I had the pleasure of attending the annual Friends of Badger Mountain Celebration. Business was discussed. Accomplishments were celebrated. Future plans were discussed. One of the founders of the Friends of Badger Mountain is Sharon Grant.
Sharon Grant, founder; Friends of Badger Mountain
She was the mistress of ceremonies as a slide show featured the various groups who support and facilitate opportunities for us to enjoy the great outdoors in the Columbia Basin.
The event took place at Kiona Winery on Red Mountain. Hundreds of Friends of Badger Mountain and supporters enjoyed an evening dedicated to creating and maintaining access to hiking in open spaces around the Columbia Basin.
One of the most profound things Sharon shared with me is the dedication needed by the public and citizens groups to maintain access to hiking trails. “We can’t count on government to create and protect these areas, we need citizen groups like Friends of Badger Mountain to do the job” said Grant.
Grant shared exciting news and plans for the future of our area. She talked of a “Rivers to Ridges” initiative where hiking areas across Rattlesnake, Candy, Red and Badger Mountains was connected to trails along the Columbia and Yakima Rivers.
Part of that is looking like more of a reality as two property owners on Candy Mountain spoke at the FOBM meeting. Mark Ufkes and Bob Marguiles spoke of their commitment to creating hiking access to the top of Candy Mountain with the help of FOBM and local government cooperation.
Mark Ufkes and Bob Marguiles Plan a Hiking Trail on Candy Mountain
West Richland Mayor Donna Noski pledged support of this effort. Benton County Commissioner Leo Bowman also spoke of his support for public access.
Sharon Grant told attendees of working with Red Mountain property owners to establish an official trail for public enjoyment. She said the group is working with wineries and others to make this a reality.
Brandon Lott took a few moments with the microphone to promote the Badger Mountain Challenge which is coming up in March. This is a major fundraiser for the Friends of Badger Mountain and their efforts to maintain trails and pursue more public access.
Brandon Lott from the Badger Mountain Challenge
The Friends of Badger Mountain have done so much to allow and promote public access to Badger Mountain and other areas. They deserve and can use our support to continue their good work. Please donate your time, money or expertise to help ensure the future availability of areas for Columbia Basin residents.