Leave No Trace



LEAVE NO TRACE PRINCIPLES

 Whether on the water, taking a break or camping along the shore. Always practice “Leave No Trace” principles


  • Know the rules, regulations and special concerns for the area you'll be paddling.
  • Make sure you obtain and keep necessary permits with you at all times.
  • Prepare for extreme weather, hazards and emergencies.
  • Repackage food and gear to minimize waste.
  • Use and be proficient with maps, compass and preferably a GPS to avoid using paint or flags to mark your trail.
  • When possible, use existing campsites.
  • When leaving, inspect your campsite and break areas for trash or spilled foods. Pack out all trash, leftover food and litter. Always leave 
    break sites, campsites and paddling trails cleaner than you found them.
  • Deposit solid human waste in catholes dug a minimum of 6 inches deep, and when possible, at least 200 feet from water, camp and trails. Cover and disguise the cathole when finished.
  • Pack out hygiene products.
  • To wash yourself or your dishes, when possible carry water 200 feet away from the shoreline and use small amounts of biodegradable soap. Scatter strained dishwater.
  • If fires are permitted, use established fire rings.
  • Keep fires small. Use only sticks from the ground that can be broken by hand.
  • Make sure all fires burn to ash, put out campfires completely, then scatter cool ashes.
  • Examine, but do not touch cultural or historic structures and artifacts.
  • Leave rocks, plants and other natural objects as you find them.
  • Avoid introducing or transporting non-native species: Clean paddle craft and trailers off between trips.
  • Do not build cairns, structures, or furniture.
  • Be considerate of others.