I saw this while reading the Mountain Hardwear Blog. The article is about the gear companies attempts to spread the word about the Leave No Trace code of ethics for conduct in the backcountry. I’m sure most of you have already seen or read the code of conduct, but it reminds us of things we should, and shouldn’t, do while out in the wilderness.
Mountain Hardwear, who makes some great gear I might add, has attached special tags to more than 7000 gear items, including packs, bags, and tents, that sold this past Spring, and they’re planning to do the same next Spring. The thought was that it might make some of us stop, and think, about our impact on the environment when we are out on our various adventures.
If you didn’t happen to get your hands on the tag this past Spring, and next Spring seems too far off, you can print your own “Leave No Trace” tag from this handy PDF document. But as the Mountain Hardwear bloggers point out, be sure to print it on recycled paper.
I’ve known, and strived to adhere to, the Leave No Trace code of conduct for a number of years. It’s a great set of rules for spending time in the backcountry, but leaving it as you found it. It’s a good program, that simply put, means pack out everything you pack in, do no harm while you’re there, and always leave no trace or your passing. Good rules to live by.
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Nice Post. I always try to do the same. Actually, I try to do a bit more. When I get someplace camping I will spend a good 20-30 minutes picking stuff up from people there before myself…then when I leave I take more out with me as well.
Nice post and thanks for bringing this to everyone’s attention.
The Leave No Trace program is a good one, and most people I know put it into good practice, like you do with packing out other people’s trash. I think it’s important that we bring that stuff out with us, even if it’s not ours.
It’s just a shame that not everyone feels the same way.
I have struggled with very strong beliefs about leaving no trace and how these fit with the Summit Stones…
That has lead me to be very aware of placing these in only certain spots… Probably 99% are only placed at summits registers, trailheads, established campsites, or just on the windshield of a fellow adventurer…
I hope that they are received in the spirit they were given and then carried away leaving no trace…
I am conscious that not everyone feels the way I do and may see this as intrusive to their outdoor experience…
While their may be an over 100 year tradition of taking and leaving such things at summit registers… Again, not all adventurers are such climbers…
I’ve been thinking of putting up a post on this to invite comment… I don’t want to shy away from such feedback…
DSD
DSD,
I’m guessing that you’ll find overwhelming support for your approach. Your Summit Stones and the accompanying “Adventure Muse” guide are welcome gifts for those who find them, and a far cry from trash that others have been known to leave behind.
I can understand and respect your hesitancy on placing your stones, but I doubt you’ll find many people who would be against your actions.