2012Fall

ROVER xchange

Fall 2012

Inside this issue 2012 Moab Trail Guide Trail Ethics Toxic Spills on the Trail Eat Well 1

Club Leadership President Robert Quaife president@solihullsociety.org Vice President Jim Jenista vp@solihullsociety.org Treasurer Patrick Kelly Treasurer@solihullsociety.org Secretary/Membership Paul Donohue paul.donohue@comcast.net Trail Events Coordinator Rob Colombin & Ted Brenner rally@solihullsociety.org RoverXchange Newsletter Editor Brad Allen marketing@solihullsociety.org Marketing Director Brad Allen marketing@solihullsociety.org Art Direction & Design Jay Ellington To contact the Solihull Society or to request a newsletter please contact us at: Solihull Society PO Box 480864 Denver, CO 80248-0864 or e-mail us at: solihullsociety@solihullsociety.org Visit our website at: http://www.solihullsociety.org/

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President’s Letter This is the Rally Edition of the XChange Magazine from the Solihull Society. The fall colors are changing and the excitement is growing for the 2012 National Rally in Moab Utah the first week of October. This is the 20th Anniversary of the Solihull Society Land Rover National Rally started in 1992.

I will discuss a brief history of the event.

The US National Rally was started in 1989 by Bill Davis of Salt Lake City, Utah. Members of the Mountain States Chapter of the Land Rover Owners Association based in Northern California started the Rally in 1990. Permission was given by the national organization to form this event under the auspices of the national club. In 1990, Kerry Oldham also of SLC, volunteered to assist in this fledgling effort. Kerry recently deceased, (members #44 and #6 respectively) and Bill organized the event for the years 1990 and 1991.

The Solihull Society Club was formed in 1989 by Terry Mitchel, Frank Jakos, Greg Chernushin, Todd Reynolds, Randy Reynolds (Todd’s father) and Pat Kelly. After Bill Davis’s successful efforts in Moab to initiate and run a National Rally; at the 1991 event, reports suggest that the Solihull Society members who were friends of the Rally during the previous two years, approached the Rally organizers expressing an interest in assisting with the event in the future. Since both Kerry and Bill were exhausted and had put the event on almost singlehandedly, they welcomed this overture and passed along the event to the Solihull Society starting with the 1992 event. They decided it would be more fun to just attend the event than organize it! Therefore, the first Solihull Society National Rally was held in Ouray/Telluride in 1992 to coincide with the introduction of the NAS D110. Solihull Society has since hosted the Land Rover National Rally. Bill Davis’s successful efforts in Moab also had sponsors for both the 1990 and 1991 events. These included Rovers North and British Pacific. Range Rover North America had some participation at the 1991 event. Lastly, Rovers North made a huge effort in 1990, shipping out two vehicles and having 6 employees in attendance including Mark Latorney the owner. British Pacific sent an employee with his personal vehicle.

Kerry M. Oldham was a great guy and a Rover enthusiast. Kerry, 57, passed away in a tragic accident on May 3, 2012.. He could fix and do anything. So much was learned from Kerry and his life example. He loved to tinker with all types of vehicles and enjoyed rock crawling/off-roading,in his favorite vacation spot, Moab. Bill Davis actually donated the Land Rover flag that was draped over his coffin for the viewing and placed inside for his journey to the other side. This is a testament to the commitment of these enthusiasts for the Land Rover brand.

We hope that everyone has a safe and enjoyable time at the Land Rover National Rally. We are dedicating the 20th Anniversary Moab Rally to Bill and Kerry and their pioneering event which unite the Land Rover community. We lament the death of one of our family, but honor his dedication to the event.

The Solihull Society is a Club of enthusiastic Land Rover lovers who provide service, protect the environment and plain enjoy the outdoors in their Rovers. Please join us in the planned activities throughout the year. Suggestions and ideas are welcome and I can be reached at president@solihullsociety.org.

Sincerely, Rob Quaife President, Solihull Society

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Secret Spire – Rating 2 Secret Spire trail follows the mesa top between Spring and Hellroaring Canyons. It crosses the upper portion of Spring Canyon to visit a tower that the trail was named for, the Secret Spire. The trail consists of sand, dirt and a little rock. There are great views into the canyons as well as being able to see the San Rafael Reef and Book Cliffs in the distance. There is a spur road that goes to the Dellenbaugh tunnel, which is a usually dry watercourse that goes through the sandstone and limestone and ends up at the brink of Spring Canyon. It is around 100 feet long and tall enough to walk through. The trail is suitable for all stock vehicles, although sometimes there can be washouts which could cause problems for vehicles with low ground clearance.

Chicken Corners – Rating 2 Chicken Corners trail is actually a combination of two trails, Hurrah Pass and Chicken Corners. Both trails are relatively mild and are passable by all stock vehicles. Like most of Moab, there are some fantastic views from both Hurrah Pass and Chicken Corners, with the Colorado River far below, and Dead Horse Point across the way. There are also many interesting rock formations along the way. Chicken Corners is reached by Kane Creek road, southwest of town, and is west of Kane Creek Trail. The surface is dirt, some slickrock, sand and some smaller rocks. While you do drive close to the cliff in spots, it isn’t that close, and the trail is more than wide enough.

Copper Ridge - Rating 3 This trail is a combination of several roads north of Moab and near the western boundary of Arches National Park. It lies east of the Moab Fault, so is in younger rock formations than many of our trails. Its slickrock is the top of the Entrada Formation, and its views are often of erosions into that formation. Prominent scenic exposures are in an area called Klondike Bluffs; you may have seen a preview on your way here from Highway 191. Some of the roads are on the softer Morrison Formation, which can be impassably slippery when wet. In case it is completely dry, most of the trail could have a lower rating, but there are eroded trail portions that can challenge stock vehicles.

Hellroaring Rim – Rating 3 Hellroaring Rim trail follows the mesa between the deep Hellroaring and Mineral

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Canyons, and follows Mineral Point out to the west. The trail is fairly easy, and is suitable for stock vehicles. The trail consists of rocky ledges, broken rock and sandy dirt.

Depending on vehicle height, it is possible to scrape low parts on some rocks/ledges for low vehicles. The trail culminates in a spectacular view overlooking the Green River.

Hey Joe Canyon—Rating 3 Hey Joe Canyon, a site of some mining ruins, is a short tributary to Labyrinth Canyon of the Green River. After a faily long approach, upstream along the river in Labyrinth Canyon is Hey Joe Canyon. The trail along the river is subject to rockfalls and collapse.

The trail was down-rated a notch this year because of the county maintenance on part of the trail, but there are many more rocks poised to fall on the road along the river.

Dome Plateau – Rating 4 This trail explores the highland area east of Arches National Park and north of the Colorado River. It is a little more than 30 miles north of Moab, off of Hwy 128, and starts on the north side of the highway just past Dewey Bridge. Dome Plateau is a large highland area north of the Colorado River and east of Arches National Park. The area sees little traffic these days. The trail goes up the Colorado River to leave the highway just past the Dewey Bridge. It follows below the Entrada Sandstone cliffs which have three sandstone arches in the first few miles. The plateau slopes towards the south but crosses two canyons on the way to a spectacular view overlooking the Professor Valley and the Fischer Towers along the Colorado River. The trail consists of sand, rock and dirt. With the exception of one hill near the overlook, the trail is fairly easy. On the northern section of the trail, arches in Arches National park can be seen off in the distance.

Fins and Things – Rating 4 While Fins ‘N Things isn’t a difficult trail at all; it is a very fun trail for almost any vehicle. It is in the Sand Flats Rec area, and as it’s name suggests, it follows up, down and all over the slickrock fins. There are also some dirt and sand sections, as well as Sand Flats Road sections between parts of the trail. It starts on the south side of the road and ends up on the north side of the road. While many of the fins are rather steep, they are easily doable by stock vehicles. However those which still have the front

2012 Trail Guide air dams may scrape them in places, as well as trailer hitches scraping on the LWB vehicles that don’t have a lift. The trail also travels along a part of Negro Bill Canyon, and the beautiful La Sal Mountains can be seen in the distance. Most any vehicle can drive this trail, just keep in mind the above mentioned caution about scraping air dams and hitches for lower vehicles. Air dams should be removed if you don’t want to damage them.

Seven Mile Rim – Rating 4 Seven Mile Rim trail winds tis way up to where it follows the canyon rim for a while.

There are a lot of old mining roads in the area, and the trail also passes the old Cotter Uranium mine along the way. Route finding can be difficult for those that don’t know their way. Most of the trail is fairly easy driving on sandstone, with small ledges here and there, and mild climbs. Part way through the trail, it passes close to Uranium Arch. It joins other trails in the area of Merrimac and Monitor Buttes. There is a harder section if trail on the south side of Merrimac Butte which includes a squeeze, and a sandy hill near the end of the trail. Both can be bypassed due to the maze of roads.

Also by Merrimac Butte, the trail has a slickrock sidehill section just above Wipeout Hill if that section is run. Depending on how it is run, it is suitable for most stock vehicles, please note however that Range Rovers and Discoveries with front air dams [i.e. the plastic skirt below the front bumper] may find these dams will scrape and may get damaged, therefore it is recommended that such be removed.

Top of the World – Rating 4 Awe inspiring views. Nothing more really needs to be said other than bring lots of film. The road in is pretty bumpy, but the views at the end are amazing. This trail is ideal for stock standard vehicles. Owners of such are encouraged to sign up. Please note however that Range Rovers and Discoveries with front air dams [i.e. the plastic skirt below the front bumper] may find these dams will scrape and may get damaged, therefore it is recommended that it be removed.

Gold Bar Rim - Rating 5 Gold Bar Rim is a cliff rim that stands about 1200 feet above Highway 191’s path in Moab Canyon. Because the rocks behind the cliff slope downward to the southwest,

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the rim has a 360 vista. Gold Bar Canyon drains away from the rim into the Colorado River. After doubling back from the rim, the trail begins a loop to include Bull Canyon bottom for a view of Gemini Bridges from below. The Gold Bar Rim vistas take in almost all of the local country, including Moab and its valleys, the La Sal Mountains, the Book Cliffs, and parts of the Colorado River canyon. The most difficult driving is up the final slopes to Gold Bar Rim and returning across Gold Bar Canyon. The trail might be rated 3½ except that heavy use has dug out the base of a big rock ledge on the return across Gold Bar Canyon.

Flat Iron Mesa - Rating 5 Flat Iron Mesa is about 17 ½ miles south of Moab on Hwy 191, with an entrance on the right that is easy to miss. It starts out a little slow with mellow dirt trail, then later on gets into more interesting slickrock obstacles. The main ones are Tilt-A Whirl, which is a steep and tippy slickrock descent, and Easter Egg Hill, which is another tippy descent which is complicated by having to drive between a gap between rocks. Body damage is possible on this one without very careful driving. Both these obstacles have bypasses, though the Easter Egg bypass is relatively long. The trail can be driven without lockers, though at least a rear locker is highly recommended. You also need good articulation, rock protection and at least 32” tires. There are several cliff overlooks off short spurs off the main trail. If you find a wedding ring, contact Jim.

Porcupine Rim — Rating 5 This trail leaves the graded Sand Flats Road above the Slickrock Bike Trail and drops down to a ledge above Negro Bill Canyon. It crosses the headwaters of that canyon and is the only vehicle access into the vicinity of Coffee Pot Rock, a prominent landmark seen from several other trails. The climb is gradual to the cliff rim, called Porcupine Rim, above Castle Valley. The trail has good variety with some challenges for stock or slightly modified vehicles and some of the best scenic vistas we have. Be advised that much of the trail is continuously bumpy. The Sand Flats Recreation area fee required of ordinary visitors is waived for our Easter Jeep Safari trails because we pay land-use fees in another way. Approximate mileage: 32 total, 28 off highway.

Early in the day are a few sandy hills and some slickrock slopes. Along the rim of Negro Bill Canyon are some small ledges that may hold up traffic. The vicinity of the rim has a few more ledges and some of the bumpiest driving.

Rose Garden Hill - Rating 5 Rose Garden Hill is actually part of the Kokopelli bike trail system. It can be run several ways, with various difficulty depending on the route taken. If run as an out and back trail starting at Onion Creek, you must go both up and down Rose Garden Hill. At least a rear locker is needed to run it like this, as traction is hard to come by when going up the hill. It can also be run from the road by Dewey Bridge (or what’s left of it). Going this route also has several options, either following Entrada Bluffs Road to Cottonwood Canyon trail and down Rose Garden, or following it down and crossing the Dolores River a couple times, water level permitting, and then taking the Dolores

Strike Ravine - Rating 5 In addition to the views inside the rugged canyons, there are beautiful vistas of colorful rocks, forested slopes, and the snow-covered La Sal Mountains. The easy parts of the trail are sandy dirt with enough bedrock poking through to keep the speed down. The difficult creek-bottom parts have rocks, boulders, and ledges, and the most

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difficult hills have large, loose rocks. Two hills have loose dirt and rocks that cause poor traction. The canyon bottoms have large rocks and rock ledges that can change with every flood. Strike Ravine is ledgy and rough, with a combination of rock steps and loose dirt. Tall tires, short wheelbase, and short overhangs are the order of the day. A minimum of 31” tires and rock sliders are recommended. The trail is located approximately 12 miles south of Moab along Highway 191.

Wipe-Out Hill – Rating 5 Wipe-Out Hill trail was named after its main obstacle, Wipe-Out Hill. This is a steep rock section with two routes, both of which have ledges as well. While it is possible to make it up without lockers, the chances of doing it, and doing it without breaking something are low. Good ground clearance and breakover angle are needed. There is also a sandy wash which must be driven, some more mellow slickrock and some dirt or sand hills. This trail is northwest of Moab, where it also passes by both Monitor and Merrimac Buttes and Determination Towers. Vehicles should have at least 31” tires as well.

Cliff Hanger / Amasa Back – Rating 6 Cliffhanger, as it is more often called, is an apt description of this trail. It starts on the right, about 6 miles down Kane Creek Road and climbs onto a high isolated plateau.

Part of the trail, and one obstacle are along a shelf road on a high cliff face. There are several difficult obstacles along the trail. Vehicles need at least a rear locker, front is recommended, 32” minimum tires, good ground clearance, and rock protection. There are great views from the end of the trail, looking down on the Colorado River and the potash plant in Jackson Hole and up towards Dead Horse Point.

Wipe-Out Hill – Rating 5 Wipe-Out Hill trail was named after its main obstacle, Wipe-Out Hill. This is a steep rock section with two routes, both of which have ledges as well. While it is possible to make it up without lockers, the chances of doing it, and doing it without breaking something are low. Good ground clearance and breakover angle are needed. There is also a sandy wash which must be driven, some more mellow slickrock and some dirt

or sand hills. This trail is northwest of Moab, where it also passes by both Monitor and Merrimac Buttes and Determination Towers. Vehicles should have at least 31” tires as well.

Cliff Hanger / Amasa Back – Rating 6 Cliffhanger, as it is more often called, is an apt description of this trail. It starts on the right, about 6 miles down Kane Creek Road and climbs onto a high isolated plateau.

Part of the trail, and one obstacle are along a shelf road on a high cliff face. There are several difficult obstacles along the trail. Vehicles need at least a rear locker, front is recommended, 32” minimum tires, good ground clearance, and rock protection. There are great views from the end of the trail, looking down on the Colorado River and the potash plant in Jackson Hole and up towards Dead Horse Point.

Hell’s Revenge - Rating 6 Hells Revenge is one of 3 trails off of the road to Sand Flats Recreation area. It starts on the left, just past the fee booth, and is mostly slickrock. The trail follows slickrock fins up and down, some of them being rather steep. The steep ascents and descents will test your nerves, as there are no bypasses except on some of the hardest obstacles.

This is a trail that stock standard vehicles can attempt as their “hard” trail however you have to be prepared to pay out lots of money in repairs if your driving skills are poor or you make mistakes. Range Rovers and Discoveries with front air dams should remove them. In addition to the slickrock there are rock ledges, broken rock, sandy dirt and some blow sand. The views are of the La Sal Mountains, the Arches National Park and the Colorado River Canyon. Vehicles should have at least 30 “ tires, and traction aides are helpful.

Kane Creek Canyon – Rating 6 Kane Creek Canyon trail is southwest, just out of Moab, at the end of Kane Creek Road.

Most of the trail isn’t too hard, meandering in and out of Kane Creek many times before climbing up the canyon wall near the end. The creek can be non-existent to very deep, and deep water can hide rocks and tree roots beneath it’s surface. Also some of the easier beginning sections can get washed out, greatly increasing their difficulty.

However, by far the hardest section is the climb up the canyon wall. This section has been washed out to where a winch is now often needed to get up, even with lockers, and it is along a far drop to boot. Pinstriping from the tamarisk trees is unavoidable.

Vehicles should have at least 32” tires and a rear locker, rock protection, with a front locker and winch highly recommended. Sometimes deep mud and quicksand may be present.

Metal Masher - Rating 6 This trail offers a 1300-foot high view from Arth’s Rim, which overlooks Highway 191 between Gold Bar Rim and the highway. The trail varies from easy dirt to high sandstone ledges with some relatively level slick rock. The trail passes Rock Chucker Hill, a playground for those mad of spirit and deep of pocket. The bypass is itself a difficult option including rocky steps and the infamous “Widow Maker Hill”. Much of the trail is routine four-wheeling, but there are a few spots, notably Mirror Gulch and Widowmaker Hill, where many will not make it on the first try. The narrow Mirror Gulch often damages full-width vehicles, and it is especially difficult for those with long front or rear overhangs. Widowmaker Hill is extremely challenging for any vehicle because it has become dug up at the bottom. A winch is almost mandatory to make it

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up. Fortunately, it is an optional part of the trail. This trail varies from easy dirt to some tall sandstone ledges, with some relatively level slick rock and sand mixed in. Vehicles should have rock sliders and 31” or taller tires. Traction devices are helpful.

Vehicles should have both front and rear lockers, a roll cage and a winch. 35”+ tires are recommended. Vehicle damage is very possible. The trail is south of Moab to the west off of Hwy 191.

Poison Spider - Rating 6

Golden Spike – Rating 7

This is one of Moab’s most popular trails which offers a wide variety of obstacles with bypasses for some of the tougher challenges. It is popular because the driving is challenging while still being drivable by a fairly stock vehicle. Much of the trail is on Navajo sandstone slickrock with one small stretch of bare rock. There are also some rock ledges sandy wash bottoms and two sand hills. The initial climb and switchbacks are rough but easy to drive. There are some rock ledges that make the trail difficult combined with some steep slick rock climbs. There is a potential for damage or rolling if you choose a bad line, though most vehicles make it through unscathed. You should have rock sliders as sill/door dents are a real possibility and at least 30” tires, though larger is better.

This is probably one of the longest trails time wise in Moab, and the longest one at the rally. It actually consists of 3 trails: most of Poison Spider, Golden Spike, and Gold Bar Rim. The trail is rather difficult, with many obstacles along its high slickrock route.

Route finding can be difficult at times and most of the obstacles have no bypasses.

There are also some side trails off of it, like Rusty Nail and Where Eagles Dare, although you have to know where they are to find them. Total length is close to 35 miles and 10 hours on the trail if not more is not uncommon, especially with breakages. Vehicles need at least a rear locker, rock protection, good ground clearance, 32” minimum tires although larger is highly recommended. Bring lots of food and water as this is a very isolated trail and breakages are common. Sections of the trail have supposedly gotten harder, so YMMV.

Steel Bender - Rating 6 Steel Bender follows an historic wagon trail that works its way up from a beautiful canyon to elevations above 6000 feet. It features two creek crossings, numerous steep ledges and two rocky ascents that have bypasses. This trail will test those in stock vehicles as you attempt a procession of rock ledges. The trail crosses the creek a few times and travels a lovely part of its canyon. It overlooks the North Fork of Mill Creek as it climbs to the base of South Mesa on the skirts of the La Sal Mountains. It is another variation on the Canyonlands landscape, and it offers further variety to the scenery and the four-wheeling opportunities of the Moab area. The trip can be done in stock 4x4s that have excellent clearance, but only because there are bypasses around some of the challenging spots. As the trail climbs, a succession of rock steps can be difficult for stock equipment, but each ledge area has a bypass. A couple of minor tributary canyons provide steep, rocky descents and testy climbs. A rear traction aid, rock protection and 32 inch tires would be preferred on this trail. This trail is harder if run from south to north as a winch will probably be required to ascend The Wizard’s Chest.

Behind the Rocks - Rating 7 Behind the Rocks is one of the harder trails in Moab. It has quite a few difficult obstacles including White Knuckle Hill, High Dive, and Upchuck Hill to name a few. This is not a trail for inexperienced drivers as it is easy to roll and breakages are common.

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Moab Rim – Rating 7 Moab Rim is a difficult trail that climbs up a rim on the south side of the Colorado River just west of Moab. It is fairly steep for most of its length, with big ledges and sharp turns, occasionally at the same time, which must be negotiated. In fact, most of the first mile of trail is one steep obstacle after another. Most of the trail is on slickrock until you reach the top, where some dirt and sand are encountered. This is an up and back trail, so what you go up, you must drive back down. Body damage is possible on this trail as is rolling if you become careless, and if you roll, it’s a long way down!

Vehicles should have at least a rear locker and 32” tires and rock protection. There are some great views overlooking Moab from the top. The trail starts just a few miles down Kane Creek Road on the left hand side.

Pritchet Canyon - Rating 8 This is the hardest trail outside of BFE. It has grown much harder recently due to weather erosion and use. The major obstacles are Rocker Knocker and The Rock Pile.

You should have a rock buggy or extremely well built truck for this trail with large tires. Expect to break parts and possibly roll on this trail. Most of the obstacles have no bypasses. The trail is about 4½ miles down Kane Creek Road on the left, and is about 4 1/5 miles long. You will need front and rear lockers, a winch, roll cage, rock protection, and at least 35” tires to do this trail as well as LOTS of off-roading experience! Vehicle damage is likely.

Thanks and credits: The above notes and escriptions are a combination of personal experience of Dave Lane and a number of sources including the Charles A Wells Book “Guide to Moab, UT Backroads & 4 Wheel Drive Trails”, Red Rock 4 – Wheelers Inc , Hans Schulze, David Garbs, and WeBeJeepinMoab.com.

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Sponsors of the 2012 Land Rover National Rally The Land Rover national Rally has a proud history of supporting those who share an enthusiasm for all things Land Rover. The Land Rover National Rally also has a proud history of receiving support from a collection of amazing and dedicated sponsors. Each year the Solihull Society hosts the LRNR and depends on the support of these sponsors. The sponsors, vendors and donors that support our cause span the entire country and occasionally participate from across the globe.

Without the participation of these companies and individuals, the rally would be difficult if not impossible to put on each year. The Solihull Society and Land Rover National Rally thank you for your continued support and participation.

Platinum Sponsor

Silver Sponsors

Premium Parts for LAND ROVERS

Donors/Vendors

Camel 4x4 Garrison Outfitters Ruger Trailers ROVERXCHANGE

MAXTRAX ASFIR GBRUtah 9

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TRAIL ETHICS

by Bill Burke Proper etiquette is not just using the right salad fork. When we venture forth into the back country-- whether we’re hikers, bikers, 4-wheelers, snowmobilers, horse riders, or llama packers--why do we sometimes leave our manners at home?

Temperatures boil. Personalities clash.

We forget that there are very diverse types of recreational forest users. No matter how much we disagree with somebody else’s way, we all have something in common. We’re there to appreciate our country’s spectacular mountain passes and to savor our “day in the woods.”

As an Outfitter Guide using 4-wheel drives and an Outdoor Educator of 4-wheeling safety, “Planning and Scoping Actions” frequently cross my desk explaining the wide spectrum of land use, from wilderness selection to logging operation, to proposed trail/road openings and closures. Yes, closures! Part of “the plan” is to close roads and trails that we all know and love.

• Operate motor vehicles as slow as possible, but as fast as necessary.

• Be prepared. Have proper maps and equipment. Know how to use them.

• Give people going uphill the right-of-way due to the “gravity thing.”

• Keep your vehicle as level as possible, which allows all tires to be in contact with the ground. This prevents wheelspin, digging holes and erosion from starting.

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• Stay on white arrow trails and marked forest development roads. There are more than enough challenging trails for every skill level without seeking your own track.

• If you come upon horse riders or llama packers, turn off your engine and let them by. Take time to chat. You might find something in common, or a new area to explore.

Proper etiquette is not just using the right salad fork. When we venture forth into the back country-- whether we’re hikers, bikers, 4-wheelers, snowmobilers, horse riders, or llama packers--why do we sometimes leave our manners at home?

Temperatures boil. Personalities clash.

We forget that there are very diverse types of recreational forest users. No matter how much we disagree with somebody else’s way, we all have something in common. We’re there to appreciate our country’s spectacular mountain passes and to savor our “day in the woods.”

As an Outfitter Guide using 4-wheel drives and an Outdoor Educator of 4-wheeling safety, “Planning and Scoping Actions” frequently cross my desk explaining the wide spectrum of land use, from wilderness selection to logging operation, to proposed trail/ road openings and closures. Yes, closures! Part of “the plan” is to close roads and trails that we all know and love.

To help limit closures and develop cooperative attitudes between backwoods travelers, as users of 4-wheel drive sport utility vehicles, it’s critical to bring common courtesy and proper trail use ethics with you on the trail. Don’t leave home without them! All 4-wheelers must share responsibility for using public lands.

Become informed. Educate your children. Become involved.

Volunteers with TREAD Lightly!, Colorado Off-Highway Vehicle Coalition, Colorado Association of 4-Wheel Drive Clubs, and United 4-Wheel Drive Association donate countless hours for “Adopt-aTrail” trail clean-up, maintenance, and documentation projects, campground renovation, goodwill trips for the disabled. They work with the Forest Service, state and local governments, and the Bureau of Land Management to help keep our access to public lands and can

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Toxic Spills on the Trail

By Rob Colombin/ Trek Adventure Gear

We, as off-road enthusiasts, keenly feel the importance of being conscientious stewards of the land we love to make our playground. Moab, in particular, the site for this year’s 2012 Land Rover National Rally, has a fragile ecosystem that demands careful preservation.

Unfortunately, while we’re having a great time traversing like an army of ants all over the trails, gleefully pushing our vehicles (and our bravado) to the limit, our cars can betray us by leaking toxic fluids, staining the trail in our wake. Proper vehicle maintenance goes a long way to preventing these spills in the first place, but there are times when it is unavoidable. It’s for just those times that we recommend that all off-roaders carry a spill kit onboard. For the same reason, the Solihull Society supplies all Rally Trail Leaders with a Spill Kit. Spill kits can be put together or purchased pre-assembled, and are relatively inexpensive. Given the dramatic effect a toxic spill can have on the environment, having one onboard is the right thing to do. Vehicles contain many toxic fluids that can spill during the rigors of off-road trail travel. The most common culprits are: engine oil, gear oil, transmission oil, brake fluid, and radiator fluid (antifreeze). Because where we travel is also the backyard to a variety of wildlife, antifreeze spills are particularly dangerous, mainly because of its signature sweet taste, which attracts animals and pets. Consuming even small amounts of antifreeze can kill—It only takes 3 ounces to end the life of an animal the size of a medium sized dog, less for smaller animals—a tragedy we’d all like to avoid.

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Whether you put one together yourself, or purchase a *pre-assembled unit, a spill kit should contain these items:

2 absorbent pads 2 paper towels 2 rags 2 resealing gallon plastic bags 1 gallon bag absorbent material Rubber gloves 2 Plastic garbage bags Mini dustpan and brush and/or plastic cup for scooping A leak-proof sealing container for catching fluid If a spill occurs, the following step-by-step procedure will help you properly contain, absorb, clean up, and remove it from the trail.

1) Before addressing the fluid spill, make sure that the vehicle and passengers are safe and secure.

2) Evaluate the size and type of spill to formulate a clear plan to contain it.

3) Place the plastic container on top of a spread-out absorbent pad, and place under the spill site to catch any drips.

4) Put on gloves to protect your hands, and then spread loose absorbent material around spill in a circle, creating a dam to contain spread, before placing it directly onto the spill.

5) Try to locate the source of the leak on the vehicle and attempt to stop the leak at the source.

6) Use the mini dustpan and brush or plastic scooping cup to scoop up the contaminated material, and place in resealing gallon bags

from the kit. Place those inside one of the garbage bags, along with any affected supplies used for the clean up (dirtied rags, gloves, paper towels, dust pan and broom).

Items that are reusable, such as the dustpan and plastic cup, should be wiped clean before placing in the bag.

7) As a post spill cleanup procedure, take a small amount of clay absorbent to spread over the cleaned spill area and lightly grind it in with your shoe. Scoop it up with a rag or dustpan and add it to the bag.

8) Gather the gallon bag, the plastic container, and the other used supplies, and tightly seal them into a garbage bag. Then double bag it into a clean garbage bag, and place the package onto a rubber mat in your car, positioned, if possible, so that it will remain stable for the remainder of the trip.

9) Proper disposal of the spill-soaked materials can be attained once you’ve made it back to civilization. If you’re unsure of a location, check with local parts stores and/or the fire station for the nearest location for proper disposal. Dawn dishwashing liquid is very effective for cleaning residue from reusable items, once you’re off the trail.

10) Finally, make sure to restock your spill kit with the items used for the next time you go off road. Tip: if someone uses their supplies to help contain your spill, it’s customary to offer to pay for the replacement of the items used. At least offer to buy ‘em a beer.

MOAB 411 A few important numbers around Moab you may need

environment is to be prepared to address any toxic spill situation that arises as quickly and efficiently. The bottom line is, we should do everything possible to leave our playground as clean as we found it; and the best tools to have on board when a spill occurs are a level head and a well-stocked spill kit.

Rob Colombin is a club member, a Land Rover enthusiast, a Labrador lover, and, along with his son-in-law, Tedd Brenner, this year’s Rally Trail Leader Coordinator. When he’s not roving off-road, he’s the owner and operator of MIT Automotive Solutions, an independent Land Rover repair shop in Evergreen, Colorado, and co-owner of the outfitting and gear company, Trek Adventure Gear. *A selection of pre-assembled spill kits is available at www.trekadventuregear.com, as well as on other sites.

Get more info @ www.mitautomotive.com & www.trekadventuregear.com

Allen Memorial Hospital 719 W 400 N Moab, UT 84532 (435) 259-7191 amhmoab.org Grand Center 182 N 500 W Moab, UT 84532-2211 (435) 259-6623 Spanish Trail Arena - 3641 U.S. 191 Moab, UT 84532: Moab Visitor Center 84 N 100 Moab, UT 84532-2446 (800) 635-6622 discovermoab.com City Market 425 S Main St Moab, UT 84532-2921 (435) 259-5181 citymarket.com Sunset Grill 900 N Highway 191 Moab, UT 84532-2155 (435) 259-7146 moab-utah.com/sunsetgrill Parts Store Inc 356 S Main St Moab, UT 84532-2511 (435) 259-6101 Moab Auto Parts 1010 S Main St Moab, UT 84532-2976 (435) 259-2413 partsplus.com Checker Auto Parts 1026 S Main St Moab, UT 84532-2976 (435) 259-9449 cskauto.com Canyonlands Campground LLC 555 South Main Street Moab, Utah 84532 (435) 259-6848 canyonlandsrv.com

Vehicle damage and toxic fluid spills are a real likelihood in back country travel, especially for us folks who can’t resist playing hard. The best way to off road while safe keeping the

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Eat Well, Even On the Trail

by Chef Kristian Niemi

Grilled Pork Chops with Cranberry-Apple Chutney

For this simple recipe, buy the best pork you can. Head to your local farmers’ market and get some good, old-fashioned, pasture-raised pork. Pork was never intended to be the “next white meat”. Pasture-raised pork is so much tastier, you’ll never buy grocery store pork again. To make this even easier, brine the chops and make the chutney before hitting the trails.

Pork Chop Brine

You always want to brine your pork chops. Brining not only adds deep flavor to your chops, but also keeps them juicier. Much juicier!

4 Thick-cut Pork Chops 2 TB Kosher Salt 2 TB Sugar 1 Garlic Clove, crushed 1 tsp Dried Thyme 1 tsp Coarsely Ground Black Pepper 2 cups Hot Water 4 cups Ice Cold Water Large zip-top plastic bag

Cranberry-Apple Chutney 2 Granny Smith Apples (Fuji or Honeycrisp also work well), peeled and diced 1/2 cup Red Onion, chopped 1 clove Garlic, minced 1 TB Fresh Ginger, peeled and minced 3/4c Dried Cranberries 1/2 cup Light Brown Sugar 2 tsp Mustard Seeds 1/3 cup White Balsamic or Cider Vinegar Large zip-top plastic bag Combine all of the ingredients in a saucepan and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until apples are soft. Remove from heat and chill until ready to use.

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Put the salt, sugar, garlic, thyme and pepper into the plastic bag (or into a mixing bowl if you prefer) and add the hot water. Shake the bag to dissolve the salt and sugar, then add the cold water and chops. Let them brine for 4-6 hours, then remove and reserve until you’re ready to grill.

At the campsite:

Season the chops with a bit more salt and pepper, and grill to medium or medium-well. Serve with the Cranberry-Apple Chutney.

The gear I carry.

By Ted Brenner

I

have an off road built ‘96 Land Rover Discovery. It’s a normal size suv inside, a roof rack on top, and a tire carrier on the back with 2 jerry can mounts. This affords me enough room to fit 5 passengers and all of our gear for multi day excursions, or on an everyday basis, me, my fiancée and our dog, Rodeo. Even with all the space in the world, there is no way I could ever pack that car in one day. That’s why there are several pieces of gear that never leave the car, ever. If it gets used for any reason it gets stored right back in its home because I consider it to be part of the vehicle and not a separate entity.

To start with, I have a bottle jack rated for my vehicle (not a hi-lift—I almost only use that off road when high centered on an obstacle) and a good base for the jack—you may not find solid footing if you need to change a tire. Most importantly I carry a full size spare, which I rotate into use to keep the tires at a similar tred depth and to prolong the life of all the tires. I see people all the time using doughnut spares that are way too small and definitely not off road ready. Not to say that in a pinch I wouldn’t go there, but not a route I want to take as a first backup. I have a wheel chock—to wedge under the back of a tire to keep the vehicle from rolling, and a lug wrench. But most of all besides just having them in the car, I know how to use them! I cannot stress enough how important it is to know how to use your tools at hand because otherwise that stuff is just a bunch of paperweights.

And for those who think that triple A or a nice stranger or even a cop is going to save your butt, let me burst your bubble, most people would just drive right by and not give you a second thought in their busy days and roadside service could take a few hours and that’s if you can reach someone. Cell phones don’t work without service and your car’s concierge service like onstar may not function with a dead battery. Self reliance is paramount for saving yourself in an emergency as well as saving money. That being said, lets finish off the gear that is part of the car: full, but minimalistic, set of automotive tools, spare parts, tire repair kit, 10 lb CO2 canister, air hose and nozzles, recovery bag rated for my vehicle, simple- siphon, mini shovel, work gloves, flashlight, fire extinguisher, toiletries, maps, first aid kit, and bug out bag. My tire carrier swings out to hold 5 gal of fuel and 5gal of water or 10gal of either (neither for long term storage). Again, this never leaves my vehicle and I can use all of it efficiently and properly.

In my center console (or on the dash) I usually have my GPS, a swiss army knife, some chargers, my ipod, a small headlamp and a compass.

In the glove I have my important car papers and some matches, extra sunglasses, advil—quick reach go to items. In the back: A change of

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If I had 6 hours to chop down a tree, I’d spend the first hour sharpening the axe. ~ Abraham Lincoln clothing, extra layers, boots, a hat (clutch if you have no sunscreen), some food and drinks, some tarp, maybe some chairs(crazy creek) and a hammock. Maybe I’ll throw some stuff up on the roof rack like a rooftop tent, pop up sun and rain awning for shelter, solar panel to charge gadgets and trickle charge the battery, gear for fun, extra food, a pop up stove, camping gear etc. I also like to carry a cooler or 12v refrigerator on longer or very hot trips, which is a total luxury, but when you’re the guy pulling frozen treats out of your car in the 100 degree desert sun it’s pretty cool.

I have a mountaineering rack it the trunk to serve as a trunk divider, organizer and to keep the gear from hitting me in the back in an accident or off road—a friend had his portable winch tray and winch break his back in an accident because it wasn’t lashed down. It also adds a measure of security in my vehicle as you could not reach the majority of items through broken or opened windows without unlocking the doors. Everything listed above adds piece of mind, as well.

All of this stuff fits because the majority of it has a place and it’s organized. Still, you have to be sure that besides it all fitting; the items you need are accessible. If in a situation where I am worried that my rear door may be obstructed, I may keep some recovery gear in the passenger seat under the passenger’s feet. If I have medicines or an epi pen that would need to be grabbed in an emergency, they better be in the center console or in a accessible backseat pocket. The only thing worse in an emergency than forgetting those things at home is knowing you brought them and not being able to find them. And the only thing worse than that is having something that you can’t use, because anyone who goes out unprepared with their gear is pretty dumb, if you ask me.

Take your time preparing. Know what you have. Have what you need. And have fun.

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Vintage Rover Corner Check out the Vintage Rover Corner to see old advertisements, memorabilia, stickers, and other great paraphernalia. Send your sightings to Marketing@solihullsociety.com

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In the Next Issue: The Holiday Issue Interesting Gifts for the Land Rover Owner that Has It All

Member Profiles Get to Know Your Fellow Solihull Society Members

MEMBER PROFILES Jim Jenista Best memory in my Land Rover: Our first trip to Moab, in September 2006, on a trip sponsored by Land Rover Colorado Springs; finding out what the vehicle is really capable of, and improving our driving skills to be able to put the Rover through its paces, was immensely rewarding.

Favorite Trail: Red Cone; the trail immediately engages car and driver with rocky sections in the woods, then climbs through alpine meadows, followed by a long, inexorable march toward the summit that builds anticipation for the top-of-the-world view from the peak and the final, climactic steep and exposed descent to Webster Pass.

Solihull Society member since July 2010; I had encountered members of the club at Wheeler Lake, and visited the web site to learn more about 4-wheeling with fellow Land Rover owners.

Current Land Rover: 2004 Discovery G4, with Old Man Emu lift, ARB lockers, ARB front bumper with Warn winch, Safari Gard rock sliders and rear bumper, and 33� BF Goodrich KM2 Mud/ Terrain tires.

Paul Donahue

Alternative Power on the Trail

Rob Quaife Best memory in my Land Rover: Accomplishing the 2 days trip to Elephant Hill in Moab UT Favorite Trail: Colorado: Tin Cup Pass UT: The Doll House Solihull Society member: Since 2009 Current Land Rover: 2005 LR3 and DII G4

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