Parking and the PMRP
Shannon Stuart-Smith, co-founder of the RRGCC, and Kevin Downs put up the welcome sign to the PMRP in 2005.
Second in importance only to fundraising, parking is a major issue in the PMRP. In 2004, before purchasing the property and multiple discussion in court, several climbers' cars were towed from the region because they were obstucting Charmane workers. This was and still is one of the main areas of conlict with Charmane. Though Fixer and Bald Rock Fork Roads are both maintained by the county, Charmane has constructed several other raods on the Preseve to access their equipment. The roads often get quite rough and, since the county maintains the road only so often, Charmane does some maintenance of the roads so their trucks can pass through them.
It is important that you keep that in mind while driving in the PMRP. Being good neighbors help the RRGCC with discussion and helps us work with Charmane to gain respect and access.
Things to Keep in Mind While Driving in the PMRP
Drive Slowly - The roads throughout the PMRP are gravel roads. Speeding through them leads to rutting and erosion, which costs plenty of time and energy to fix.
Carpool - Less traffic means less wear and tear on the roads, more parking space, and less gas for you to waste.
Park Properly - That means park in designated parking areas only and follow the posted rules and guidelines in the area. Be sure to park off any gravel road and away from any pipes, oil wells, or other oil production equipment. If you have questions about where to park, check out the PMRP maps, one of the kiosks in the area (at Sore Heel, Drive-By, and Coal Bank Hollow), or ask someone. If you're still unsure, park or climb elsewhere. It might be inconvient for a day but it helps access for years.
Yield to Oil Workers - If you see an oil truck or car driving along, please yield the right-of-way to them. It's not easy for them to negotiate the roads as it is. Also, if there's any question that you might be in their way of access to equipment (wells, injection sites, storage tanks, etc.), park somewhere else.
