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1998

It was a disappointment not to have obtained funding for a full-time crew to improve the Telegraph trail system during the past year. However, basic maintenance was carried out with the help of a surplus carried over from our account the year before.

A new connector trail, as well, was opened up from the Telegraph trail to the network of skidoo trails on Milburne mountain. This can be used for hiking, riding or snowmobiling. We will seek funding for more improvements in the '99 season.

The continued encroachment of logging by the Forest Service in allowing Tolko, on the Telegraph trail, and Weldwood, on the Punchaw trail, is also a disappointment.

The Nazko and Lheidli Bands have shown a renewed interest in the enchanting Punchaw trail. Late last fall, I personally led a party through from Punchaw lake to the Fraser river during which we GPS'd the entire trail. It was dusk when we arrived at the old village site of Netseicha on the Fraser. The large campfire that Don Thompson had waiting for us was a welcome sight, indeed.

In December, I was contacted by a group in Alaska who are interested in seeing a hiking route from the Pacific Crest trail through to Alaska. This has long been a dream of ours, as well. I sent information on our proposed route. We will have to await further developments on this project.

Several groups have shown an interest in the Baker Creek escarpment trail. Early in August, we hosted a through hike from the Pinnacles Park to Hangman spring. While some spots are still rough, the potential of this route is great.

Two new directors were chosen. They are Caroline Gook and Norman Jacobs. They replaced Marie Erb and Brian Bourke. The dedication of the latter two was much appreciated.

A bronze plaque was installed on a large rock in the newly established park at the trailhead on Whittier (West) creek. This monument commemorates the historic trail of 1865. During the past season, many people have stopped at the creek crossing to enjoy the picnic tables and to read the map board.

Perhaps a good project for the coming season would be to place a plaque on the trail at Herkyelthtie (Goose) lake. A small parking lot was established at the lake last season, giving access to the Telegraph trail.

Executive -- Dwight Dodge