By Katey Palmer and Eric Holle
On our recent hike up Mount Ripinsky, a lone dog appeared behind us. Soon three friends appeared, one the owner of that dog and another with a leashed dog. We continued to the alpine and noticed nine mountain goats on a snow patch a half mile away. The unleashed dog suddenly started running toward them. We yelled to the owner, unaware of the goats, and she began calling her dog, which was already halfway to them. It slowed but continued. Two nannies with new kids fled. Continuous calling eventually caused the dog to return uphill where it was leashed. The owner was aware of the impacts dogs have on wildlife and was apologetic.
Whether or not you see goats, they are present. Alpine meadows from Ripinsky to Tukgahgo are the habitat of 1 of 8 geographically distinct goat populations in Haines.
Haines Huts will soon erect a cabin on Chilly Ridge for recreation in that habitat. Goats, unlike dogs, lack the luxury of returning to safe, food-filled homes. They cannot safely cross valleys to reach alpine habitat free from human incursion. They live “on the edge” and can perish or fail to reproduce if stressed or displaced.
Human presence can cause goats to flee, wasting valuable energy. Canines are a greater threat. It is critical that dogs are leashed or left at home. Recreation for humans and dogs must not put wildlife at risk. It is incumbent upon Tukga-Hut managers to educate users about their potential impacts.