We will start with the basics of saddle fit, for both a decker and sawbuck pack saddle on an animal. We will then cover: different aspects of sling and manty ropes, manty tarps and their best uses, mantying loads of various shapes, sizes and complexity. We will work with a variety of commonly used backcountry loads such as: mantied loads, coolers, bear-boxes, game-quarters and tent frames. We will focus on creating loads of acceptable weights and shapes and securing them to an animal in the most efficient way. We will be focusing on building a good foundation of basic skills so you can increase complexity as you gain experience.

Jerry will go over the basics of balancing a hoof and the things to look for and focus on while resetting a thrown or missing shoe in he backcountry. The focus will be on best practices to use and keep in mind while in the tall and uncut, when the anvil is back at the barn. He’ll focus on keeping your animals sound and shod with a backcountry shoeing kit.

Scott will go over some different grazing practices that work well for either small or large herds in the backcountry. The primary focus will be on stock retention, stock health and first aid, stock safety, time efficiency and good stewardship of the land.

Ray will be going over backcountry menus and meal and packing prep such as: loading kitchen/bear-boxes, coolers, tricks for keeping things frozen, setting up camp kitchens and preparing a variety of meals for any group size. He will use propane cook stoves, cast iron and dutch ovens, wood-fired tent stoves, and an open fire.