The District Ranger says we may proceed as planned, subject to normal precautions.  Wet roads might be an issue if the rain, etc. that is predicted through much of next week pans out, but Spring may have finally arrived on the prairie.  Please pay attention to the weather forecasts.  Strong, gusty winds are currently forecasted, with the chance of afternoon showers.  If the weather cooperates, we have a GO for launch next Saturday, May 7th and Sunday May 8th  from the North Site.  Expect the range and waiver (20,000’ AGL) to be operational from 9 AM until 5 PM on Saturday and 9 AM until 3 PM on Sunday.   

NCR is an Authorized Permitee of the Pawnee National Grassland.  A morning orientation briefing for participants will be held and will include a discussion of safety and emergency procedures, fire conditions and instruction, applicable rules and regulations, and what is expected of participants with regards to the use of NFS lands under our special use permit. 

Please note that all launch events will be conducted using nationally approved/accepted range safety practices.  The launching of rockets on NFS land is normally prohibited under a Forest Service Region 2 fire regulation.  The issuance of NCR’s permit allows launches to take place by exempting the Holder from that regulation for approved launch events only.  All launches, other than those conducted by the Holder during approved launch events, are outside the scope of this permit and are prohibited by Forest Service regulations. 

As always, volunteers are needed to help with range set up, operation and clean up.   

Hope to see you out on the range.