NRTP Board Meeting #5 Minutes - 6/1/26
Attendees:
Emily Strizich (Chair), Kenny Markwadt (Vice Chair), Leo
Schmeltzer(Treasurer), Greg Williams, Ryan Zimmer, Ben Nachlas (Secretary)
The meeting opened with a review of the last meeting’s minutes. A motion was made to adopt these minutes; it was unanimously voted to adopt.
Emily and Kenny provided an update on social media and print advertising efforts. An organic approach is being employed at the moment. We discussed various ways to “get the word out” about our efforts. We would also like to start developing a podcast to showcase and feature the challenges and successes of supporting recreation on public lands.
Discussion shifted to the upcoming National Trails Day event which is scheduled for this upcoming Saturday, June 6, at Canfield Mountain in Coeur d’Alene. Emily reported that 12 partner organizations are scheduled to participate in representation of various user groups from the local recreation communities. We talked through roles and responsibilities of those attending to ensure a safe, smooth and successful day. Event flow and coordination needs were reviewed. We also covered food, hydration, staging, and logistical priorities. There will be photography and videography coverage at the event as well. We are looking forward to a well-organized event that reflects the collaborative future that NRTP is working to build across the region.
Next was an update from Ryan to cover the June 19 IDL state video and stewardship event. The group reviewed event logistics, timeline milestones, and volunteer recruitment needs to support successful event execution. Members emphasized the importance of representation from diverse user groups and aligning visual storytelling efforts with organizational goals. Coordination with state partners, media and communications support, and equipment and staffing requirements were also discussed to ensure effective planning and implementation.
Emily shared details on plans for a possible trailhead proposed near the Baldy Mountain Shooting Range site. Coordination between Erik Bush with the City of Sandpoint is underway to facilitate scouting efforts. We discussed the long-term vision for the project, which would include a possible East-West trail, and noted the significant coordination and land use challenges that would be encountered along the way.
Leo prepared a detailed financial update for the Board and covered our current status. Payroll and reimbursement are progressing well and we debated the possibility of obtaining a business line of credit.
Emily updated the group on the potential for a Hut System in the Selkirk Crest range. We reviewed prospective models for stewardship and coordination. The scope and scale of the project are large yet the possible victories could be immense. The Board is aligned in its support of pursuing this opportunity.
A motion to adjourn was seconded and approved.