As the holiday season approaches and we all jump on the road to visit family or set out our camping trips, it's increasingly important to practice Leave No Trace principles to minimise our impact on the environment.

Leave No Trace is a set of guidelines that help outdoor enthusiasts minimise their impact on the environment:

1. Plan Ahead and Prepare:
   • Know the regulations and restrictions of the area you're visiting.
   • Prepare for changing weather conditions.
   • Pack the appropriate gear and supplies.
2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces:
   • Stay on designated trails and campsites.
   • Avoid walking on fragile vegetation.
   • Choose campsites that are already established.
3. Dispose of Waste Properly:
   • Pack out all trash, including food scraps and litter.
   • Use designated outhouses or bury human waste.
   • Pack out toilet paper and hygiene products.
4. Leave What You Find:
   • Resist the urge to collect rocks, plants, or other natural objects.
   • Leave cultural artefacts and historical sites as you found them.
5. Minimize Campfire Impacts:
   • Use existing fire rings, or create a small, contained campfire.
   • Only use firewood from designated sources.
   • Fully extinguish your campfire before leaving.
   • Be sure fires are safe in the area/climate you're in.
6. Respect Wildlife:
   • Observe wildlife from a distance.
   • Never feed wildlife.
   • Store food and scented items properly to avoid attracting animals.
7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors:
   • Yield to other users on trails.
   • Let others enjoy their outdoor experience.
   • Be courteous and respectful.

By following these principles, we can help preserve our natural areas for future generations. Remember, every small action can make a big difference.

To find out more: https://lnt.org/why/7-principles/