RE: [Philmont]: Burros

Joe

I agree, and disagree. Concur with make burro your friend, and with
keeping burro program.

Disagree with the help carry your gear.

The reason I disagree is I do not believe a Crew has enough experience
to properly use the burro as a tool. They 'sore-up' easily, are
difficult to pack properly, and it takes time as you mentioned to get
the most out of them.

My boys loved their pet and it was one of the top 3 highlights of their
trek, but the cost was the same as any other program. 3 extra hours per
day tending and packing. We didn't get it right, sored "Wasabi" and had
to carry our own stuff.

I encourage burro packing in my Contingent, but only if it fits the
personality of the crew, and they don't expect the wrong thing (carry my
gear) from the experience.

YIS

Kirk Barley
Virginia Beach

<Lots of snips below>

Once the burro is on your side they really will work to please you.

Since they are strong and can carry your gear they provide a hiking
experience where you are relieved of the weight of your backpack, and
that can be a great assist, particularly when you are in mid trek and
your muscles are getting a bit sore.

I'm glad Philmont has kept the burro program all these years.

Joe Jansen
JAJansenJr@gmail.com
Philmont 1965; 1978

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Received on Sun Mar 26 13:39:33 2006