Mother Lode ECOS Blog - Archive
It is difficult to watch the news without hearing about human induced climate change and global warming. Although I’ve been aware of this problem since college, I’m not any different than most folks, I could be doing a lot more about dealing with it! (See the entire GAP at www.malode.com/news/scott) The Mother Lode Greenhouse Gas Action Plan (GAP) is our effort to get up to speed on this issue and we urge you to join us. The plan makes it clear that we don’t intend to neglect the other environmental priorities that confront humankind, nevertheless, we intend to meaningfully address the crisis of global warming. Our goal is to reduce our own carbon emissions by 20% by 2012; by 40% by 2020; and by 80% by 2050. Here are some high points: First, Conservation will be our centerpiece and we will reduce our carbon imprint by using less and operating more efficiently; Second, Technology: We will use energy efficient appliances, light bulbs, etc.; We will install enough solar panels to drive our meter backward and be a net producer of clean electricity; We will reuse cooking oil in biodiesel driven vehicles and “move down the stalk” to cellulose based ethanol as it becomes available; We will use a hybrid vehicle whenever possible and go to a plug-in hybrid as soon as they are available; Third, Education and Advocacy- We will be doing a variety of things you can check out on our website. We look forward to your suggestions as well and hearing about how you are addressing the GAP at home and at work.
Jump in the Pool!
There is one especially good way you can help us close the GAP: Carpool your group!
It helps to do the math: 4 people in a vehicle that gets 15 miles per gallon equals 60 person-miles per gallon. This is the same carbon efficiency as one person driving a Prius getting 60 miles per gallon! This season we will have VIP parking for carpoolers and be using the proceeds from the sale our new eco-t-shirts to add to our global warming effort. For example, one T-shirt reads: Carpoolers never fall out of the boat! Hybrid carpoolers walk on water! Check it out at the Camp Store and wear a shirt proudly. Labels: global warming, reducing carbon emissions on the American River
These trips are b ooked by the boatload. This means you charter the boat and the number you put in it is up to you, to a maximum of 6 boaters. There is only one price. The river use fee is included. Simple! Availability is limited, so book early.
How are they "conservation" trips? Two ways: First, we write letters at lunch on environmental issues; and second, full boats are more energy efficient.
Conservation Trips also include the Organizer "Vanload" Incentive: Every twelfth person's fare is refunded to the organizer, after the trip. If you book two boats, the organizer goes for free. If you book four boats, you get paid to go rafting.
Check it out: A ven full gets 150 "person miles" per gallon of gas. That's GREEN!
Saturday Chili Bar Conservation Special: $534 oer boat or as low as $89/person complete! No lunch is provided. Meeting time is 8:15 am. 6 boat maximum per Saturday.
Middle Fork Weekday Conservation Special: $594 per boat or as low as $99/person complete! Includes lunch. 4 boat maximum per day.
We like email. We like email addresses. We like email addresses so much we're willing to GIVE AWAY a trip on the American River just to get them! I know you like Free Raft Trips, so COME AND GET 'EM! All you have to do is go to the CONTACT US page and send in your email address! It's that SIMPLE. Winners will be notified through email.
Sat, Aug 11, 2007 - Sun, Aug 12, 2007
A weekend of excitement for the whole family! A day of games, challenges, and high ropes activities followed by a day of whitewater rafting on the South Fork Gorge. A rare opportunity for small families/groups (no minimum number this weekend) to participate on the ropes course. Father-daugter/son, Mother-son/daughter, Big Brothers, Big Sisters, Friends, Singles, Couples. Offered only one weekend. SOLD OUT last season so make your reservation early. For more information contact Penny Gonzales. 1-800-427-2387
“Quiche a la MaLode” Saturday Morning Breakfast
New this season for Saturday morning is the “Quiche a la MaLode” breakfast, which features a special quiche recipe. Borrowed from one of California’s finest hotels, this recipe has long been a closely held secret. This delightful combination of cheeses, eggs and spinach is certain to leave you well fortified for your day on the river. To further enhance the Quiche a la MaLode experience, we highly recommend you camp the Friday night before your trip. If you are scheduled for an early start on the Chili Bar Run on the South Fork or any Middle Fork trip, it’s a great way to be in the right place, in the right mood, at the right time.
Scott Scheu
Scott Scheu grew up...that's the wrong phrase...was raised right between the South and Middle Forks of the American River, loves it wholeheartedly as evidenced by the fact that after graduating from college and working office job for 4 days in the city, he ripped off his dockers and ran back to the hills where he has been guiding folks downriver full time for the last 4 years. Also an outdoor educator, he loves telling stories about the area, from its complex history hundreds and even thousands of years ago, to its outlandish happenings at the pub last week (some of the stories are even true!). Also, a unique aspect about Scott is that he will not use the words "gnarly" or "gnar-gnar" when describing the geological or hydrological systems along the river (though he may use those words to describe a few of his fellow river folk, if warranted). He hopes to see you on the river soon.
Katie Russell
Katie grew up locally in the foothills, and truly loves the American River canyons. Working on the river is a lifestyle more than a job, and every season brings a new adventure for her. In the past year or so whitewater kayaking has become a favorite pastime, thus Katie is always looking for new water to run. She is a graduate of UC Santa Cruz, where she majored in Environmental Studies and Literature. Her favorite food is onion rings, and she drinks coffee and beer with equal enthusiasm
Lindsey Gulyas
Lindsey Gulyas is a shining star in a universe of melting humanity. Originally born in Truckee, Ca, Lindsey has called many locations home: Foresthill, Santa Cruz, and Truckee....ok just a few. He believes in strict hygiene of the ears, often cleaning them twice a day. Seasonally trading in his rubber raft for rubber raingear, Lindsey fishes the waters of Antarctica, catching perch and bird flu. He enjoys re-runs of Mork & Mindy and playing outdated versions of Trivial Pursuit. Lindsey's biggest accomplishment would be his 2nd place finish at the '93 Boy Scout pinewood derby. He's here to make your day.
Peace, Love, and chew toys,
-Charlie the River Dog
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