Travel and Camp / Minimize Fire Impact

Principle 2 of the Leave No Trace Guide is Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces. 

It may be fun to go "Off Script" or "Off Roading" but this type of exploring is not conducive to the natural environment.  It is for this very reason that local, State, and National parks are developed.  Roads and walkways are well maintained and available for all people.  The environment around is viewable from these useful additions to the park area. 

Principle 2

Principle 5 of  the Leave No Trace Guide is Minimize Campfire Impact

A big part of outdoor fun is a campfire.  Smores and laughter ensues when a group is brought together by a fire. 

How do we protect our environment when there is a want or need for a great campfire? 

First is good placement.  A fire ring / pan or a well prepared area is a must for any campfire. 

Additionally where did the wood come from for the fire?  It is SO very important to not chop down existing trees for wood, instead fallen wood or LOCAL firewood brought with the group is a good idea.  Why must the wood be local?  Well the simple fact is that there are incests and diseases that vary regionally or by area and when wood in brought to a new area the risk of transporting even unseen or unknown issues to a new place is high. 

Also a water source, even if its just a water bucket, is necessary.  I simple gust of wind could blow a spark and create a huge unintended problem.  A quick and simple way to eliminate this possible issue is quick access to water and good supervision of the fire. 

Principle 5

I chose to introduce these two principles together because I feel there is so much overlap in needed actions for each principle.  I think that a lot of thought and forethought need to be used when participating in these activities and just introducing these principles is a great way to help thinkers and doers. 

Enjoy the outdoors!