Basics of Leave No Trace (LNT)

Leave No Trace is a set of 7 principles used to minimize human impact on the Earth when we explore the outdoors. From a simple walk around the block to a multi-day backpacking trip, these 7 principles not only help wildlife and the outdoors but humans as well. So what are the 7 principles?

1. Plan Ahead and Prepare

Anyone who does outdoor sports will tell you that planning ahead and being prepared for everything is essential to staying safe. 

You must research where you want to go,

- Check the weather and decide whether or not it is a good time to go when you want to go.

-Make sure to find out if any permits are needed.

- Also be sure to see if there are any closures in place. As an example, in Point Reyes, CA, specific beaches and areas are closed at different times of the year due to the breeding seasons of local species.

- Make sure you know what trails you will need to take and have all the gear needed to not get lost or get help in an emergency. Some examples of this gear are a compass and paper map, a GPS system, and a first aid kit.

-Try to go with smaller groups, and if you have a larger group, find a time when the area is less likely to be used by many others.

2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces

This principle not only helps us humans stay safe but also helps nature!

-Durable surfaces are gravel, established trails, campsites, dry grasses, or rocks.

-Camp at least 200ft away from lakes and streams so as not to pollute the water and disturb wildlife.

-In popular areas: stick to the trail and avoid creating new trails by walking in a single file line, use pre-existing campsites, and avoid walking or camping on vegetation. 

-In not-so-popular areas: avoid creating new trails by walking dispersly and avoid areas where impact is being made on the area (ex. a trail created by repeatedly walking over an area again and again).

3. Dispose of Waste Properly 

It is important to properly dispose of waste not only for the health of other humans but for the animals as well.

-Pack up all leftover food or trash and dispose of it properly. This is so no wildlife gets sick or develops bad habits (depending on the area, you may need to dig a hole to dispose of food or pack it in your pack along with trash).

-If possible, use available bathroom facilities; otherwise, human waste must be disposed of in a cat hole 6-8in deep and covered up at least 200ft from any water source. Any toilet paper and feminine hygiene products should be packed out.

-Only use biodegradable soap to wash dishes or yourself, and dispose of used water at least 200ft away from any water source.

4. Leave What You Find

While nature is beautiful, it is important to leave everything as it was found, as each thing plays a role in the ecosystem.

-Instead of touching or taking things, opt to take pictures or create drawings to remember what you saw.

-Taking any plants, minirals/rocks, or animals from their home is dangerous as they could become an invasive species.

-Do not build anything unless it is an emergency situation.

5. Minimize Campfire Impacts

Fire is a powerful source of energy, and we must take the necessary precautions to avoid any accidents. 

-If possible, use a stove for cooking and battery/solar lanterns for light rather than a campfire.

-Keep fires small and contained to a clear area to avoid wildfires (if permitted).

-Make sure that all wood is burned to ash, watered down, and mixed until they are cool to the touch (don't actually touch the ashes; simply hold your hand above them, and if you feel heat, there is still a risk they will light again).

6. Respect Wildlife

Ultimately, we are visitors of nature, and it is home to all the animals and wildlife that live there. So, just as if we were to go visit someone's house, we need to be respectful of their space.

-NEVER approach wildlife; watch from a distance.

-NEVER EVER feed wildlife; feeding them does more harm than good.

-Keep pets under control or leave them at home.

-Protect yourself from unnecessary wildlife encounters by keeping food and trash stored away properly. 

-If possible, avoid going to certain areas during sensitive times (ex. mating season, birth of baby animals, or winter)

7. Be Considerate of Others

Exploring nature is supposed to be fun, so to provide the best experience for yourself and others, be considerate. 

-Respect other visitors; avoid yelling, talking loudly, or playing loud music.

-Be courteous to others on the trail; always offer others to go past you on the trail by moving to the side or let others know you are coming by on their left or right. 

That's all for this post, I hope you learned something new!*

    *All information was gathered from personal experience, the National Parks Service, or Leave No Trace.