BOONDOCK RESPONSIBLY ON PUBLIC LANDS

Once we develop a relationship with nature, we find ourselves concerned about its well-being. Naturally, then, a passion for the outdoors comes with a responsibility to take care of it.

All of the natural places where we recreate are impacted by our presence—from the Forest Service roads we use to access trailheads, to trails winding across ridges covered with our footprints. Whether we are hikers, hunters, four-wheelers or boondockers, the moment we set foot (or tire) on public land, we become responsible for its welfare. This is why the seven Leave No Trace (LNT) principles were created: to protect the outdoors from our recreational activities.

The leave no trace concept came about in the early 1970s when the U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, and National Park Service started