POCATELLO — The Portneuf River Back Country Horsemen reported a successful statewide convention in Pocatello, thanks to the incredible support from the greater Pocatello community and Idaho State University. About 130 horsemen and horsewomen, and family members, traveled from across Idaho to attend the March convention at the ISU Pond Student Union on the Pocatello campus.
The 2026 convention theme was “Preserving Access and Ensuring Sustainability for the Next Generation of Trail Riders.” Over two days, participants handled organizational business, connected with members of other chapters and discussed best practices and current issues affecting Idaho’s equine trail-riding community. Convention speakers included Kevin Lloyd, Bureau of Land Management wild horse and burro program specialist; Mack Long, chair of the Montana Back Country Horsemen; Chad Hudson, United States Forest Service forest supervisor, Bridger Teton National Forest; and Brian Dilenge, Idaho Parks and Recreation Eastern Trails specialist. Each chapter brought a display highlighting its history and recent activities. The convention concluded with live and silent auctions and a banquet.
ISU provided an excellent venue, along with strong staff support and valuable campus resources. Attendees explored the campus and visited the Idaho Museum of Natural History using passes provided by the museum. Bengal Printing produced posters and banners, while Lisa Woodland, ISU scheduling and event coordinator, worked diligently with the convention planning committee throughout the year leading up to the event. ISU outdoor recreation students judged the photo and individual chapter display contests.
Local and regional sponsors, donors and chapter volunteers were key to the success of the event. Contributions were substantial in both number and value and included donations from our sponsors, agricultural, equine equipment, feed, veterinary horse-care, companies and local businesses. Through this support, the Portneuf River Chapter was able to cover event costs and provide funds to support future equine trail maintenance projects across Idaho.
BCHI is part of Back Country Horsemen of America, which has chapters in about 31 states. The organization promotes responsible enjoyment of horses and mules in America’s back country while working to protect and maintain public lands for recreational stock use. Members volunteer their time, skills, and horses to support land management agencies with trail maintenance and stewardship.
Notably, Idaho was the second state after Montana to establish a Back Country Horsemen chapter. That first Idaho chapter was the Salmon River chapter, founded in 1978.
For more information about Portneuf River Back Country Horsemen activities, events and involvement, call or text John McNabb at 208-201-6624 or visit PortneufRiverBCH.org.