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Sunday, April 19, 2009
Don't Glam Already Beautiful Valles Caldera
By Karen I. Butler
Regarding the front page Journal article "Going It Alone: Valles Caldera Looking At How To Become Self-Sufficient," it would immediately seem that the two proposed "Alternative Blueprints" might be lucrative means toward securing financial self-sustainability by the preserve.
But at what cost? We already have the proposed financial cost to the public — no less than $11.9 million — but who will supplement the average citizen and his/her family to stay in such luxury for between $150 and $730 per night? It would seem that these alternatives are out of reach for the single mom or dad — with their children, who constitute an increasingly large portion of the American population. In these dismal economic times, from where are the potential guests to originate? Perhaps the concept was borrowed from "Field of Dreams" — if we build it they will come.
The ruggedly beautiful Valles Caldera has historically attracted nature lovers, most of whom are more interested in the picturesque landscape than the sight of yet another luxury hotel. These discerning individuals are thrilled by the likelihood that they will encounter native wildlife, and hopeful that the serenity of such a place will result in an inner sense of connection to the Earth that will be instilled in their children.
The very idea that "glamping" — glamorous, upscale camping — might be offered is offensive to the tough, self-motivated character of the average Valles Caldera visitor. The glamping concept is certainly far-removed from the character of the land itself, and with the growing intensity of winds in the area, the proposed tents could be a danger, almost certainly a waste of money. Perhaps for safety's sake alone, the trust should invest in locally made teepees, which are easily mobile, and would allow the land to recover from any disturbance.
There have been many ideas presented to the Valles Caldera Board of trustees. Some could be considered "out there," but many possess the viability to pass even the most scrutinizing judgment. Here are three that have been placed on the slow track, or not even considered, for whatever reason:
Wildfire risk reduction through draft-horse restorative forestry.
This proven collaborative and innovative program would train local members of notably disadvantaged forest communities to become "biological woodsmen," masterfully proficient at directional tree felling, and expertly trained to employ draft horses to enhance forest ecosystem health and resiliency.
Restorative forestry selectively culls weak and dead trees, mimicking nature's technique of clearing the forest with storms, wind and other natural occurrences. The healthier trees left standing hold not only the greatest revenue potential, but also the most promise for providing a beautiful, thriving habitat for wildlife, recreation and overall environmental health. (This type of) forestry protects water quality from sources of water pollution resulting from substandard forestry practices and helps to retain a diverse selection of tree species. (It also) allows the rescue of perfectly healthy horses otherwise destined for slaughter.
An equine facilitated learning program.
Much controversy and public outcry has surrounded the BLM's wild horse roundup program, especially of late. The Valles Caldera holds promise for a small, quite manageable herd of these horses. Their rescue and subsequent gentling could provide valuable therapy animals for clinically proven programs targeting the needs of children and adults struggling with the challenges of disabilities. ...
Offhand there are two benefits from this program. One is that local community members can be employed to train these animals, which could then be utilized on the Valles Caldera's own program or sold for a profit to one of the many programs scattered throughout the country. Secondly, donations to the Valles Caldera National Preserve are much more likely to come from a program such as this, rather than the luxury equestrian camps and other alternatives that were presented in the April 8 article.
A zipline ecotourism venture.
The word "ecotourism" has become an increasingly popular word that describes a venture combining the thrill of experiencing nature while creating far less of an environmental impact than that created by conventional forms of tourism such as skiing, off-road vehicles or snowmobiling.
Ziplines would offer a different perspective and experience within the Valles Caldera's education and conservation message. A relatively low start-up cost and swift installation would provide the preserve with a daily windfall of several thousand dollars, while providing public thrill-seekers the long-awaited activity of zipping through the trees with exhilarating smoothness.
Interestingly, while popular tourist destinations internationally offer ziplines, there are proportionately few in the United States, and very few in the New Mexico area. So there is little competition. In the majority of recreational areas where ziplines have been installed, the number of visitors has increased, as has the revenue. A Valles Caldera zipline venture would qualify for a sizeable federal grant currently designated for alternative transportation in public places, and the trust has already received grant funding to study methods of alternative transportation.
Now is the time that all Pueblo tribal members voice their opinion and do the right thing to protect these ancestral lands. As an enrolled tribal member myself, I'm aware that there are federal funds available to initiate any or all of these programs and more. Speak to your governors and join your fellow citizens in this quest to preserve the Valles Caldera. You can help to benefit your own communities and secure your children's futures.
Please voice your concerns or offer support for these programs through the Valles Caldera Web site: www.vallescaldera.gov or by phone at (866) 382-5537.
Karen I. Butler is a resident of Jemez Pueblo.
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