I was a physical education and health teacher before a 21 year career as a U.S. Forest Service packer. I've been active on the Back Country Horsemen of America board, Back Country Horsemen of Oregon President, High Desert Trail Riders President and now working in Public Lands to help maintain our equine access on trails. I enjoy traveling and packing into Wilderness areas in other states as well as gardening.
Vice President: State Director: Pam Lehto
My horse was totally unruly and I needed professional help. The help came in the form of clinician, Steve Rother, who was gentling a wild mustang at our Horse Packing and Wilderness Skills Clinic. Steve continues to impress me to this day, with his knowledge of the horse. I helped Steve Produce his first sets of Instructional DVD videos. I've partially trick trained my horse and have hopes of using him in a new project for Back Country Horsemen of Oregon. I am calling it, Project Mr. Ed. I dabble in audio recording, photography, Photoshop, Making Videos, then editing the entire montage.
Secretary: Kara Contreras
I teach math and science at Brixner Jr. High. I grew up riding horses in 4-H and pony club in Cle Elum, Washington. During semester breaks at the University of Montana, I worked as a trail riding guide with Three Peaks Outfitters in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. Since moving to Klamath County, 4 years ago, with my husband Ed, I've enjoyed exploring the trails of Southern Oregon with my mare, Lola. I look forward to learning even more about packing with our chapter.
Treasurer: Judy Maddox
I'm retired with a 36 year career with the Forest Service, and ended with being fleet equipment manager for 3 forests. My hobbies include reading, walks, and riding my horse. I joined HDTR a few years ago with the intent to support and contribute to this chapter of Back Country Horsemen.
Board Member: Ed Contreras
I work in private land wildlife habitat conservation, assisting farmers and ranchers with improving land for wildlife and agriculture. I discovered horse packing while in college and worked during summer breaks for a commercial outfitter in the Sierra Nevadas. I spend much of my time recreating on public lands with my wife, Kara. I was attracted to Back Country Horsemen of America for their mission in supporting public land access.
Board Member: Cindi Boehner
Board Member: Ron Stewart
I'm a farmer, raising hay and have catered to horse people for over 30 years. I did some packing in the 70 and 80"s then started up again when I met my late wife, Brenda Cordonnier. I have learned a lot about packing stock in the wilderness since becoming a member of High Desert Trail Riders. I usually work on club projects that involve welding. I Have made custom BBQ's that we raffle off to raise money for trail projects and design corrals and build them for equine use at trailheads.
Board Member: Kathy Poe
Board Member: Jim Collins
Board Member: Dick Strohkirch
Board Member: Jackie Gion
Board Member: Gayle Carlson
I worked as a registered vet technician and licensed Med tech, now retired. I've always been involved with and interested in working with horses. I have competed in different disciplines and numerous horsemanship clinic throughout the years. Several years ago, I started attending the High Desert Trail Riders Horse Packing and Wilderness Skills Clinic and became interested in recreational trail riding and packing. HDTR has given me the opportunity to ride and support different government agencies to keep Oregon's trails open for the public.