We at Climatology feel that nature and climate should be experienced first hand, out in the elements, as much as possible. With that said, we are all responsible for doing our part to protect and maintain the destinations we enjoy. We must be conscious of the impact we have on our surroundings, and this is no more important than when out in nature. Luckily, the Center for Outdoor Ethics have provided The 7 Principles of “Leave No Trace” - easy to understand guidelines that can be used in any recreational outdoor setting - to help minimize that impact. As you think about future excursions, take a look at the seven principles below before you do!‍

1. Plan Ahead & Prepare

This may sound self explanatory, but even some of the best-laid plans go astray, so it’s important to prepare for the unexpected. That starts with learning the regulations and special conditions for the area you’re visiting. Have a plan for any extreme weather, emergencies, or hazards you may encounter. Try to visit in small groups to minimize your team's impact - you can also split up large groups or avoid visiting during times of high use. Repackage food to minimize waste and bring a map & compass or GPS to eliminate the need to mark your path. 

2. Travel & Camp on Durable Surfaces

The goal here is to minimize or avoid physical damage to land and waterways around you by sticking to maintained trails and designated campsites. When stopping on a trail, make sure there’s room for other travelers to continue down the trail themselves. Set up camp at least 200 feet from waterways to allow room for wildlife to access it. In popular areas, stay compact and stick to the middle of already impacted areas. In more remote or pristine locales, spread out to prevent the creation of new trails and campsites.

3. Dispose of Waste Properly

Another principle that seems obvious, but waste of all kinds affects nature and other travelers alike. “Pack it in, pack it out” is the mantra here. Plan meals to avoid smelly garbage or spilled food, and carry plastic bags with you to haul away your trash (and anyone else’s you might find littered about). For human waste, use toilet facilities whenever possible. When that’s not an option, dig a cat hole about 6 to 8 inches deep that is at least 200 feet away from waterways, camps, and trails. Cover and disguise the hole when finished, and don’t forget to pack out the toilet paper and hygiene products. Wash yourself and dishes 200 feet away from waterways and use biodegradable soap, sparingly.

4. Leave What You Find

It may be tempting to take a souvenir with you from nature, but allowing others the same sense of discovery is the much healthier option. This means preserving the past for the future - you're welcome to photograph and examine any natural, cultural, or historic structure, but avoid touching or altering them. Avoid digging trenches for lean-tos and carving lovers’ initials into trees. The best campsites are found, not made. Lastly, while leaving what you find, it’s important to take what you’ve brought - avoid introducing any non-native species or materials.

5. Minimize Campfire Impacts

The campfire. A quintessential symbol of man’s embrace with nature. While nostalgic and a good skill to master, building campfires has degraded the natural appearance of many areas and increased the demand for firewood. This is where technology is nature’s ally. When possible, consider using a lightweight camping stove and a candle lantern for light for a trustworthy way to Leave No Trace. If you must create a fire, keep it small and use established rings, pans, or mounds. Use only downed and dead wood from the ground. Burn all the wood and coals to ash, then put out the fire completely and scatter the cool ashes. 

6. Respect Wildlife

Wildlife has long been a source of knowledge for the curious adventurer. The best way to observe wildlife and preserve it for future generations is from a distance. Do not follow or approach wildlife so they do not scare or flee, causing stress to the animals. This is even more important when they are mating, nesting, or during winter. Never feed wild animals - it may seem like a cute idea, but it can threaten their health. It alters their natural behaviors and exposes them to predators and other dangers. This also means securely storing your food and trash so an animals can’t happen upon it. Lastly, maintain control on any pets, or consider leaving them at home. 

7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors

Many people look to the outdoors for inspiration, solitude, or adventure. The most ethical way to do so is to maintain courtesy toward other visitors and help everyone enjoy the outdoors. Be courteous whenever possible. Yield to other users when sharing a trail, especially if biking. When traveling downhill, step aside to allow room for groups traveling uphill. Take breaks away from designated trails to reduce traffic jams. And when in doubt, let nature prevail: avoid loud voices, noises, and colors that will otherwise detract from another person’s experience.