I commend your attempt to solicit pre-election comments and opinions on the proposed additions to the DPS list. The peak list is the epitome of our section and the focal point for our group activities. Additions to the peak list affect all DPS members and, especially, aspiring list finishers. However, as in the past years when peak additions were proposed, accomplished list finishers are most vociferous on the issue and, in most cases, are against any changes to the list. That is, in itself, puzzling and is worth digressing on at another time. Today, I would like to encourage the airing of opinions on the issue from all members by proceeding to air mine.
The peak list should be dynamic and ever growing as long as there are 'worthy' peaks in 'worthy' areas to climb! All 'worthy' peaks in the Great Basin, Mojave and Sonora deserts should be eligible for inclusion in the list. Political boundaries and geographical distance should not affect a peak's eligibility. A 'worthy' peak is characterized by its relative inaccessibility to motorized vehicles, significant distance from civilization's encroachment and desirability as a climbing objective. Ease of access should be viewed more as a reason for not adding a peak to the list; whereas, peaks with challenging approaches and situated in unique locations should be sought out. Existing 'easy access' peaks, like Chuckwalla and Nelson, should be retained on the list to serve peak bagging novices as well as list finishers. Arbitrary references to peak elevation, elevation gain, or minimum distance from road access should not serve as the criteria for list status.
As long as a peak serves to interrupt our civilized routine and entice us out of the confines of our great megalopolis, it is 'worthy' of list status! Let's add more Mexican peaks to the list .. Ties Virgines can be the first new candidate! The ability of the DPS to lead a climb should not be an issue .. the DPS can serve to introduce people to the desert where they will form new friendships and private climbing teams to venture into forbidden territories, as required. Distances to the peaks can be overcome with extended weekends and vacation time. Personally, I do not think that there is anything that can beat a week-long vacation to Baja or to northern Nevada as a way to enjoy and appreciate the Desert.
Finally, peak lists should not be rushed but enjoyed. We should eagerly explore new mutes to old peaks rather than grumble when a leader strays from the route prescribed in the Peak Guide. If it takes me a lifetime to complete the ever expanding peak list I will consider it to be a lifetime well lived.
It's that time of year when we consider adding new peaks to the list. I would like to see the list set at a certain number of quality peaks and any additions would have to be offset with a deletion.
For example, I solo hiked Mt. Moriah this past September and will never forget the experience. This is an outstanding example of hiking in the Great Basin Desert and compliments Wheeler very well. The fall colors were magnificent and the area supports a large deer herd. But it's a long 4WD in for a short Class I day hike. Moriah is probably best done as a backpack from lower elevation (2WD) to really savor the area. Patterson, another Great Basin mountain, pales in comparison. I would vote to add Moriah if we delete Patterson (I've done Patterson).
I also think Class 3 peaks should get special consideration for addition.
I wholeheartedly support Maris Valkass in his attempt to get an Explorer's list started. This list should have everything on it but no recognition for completion. I would hate to see the DPS generate into something like other sections where every bump in an area has to be on a list and "peak counting" is God.
Quality counts! 97 is a great number. Keep it simple.
In closing, I would like to thank you for your past editing of the Sage. We can only hope your replacement is as open and fair-minded as you have been.
Best Regards, Dennis Richards Spring Valley, CA |