LOCALadk Magazine

Fall 2018 LOCALadk Magazine 5 LOCALadk Leave No Trace ADKs A message from the Department of Environmental Conservation Hiking, camping, paddling, and fishing are only a few of the many outdoor activities you can enjoy in the Adiron- dacks. While recreation is highly encouraged, it's up to all of us to do our part in preser ving these pristine lands. By fol- lowing the seven Leave No Trace Principles, you can help en- sure your own safety and the longevity of the Adirondacks. 1. Plan and Prepare Ahead Whenever you embark on an outdoor adventure, make sure you are well prepared. Not just for the trip you have planned, but for the unexpected as well. Each trip has its own list of needs, but there are some standard supplies that should accompany you on ever y trip, including food, water, a first aid kit, a flashlight or headlamp, a compass, and a map of the area you're headed to. Being prepared also means wear- ing appropriate clothing and footwear for the activity and weather, researching the area you'll be in, sharing your trip plans with an emergency contact, and signing in and out of all trail registers. 2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces When it comes to wilderness adventures, there's nothing wrong with taking the beaten path. In fact, it's much friend- lier to the environment. When hiking, stick to existing paths as opposed to forging your own way. Your footsteps will cause less damage on a well-trodden, compact path than they would on loose, fresh soil. The same goes for setting up camp. Designated camping spots are more durable than sur- rounding land and are often structurally enhanced to lessen the effects of erosion. 3. Dispose of Waste Properly No matter how much we tr y to minimize our waste, we will always generate some! Bring waste bags on your outdoor ex- cursions so you can pack away recyclables and trash for prop- er disposal once you return home. When it comes to human waste, dig a 6- to 8-inch hole, away from trails, put all waste in the hole, and fill the hole back in when you're done. 4. Leave What You Find Let memories and photographs be the only souvenirs you take with you. While it can be tempting to pick wildflowers or pocket smooth pebbles, nature belongs in nature, not on a shelf. Leave all organic matter where you find it. This helps preser ve the local ecosystem and lets others enjoy the sights as well. 5. Minimize Campfire Impacts Campfires aren't just cozy - they can be practical for warmth and cooking, too. That said, they must be managed with care. Build fires in a contained environment away from flammable debris, keep fires small, and have water on hand to douse rouge flames. Before you turn in for the night, make sure your fire has completely died out and spread the ashes to avoid rekindling. 6. Respect Wildlife Encountering animals in the wild can be an exciting experi- ence. Just remember you are a stranger in their home. Show wildlife neighbors the same respect you would human neigh- bors. Give all animals generous space and leave their habitat as you found it. After all, good visitors are more likely to be invited back! 7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors The Adirondacks are for ever yone to explore and enjoy re- sponsibly. Help your fellow adventurers have the best expe- rience possible by respecting their space, keeping noise to a minimum, cleaning up after yourself, and sharing trails. By respecting each other and the land, we can enjoy the Adiron- dacks of today and preser ve it for future generations.

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