By Jane Bachrach
There’s no denying that the fall colors in Carbondale are spectacular. The breathtaking blankets of yellow, with smatterings of reds and oranges, come together to provide a landscape that is a photographer’s dream.
Although the colors weren’t as brilliant as usual this year, we can guarantee that they will be unusual during fall, 2011. After all, 250 black and white border collies will be here to compete in the 2011 USBCHA (United States Border Collie Handlers Association) National Sheepdog Finals at the Strang Ranch.
The competition, which will be held Sept. 13-18, 2011, promises to attract contestants and spectators from all over the U.S. and Canada.
Initial preparations for the event will begin next weekend, Oct. 16-18, when 250 sheep (don’t start counting) belonging to Calvin Roberts from Silt, will be transported to the Strang Ranch for a sort of rehearsal for the 2011 event.
Though it is just a rehearsal trials, approximately 60 handlers and their dogs from all over the western U.S. will come to town to compete. According to Bridget Strang, who sits on the committee for the upcoming sheepdog trials, there will be a practice pen and this trial will be “beginner friendly.”
Another trials will be held next year, Strang said.
The 2011 National Sheepdog Finals Committee members are Strang, Ellen Nieslanik and Dan Keeton. Strang Ranch and the Aspen Valley Land Trust are the co-hosts and the proceeds from the finals will go to AVLT.
Strang is a relative newcomer to the sport and has two border collies of her own that she’s training. Although her experience and expertise is in training and competing with horses, it appears as if she is also getting “hooked” on competing with her sheepdogs.

Sniff out the trials

Spectators are encouraged to attend the rehearsal trial on Oct. 16, 17 and 18 at the Strang Ranch. Admission is free and there will be a food concession. Bring your lawn chairs, but unless you’re competing, dogs are adamantly not allowed.
The Strang Ranch is located on County Road 102. Take Catherine Store Road up to Missouri Heights, turn right on CR 102 and the ranch is the first on the left. Don’t miss these trials; the Strang Ranch is a lot closer than Meeker.