What a summer! A lot of happenings to report to all of our friends. First, for those of you who have not yet met him, we would like to introduce our new outfitter, Erik Snell (pictured here on the river with Stephanie, our baker and prep helper.) Erik had his hands full with the business transition but was able to get on a number of trips to introduce himself to our guests both old and new.
A few notable events...
On July 24, a strong rainstorm started a landslide in Lake Creek drainage, above Pistol Creek rapids, that sent over 60 logs into the river which subsequently jammed up at the narrows of Pistol Creek Rapids. Our group was camped upstream and the river rumor mill circulated enough that we got word that the river was blocked. The
Forest Service flew in a crew of demolition experts and two days later the logjam was cleared. The media circus had their fun reporting on the “stranded rafters”! Of course you all know better-we were dining on grilled steaks, fresh salads , fruits and icy cocktails and enjoying what no groups ever get to experience-the luxury of a layover day! Our group got to do a long hike, visit a hot springs and fish in the clear water above the logjam, which had muddied the water downstream. Our intrepid group of adventurers “survived” and had first hand experience of the fact that Mother Nature is still the one in charge out there no matt er what! If you would like to read a local news story about the event visit the link below:
The fate of the flag......
Many of our guests this past summer participated in a rather rambunctious and ongoing game of Capture the Flag. We had a new flag sent in by some guests and even a feisty plumed pirate hat (modeled here by Scarlet Wave runner and pirate captain, Brynn). The flag was guarded fiercely and bravely fought for when it was captured on several occasions. But rest easy, the flag is resting safely and comfortably in Salmon….and rumor has it that one of the chief pirate enemies of the flag might be switching to our side this summer….stay tuned!
MMMMMMMM! Dutch Oven Cooking Tips for your next culinary adventure! These guidelines should help ensure a tasty and crowd stunning Dutch Oven creation every time….enjoy!
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One large Dutch Oven (12”) will serve approximately 10 people.
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When purchasing a Dutch Oven (typically cast iron unless weight is an issue-we use aluminum on the river) be sure to get one with little feet on the bottom-this will allow the oven to stand over the coals).
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The rule of thumb for charcoal use is to allow one coal on top for every 25 degrees of heat, plus about 6 coals on the bottom. Don't overdo the coals on the bottom or it will burn! This can vary widely depending on air temp, size of Dutch, type of food, etc. Start your coals as soon ahead of time as you can so you aren't waiting later when the other food is ready. Fresh, “red and ready” coals will last about 45 minutes to 1 hour of cooking time. Also, remember that each time you lift a lid to “peek” you are losing precious heat so try to resist unless you smell that telltale aroma of “it smells done”.
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Be very careful when moving or rotating a DO that is full of liquid, like pie or quiche, so the filling does not slosh over the crust. Finally, when placing the lid on the Dutch, make sure that no sand or ash is on the underside of the lid or you may end up with very gritty food!
BON APPETIT!! And enjoy your applause…
2006 was another beautiful summer on the Middle Fork, like so many others! Here are a few photos for you to enjoy and take you back to your Middle Fork trip!
The fish and the Fisherman! June 30, 2006 |
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Thanks to everyone who has joined us on this very special river…..emails and addresses to help us stay in touch!
| Erik Snel l 7300 Mclochlin St . Boise , ID 83709 Snell9009@msn.com |
Robyn Janssen 2195 Tolman Creek Rd. Ashland, OR. 97520 robbyjanssen@hotmail.com |
Will Sutton Po Box 8861 Missoula, MT. 59807 willysdisc@yahoo.com |
| Anne Marie Gardner 115 4th Ave S Hailey, Id. 83333 mfwo@idahorapids.com |
Jake Rozier Po Box 10306 Truckee, CA. 96162 jakerozier@hotmail.com |
Chuy Hartman Michm29002@yahoo.com |
| Gary Shelton Po Box 2300 Hasiley, Id 83333 gary@gshelton.com |
Leslie Blank 9204 Skiview Dr. Brighton, UT. 84121 lesileiz@hotmail.com |
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| Eric Rector Con Virginia Lane Hailey, Id. 83333 erector@bcrd.org |
Brynn O’Connell 2318 Mapleton Ave Boulder, CO. 80304 brynnoconnell@yahoo.com |
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| Beach Huntsman Po Box 1339 Driggs, ID. 83422 bkhuntsman@hotmail.com |
Justin Salamon 121 E. Terrace Ave Flagstaff, AZ. 86001 justinsalamon@aol.com |
