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LEAVE NO TRACE - OUTDOOR ETHICS

(from Madison Ranger District guidelines)

 

    • Please show your respect and care for the Forest by practicing the "Leave No Trace Land Ethic", especially when heading into the backcountry. By doing so, you will not only help preserve naturalness for those who follow but also minimize the need for increased regulation and restriction.

     

    The Seven Principles of Leave No Trace

     

    Plan Ahead And Prepare:

    • Call ahead to learn and know the regulations and special concerns for the area you will visit.
    • Repackage food into reusable containers.

     

    Camp and Travel on Durable Surfaces:

     

    On the trail

    • Stay on designated trails when possible. Do not cut switchbacks.
    • When traveling cross country, choose the most durable surfaces available.
    • Don't blaze or hang ribbons to mark off trail routes. Use a map and compass or GPS instead.

     

    At camp

     

    • Choose an already well established campsite if available rather than an unused or lightly used site.
    • Keep pollutants out of water by camping 200 feet (70 steps) from lakes and streams.

     

    Dispose of Waste Properly -

     

    A. Pack It In. Pack It Out:

    • Pack out everything that you packed in. Remember, cigarette butts are litter too.
    • Pick up and pack out all spilled food.
    • Please remember that tin foil does not bum. Please pack it out.

     

    B. Properly Dispose of What You Can't Pack Out:

    • Deposit human waste in catholes dug 6 to 8 inches deep and at least 200 feet from water, trails, and campsites. Cover and disguise when done.
    • Keep soap out of water sources. Wash yourself and dishes away from lakes and streams. Scatter strained dishwater.

     

    Leave What You Find: Preserve the Past

     

    • Leave rocks, plants and historical artifacts as you find them.
    • Good campsites are found and not made. Do not alter sites by trenching around { tents or constructing permanent improvements.
    • Avoid introducing non-native plants. Remember that certified weed free feed is required.

     

    Minimize the Use and Impacts of Fire:

     

    • Campfires can cause lasting impacts. Always carry a lightweight stove for cooking.
    • Where fires are permitted, use established fire rings, fire pans, or build a mound fire.
    • Gather wood from dead and down sources only. Do not break branches from trees.
    • Put fires out completely and pick up all unburned trash from fire pits.

     

    Respect Wildlife:

     

    • Give animals a wide berth, especially during breeding, nesting and birthing seasons. Observe from a distance with binoculars.
    • Store food securely and keep garbage and food scraps away from animals so they won't acquire bad habits and lose their fear of humans. Help keep wildlife wild!

     

    Be considerate of other visitors:

     

    • Step to the downhill side of the trail when encountering pack stock.

     

    For more information about Leave No Trace, call 1-800-332-4100.

     

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