Vantage Toilet Installed!

It’s in!  

Last year, the Washington Climbers Coalition, the American Alpine Club and The Mountaineers, with support from the Access Fund, Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, the Spokane Mountaineers and the entire Northwest climbing community, raised $50,000 for the installation of a toilet at the Frenchman Coulee climbing area (better known as Vantage) in Central Washington. 

Having a toilet facility there will greatly reduce impact on the area, helping conserve this amazing place for generations to come.

American Alpine Club’s Northwest Regional Manager went out to Vantage this week to see the new toilet in all its glory:

Check out our blogpost from last year to learn more about the partnerships and work that made this project happen!

Stayed tuned for a celebration and opportunities for stewardship of the area this spring!

The Big Tent in 2014 and Big News from Olympia

There is Big News for outdoor recreation from Olympia! On February 13^th Governor Inslee announced the formation of a Blue Ribbon Task Force on Outdoor Recreation in Washington State. Read the official proclamation and his office’s news release!

 

Outdoor recreation activities in Washington directly support 227,000 jobs and consumers spend $22.5 billion on outdoor recreation equipment, apparel, lodging, and other services, generating $1.6 billion in state and local tax revenue (see the Outdoor Industry Association for more information). 

The Mountaineers was proud to be a part of the event, representing our members, our conservation work and human-powered user groups as part of the Big Tent Coalition. We believe that outdoor recreationists have a unique obligation to engage and be involved in the conservation of our public lands for future generations. Based on our legacy of stewardship and conservation work, land managers and policy makers recognize The Mountaineers as a reputable and responsible stakeholder, and an important and balanced voice for conservation and recreational access. 

You can check out information on the Big Tent’s 2013 work here. 

Govenor Inslee perhaps said it best, “This isn’t just about Washington’s economy. This is also about a generational legacy in our state. We need to leave a Washington that allows every single one of us – young or old – to experience, play and relax in some of the most beautiful trails, parks and lakes in the world. I know we can find a way forward to making sure Washington’s beautiful outdoor spaces are promoted and preserved for generations to come.”