Potomac Appalachian Trail Club. The PATC’s Mountaineering Section experienced an exciting year in 1988. Growth in membership and broadened activities were the major news for the group. Continuing a national trend, section membership once again grew by 10%. This was partly due to recruiting activities and outreach programs designed to promote safety and the conservation aspects of the sport, and partly due to increased interest. The section worked in conjunction with REI, a local retailer, who had designated March as its “climbing” month. Seminars on climbing were presented at the store and arranged through the section.

The section also sponsored the First Annual Washington Mountain Film Festival, which enjoyed a standing-room-only opening. This event was a huge success. Plans for the second film festival, to be held in March 1989, are well underway.

The Carderock Conservation Project, designed to assist the National Park Service with its management of one of the area’s finest climbing spots, was another section project during 1988. Several work trips were organized, during which over 20 tons of rock were broken up and used to stabilize an eroding river bank. Other trail work was also accomplished.

A major slide show was hosted in the Fall, with Glenn Porzak being invited to give his presentation on Makalu.

Climbing was fitted in along the way. Members were very active throughout the world, and although weekends were devoted to local rock climbing, several trips were taken to the great ranges of the world. As educational activities are important to the section, renewed focus on climbing instruction saw many newcomers introduced to the arts of climbing. Members also explored a few new areas closer to home.

In all, 1988 was a great year for the PATC Mountaineering Section. Virtually every member contributed in some way to the success and activities of the group. The coming year promises to have the same level of activity, and with it hopes of success.

Stuart Pregnall, Chairman