Western Meeting October 8 - 11, 1998 Summary

Western Meeting Summary
October 8 - 11, 1998

Northwoods Resort
Big Bear Lake, CA

The San Bernardino National Forest Association and the Angeles and San Bernardino National Forests hosted this year's Western Regional Conference at the Northwoods Resort at Big Bear Lake, October 8-11.

The group was welcomed by Angeles National Forest Archaeologist, Mike McIntyre, who then served as moderator for the conference. Thursday presentations included "Management of Lookouts" by USFS Historian Linda Lux, "California Department of Forestry Lookouts" by Historian Mark Thornton, "A Success Story - Bear Basin Butte Lookout" by Carol McCall of the Six Rivers NF, "Archaeological Perspective of Lookouts on the San Bernardino" by consulting archaeologist Karen Swope, and "An Overview of Lookouts on the Angeles" by McIntyre.

Thursday afternoon saw a "visioning" session, facilitated by Kay Dalton of Triad Foundation. Images of "where will lookouts be in ten years" were drawn together, with ideas presented of who are the allies, what are the barriers, how to set and achieve goals, and how to prioritize.

On Friday, local fire personnel gave testament to the value of the lookouts. A keynote address by Angeles Forest Supervisor Mike Rogers, was followed by presentations on the Lookout Host Program, the San Bernardino NF Association, partnership and fundraising strategies, and an update on Central Idaho lookout activities. Management practices were discussed in presentations on the NHLR, preservation and restoration, and the rental program. The Friday evening Board Meeting saw discussion of director status, conference sites, and 501c3 status.

Saturday's activities began with a eulogy and moment of silence for Ron Johnson. San Bernardino Forest Supervisor Gene Zimmerman and Regional Forester Lynn Sprague gave keynote addresses, followed by Chairman Argow. Alberta lookout Bob Jason related some of his experiences; in 15 seasons, he has had 0 visitors at his remote lookout (23 miles from the nearest road - no trail)!

Saturday evening's barbecue at the Discovery Center was followed by a silent auction which netted $572.50 to be used as seed money for the 1999 Western Conference.

The Sunday tour group of 20 were greeted by volunteer hosts at Butler Peak, Keller Peak and Strawberry Peak Lookouts. The "hard-core" portion of the group also visited Morton Peak Lookout, a potential restoration project.