When visiting National, State, and Local parts what is one thing that seems to often be overlooked? For me I am amazed at how many people make nature items into souvenirs. Pine cones, rocks, sand, and many other items able to be picked up while walking around. Sure to the person it seems like just one item it wont hurt anything, but when there are thousands upon thousands of visitors the just one thing adds up very quickly. In fact in the information from these parks it is always reminded that it is against the law to take items from the park.
Truly whats the big deal. Well the big deal is that every item within the area is part of what makes all the parts of the park live the way it has evolved over time to live. If any part of this environment is lost or destroyed then the "thing" depending on it cant continue the way it is meant to.
Pictures are the best souvenir. Not the actual item.
Here are a few personal pictures I have taken while visiting some great places in the US. No rock or bottle of sand could invoke the memories like these pictures do.
 | |
| Grand Canyon National Park - Near Bright Angel Fault Line |
 | |
| Yellowstone National Park - Lower Falls |
 |
| Key Largo Bridge, Key Largo Florida |
For more information about leave what you find: Leave What You Find
Okay, so this isn't about leaving things behind in nature but it made me think of "Leave no trace" practices. It was a really interesting story! http://hereandnow.wbur.org/2014/04/08/love-locks-bridges
ReplyDelete