CRAGS (Climbing Resource Advocates for Greater Sacramento) recently hosted the Reel Rock Film Fest at Sacramento Pipeworks as a fundraiser for their advocacy activities. The crowd was estimated at over 150 people and after all expenses, they managed to raise slightly over $1,200. Most of this will go toward hosting the Reel Rock again next year.

Of issues the group is working on, CRAGS Chairman Brian Poulson writes: "Right now, most of our energy is focused on re-opening climbing access in the Auburn State Recreation Area (ASRA). Climbing was banned in the park in 2003 when a climber died there performing a rope jumping stunt. The Auburn Quarry, located within the ASRA, is a spectacular place with about 50 established routes, and potential for over 100 more. The entire area sits just above some amazing swimming holes in the American River and for a backyard crag, is an impressive place. It is truly a tragedy that we lost climbing access to the area, though to date, CRAGS has made some progress. The Auburn City Council recently adopted a resolution drafted by CRAGS, admonishing the ASRA administration and the United States Bureau of Reclamation, to re-open the park for climbers. Both the Auburn City Council and the Mayor were whole heartedly on our side. CRAGS also drafted and adopted a climbing management plan that it submitted to the ASRA administration to guide it in its development of a updated general management plan. Aside from our efforts to improve climbing access, we also hope to continue to help bring the local climbing community together for events that promote friendship and camaraderie like the Reel Rock."

Labels: ASRA, Auburn Quarry, CRAGS