Single Chainring Conversion
Running 1x9 is a great idea. I have done it with relatively good success. There were always times on big rides i wish i had a granny.I also intially had issues on chain drop. Because the 9 speed rear, bumpy and rocky terrain can knock the chain off when the derailleur would slap. 

To prevent chain drop on the front, you can run a bash guard, and an N-gear jump stop on the inside.