From jodonnell at vallevidal.org Tue Aug 2 16:02:11 2005 From: jodonnell at vallevidal.org (Jim O'Donnell) Date: Tue Aug 2 16:19:02 2005 Subject: [Coalition_for_valle_vidal] Valle Vidal Event in Santa Fe - August 24th Message-ID: <172bc273c78ff19d7d5ba948028fad59@vallevidal.org> Valle Vidal:? Valley of Life, or Valley of Pumpjacks? Free Public Event | Wednesday, August 24th, 7pm The Valle Vidal is: a) home to one of New Mexico's largest elk herds, and the State's only once-in-a-lifetime elk hunt b) summer home to 3,000 Boy Scouts participating in an environmental stewardship program c) a contributor of $2-$5 million dollars annually to the northern New Mexico economy d) threatened with gas development that will impact the beauty, ecology and water resources for decades, if not centuries e) all of the above The Valle Vidal, located near Cimarron in the Carson National Forest, is all of the above.? Ecologically, economically, and culturally, the Valle Vidal is important to northern New Mexico.? Yet, the majestic Valle Vidal -- nicknamed New Mexico's Yellowstone -- is under threat from large energy development corporations.? Although the gas resource is not significant, companies are still jockeying to open the land to industrialization, despite the fact that drilling will scar the landscape, contaminate the water, and ruin the recreational activities which draw so many to the Valle every year. Join a panel of experts as they discuss what the Valle Vidal is, its importance to New Mexico, and what we have to lose if it is sacrificed for a few hours of natural gas. When:?? Wednesday, August 24 Time:???? 7 pm Where:? Randall Davey Audubon Center, 1800 Upper Canyon Road, Santa Fe Cost:???? Free (donations accepted) Speakers: William Brown, Physical Scientist, retired from U.S. Geological Survey Alan Lackey, Raton businessman and hunting guide Ned Farquhar, Senior Advisor, Energy/Environment, Officer of Governor Bill Richardson Bill deBuys, author and historian Now is a critical time to participate in the effort to protect the Valle Vidal.? The Forest Service is seeking public comment until September 14th.? Letter-writing materials will be available at the event.? Can't make it to the event?? Please go to www.vallevidal.org to see how you can comment on the future of the Valle Vidal. This event is sponsored by the Coalition for the Valle Vidal, the Sangre de Cristo Chapter of the Audubon Society, Audubon New Mexico, the Rio Grande Chapter of the Sierra Club, the Randall Davey Audubon Center, and the New Mexico Environmental Law Center. For more information on the event, call 989-9022.? For more information about the work to protect the Valle Vidal, see www.vallevidal.org.? Viva Valle Vidal!? Please distribute this message to anyone who may be interested in this important issue.? Thanks! Are you a member of the Coalition for the Valle Vidal? Would you like to support our efforts? Join or contribute today at: http://www.vallevidal.org/involved.html From jodonnell at vallevidal.org Tue Aug 9 13:50:50 2005 From: jodonnell at vallevidal.org (Jim O'Donnell) Date: Tue Aug 9 14:14:51 2005 Subject: [Coalition_for_valle_vidal] PLEASE JOIN US! Rep. Wilson Event in the Valle Vidal - August 14th, 2005 Message-ID: <12c3cd79025017741f79eacaa0a7ca2a@vallevidal.org> Valle Vidal supporters, On Sunday, August 14th. Representative Heather Wilson of Albuquerque will be touring the Valle Vidal with representatives of the Coalition for the Valle Vidal. She has asked to meet with supporters of the Valle Vidal after her hike, You are invited to meet Representative Heather Wilson at McCrystal Campground in the Valle Vidal between 1215pm and 130pm, Sunday August 14th. We strongly encourage you to join us in the Valle Vidal at 1215pm at McCrystal Campground. Tell Rep. Wilson that you believe she should take a lead in permanently protecting the Valle Vidal. A firm demonstration of support from Rep. Wilson will move us all one giant step closer to achieving permanent protection for the Valle Vidal. Without her support, we will not reach our goal. From jennifergoldman at ogap.org Mon Aug 15 11:54:25 2005 From: jennifergoldman at ogap.org (Jennifer Goldman) Date: Mon Aug 15 12:07:22 2005 Subject: [Coalition_for_valle_vidal] Governor Richardson Event in the Valle Vidal, August 19-20, 2005 In-Reply-To: Message-ID: RALLY FOR THE VALLE VIDAL VALLE VIDAL AUGUST 19-21, 2005 Come to the majestic and enchanting Valle Vidal for a great Outdoor Adventure and exciting three day weekend and show your support to protect ?New Mexico?s Yellowstone.? Join the Governor of New Mexico, the Former President of the New Mexico Oil & Gas Association, the Mayor of Springer and other prominent speakers who are opposed to drilling in the Valle Vidal and want our Valle Vidal permanently protected. Have a fun filled weekend - hiking, fishing, horseback riding, wildlife viewing and restoring critical riparian and wetland areas. The Valle Vidal Unit of the Carson National Forest - 100,000 acres, is a recreational paradise - filled with breathtaking landscapes, teaming wildlife, lush grassy meadows, sparkling streams set in a backdrop of a lush green conifer forest. This majestic landscape starts at an elevation of around 7,800 feet and terminates at 12,544 feet - the summit of Little Costilla Peak, New Mexico?s the third highest mountain. For more information action to take and and pictures of the Valle Vidal go to the following web sites: www.vallevidal.org and www.fs.fed.us/r3/carson/plans/index.shtml Community Forums & Rally: Friday August 19th from 4?6 p.m. New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson, as well as Gary Fonay, past president of the New Mexico Oil & Gas Association and others will speak on behalf of protecting the Valle Vidal. Please come and show your support for the Valle Vidal - attend this event and other fun filled activities. Food and drinks will be provided for participants on Friday evening. Detailed information on events and activities can be obtained before and after this forum. Saturday, August 20th from 5-7:30 pm This second community forum will have speakers who talk about the history, wildlife & habitat management, proposed management plan and impacts of oil & gas development (coalbed methane). After this event the Albuquerque Wildlife Federation will host a potluck evening meal ? providing hamburgers, brats and drinks ? all who attend are expected to bring a side dish that can serve 20 people or more. For those who can?t bring a side dish a donation of $10.00 per person is suggested. DAY EVENTS: Friday ? Sunday, August 20 - 22, 2005 8:00am to 4:00pm FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2005 ? 8:00 am to 4:00pm 1) All activities on your own. Information and Maps will be sent to you for places to hike, trail ride and fish, etc. Remember, the first forum starts at 4:00 pm. Contact Oscar Simpson at 505-345-0117 or e-mail: oscarsimpson3@yahoo.com SATURDAY and SUNDAY, AUGUST 20 & 21, 2005 ? 8:00am to 4:00pm 1) Conservation Work Projects - restoring critical riparian and wetland Areas on the east and west side of the Valle Vidal. 9:00am to 4:00pm. Please RSVP by Thursday, August 17th. Contacts: Glenda Muirhead 505-281-2925, E-Mail: gmuirhead1@msn.com Jeremy Vesbach 505-264-5500, E-mail: jvesbach@yahoo.com Information can be picked up at Friday evening?s forum. These events are sponsored by the Albuquerque Wildlife Federation 2) Trail Rides ? Trail rides in the eastern and western portions of the Valle Vidal. Recommend that you obtain the Forest Service map ? Valle Vidal Unit, Carson National Forest. This trail ride is for persons who have their own horse and riding gear. Starting location - McCrystal Campground, north end 8:00am. The Valle Vidal is rated as one of the top places in the nation to trail ride. Trail riders from all over the country come to ride in the majestic landscapes and view its abundant wildlife. Trail rides are easy to moderate. Contact Oscar Simpson at 505-345-0117 or e-mail: oscarsimpson3@yahoo.com for info. Information will also be available at Friday?s and Saturday?s forums. 3) Day Hikes ? Information and maps of areas or trails to hike in the Valle Vidal can be obtained at Friday?s forum or by contacting Oscar Simpson at 505-345-0117, E-mail: oscarsimpson3@yahoo.com Recommend that you obtain the Forest Service map ? Valle Vidal Unit, Carson National Forest as a base map for your hiking adventures. There may be Guided hikes ?details still being worked on. 4) Fishing ? Fish the Shuree Ponds located in the central portion of the Valle Vidal for trophy rainbow trout. On the west side of the Valle Vidal, the Rio Costilla & Comanche Creeks offer excellent fishing for Rio Grand Cutthroat, German Brown and Rainbow Trout. Fishing report: - huge Colorado Cutbows, up to 20 inches, are in the upper reaches of the Rio Costilla. Fishing is very good for trophy size rainbow trout in the Shuree ponds ? 16 to 20 inches. Note: There are specific fishing regulations and restrictions that apply to the Valle Vidal. Please review all the applicable regulations. Refer to the NM Game & Fish Rules & Regulations which can be obtained at numerous recreation stores across the state or at www.wildlife.state.nm.us . 5) Wildlife Viewing and Photography - The Valle Vial over has 60 species of mammals, 200 species of birds, 33 species of reptiles and amphibians and 15 species of fish. It contains one of the highest concentrations of elk on public land in New Mexico. The best viewing opportunity for big game animals especially elk, are at daybreak and late evening. At this time of the year you can view large herds of elk (300 to 500 per herd) on the west side, southern portions of the Valle Vidal or the head waters of Vidal and Comanche Creeks. A good pair of binoculars is highly recommended. View opportunities are also good for turkey, bear, deer, and an occasional buffalo (southern half of the east side). 6) Mountain biking ? The Valle Vidal has great mountain biking opportunities on existing trails and or on old logging roads that are closed to motorized vehicles. Contact Oscar Simpson at 505-345-0117 or E-mail: oscarsimpson3@yahoo.com for details. 7) Vehicle Touring ? Viewing the majestic landscapes of the Valle Vidal by vehicle is excellent. Access, travel and viewing along the main Forest Service Road 1950 is excellent on this all season graveled road that starts at an elevation on the east side at 7800 feet and departs on the west side at 9000 feet. This is the only road to access the Valle Vidal. Entrance from the west side of the Valle Vidal starts at the town of Costilla near the Colorado border. It is approximately 20 miles via highway 196 to the West side of the Valle Vial. To enter the Valle Vidal from the east, the turn off to Forest Road 1950 is 4.5 miles north of Cimarron, New Mexico off HWY 64. It is approximately 23 miles from HWY 64 to the east side of the Valle Vidal. Recommend that you obtain the Forest Service map ? Valle Vidal Unit, Carson National Forest as a base map for your touring adventures. For additional details and other vehicle touring routes contact Oscar Simpson at 505-345-0117,E-mail: oscarsimpson3@yahoo.com Forum and Camp site Location: The Valle Vidal lies northeast of Taos and northwest of Cimarron and is approximately 15 miles south of the Colorado - New Mexico border.? Nights can be cool (High 30 degree range), rain is always a possibility, so pack accordingly and bring your own sleeping accommodations.?The campsite is approximately a 4.5 hour drive from Albuquerque, 1.5 hours from Cimarron and 2.5 hours from Taos. TO ENTER THE VALLE VIDAL FROM THE EAST: Get off I-25 at exit 419- 5 miles north of Springer, NM. Go west on Highway 58 to Cimarron NM (19 miles), as you approach the east end of Cimarron at the intersection of highways 58 & 64, take Highway 64 and go North toward Raton NM, go approximately 4 miles on Highway 64, look for small GREEN sign on the right hand side of the road (Valle Vidal), turn LEFT and go west on the dirt road (FS 1950) to the camp site and or McCrystal campground approximately 30 miles. This road is a good dirt road but can be rough and bumpy ? dependent on weather conditions (rain). Watch out for heavy truck traffic (oil & gas) for the first 21 miles. The group campsite and forum events is 1/4 mile east of McCrystal Campground just south of Forest Road 1950. Look for?black-on-yellow ?VV Event? signs?to guide you?to the camp location. From the east edge of the Valle Vial, it is about 8 miles along FS road 1950 to the turn off to the Camp site and forum events. From the junction of HWY 64 and FS road 1950 it is about 23 miles to the east edge of the Valle Vidal. The only sign at this intersection (64 & 1950) is a small green sign on HWY 64 that reads Valle Vidal. FS Road 1950 is not listed on this or any other sign. Make sure you have good tires and as a precaution we suggest you carry several bottles of fix-a-flat and a flat tire repair kit (plug type), incase you have a flat ? it?s a long way in and out of the Valle Vidal. This camp site is primitive, portable out houses will be available and a limited supply of fresh potable water will be available. To make sure we don?t run out of water, bring at least 5 gallons or more per vehicle. Cell phone use or reception is limited to a look out point on the side of the mountain - 5 miles west of the camp site. The two public Forums and the evening meals (Friday and Saturday night) will be held in a tent - capacity limited to 100 people. You need to provide your own food for meals other than Friday and Saturday nights. Remember Saturday night is pot-luck night, bring a side dish that will supply 20 people. This camp site is suitable for truck/camper, truck-horse trailer and tent camping. Large motor homes or 5th wheel rigs may have a hard time accessing this site. We suggest that you use the McCrystal Campground for easer access and camping if this fits your case. McCrystal Campground does not have potable drinking water but has water for horses. For further information and details contact Oscar Simpson at 505-345-0117 or 505-259-5766 cell E-mail: oscarsimpson3@yahoo.com From jennifergoldman at ogap.org Wed Aug 17 11:33:39 2005 From: jennifergoldman at ogap.org (Jennifer Goldman) Date: Wed Aug 17 11:43:24 2005 Subject: [Coalition_for_valle_vidal] Valle Vidal Public Hearings - August 2005 Message-ID: VALLE VIDAL PUBLIC HEARINGS Please Attend In Your Area! The Carson National Forest is Holding Public Hearings on the Valle Vidal?s Future Raton - August 23rd, at 2pm and 7pm ? Raton Convention Center, 9021 S.3rd St., Raton, NM Taos ? August 25th, at 2pm and 7pm ? Taos Convention Center, 120 Civic Plaza Drive, Taos, NM Santa Fe - August 30th at 2pm and 7pm ? Santa Fe Community College, 6401 Richards Ave., Santa Fe, NM Sign-in will begin one hour prior to each meeting These hearings are the first opportunity for the PUBLIC TO PROVIDE TESTIMONY during this official ?scoping? on the future of the Valle Vidal. A showing of strong support for protecting the Valle Vidal is critical. The Forest Service will provide the latest information on the Forest Plan amendment process for the Valle Vidal. ?The Forest Service will also solicit verbal or written comments on the amendment process from area residents. Please join the Coalition for the Valle Vidal at these hearings and submit oral or written comments on: ????1. ?How you value the Valle Vidal, ????2. ?Why the Valle Vidal is important to you, ??? 3. ?How would you like to see the Valle managed. IT IS VITAL that we tell the Forest Service that we want to see the entire Valle Vidal closed to leasing and development of oil and gas resources NOW, in this Forest Plan Amendment stage, and NOT in another, future Forest Service planning process. The Valle Vidal is too precious to remained threatened by Big Oil?s wells, roads, pipelines, compressor stations, toxic chemicals and traffic!! See http://www.vallevidal.org/urgent.html for more information on effective talking points. Written comments concerning the proposed amendment should be submitted at the hearing or sent to: Carson National Forest Attn: Valle Vidal Forest Plan Amendment 208 Cruz Alta Road Taos, NM 87571 Or by email: comments-southwestern-carson@fs.fed.us : "Valle Vidal Amendment" must be in the subject line of the email. Comments are due by September 14, 2005 For more information on preparing comments visit http://www.vallevidal.org/urgent.html From bravos at amigosbravos.org Mon Aug 22 15:10:45 2005 From: bravos at amigosbravos.org (Amigos Bravos) Date: Mon Aug 22 16:01:17 2005 Subject: [Coalition_for_valle_vidal] Valle Vidal Public Hearings in Raton and Taos this week Message-ID: <710BE590-1340-11DA-923C-0003930E6A76@amigosbravos.org> VALLE VIDAL PUBLIC HEARINGS Keep Up the Momentum ? Turn Out for the Valle Vidal! TheCarson National Forest is Holding Public Hearings on the Valle Vidal?s Future Raton - August ?23rd,at 2pm and 7pm ? Raton Convention Center, 9021 ?S.3rd St., Raton, NM Taos ? August 25th,at 2pm and 7pm ? Taos Convention Center, 120 Civic Plaza Drive, Taos, NM Santa Fe - August 30that 2pm and 7pm ? Santa Fe Community College, 6401 Richards Ave., Santa Fe, NM ? Sign-in will begin one hour prior to each meeting These hearings are the first opportunity for the PUBLIC TO PROVIDE TESTIMONY during this official ?scoping? on the future of the Valle Vidal. ?A showing of strong support for protecting the Valle Vidal is critical. The Forest Service will provide the latest information on the Forest Plan amendment process for the Valle Vidal. ?The Forest Service will also solicit verbal or written comments on the amendment process from area residents. ?? Please join the Coalition for the Valle Vidal at these hearings and submit oral or written comments on: ????1. ?How you value the Valle Vidal, ? ????2. ?Why the Valle Vidal is important to you, ? ??? 3. ?How would you like to see the Valle managed. ???????? IT IS VITAL that we tell the Forest Service that we want to see the entire Valle Vidal closed to leasing and development of oil and gas resources NOW, in this Forest Plan Amendment stage, and NOT in another, future Forest Service planning process. ?The Valle Vidal is too precious to remained threatened by Big Oil?s wells, roads, pipelines, compressor stations, toxic chemicals and traffic!! See ?http://www.vallevidal.org/urgent.html for more information on effective talking points. Written comments concerning the proposed amendment should be submitted at the hearing or sent to: Carson National Forest Attn: Valle Vidal Forest Plan Amendment 208 Cruz Alta Road Taos, NM 87571 Or by email: comments-southwestern-carson@fs.fed.us : "Valle Vidal Amendment" must be in the subject line of the email. Comments are due by September 14, 2005 For more information on preparing comments visit http://www.vallevidal.org/urgent.html ------ End of Forwarded Message From jodonnell at vallevidal.org Tue Aug 2 16:02:11 2005 From: jodonnell at vallevidal.org (Jim O'Donnell) Date: Tue, 2 Aug 2005 14:02:11 -0600 Subject: [Coalition_for_valle_vidal] Valle Vidal Event in Santa Fe - August 24th Message-ID: <172bc273c78ff19d7d5ba948028fad59@vallevidal.org> Valle Vidal:? Valley of Life, or Valley of Pumpjacks? Free Public Event | Wednesday, August 24th, 7pm The Valle Vidal is: a) home to one of New Mexico's largest elk herds, and the State's only once-in-a-lifetime elk hunt b) summer home to 3,000 Boy Scouts participating in an environmental stewardship program c) a contributor of $2-$5 million dollars annually to the northern New Mexico economy d) threatened with gas development that will impact the beauty, ecology and water resources for decades, if not centuries e) all of the above The Valle Vidal, located near Cimarron in the Carson National Forest, is all of the above.? Ecologically, economically, and culturally, the Valle Vidal is important to northern New Mexico.? Yet, the majestic Valle Vidal -- nicknamed New Mexico's Yellowstone -- is under threat from large energy development corporations.? Although the gas resource is not significant, companies are still jockeying to open the land to industrialization, despite the fact that drilling will scar the landscape, contaminate the water, and ruin the recreational activities which draw so many to the Valle every year. Join a panel of experts as they discuss what the Valle Vidal is, its importance to New Mexico, and what we have to lose if it is sacrificed for a few hours of natural gas. When:?? Wednesday, August 24 Time:???? 7 pm Where:? Randall Davey Audubon Center, 1800 Upper Canyon Road, Santa Fe Cost:???? Free (donations accepted) Speakers: William Brown, Physical Scientist, retired from U.S. Geological Survey Alan Lackey, Raton businessman and hunting guide Ned Farquhar, Senior Advisor, Energy/Environment, Officer of Governor Bill Richardson Bill deBuys, author and historian Now is a critical time to participate in the effort to protect the Valle Vidal.? The Forest Service is seeking public comment until September 14th.? Letter-writing materials will be available at the event.? Can't make it to the event?? Please go to www.vallevidal.org to see how you can comment on the future of the Valle Vidal. This event is sponsored by the Coalition for the Valle Vidal, the Sangre de Cristo Chapter of the Audubon Society, Audubon New Mexico, the Rio Grande Chapter of the Sierra Club, the Randall Davey Audubon Center, and the New Mexico Environmental Law Center. For more information on the event, call 989-9022.? For more information about the work to protect the Valle Vidal, see www.vallevidal.org.? Viva Valle Vidal!? Please distribute this message to anyone who may be interested in this important issue.? Thanks! Are you a member of the Coalition for the Valle Vidal? Would you like to support our efforts? Join or contribute today at: http://www.vallevidal.org/involved.html From jodonnell at vallevidal.org Tue Aug 9 13:50:50 2005 From: jodonnell at vallevidal.org (Jim O'Donnell) Date: Tue, 9 Aug 2005 11:50:50 -0600 Subject: [Coalition_for_valle_vidal] PLEASE JOIN US! Rep. Wilson Event in the Valle Vidal - August 14th, 2005 Message-ID: <12c3cd79025017741f79eacaa0a7ca2a@vallevidal.org> Valle Vidal supporters, On Sunday, August 14th. Representative Heather Wilson of Albuquerque will be touring the Valle Vidal with representatives of the Coalition for the Valle Vidal. She has asked to meet with supporters of the Valle Vidal after her hike, You are invited to meet Representative Heather Wilson at McCrystal Campground in the Valle Vidal between 1215pm and 130pm, Sunday August 14th. We strongly encourage you to join us in the Valle Vidal at 1215pm at McCrystal Campground. Tell Rep. Wilson that you believe she should take a lead in permanently protecting the Valle Vidal. A firm demonstration of support from Rep. Wilson will move us all one giant step closer to achieving permanent protection for the Valle Vidal. Without her support, we will not reach our goal. From jennifergoldman at ogap.org Mon Aug 15 11:54:25 2005 From: jennifergoldman at ogap.org (Jennifer Goldman) Date: Mon, 15 Aug 2005 09:54:25 -0600 Subject: [Coalition_for_valle_vidal] Governor Richardson Event in the Valle Vidal, August 19-20, 2005 In-Reply-To: Message-ID: RALLY FOR THE VALLE VIDAL VALLE VIDAL AUGUST 19-21, 2005 Come to the majestic and enchanting Valle Vidal for a great Outdoor Adventure and exciting three day weekend and show your support to protect ?New Mexico?s Yellowstone.? Join the Governor of New Mexico, the Former President of the New Mexico Oil & Gas Association, the Mayor of Springer and other prominent speakers who are opposed to drilling in the Valle Vidal and want our Valle Vidal permanently protected. Have a fun filled weekend - hiking, fishing, horseback riding, wildlife viewing and restoring critical riparian and wetland areas. The Valle Vidal Unit of the Carson National Forest - 100,000 acres, is a recreational paradise - filled with breathtaking landscapes, teaming wildlife, lush grassy meadows, sparkling streams set in a backdrop of a lush green conifer forest. This majestic landscape starts at an elevation of around 7,800 feet and terminates at 12,544 feet - the summit of Little Costilla Peak, New Mexico?s the third highest mountain. For more information action to take and and pictures of the Valle Vidal go to the following web sites: www.vallevidal.org and www.fs.fed.us/r3/carson/plans/index.shtml Community Forums & Rally: Friday August 19th from 4?6 p.m. New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson, as well as Gary Fonay, past president of the New Mexico Oil & Gas Association and others will speak on behalf of protecting the Valle Vidal. Please come and show your support for the Valle Vidal - attend this event and other fun filled activities. Food and drinks will be provided for participants on Friday evening. Detailed information on events and activities can be obtained before and after this forum. Saturday, August 20th from 5-7:30 pm This second community forum will have speakers who talk about the history, wildlife & habitat management, proposed management plan and impacts of oil & gas development (coalbed methane). After this event the Albuquerque Wildlife Federation will host a potluck evening meal ? providing hamburgers, brats and drinks ? all who attend are expected to bring a side dish that can serve 20 people or more. For those who can?t bring a side dish a donation of $10.00 per person is suggested. DAY EVENTS: Friday ? Sunday, August 20 - 22, 2005 8:00am to 4:00pm FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2005 ? 8:00 am to 4:00pm 1) All activities on your own. Information and Maps will be sent to you for places to hike, trail ride and fish, etc. Remember, the first forum starts at 4:00 pm. Contact Oscar Simpson at 505-345-0117 or e-mail: oscarsimpson3 at yahoo.com SATURDAY and SUNDAY, AUGUST 20 & 21, 2005 ? 8:00am to 4:00pm 1) Conservation Work Projects - restoring critical riparian and wetland Areas on the east and west side of the Valle Vidal. 9:00am to 4:00pm. Please RSVP by Thursday, August 17th. Contacts: Glenda Muirhead 505-281-2925, E-Mail: gmuirhead1 at msn.com Jeremy Vesbach 505-264-5500, E-mail: jvesbach at yahoo.com Information can be picked up at Friday evening?s forum. These events are sponsored by the Albuquerque Wildlife Federation 2) Trail Rides ? Trail rides in the eastern and western portions of the Valle Vidal. Recommend that you obtain the Forest Service map ? Valle Vidal Unit, Carson National Forest. This trail ride is for persons who have their own horse and riding gear. Starting location - McCrystal Campground, north end 8:00am. The Valle Vidal is rated as one of the top places in the nation to trail ride. Trail riders from all over the country come to ride in the majestic landscapes and view its abundant wildlife. Trail rides are easy to moderate. Contact Oscar Simpson at 505-345-0117 or e-mail: oscarsimpson3 at yahoo.com for info. Information will also be available at Friday?s and Saturday?s forums. 3) Day Hikes ? Information and maps of areas or trails to hike in the Valle Vidal can be obtained at Friday?s forum or by contacting Oscar Simpson at 505-345-0117, E-mail: oscarsimpson3 at yahoo.com Recommend that you obtain the Forest Service map ? Valle Vidal Unit, Carson National Forest as a base map for your hiking adventures. There may be Guided hikes ?details still being worked on. 4) Fishing ? Fish the Shuree Ponds located in the central portion of the Valle Vidal for trophy rainbow trout. On the west side of the Valle Vidal, the Rio Costilla & Comanche Creeks offer excellent fishing for Rio Grand Cutthroat, German Brown and Rainbow Trout. Fishing report: - huge Colorado Cutbows, up to 20 inches, are in the upper reaches of the Rio Costilla. Fishing is very good for trophy size rainbow trout in the Shuree ponds ? 16 to 20 inches. Note: There are specific fishing regulations and restrictions that apply to the Valle Vidal. Please review all the applicable regulations. Refer to the NM Game & Fish Rules & Regulations which can be obtained at numerous recreation stores across the state or at www.wildlife.state.nm.us . 5) Wildlife Viewing and Photography - The Valle Vial over has 60 species of mammals, 200 species of birds, 33 species of reptiles and amphibians and 15 species of fish. It contains one of the highest concentrations of elk on public land in New Mexico. The best viewing opportunity for big game animals especially elk, are at daybreak and late evening. At this time of the year you can view large herds of elk (300 to 500 per herd) on the west side, southern portions of the Valle Vidal or the head waters of Vidal and Comanche Creeks. A good pair of binoculars is highly recommended. View opportunities are also good for turkey, bear, deer, and an occasional buffalo (southern half of the east side). 6) Mountain biking ? The Valle Vidal has great mountain biking opportunities on existing trails and or on old logging roads that are closed to motorized vehicles. Contact Oscar Simpson at 505-345-0117 or E-mail: oscarsimpson3 at yahoo.com for details. 7) Vehicle Touring ? Viewing the majestic landscapes of the Valle Vidal by vehicle is excellent. Access, travel and viewing along the main Forest Service Road 1950 is excellent on this all season graveled road that starts at an elevation on the east side at 7800 feet and departs on the west side at 9000 feet. This is the only road to access the Valle Vidal. Entrance from the west side of the Valle Vidal starts at the town of Costilla near the Colorado border. It is approximately 20 miles via highway 196 to the West side of the Valle Vial. To enter the Valle Vidal from the east, the turn off to Forest Road 1950 is 4.5 miles north of Cimarron, New Mexico off HWY 64. It is approximately 23 miles from HWY 64 to the east side of the Valle Vidal. Recommend that you obtain the Forest Service map ? Valle Vidal Unit, Carson National Forest as a base map for your touring adventures. For additional details and other vehicle touring routes contact Oscar Simpson at 505-345-0117,E-mail: oscarsimpson3 at yahoo.com Forum and Camp site Location: The Valle Vidal lies northeast of Taos and northwest of Cimarron and is approximately 15 miles south of the Colorado - New Mexico border.? Nights can be cool (High 30 degree range), rain is always a possibility, so pack accordingly and bring your own sleeping accommodations.?The campsite is approximately a 4.5 hour drive from Albuquerque, 1.5 hours from Cimarron and 2.5 hours from Taos. TO ENTER THE VALLE VIDAL FROM THE EAST: Get off I-25 at exit 419- 5 miles north of Springer, NM. Go west on Highway 58 to Cimarron NM (19 miles), as you approach the east end of Cimarron at the intersection of highways 58 & 64, take Highway 64 and go North toward Raton NM, go approximately 4 miles on Highway 64, look for small GREEN sign on the right hand side of the road (Valle Vidal), turn LEFT and go west on the dirt road (FS 1950) to the camp site and or McCrystal campground approximately 30 miles. This road is a good dirt road but can be rough and bumpy ? dependent on weather conditions (rain). Watch out for heavy truck traffic (oil & gas) for the first 21 miles. The group campsite and forum events is 1/4 mile east of McCrystal Campground just south of Forest Road 1950. Look for?black-on-yellow ?VV Event? signs?to guide you?to the camp location. From the east edge of the Valle Vial, it is about 8 miles along FS road 1950 to the turn off to the Camp site and forum events. From the junction of HWY 64 and FS road 1950 it is about 23 miles to the east edge of the Valle Vidal. The only sign at this intersection (64 & 1950) is a small green sign on HWY 64 that reads Valle Vidal. FS Road 1950 is not listed on this or any other sign. Make sure you have good tires and as a precaution we suggest you carry several bottles of fix-a-flat and a flat tire repair kit (plug type), incase you have a flat ? it?s a long way in and out of the Valle Vidal. This camp site is primitive, portable out houses will be available and a limited supply of fresh potable water will be available. To make sure we don?t run out of water, bring at least 5 gallons or more per vehicle. Cell phone use or reception is limited to a look out point on the side of the mountain - 5 miles west of the camp site. The two public Forums and the evening meals (Friday and Saturday night) will be held in a tent - capacity limited to 100 people. You need to provide your own food for meals other than Friday and Saturday nights. Remember Saturday night is pot-luck night, bring a side dish that will supply 20 people. This camp site is suitable for truck/camper, truck-horse trailer and tent camping. Large motor homes or 5th wheel rigs may have a hard time accessing this site. We suggest that you use the McCrystal Campground for easer access and camping if this fits your case. McCrystal Campground does not have potable drinking water but has water for horses. For further information and details contact Oscar Simpson at 505-345-0117 or 505-259-5766 cell E-mail: oscarsimpson3 at yahoo.com From jennifergoldman at ogap.org Wed Aug 17 11:33:39 2005 From: jennifergoldman at ogap.org (Jennifer Goldman) Date: Wed, 17 Aug 2005 09:33:39 -0600 Subject: [Coalition_for_valle_vidal] Valle Vidal Public Hearings - August 2005 Message-ID: VALLE VIDAL PUBLIC HEARINGS Please Attend In Your Area! The Carson National Forest is Holding Public Hearings on the Valle Vidal?s Future Raton - August 23rd, at 2pm and 7pm ? Raton Convention Center, 9021 S.3rd St., Raton, NM Taos ? August 25th, at 2pm and 7pm ? Taos Convention Center, 120 Civic Plaza Drive, Taos, NM Santa Fe - August 30th at 2pm and 7pm ? Santa Fe Community College, 6401 Richards Ave., Santa Fe, NM Sign-in will begin one hour prior to each meeting These hearings are the first opportunity for the PUBLIC TO PROVIDE TESTIMONY during this official ?scoping? on the future of the Valle Vidal. A showing of strong support for protecting the Valle Vidal is critical. The Forest Service will provide the latest information on the Forest Plan amendment process for the Valle Vidal. ?The Forest Service will also solicit verbal or written comments on the amendment process from area residents. Please join the Coalition for the Valle Vidal at these hearings and submit oral or written comments on: ????1. ?How you value the Valle Vidal, ????2. ?Why the Valle Vidal is important to you, ??? 3. ?How would you like to see the Valle managed. IT IS VITAL that we tell the Forest Service that we want to see the entire Valle Vidal closed to leasing and development of oil and gas resources NOW, in this Forest Plan Amendment stage, and NOT in another, future Forest Service planning process. The Valle Vidal is too precious to remained threatened by Big Oil?s wells, roads, pipelines, compressor stations, toxic chemicals and traffic!! See http://www.vallevidal.org/urgent.html for more information on effective talking points. Written comments concerning the proposed amendment should be submitted at the hearing or sent to: Carson National Forest Attn: Valle Vidal Forest Plan Amendment 208 Cruz Alta Road Taos, NM 87571 Or by email: comments-southwestern-carson at fs.fed.us : "Valle Vidal Amendment" must be in the subject line of the email. Comments are due by September 14, 2005 For more information on preparing comments visit http://www.vallevidal.org/urgent.html From bravos at amigosbravos.org Mon Aug 22 15:10:45 2005 From: bravos at amigosbravos.org (Amigos Bravos) Date: Mon, 22 Aug 2005 13:10:45 -0600 Subject: [Coalition_for_valle_vidal] Valle Vidal Public Hearings in Raton and Taos this week Message-ID: <710BE590-1340-11DA-923C-0003930E6A76@amigosbravos.org> VALLE VIDAL PUBLIC HEARINGS Keep Up the Momentum ? Turn Out for the Valle Vidal! TheCarson National Forest is Holding Public Hearings on the Valle Vidal?s Future Raton - August ?23rd,at 2pm and 7pm ? Raton Convention Center, 9021 ?S.3rd St., Raton, NM Taos ? August 25th,at 2pm and 7pm ? Taos Convention Center, 120 Civic Plaza Drive, Taos, NM Santa Fe - August 30that 2pm and 7pm ? Santa Fe Community College, 6401 Richards Ave., Santa Fe, NM ? Sign-in will begin one hour prior to each meeting These hearings are the first opportunity for the PUBLIC TO PROVIDE TESTIMONY during this official ?scoping? on the future of the Valle Vidal. ?A showing of strong support for protecting the Valle Vidal is critical. The Forest Service will provide the latest information on the Forest Plan amendment process for the Valle Vidal. ?The Forest Service will also solicit verbal or written comments on the amendment process from area residents. ?? Please join the Coalition for the Valle Vidal at these hearings and submit oral or written comments on: ????1. ?How you value the Valle Vidal, ? ????2. ?Why the Valle Vidal is important to you, ? ??? 3. ?How would you like to see the Valle managed. ???????? IT IS VITAL that we tell the Forest Service that we want to see the entire Valle Vidal closed to leasing and development of oil and gas resources NOW, in this Forest Plan Amendment stage, and NOT in another, future Forest Service planning process. ?The Valle Vidal is too precious to remained threatened by Big Oil?s wells, roads, pipelines, compressor stations, toxic chemicals and traffic!! See ?http://www.vallevidal.org/urgent.html for more information on effective talking points. Written comments concerning the proposed amendment should be submitted at the hearing or sent to: Carson National Forest Attn: Valle Vidal Forest Plan Amendment 208 Cruz Alta Road Taos, NM 87571 Or by email: comments-southwestern-carson at fs.fed.us : "Valle Vidal Amendment" must be in the subject line of the email. Comments are due by September 14, 2005 For more information on preparing comments visit http://www.vallevidal.org/urgent.html ------ End of Forwarded Message