible to widen the trail or push it to the south enough to keep off the edge.
The next shot was taken a short way past the narrow area and is of a tree that had a wild hive of bees in it. I walked very quietly through the middle of the tree, which also was hanging low enough to need to be trimmed back high enough for horses to pass, but it was doable. Relocation of the hive is another issue!
In the earlier photo of those men walking on the trail, I had asked them if they knew how far the trail went. They were a group of fishermen who frequented the area and said the trail went on a bit further then there was a gate. I continued east on the trail, which continued to come too close to the sheer drop-offs to the river for my comfort til I got to an opening in a fence.
The trail had pulled inland a bit by now and I was still able to proceed – the ‘gate’ was mostly just a missing section in the fence where the wire was cut and hanging to the side.
Next, I came to an enclosure for what looked like some pumping equipment, possibly for the nearby housing developments or possibly for the golf course. There was a trail leading towards the river, that may have lead to some fishing holes, but it was so overgrown from disuse, I didn’t want to go down that way to explore it further for fear of snakes. However, I may go back with a big stick to poke vegetation before stepping into it, to see if there might be a way that a trail could be cleared through the area, since the trail to the south side of the compound goes up a steep slope, and although it is passable, it is very steep and ends up on a service road at the top of the incline.
The next photo is of the trail to the river side of the compound.
The next photo is of the trail that goes to the south and inland side of the pumping compound. It was steep, but not impossible for a fairly fit horse – I’ve been on steeper – although a rider may want to let their horse rest a few times; and there are no ledges or obstacles.
This ascent ends at a service road at the top of the incline.
The next picture is of the view across the river from the top of the hill above the pumping compound.
This next pic is of the way eastward, via the service road, toward the canyon. Can’t really see where it might go from this point – but that’s another episode.
When I was talking to those fisherman earlier on the trail, they said there were trails on the north side of the river too that they had used, but they didn’t know if development had interrupted the trails. The above picture was of what I thought I could see of some possible trails on the other side of the river.
Although I might have proceeded toward the canyon on the service road, I was out of time (and I was hiking in my riding boots and my feet were complaining) so I turned back at that point. I headed back west on the service road toward the golf course, hoping maybe to find a different route back to the parking lot, which might also be a candidate route – hopefully wider, not so close to the river drop-offs, with fewer obstacles. No such luck. I had to skirt through a utility yard at the golf course, behind the care-takers home (nice doggy, nice doggy, don’t eat me, I’m just passing through), clinging to the chain-link, hunting for a trail along the fence-line, before realizing there was none. At this point, fairly near the parking lot, my only option was to virtually ski on my boots in the loose dirt down the least steep embankment I came to, in order to descend back to the original river trail.
Synopsis and Forward Thoughts
Well, that was an adventure! I’d like to explore a few more areas in that direction on both sides of the river. I think if we can get a trail going all the way from at least Rancheria Road west to Enos Lane and then put a horse campground in the vicinity of Rancheria Road that it would provide riders to have a variety of options:
Ride up to Alta Sierra via Rancheria Road, or ride down to the horse camp from there.
Ride into the foothills near the Kern Canyon. I know there are some horse properties near the mouth of the Canyon and riders there likely know trails in the area; and the wild flowers in the spring would be a draw to the area for riders from all over the region.
Riding various portions of the Kern River Trail system. Endurance riders may want to do the whole thing (which also means we might in the future be able to attract endurance rides to be held in our area, which might be a boost to local economy). However, to have some nice doable chunks of trail for more casual riders, with nice stopping places with tie-ups, restrooms, refreshment/picnic areas, especially in the vicinity of the more picturesque areas of the river trail. Some chunks might be:
I5 to the staging area at the Aera Park (I’ve heard of a horse camp being proposed at I5, for travelers. A doable chunk during a layover on a trip, to exercise the horses, might be a nice attraction, with some sort of picnic area at Aera Park (yeah right we barely got a staging area).
Aera Park to Yokuts/Beach Park
Yokuts/Beach to Rancho Rio/Robertsons
Rancho Rio/Robertsons to Ethyls
Ethyls to Hart Park Pony Barn
Pony Barn to Lake Ming
Lake Ming to Rancheria Road
Rancheria Road to Alta Sierra (this would probably need to be broken up further)
Having rest areas at each transition point, with staging areas, where feasible, tie-ups, water for horses, picnic tables, restrooms, maybe even further development, such as snackbars/eateries, like at Ethyl’s.
Anyway, these are some of my visions for the trail system. Happy Trails to us all!!!
Friday, May 1, 2009
Upcoming events
There are several upcoming events that may be of interest to y'all:
May 9th: Volunteer Cleanup Days on the Panorama Preserve
8am-12noon
The May cleanup is sponsored by East Rotary Club. On the north side of the river we will be collecting tumbleweeds and disposing of an old wood pile and as time allows may weed and spread mulch around the young trees.We will provide water/drinks and a snack. Please bring gloves, rakes, shovels or anything you think might be helpful.
Just added:
May 9th: Golden Hills Equestrian Center Playday 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
The horse show/play day is an open event, there are classes for 12 &
under - walk/trot and open.
May 16th: 4-H horse program
See what is going on and come to the next show, May 16, 2009. It will be held at 15259 Wible Road, Bakersfield 93313. We typically start around 8:00 a.m. ( though we have yet to be on time ). The kids compete in a broad range of jumping, english, western, reining/pattern and speed events.
May 16th: GE Appaloosa Horse Club is planning "Hoofing It For the Hungry"
A poker ride starting and ending at Ethel's Old Corral Cafe
Staging at 9 a.m., ride starts at 10 a.m.
To participate bring non-perishable foods or $5, plus $5/poker hand.
Proceeds go to the Kern County Food Bank
Contact: Dan Gilbert (661) 366-5036
May 9th: Volunteer Cleanup Days on the Panorama Preserve
8am-12noon
The May cleanup is sponsored by East Rotary Club. On the north side of the river we will be collecting tumbleweeds and disposing of an old wood pile and as time allows may weed and spread mulch around the young trees.We will provide water/drinks and a snack. Please bring gloves, rakes, shovels or anything you think might be helpful.
Just added:
May 9th: Golden Hills Equestrian Center Playday 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
The horse show/play day is an open event, there are classes for 12 &
under - walk/trot and open.
May 16th: 4-H horse program
See what is going on and come to the next show, May 16, 2009. It will be held at 15259 Wible Road, Bakersfield 93313. We typically start around 8:00 a.m. ( though we have yet to be on time ). The kids compete in a broad range of jumping, english, western, reining/pattern and speed events.
May 16th: GE Appaloosa Horse Club is planning "Hoofing It For the Hungry"
A poker ride starting and ending at Ethel's Old Corral Cafe
Staging at 9 a.m., ride starts at 10 a.m.
To participate bring non-perishable foods or $5, plus $5/poker hand.
Proceeds go to the Kern County Food Bank
Contact: Dan Gilbert (661) 366-5036
Just added:
May 16th and 17th: Golden Hills Equestrian Center Equine Affaire in Tehachapi area.
contact http://www.ghequestriancenter.com/ for more information of events.
May 17th: ETI ride at Carrizo Plains (approximately 43 miles West of Maricopa)
You may see Elk and the ride is on established roads and trails with gentle slopes
Bring a lunch and water for your mount.
Free to members, $5 for non-members
Contact: Helen Ordway 706-9818 or Laura McElwee at lmcelwee@bak.rr.com
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Kern Equestrian Clubs
Local equestrian groups and contact information: (send your info to riverrider@bak.rr.com to add to the list)
1. Kern County Mounted Search and Rescue
http://www.myspace.com/kernmountedrescue
Contact: Volunteer Services 661. 391.7659
2. Backcountry Horsemen of California - Kern Sierra Unit
Contact:
3. Equestrian Trails, Inc. Corral 65 (Bakersfield)
Contact: Helen Ordway, President
hordway@tri-valleycorp.com
A nonprofit corporation established in 1944 with the Charter to be "Dedicated to the Acquisition and Preservation of Trails, Good Horsemanship, and Equine Legislation." A family oriented riding club. http://www.etinational.com/
4. Kern Equestrians for Preservation of Trails
Contact: Carolyn Belli, President 661-872-3569
jgbelli@bak.rr.com
KEPT is a non-profit equestrian organization providing solidarity to network with and represent all equestrian organizations and individuals on issues relating to trail preservation and education.
5. Golden Empire Arabian Horse Society
Web page: http://www.geahs.org/
Contacts: Marci Cunningham 324-7376
Susan Pugh 589-5246
"GEAHS members are dedicated to the promotion of the Arabian Horse as an all around, show, riding, endurance and family horse. Within our club we have many successful show people and horses, endurance riders, breeders, trainers and people who just enjoy the relationship they have with their Arabian Horses."
6. Northwest Gymkhana Association
Contact: Claudia Payne - Show Secretary 661 342 1056
A non-profit family oriented club. We have 13 speed/skill events to test the rider and horse at 5 different levels of skill. We are the largest California gymkhana club.
7. Kern River Chapter of the California Dressage Society
Contact: Jane Curtis - 387-0124
8. Kern County Appaloosa Club
Contact: Melanie Burkhart at 747-5810.
9. Golden Empire Appaloosa Horse Club
Contact: Dan Gilbert 366-5036
10. Bakersfield Heat Wave Equestrian Drill Team
http://www.bakersfieldheatwave.com/
Contact: Claudia Hewes - 661 - 587-6000
We are a non-profit corporation and we are always looking for more riders to join in on the
fun.
11. Rodeo Starlets Equestrian Drill Team
Contact: Julie Glenn 661.333.9754
Practices are on Saturdays at 6 p.m. at Robertson Stables, Bakersfield, CA.
We have performed at the following rodeos this year: Whiskey Flats, Needles and Woodlake and are planning more to come. Additional practices in Tehachapi; riders from Tehachapi are welcome.
12. GHEC - Golden Hills Equestrian Club (Tehachapi, CA)
Contact: http://www.ghequestriancenter.com
mmoors@bak.rr.com
22347 Woodford-Tehachapi Rd., Tehachapi, CA 93561
661.822.7062
Full facility equestrian center which hosts horse shows/play days/camps/clinics/holiday events and more.
1. Kern County Mounted Search and Rescue
http://www.myspace.com/kernmountedrescue
Contact: Volunteer Services 661. 391.7659
2. Backcountry Horsemen of California - Kern Sierra Unit
Contact:
3. Equestrian Trails, Inc. Corral 65 (Bakersfield)
Contact: Helen Ordway, President
hordway@tri-valleycorp.com
A nonprofit corporation established in 1944 with the Charter to be "Dedicated to the Acquisition and Preservation of Trails, Good Horsemanship, and Equine Legislation." A family oriented riding club. http://www.etinational.com/
4. Kern Equestrians for Preservation of Trails
Contact: Carolyn Belli, President 661-872-3569
jgbelli@bak.rr.com
KEPT is a non-profit equestrian organization providing solidarity to network with and represent all equestrian organizations and individuals on issues relating to trail preservation and education.
5. Golden Empire Arabian Horse Society
Web page: http://www.geahs.org/
Contacts: Marci Cunningham 324-7376
Susan Pugh 589-5246
"GEAHS members are dedicated to the promotion of the Arabian Horse as an all around, show, riding, endurance and family horse. Within our club we have many successful show people and horses, endurance riders, breeders, trainers and people who just enjoy the relationship they have with their Arabian Horses."
6. Northwest Gymkhana Association
Contact: Claudia Payne - Show Secretary 661 342 1056
A non-profit family oriented club. We have 13 speed/skill events to test the rider and horse at 5 different levels of skill. We are the largest California gymkhana club.
7. Kern River Chapter of the California Dressage Society
Contact: Jane Curtis - 387-0124
8. Kern County Appaloosa Club
Contact: Melanie Burkhart at 747-5810.
9. Golden Empire Appaloosa Horse Club
Contact: Dan Gilbert 366-5036
10. Bakersfield Heat Wave Equestrian Drill Team
http://www.bakersfieldheatwave.com/
Contact: Claudia Hewes - 661 - 587-6000
We are a non-profit corporation and we are always looking for more riders to join in on the
fun.
11. Rodeo Starlets Equestrian Drill Team
Contact: Julie Glenn 661.333.9754
Practices are on Saturdays at 6 p.m. at Robertson Stables, Bakersfield, CA.
We have performed at the following rodeos this year: Whiskey Flats, Needles and Woodlake and are planning more to come. Additional practices in Tehachapi; riders from Tehachapi are welcome.
12. GHEC - Golden Hills Equestrian Club (Tehachapi, CA)
Contact: http://www.ghequestriancenter.com
mmoors@bak.rr.com
22347 Woodford-Tehachapi Rd., Tehachapi, CA 93561
661.822.7062
Full facility equestrian center which hosts horse shows/play days/camps/clinics/holiday events and more.
Sunday, April 19, 2009
No signs on trail from Hart Park to Lake Ming, where do we ride?
Marion, a frequent river rider would like to share the following concerns:
I really enjoy riding from Hart Park to Lake Ming and sometimes beyond. We trailer to the Hart Park barn and ride east from there. In the past, if I recall correctly, I have seen one sign indicating the horse trail that was somewhere along the stretch of trail before arriving at the Kern River Campground. Ninety percent of the time we have ridden around the south side of the park on the dirt “road” before heading north over the grass, paralleling the bike trail to catch the part of the trail that skirts the north side of Lake Ming, below the lake. There is a trail map sign at that juncture that seems to indicate that the horse trail would go through the park, riverside, but with all of the campers, including dogs and children, that seems an unwise way to go. Last year, when riding around Lake Ming at the west end of the lake, a Park Ranger stopped us and told us that we could not go that way, that when going by the park, we were supposed to head over the hill way south of the park. His directions were not clear to us and there seemed to be no marked trail. Furthermore, what he was saying did not seem to coincide with what the trails plan/map indicated, nor what was the traditional horse trail before they installed the paved bike trail.
When we ride that area, we always try our very best to be thoughtful and courteous in how we proceed. That is only common sense in a multi-use area. That being said, however, it is difficult to stay on designated trails if they are not properly signed. I believe that we need trail signs indicating the horse trails and with multiuse trails, some guidelines to educate users regarding who should yield to whom.
A neighbor just returned from camping with her RV at the Kern River Campground for the weekend. She is horse friendly, but also has had grandchildren playing in the campground. Twice, she has encountered equestrians riding through the occupied campgrounds, riverside. Today, two men rode through, back and forth, one on a stallion which she said was out of control, with the rider explaining that his horse was reacting to the mare across the river who was in heat. The horse was dancing around, backing up to the picnic table where people were seated. These equestrians was not only putting campers at risk, they were jeopardizing our equestrian access to trails!
I am thinking that if we had signs designating where the trail should go, that some of these problems would be avoided or minimized. I don’t know what has been done to try to accomplish this before, but I believe it is a basic need for maintaining trails within our ever developing urban environment. What do you (all) think?
Editor's response: This is a great post Marion, it brings up the problems that can occur when the trails are not clearly marked and results in riders going into areas that are not safe for the horses or the community. We want the trails to be protected to keep us safe and others around us.
Anonymous said...
I really enjoy riding from Hart Park to Lake Ming and sometimes beyond. We trailer to the Hart Park barn and ride east from there. In the past, if I recall correctly, I have seen one sign indicating the horse trail that was somewhere along the stretch of trail before arriving at the Kern River Campground. Ninety percent of the time we have ridden around the south side of the park on the dirt “road” before heading north over the grass, paralleling the bike trail to catch the part of the trail that skirts the north side of Lake Ming, below the lake. There is a trail map sign at that juncture that seems to indicate that the horse trail would go through the park, riverside, but with all of the campers, including dogs and children, that seems an unwise way to go. Last year, when riding around Lake Ming at the west end of the lake, a Park Ranger stopped us and told us that we could not go that way, that when going by the park, we were supposed to head over the hill way south of the park. His directions were not clear to us and there seemed to be no marked trail. Furthermore, what he was saying did not seem to coincide with what the trails plan/map indicated, nor what was the traditional horse trail before they installed the paved bike trail.
When we ride that area, we always try our very best to be thoughtful and courteous in how we proceed. That is only common sense in a multi-use area. That being said, however, it is difficult to stay on designated trails if they are not properly signed. I believe that we need trail signs indicating the horse trails and with multiuse trails, some guidelines to educate users regarding who should yield to whom.
A neighbor just returned from camping with her RV at the Kern River Campground for the weekend. She is horse friendly, but also has had grandchildren playing in the campground. Twice, she has encountered equestrians riding through the occupied campgrounds, riverside. Today, two men rode through, back and forth, one on a stallion which she said was out of control, with the rider explaining that his horse was reacting to the mare across the river who was in heat. The horse was dancing around, backing up to the picnic table where people were seated. These equestrians was not only putting campers at risk, they were jeopardizing our equestrian access to trails!
I am thinking that if we had signs designating where the trail should go, that some of these problems would be avoided or minimized. I don’t know what has been done to try to accomplish this before, but I believe it is a basic need for maintaining trails within our ever developing urban environment. What do you (all) think?
Editor's response: This is a great post Marion, it brings up the problems that can occur when the trails are not clearly marked and results in riders going into areas that are not safe for the horses or the community. We want the trails to be protected to keep us safe and others around us.
Anonymous said...
It's been a while but the one time we met up with a ranger while riding by the campground, we were told that the dedicated trail does indeed go between the campsites and the river. Without a fence of some sort, like the bridle path has through Hart Park, we will be running into the tents that are set up close to the river's edge.
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Panorama Preserve Volunteer Days
This is a picture of Roberta riding Duffy and enjoying the Panorama Preserve and checking out the little "Frying Pan Poppies". Do you love the Panorama Preserve? Would you like to be involved in this great project? Then read on:
Submitted by Marci C:
Hi All!
We will be having two volunteer days at the preserve in the coming weeks.
April 25th 8am-12noon
May 9th 8am-12noon
The April cleanup will be concentrated around the staging/parking area on the north side of the river. We will be pulling weeds in the parking lot and clearing trash and dead shrubs and trees. We will also be repairing the fencing where it is sagging. If that is finished early, we may weed and spread mulch around the young trees on the Preserve.
The May cleanup is sponsored by East Rotary Club. Again, on the north side of the river we will be collecting tumbleweeds and disposing of an old wood pile and as time allows may weed and spread mulch around the young trees.
We will provide water/drinks and a snack. Please bring gloves, rakes, shovels or anything you think might be helpful.
If you have any questions, please call me at 872-3569 or e-mail me at jgbelli@bak.rr.com
Thanks! Carolyn
We will be having two volunteer days at the preserve in the coming weeks.
April 25th 8am-12noon
May 9th 8am-12noon
The April cleanup will be concentrated around the staging/parking area on the north side of the river. We will be pulling weeds in the parking lot and clearing trash and dead shrubs and trees. We will also be repairing the fencing where it is sagging. If that is finished early, we may weed and spread mulch around the young trees on the Preserve.
The May cleanup is sponsored by East Rotary Club. Again, on the north side of the river we will be collecting tumbleweeds and disposing of an old wood pile and as time allows may weed and spread mulch around the young trees.
We will provide water/drinks and a snack. Please bring gloves, rakes, shovels or anything you think might be helpful.
If you have any questions, please call me at 872-3569 or e-mail me at jgbelli@bak.rr.com
Thanks! Carolyn
Ed. Note: The Panorama Preserve is an area that has been acquired through the hard work of individuals who knew who to contact, which buttons to push, were willing in some cases to donate money, and/or were willing to donate sweat. The preserve is an area that surrounds the north and south sides of the Kern River between China Grade Loop Road and Manor Ave.
A handful of people regularly show up to plant, water and weed to return the preserve to its former status. This is your opportunity to join in and help. Contact some friends and make it a fun outing and be able to tell your grandkids that you were there!!!!!! For more information about the preserve go to the website:
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Joint County/City Meeting
Bob W. sent the following information:
NOTICE OF SPECIAL JOINT MEETING
KERN COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION
AND THE
BAKERSFIELD CITY PLANNING COMMISSION
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Kern County Planning Commission and the Bakersfield City Planning commission will hold a Special Joint Meeting on Monday, April 20, 2009, at 6:30 p.m. in the Chambers of the Board of Supervisors on the First Floor of the Kern County Administrative Center, 1115 Truxtun Avenue, Bakersfield, California. The focus of this meeting is the update of the Metropolitan Bakersfield General Plan.
1. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
2. ROLL CALL
3. OPENING REMARKS BY CHAIR RON SPRAGUE
4. OPENING REMARKS BY CHAIR RUSSELL JOHNSON
5. PUBLIC STATEMENTS
6. BUSINESS ITEMS
A. Joint Workshop - Metropolitan Bakersfield General Plan
1. INTRODUCTIONS - County Staff
2. MEETING PURPOSE AND OVERVIEW - City Staff
3. PUBLIC OUTREACH REPORT SUMMARY - Northcutt & Assoc.
4. EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT SUMMARY - PMC, Inc.
5. EXTERNAL INFLUENCES ON GENERAL PLAN UPDATE PROCESS
a. SB 375/AB 32/AB 170: Implications/Summary - County Staff
b. Attorney General Implications - City Staff
6. URBAN - OPPORTUNITIES AND RESERVE MAP - Northcutt & Assoc.
7. PUBLIC COMMENTS
8. COMMISSIONER COMMENTS/QUESTIONS
9. NEXT STEPS/SCHEDULE - County Staff
7. CLOSING COMMENTS BY CHAIR RON SPRAGUE
8. CLOSING COMMENTS BY CHAIR RUSSELL JOHNSON
9. ADJOURNMENT
NOTICE OF SPECIAL JOINT MEETING
KERN COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION
AND THE
BAKERSFIELD CITY PLANNING COMMISSION
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Kern County Planning Commission and the Bakersfield City Planning commission will hold a Special Joint Meeting on Monday, April 20, 2009, at 6:30 p.m. in the Chambers of the Board of Supervisors on the First Floor of the Kern County Administrative Center, 1115 Truxtun Avenue, Bakersfield, California. The focus of this meeting is the update of the Metropolitan Bakersfield General Plan.
1. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
2. ROLL CALL
3. OPENING REMARKS BY CHAIR RON SPRAGUE
4. OPENING REMARKS BY CHAIR RUSSELL JOHNSON
5. PUBLIC STATEMENTS
6. BUSINESS ITEMS
A. Joint Workshop - Metropolitan Bakersfield General Plan
1. INTRODUCTIONS - County Staff
2. MEETING PURPOSE AND OVERVIEW - City Staff
3. PUBLIC OUTREACH REPORT SUMMARY - Northcutt & Assoc.
4. EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT SUMMARY - PMC, Inc.
5. EXTERNAL INFLUENCES ON GENERAL PLAN UPDATE PROCESS
a. SB 375/AB 32/AB 170: Implications/Summary - County Staff
b. Attorney General Implications - City Staff
6. URBAN - OPPORTUNITIES AND RESERVE MAP - Northcutt & Assoc.
7. PUBLIC COMMENTS
8. COMMISSIONER COMMENTS/QUESTIONS
9. NEXT STEPS/SCHEDULE - County Staff
7. CLOSING COMMENTS BY CHAIR RON SPRAGUE
8. CLOSING COMMENTS BY CHAIR RUSSELL JOHNSON
9. ADJOURNMENT
Monday, April 6, 2009
The Trail up Alfred Harrell Hwy hill
At one time this trail was well maintained, I think by the public rental stables that were located at the Silverado Stable site. (Was it called the B Bar stables?) And then some Backcountry Horsemen members fixed the fence. But in the past few years it has taken some bad hits (literally by cars that went through the fence and over the cliff) The result is that the trail has some bad ruts and the fence is down in some crucial areas. It would sure be nice to have the fence repaired and a metal barrier (bottom photo) put up to stop cars from going over the cliff. Just another item for my wish list when the economy gets better...
Pat Mumford has some answers: It was Bar O Stables and the Kern Sierra Unit of the Backcountry horsemen did a cleanup of the trail about 5 years ago. It's a wonderful hill with great views, although it is right next to Alfred Harrel Highway, it is the only way to get to Goodmanville (and on to Hart Park) from Ethel's.
Alfred Harrell Hwy. crossing
I'm a little concerned about crossing Alfred Harrell Hwy. at the east entrance of Hart Park. It is a 3 way intersection but cars coming from the soccer park are not required to stop. They are coming around a curve and sometimes are traveling at a high rate of speed. We always take it very carefully when crossing from the barn to the river trail. Also, the cars coming out of the park toward the soccer park don't have to stop, but they are usually travelling slower. I think it would be safer for everybody if they added stop signs for these two routes. Just my opinion, what do you think?
Koztarr has left a new comment on your post "Alfred Harrell Hwy. crossing":
I don't think stop signs will be installed but it would help if equestrians requested horse crossing signage be installed in all directions to make drivers aware of horses crossing the road. I have called Bob Lerude of Kern County Parks and talked to his assistant about the possibility of such signs and am waiting to hear back from him. Other are encouraged to call county parks and make the same request. Ed. Note: Hart Park Field Office number is (661) 872-3179; Park Rangers - (661) 872-5149. The County Park address is 1100 Golden State Ave. 93301 if you want to send any letters; and the email is parks-web@co.kern.ca.us If you are so inclined to contact park or city administrators, I would ask you to remember to think of two good things to comment on for every "not so good" thing. We really are lucky to have the wonderful trails we have in Kern County, but they must be preserved.
Koztarr has left a new comment on your post "Alfred Harrell Hwy. crossing":
I don't think stop signs will be installed but it would help if equestrians requested horse crossing signage be installed in all directions to make drivers aware of horses crossing the road. I have called Bob Lerude of Kern County Parks and talked to his assistant about the possibility of such signs and am waiting to hear back from him. Other are encouraged to call county parks and make the same request. Ed. Note: Hart Park Field Office number is (661) 872-3179; Park Rangers - (661) 872-5149. The County Park address is 1100 Golden State Ave. 93301 if you want to send any letters; and the email is parks-web@co.kern.ca.us If you are so inclined to contact park or city administrators, I would ask you to remember to think of two good things to comment on for every "not so good" thing. We really are lucky to have the wonderful trails we have in Kern County, but they must be preserved.
Hart park Barn
Sorry, no picture of the barn at this time, I'll add it sometime this week. But I would like to start a posting about the barn and hope to get input from "y'all". The barn is old and at one time almost fell down. Then someone organized a "barn raising" and repaired it. It is now a great staging area and nice place for a picnic. It has parking, several pens, water, tables, and a wash rack for a hot horse. If you have info on the who's and when's, let me know and I'll redo this post and add the picture.
Koztarr said...
Koztarr said...
Horseman John Hustead was responsible for getting the barn cleaned out and repaired about 10 to 12 years ago. He also got the portable panels donated or if not donated they were purchased at a great price. A barn dedication/trail ride/barbecue was held and drew a big crowd. We all owe a big thank you to John for his work. He still rides along the Kern River.
Hart Park
I really love the Hart Park ride. I t was designed right and has been pretty well maintained. The fencing is nice and sturdy, although it is falling down in some places and completely gone in other areas. (One of the photos shows a leaning fence and another shows a repaired fence, can you see the shiny, new bolts?) Notice also that the management has taken the trouble to mow about a 4-5 foot path along the fence which helps avoid stepping in hidden holes.
A couple of years ago there was a lot of damage to the river banks due to the high river flow. (one of the photos shows a hole extending in to the old trail, but the fence was removed to allow horses to move away from the hole.)
The photo with the fresh dirt shows that the county is taking care of the problems, this was a HUGE hole and has been filled in and the fence repaired.
I went down to take a picture of the bridge because I've always been impressed with the good construction. Sadly, when I went to take the picture it was blocked off and closed. I'm assuming that it is unsafe for some reason. However, I think this just backs up the argument that the Hart Park management is on the ball and is checking on the status of the bridge because my untrained eye couldn't see a problem. I hope it gets repaired soon, otherwise horses will have to go up on the main road and cross on a car bridge. The other thing I like about this bridge is that it is a good training tool for horses to walk on wood and deal with unfamiliar situations.
I have been told by a reliable source that the bridge is scheduled to be replaced when a large culvert pipe is installed to allow drainage under the existing bridge and the suface will then be a natural dirt surface. Ed. note: Thanks Koztarr for the update, this would make sense with the past experience I have had with the Hart Park management. Hart Park has always been a jewel of Kern County. It is well managed and well enforced by Park Rangers (as I well know when I have been politely asked to ride on the established trails when I have gotten off the trail a little...ooops!)
Photos of Stockdale Staging Area
Well, I finally got a chance to go out and take a first hand look of the new staging area.
First, let's discuss the good: it's in a good location, the road was well made and there is a nice "turn around" area at the end.
The problems: 1) dirt was moved from the baseball area which raised the parking area, this resulted in a 30% grade in some areas. (See the first photo) Now, if you park your rig on the pavement, you should be able to tie your horse to the trailer and keep your horse on level ground. If you pull off and park on the dirt, which is what you are supposed to do...you may have your horse standing on a 30% angle resulting in your pad and saddle slipping off if you don't cinch up pretty quick.
2) Where are we supposed to ride our horses if we can successfully saddle up? There is a pedestrian bridge to the river (3rd photo) (which we have been told we are not to use) or the dirt road between Goose Lake Slough and the Cross Valley Canal (which has been closed off by a locked gate 2nd photo) So, do we take a chance with the bridge or ride around the baseball diamonds for awhile?
3) The baseball diamond parking is limited, how do we prevent the baseball parents from using our parking area? We will need signs and enforcement to reserve this area.
FYI: to get to the staging area, you have to come north from Stockdale Hwy. The turnoff can not be accessed from the southbound lanes due to a concrete island. Not a biggie, but I just thought you would want to know before you have to drive around the block to get the right approach.
This staging area is not a "dead horse", excuse the pun, but it will be if we don't inform the planning department of the problems.
I have been in touch with the city engineer regarding this staging area and he has indicated that a new equestrian access to the Pioneer Canal bank will be installed adjacent to the pedestrian bridge. Also, the city crews will continue to shape the shoulder/parking area to provide level areas. The Kern County Water Agency will be updating the fence so the city will coordinate earth work with fence replacement. The city is looking into using a material similar to rock dust for surface topping. Signage will be installed on the fence to indicate euestrian parking only. Much of this work will be done after the grand opening of the ball fields scheduled for April 18th. My friend and I parked two large rigs along the fence near the turn around and were able to park off the dirt and saddle with no problems. I would suggest that the bridge be used until the new equestrian access is installed. Happy trails to all.
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Stockdale staging area
Patty says:
Riders used to be able to access the river trail across a dirt bridge across the "Cross Valley Canal" as can be seen in an aerial photo on mapquest. (sorry, I tried to attach to it but can't figure it out.) However, now that they have fixed it for us, the trail is blocked by a gate between the canal and the "Goose Lake Slough" to the north. So now we have to cross a bike/pedestrian bridge to get to the river (which we were told we aren't supposed to ride on). It's actually not a really good idea to ride over this bridge anyway since it makes a blind 90 degree turn on the other side and speeding bikes may not see you in time, so be vigilant! I took some photos that I'll publish in a day or two, there are some really good possibilities at this area, but some definite problems also.
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Access, homeless cities, etc.
Damara says:
I have been riding the river from Manor to Allen road(stockdale bridge area right behind River Lakes Park) almost every weekend for the past couple of months. The issues that I have experienced at this time are:
1) The designated horse parking lot and access through the fence on the north side of the river (adjacent to River Lakes Park) has been removed by the construction workers. We have to ride down the canal bank to get in. If they put water back in that canal, we won't be able to access the river anywhere west of that area until you get to Enos lane or East until you get across the street from AAA on truxtun extension. I even tried to park on the west side of the stockdale bridge and hop over to the river, but the whole access area has "no horse" signs everywhere. There are a lot of people with kids in strollers, bikes, dogs that live in that area and they use that side of the river to exercise, they are blocked off and have to walk around the fence (down the canal bank) to get through. I have encountered quite a few school kids who use it as their route home in the afternoon.
2) East side of Coffee Road bridge is impassable without getting into the river, you can not get through when there is water in it. There is quicksand all around-it is impassable. Right now I can get through because it is dry.
3) the area between Coffee Bridge and Manor Bridge is saturated with homeless people who are unhappy to see me. Some cuss at me even though I am on the trail and not going near their "living" areas. Someday, you may read about an unfortunate equestrian in the paper. (Editor note: the sheriff's and police department vigilantly try to clear out these tent cities as they attract a lot of crime, please thank your local authorities for their help and let them know of problems)
4) I do not drink, smoke or litter while riding there. (Ed. this is a response to a comment that some people think equestrians are a bunch of beer drinkers...) I pretty much stay on the north side (opposite the bike trail) the whole way.
I have been riding the river from Manor to Allen road(stockdale bridge area right behind River Lakes Park) almost every weekend for the past couple of months. The issues that I have experienced at this time are:
1) The designated horse parking lot and access through the fence on the north side of the river (adjacent to River Lakes Park) has been removed by the construction workers. We have to ride down the canal bank to get in. If they put water back in that canal, we won't be able to access the river anywhere west of that area until you get to Enos lane or East until you get across the street from AAA on truxtun extension. I even tried to park on the west side of the stockdale bridge and hop over to the river, but the whole access area has "no horse" signs everywhere. There are a lot of people with kids in strollers, bikes, dogs that live in that area and they use that side of the river to exercise, they are blocked off and have to walk around the fence (down the canal bank) to get through. I have encountered quite a few school kids who use it as their route home in the afternoon.
2) East side of Coffee Road bridge is impassable without getting into the river, you can not get through when there is water in it. There is quicksand all around-it is impassable. Right now I can get through because it is dry.
3) the area between Coffee Bridge and Manor Bridge is saturated with homeless people who are unhappy to see me. Some cuss at me even though I am on the trail and not going near their "living" areas. Someday, you may read about an unfortunate equestrian in the paper. (Editor note: the sheriff's and police department vigilantly try to clear out these tent cities as they attract a lot of crime, please thank your local authorities for their help and let them know of problems)
4) I do not drink, smoke or litter while riding there. (Ed. this is a response to a comment that some people think equestrians are a bunch of beer drinkers...) I pretty much stay on the north side (opposite the bike trail) the whole way.
WHAT CAN WE DO?
Well, we could just grump and complain...or, we could organize.
We have many good equestrians groups in the Kern County Area whose members use the river trail for training and conditioning their horses.
Perhaps these groups could "adopt" a specific area of the trail. Sort of like the clean the roads campaign. A group could identify potential problems and fix it if possible or report it to the appropriate authorities. Then report their results to this blog to let us know how things are going. It is very important to network and find out which authorities can and will help us.
A couple of years ago I made MANY phone calls to county, city, and water authorities to try to get help repairing the horse bridge (missing wood planks, slippery metal, eroding holes on the "white pole" end, etc.) Since the bridge was not built by any of these entities, none would get involved.
Talk to your group, adopt a section and let us know how you are doing.
Also, I would like to thank the anonymous person who has placed some signs along the trail on the south side of the river, east of Rancho Rio (Manor Street). This is a good beginning to identify specific areas. Hopefully we can make a map with these names and furnish the maps to the police and ambulance services. A friend with a broken leg had to wait for an hour while the ambulance service tried to figure out where she was and how to get there. Fortunately, the injury was not more serious or she may have died waiting for help. So if anyone knows the man (I was told he boards at Rancho Rio) who put up the signs, maybe you could get together and draw a map.
We have many good equestrians groups in the Kern County Area whose members use the river trail for training and conditioning their horses.
Perhaps these groups could "adopt" a specific area of the trail. Sort of like the clean the roads campaign. A group could identify potential problems and fix it if possible or report it to the appropriate authorities. Then report their results to this blog to let us know how things are going. It is very important to network and find out which authorities can and will help us.
A couple of years ago I made MANY phone calls to county, city, and water authorities to try to get help repairing the horse bridge (missing wood planks, slippery metal, eroding holes on the "white pole" end, etc.) Since the bridge was not built by any of these entities, none would get involved.
Talk to your group, adopt a section and let us know how you are doing.
Also, I would like to thank the anonymous person who has placed some signs along the trail on the south side of the river, east of Rancho Rio (Manor Street). This is a good beginning to identify specific areas. Hopefully we can make a map with these names and furnish the maps to the police and ambulance services. A friend with a broken leg had to wait for an hour while the ambulance service tried to figure out where she was and how to get there. Fortunately, the injury was not more serious or she may have died waiting for help. So if anyone knows the man (I was told he boards at Rancho Rio) who put up the signs, maybe you could get together and draw a map.
Ethel's area
First of all, only experienced riders with calm horses should ride near autos and motorcycles. That being said, there are a couple of areas of concern on the trail near Ethel's (Old Corral Cafe).
As the photos show, there were some yellow poles placed to block vehicles from entering the horse trail. Good idea, but it's time for repairs. Note that the trail has eroded around the base of the poles leaving exposed concrete. A cut in this area of the leg could cause a horse to be laid up for a couple of months, so many riders are going around the outside of the poles.
There is also some barbwire that is laying on the ground, though at this time it's clearly visible, it sure would be nice to have it tightened up.
Friday, March 27, 2009
Horse Bridge
Here are some pictures Marion took of the bridges across the canal. They illustrate some trail problems very well. As you know, the horse bridge is on the left. It's an old railroad flatcar, put in years ago with private money, after the old wooden bridge was torn down when the canal was widened. It has erosion problems at the ends and an open slot in the middle, so you can see the water flowing below.
On the right is the nice solid metal bicycle bridge, with chain link sides, no doubt to keep the bicycles from spooking and falling off. Now I don't begrudge the bicyclists their bridge, but it would be nice to have one just a little better for the horses. There is a second bicycle bridge up by the weirs. It would be helpful to have one there for the horses, too, so riders wouldn't be tempted to sneak across the bicycle bridge.
It seems that there are two attitudes toward the horse trails. One holds that equestrians should not complain about problems, because it is much easier (and cheaper) for authorities to shut down a trail than fix a problem. The other side believes that if no one ever points out problems, nothing ever gets done about them; plus, the authorities figure no one is using the trails and close them to horseback riders anyway.
It seems to me that we need to strike a balance. We don't want to be always complaining, but we do need to let the Powers that Be know that we are there, we do use the trails, and we are willing to be part of the solution, rather than the problem. You've made a good start with your new web site. Keep it up.
Roberta
Koztarr said...
On the right is the nice solid metal bicycle bridge, with chain link sides, no doubt to keep the bicycles from spooking and falling off. Now I don't begrudge the bicyclists their bridge, but it would be nice to have one just a little better for the horses. There is a second bicycle bridge up by the weirs. It would be helpful to have one there for the horses, too, so riders wouldn't be tempted to sneak across the bicycle bridge.
It seems that there are two attitudes toward the horse trails. One holds that equestrians should not complain about problems, because it is much easier (and cheaper) for authorities to shut down a trail than fix a problem. The other side believes that if no one ever points out problems, nothing ever gets done about them; plus, the authorities figure no one is using the trails and close them to horseback riders anyway.
It seems to me that we need to strike a balance. We don't want to be always complaining, but we do need to let the Powers that Be know that we are there, we do use the trails, and we are willing to be part of the solution, rather than the problem. You've made a good start with your new web site. Keep it up.
Roberta
Koztarr said...
The existing old railroad car bridge was funded by equestrians and public money after the old wooden bridge burned from 4th of July fireworks many, many years ago. Since the new multi use bridge was put in with the completion of the bike trail I now use it instead of the old bridge. I ride over both new bridges and there is no exclusion for horses on either bridge. Riders that are uncomfortable riding over the old bridge should feel free to use the new bridges.
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