High Skies in July 2016 has received the green light from the US Forest Service for this weekend, July 8th, 9th, and 10th  on the Pawnee National Grassland at NCR’s North Site.  Our waiver will be a constant 20,000’ AGL, with “windows of opportunity” for higher altitudes shots on Saturday and Sunday.  We anticipate having the range set up and ready by 9 AM on Friday, and we’ll operate until 6 PM.  On Saturday and Sunday, the range and waiver will be open at 8 AM.  The extended weather forecast calls for partly cloudy skies with characteristically light winds and comfortable to hot temperatures, and probable afternoon thundershowers.  Please remember that Range Safety is in everyone’s best interest. 

No fire restrictions are currently in place in Weld County or on the Pawnee NG, but that is subject to change and a Red Flag Warning or Fire Weather Watch would preclude launch activities.  The prairie remains green but is starting to crisp up due to recent winds and hot weather. Extra caution and vigilance will be asked of all participants.  NO “sparky” motor types allowed.

VOL_NTEER – What is missing is U.  If you have already volunteered to help with range operations, thank you.  If you haven’t, it’s not too late.  Everyone will be asked to help with Range Safety and Operations.  Lots of opportunities to help are still open.

Remember Range Etiquette.  If you find a gate closed, close it behind you.  Please stay on the authorized roads and please don’t park more than 100’ off the road at the flight line. Take as little space as necessary for your campsite.  Properly dispose of the previous flyer’s igniter wires and use Foot Recovery only.

The Pawnee National Grassland offers the ultimate in rustic, open space camping although for this event we should have a Port-a-Potty on site.  Self sufficient camping is permitted on site.  We are, however, limited to only one campfire in the established fire pit at the south end of the flight line.  Firewood is nonexistent on the prairie so contributions are welcome.  The nearest motels are in Wellington, CO, Cheyenne, WY, and Ft. Collins, CO.

Please treat our National Grassland with respect.  As is typical with camping in most public areas, we are required to remove all of our trash.  Be considerate and responsible.   If you bring it, be prepared to leave with it.  Please clean up your parking and prep area before you leave and take all of your stuff with you.  

Hope to see you out on the range.