I guess I could be called a "Greenie," although I've never called myself that.  I do certainly care about the environment, clean air and water, but I also care about common sense and proper management.  Knowledgeable ranchers, for instance, take good care of national forest land and don't overgraze, and help keep weeds down by grazing cattle.  Personally, I love riding in wilderness areas, because then I know I will hardly ever see anyone else.  I have all that beauty to myself.  So-o-o selfish of me, but I have to admit I love seeing no bicycles, no ATV's, no cars, etc.  Just me, my horse, my dog.  Aaahhh.

 

And then, just as selfishly, I love organized events such as endurance rides, and competitive trail rides, so what do you do.  Here's where the common sense comes in.  You're right, unless we have advocates, strength in numbers, such as the Horse Councils of various states and nationally, and the Backcountry Horsemen, and unless individuals relentlessly speak up to their senators and representatives, yep, we can and will lose access.

 

Don't give up, good grief, guys, both of your posts are so defeatist.  Get on the phone, send emails, write letters.  Educate the public, as well, I think that's the key to everything.

 

Carla Richardson

Colorado