Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics

Non profit organization established in 1994 to promote and inspire responsible outdoor recreation through education, research and partnerships. Their goal is that outdoor users may enjoy our natural wonders without diminishing the experience for the next visitor.

7 Principals of Leave No Trace Plan Ahead and Prepare Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces Dispose of Waste Properly Leave What You Find Minimize Campfire Impacts Respect Wildlife Be Considerate of Other Visitors

#1 Plan Ahead and Prepare Educate Yourself - Know your destination and route's, regulations, hazards, topography, and facilities. Plan for Your Group - Match skills, behavior, and group size with the type of destination. Schedule Your Trip in Advance - Obtain permits, make reservations, check tide tables, obtain and study nautical charts, and topographic maps, and leave a float plan. Plan Your Meals - Avoid leftovers and repackage food in reusable containers to minimize waste. Use Proper Gear - Be prepared for weather, hazards, and emergencies. Bring appropriate attire and gear, emergency equipment, food, and water.

#2 Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces Hike at low tide on hard sand, gravel or rock in the intertidal zone. Minimize impact at campsites – stay on established trails around camps. Camp on established, un-vegetated campsites, 200 ft from lakes or streams.

#3 Dispose of Waste Properly Pack Out Your Garbage Properly Dispose of Waste Water Practice Good Sanitation

#4 Leave What You Find Take only pictures, leave only footprints. Leave flowers, rocks and all other natural features undisturbed.

#5 Minimize Campfire Impacts Always bring a backpacking stove to cut down on impacts to fragile lands. If fires are necessary build in safe spot with existing fire ring.

#6 Respect Wildlife Stay at 200 yards from whales, seals and birds. Do not feed wildlife, pack out all uneaten food. Store food in well-sealed containers, suspended from tree branches at least 12 feet above the ground and 10 feet away from the trunk.

#7 Be Considerate of Other Visitors Respect other visitors' desire for solitude. Keep noise down so that others may experience solitude. If you must bring music players, bring headphones. Camp in sheltered areas, out of sight from others. Use bright gear and apparel only when on the water.

Any Questions?

More Information