Groups that conduct a trek on the ranch provide their own leadership. This includes a Trail Boss, with Company Captains and Ma’s and Pa’s. They also plan their own itinerary and food. The ranch can supply examples and ideas but the groups determine what is best for their youth. The ranch does require the groups to provide their own support staff that includes medical personal, people to transport food, water and porta-johns.
Planning
• Attend training session on the Ranch 3rd week of August.
• Review the route.
• Conduct a training trek for Ma’s & Pa’s and support staff.
Medical
Groups must have at least one medically trained people for every hundred people on the trek. These emergency health care professionals include doctors, nurses, paramedics or EMT's. The medical support staff supplies their own medication, medical release forms, communication (two way radios and cell phones) and first aid kits. They should establish an emergency action plan for their group and be prepared to handle different medical situations.
Transportation
Groups must strive to minimize vehicle traffic and use buses when it is feasible. Each group's support staff will be responsible for moving the water trailer and porta johns to the campsites and returning them to their pick up point. At least two of these vehicles need to be four wheel drive with a complete sets of tire chains. Drivers need to be experienced at driving on slick muddy roads and maintain safe driving speeds. The support staff is also responsible for maintaining ranch security by ensuring that gates are closed and locked properly. (link to Pioneer Trek Leaders Handbook)
