February Meet on a New Map at Firebird

There are two things yet undetermined about our next orienteering meet. First, because wet conditions can make responsible orienteering impossible due to the potential for contributing to trail erosion, we can't set a firm date until the weather forecast is agreeable. As I write this post, the next likely date is Super Bowl Sunday, February 4. Mark your calendars lightly in pencil. Second and much less important, I haven't selected a name for this new venue. The eminently runnable terrain calls for a name like "Runner's World". The proximity to the Firebird Raceway invites "Firebird". The season of cold, rain and snow and the location above Freezeout Hill make a good fit for "Freezeout".  Perhaps, someone with a decisive mindset will annihilate my ambivalence.

Whatever we call it the parking area lies about 1 3/4 miles north of Beacon Light Road on Highway 16.  https://drive.google.com/open?id=1ONqvHcC6lrxJ59BuyauNO_4VDfb9GGg0&usp=sharing  

The topography allows design of a Beginner Course. However, it is not one of our better beginner areas.

When:  Sunday, February 4  Starts from 9:00 - 10:00 AM.   Course closes at noon, so if you want more time you should come earlier in the window.

Location:  Firebird??? map.  This link highlights where to park.  Drive north on ID16 (towards Emmett) until 1 3/4 miles past Beacon Light Road.  There is a parking area on the west side. If you reach the Firebird Raceway you will have gone too far. 

Format:  Classic:  Advanced (~8km, ~400m climb), Intermediate (~3.5km, ~155m climb). If you are interested in a Beginner Course, please contact me by Tuesday, January 30.

Cost:  

• Single meet (day) dues: $10 per person/team, free for members 
• Junior (up to 20 years old): $5 per person/team, free for members 
• If more than one map is needed for a team, it is +$1 per map.
• You may join CTOC for the full year which makes all local meets free!  See member info.

RSVP:  To minimize waste, please email me (jnm2870 AT cableone DOT net) with your count and maps needed by Friday, February 2.    If you show up off the cuff, I will probably have a few blank maps to copy a course by hand.

Bring:

• Compass!
• Waiver, prepared in advance especially if you are not a CTOC member.
• A suitable pack with essentials and snacks as you usually need to prepare for a day hike in the foothills.
• Sufficient water for yourself.  
• Sunscreen and/or hat.  This is very exposed terrain.
• Clothing suitable for extended hiking in foothills brush.  This is surprisingly runnable terrain but there will be some areas of large sagebrush, bitterbrush and other plants.  
• Gaitors are highly recommended as there is an abundance of very annoying squirrel tail grass.
• Shoes for steep  terrain.  If your ankles are sensitive please prepare accordingly.
• Cell phone. I can not vouch for coverage, so be prepared with a whistle and other fallback options.

Important notes:  

1. There are NO restrooms in the parking area or on the map.  Closest available facilities are probably at Emmett.
2. I don't know what the rules are for dogs, but with the intersecting ORV trails I'm confident that well controlled dogs will not be a problem.  
3. There are a few barbed wire fences around.  As always be alert to loose strands around as always watch where you run and step.Hope to see you out navigating with us Sunday!

John Murray