Bob is well known at the ranch and in Northern New Mexico for his work with livestock, agriculture, and wildlife. He worked at Philmont seasonally for 6 summers and full-time for 44 years. The majority of this full-time career was spent as Philmont’s Ranch Superintendent.
In this episode, Bob focuses on the history of Philmont’s bear policies and procedures, in conjunction with New Mexico Game and Fish law. In 1986, several serious bear attacks occurred at Philmont. These attacks set into motion the need for more defined and strategic bear practices at Philmont, many of which are still used today - including backcountry bear box trash receptacles, bear cables in campsites, and the sump for waste water. It also meant the establishment of the 10-34 bear sighting form and a designated bear researcher position.
I want to thank Bob for sharing this history and dedicating a large portion of his career to the bear.
Philmont Experience:
1967 - 1972 - Horse Department seasonal staff
1972 fall - Hired by Bob Knox full time as cowboy
Mid 1970's - Became Cattle Foreman
1980 - 2016 Hired as Ranch Superintentdent by Paul Claussen
Notable Mentions:
Bob Knox
Paul Claussen
Lloyd Knutson
Al Account
Steve Hararro
Gene Pompeo
Don Jones
Steve Zimmer
Hap Blacksten
Jeff Ogata
Boss Sanchez
Ben Vargas
Rod Taylor
Chuck Enloe
Brian Hobrock
Leo Martinez
Aaron Ricklefs
Fred Cicneros
Rachel Ricklefs