Leave No Trace

What does Leave No Trace mean?

The core idea is to leave natural areas in the same or better condition than you found them so that future generations can also experience and enjoy the beauty of these places.

What is the purpose of the Leave No Trace program?

The Leave No Trace program serves several important purposes, all centered around promoting responsible outdoor ethics and sustainable recreation. The primary goals and purposes of the Leave No Trace program include:

1. Environmental Conservation: The program aims to minimize the impact of human activities on natural environments. By encouraging outdoor enthusiasts to follow specific principles and practices, Leave No Trace helps protect ecosystems, wildlife habitats, and sensitive landscapes.
2. Preservation of Wilderness Character: Leave No Trace seeks to preserve the natural and wilderness character of outdoor spaces. This involves maintaining the integrity of landscapes, avoiding unnecessary alterations, and preventing degradation caused by human activities.
3. Sustainable Recreation: The program promotes outdoor recreation in a sustainable manner, ensuring that people can enjoy natural areas without causing long-term harm to the environment. This involves educating individuals on how to responsibly engage in activities such as hiking, camping, and other outdoor pursuits.
4. Education and Awareness: Leave No Trace is a comprehensive educational program. It raises awareness about the impact of human activities on the environment and provides practical guidelines for minimizing that impact. Through education, the program aims to foster a sense of responsibility and stewardship among outdoor enthusiasts.
5. Cultural and Ethical Values: Leave No Trace encourages ethical behavior in outdoor settings. It emphasizes values such as respect for nature, consideration for other visitors, and a commitment to preserving the beauty and health of natural spaces.
6. Collaboration and Partnerships: The program works with land management agencies, outdoor organizations, and the public to create a collective effort in promoting responsible outdoor practices. Collaborative initiatives help ensure that Leave No Trace principles are integrated into outdoor recreation policies and practices.

Overall, the purpose of the Leave No Trace program is to provide a framework for individuals to enjoy the outdoors while minimizing their impact on the environment. By adopting these principles, people contribute to the conservation of natural spaces and help maintain the health and beauty of outdoor environments for current and future generations.

What is the 7 principles of Leave No Trace?

The Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics outlines seven principles that serve as guidelines for minimizing the impact of outdoor activities on the environment. These principles are designed to promote responsible and sustainable practices in the outdoors. Here are the seven Leave No Trace principles:

1. Plan Ahead and Prepare:
   • Thoroughly research and plan your trip.
   • Be prepared for varying weather conditions.
   • Carry the necessary equipment and supplies.
   • Know the regulations and special concerns for the area you’ll be visiting.
2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces:
   • Stick to established trails and campsites to avoid damaging vegetation and soil.
   • Camp at least 200 feet away from lakes and streams to protect riparian areas.
   • Minimize your impact by walking in single file and concentrating use on existing trails.
3. Dispose of Waste Properly:
   • Pack out all trash, leftover food, and litter.
   • Dispose of human waste in a cathole dug 6 to 8 inches deep at least 200 feet away from water sources, and pack out used toilet paper.
   • Carry out hygiene products and other litter.
4. Leave What You Find:
   • Do not pick plants or disturb cultural or historical artifacts.
   • Leave rocks, plants, and other natural and cultural features as you found them.
   • Respect the environment and its inhabitants by observing wildlife from a distance.
5. Minimize Campfire Impact:
   • Use a camp stove for cooking instead of making a fire, especially in areas where fires are prohibited.
   • If fires are allowed, use established fire rings or fire pans, keep fires small, and burn only small sticks and twigs.
   • Burn all wood and coals to ash and make sure the fire is completely out before leaving.
6. Respect Wildlife:
   • Observe wildlife from a distance; do not approach or feed them.
   • Store food securely to avoid attracting wildlife to your campsite.
   • Keep a safe distance to avoid disturbing animals, particularly during sensitive times like mating, nesting, and raising young.
7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors:
   • Respect other outdoor enthusiasts and their experience.
   • Yield to others on the trail, keep noise levels down, and follow any posted rules and regulations.
   • When camping, choose campsites that are out of sight and sound of other campers when possible.

By following these Leave No Trace principles, individuals can enjoy outdoor activities while minimizing their impact on the environment, contributing to the preservation of natural spaces and the enjoyment of these areas by future generations.