Mission Statement

Welcome to the Whatcom Backcountry Horsemen website. BCHW Mission Statement: The primary purpose of the Backcountry Horsemen of Washington is to work toward the perpetuation of the legal and moral claim by the American people to use horses and mules for recreation on public lands.

We are one of 36 chapters of the Backcountry Horsemen of Washington (BCHW) and are affiliated with the Backcountry Horsemen of America.

Our chapter's objectives:

Leadership

Be a leader in the equestrian community where we take an active and positive role to preserve and enhance our rights to use horses for recreation on public lands.

Volunteering

Provide a valuable volunteer workforce that assists in the development and maintenance of trails and trailheads.

Education

Provide meaningful education on equestrian issues to include, but not limited to, packing and our Leave No Trace (LNT) program.

  • To minimize or prevent irreparable damage to fragile areas.
  • To encourage responsible citizen involvement in governmental actions affecting such public lands.
  • To demonstrate that horsemen are citizens concerned about protecting the environment as well as sustaining economic equilibrium for community and country.
  • To oppose unjustified restrictions on, and closure to, stock use on public lands.

Being Neighborly

Provide a social atmosphere where we may enjoy our horses and each other’s company.