PROTECT AND PRESERVE

How to Make an Impact by not Leaving One

by Brooke Rossi, guest columnist*

As someone who isn’t exactly “outdoorsy,” I never really thought about the impact my everyday outdoor activities have on the environment. That is, until my sister, your local Leave No Trace State Advocate, started sharing some of the Leave No Trace Seven Principles with me. While Leave No Trace is typically associated with camping and hiking (no thanks), the principles can easily be applied to everyday neighborhood activities as well.

One simple way I practice Leave No Trace is avoiding single-use plastics. I love this because not only do I know that I’m helping the planet while I’m out and about (or in), but I have an excuse to customize my drinkware! Win-win. Whether you’re at the pool, a festival, or even just driving in your car, bringing reusable water bottles and containers can greatly reduce waste. You’ll look cute doing it, AND no more water bottle confusion. Woo hoo!

Another way I Leave No Trace is properly disposing of garbage. This might seem like a no-brainer, but it’s important to make sure you’re disposing of waste the right way. Whether you’re on a walking tour of our area’s fantastic breweries or lounging in a neighborhood park, look for designated trash and recycling bins. Plan ahead and bring a trash bag with you outdoors (shout out to Principle #1!) and make sure to take everything when you leave. If I am out and there’s not a trash bin in sight, I’ve trained myself to put micro-trash (I didn’t know there was a name for it!), like straw and gum wrappers, in my pocket or purse and just toss them the next time I see a bin.

When it comes to taking your furry friends to the park, Leave No Trace principles Respect Wildlife and Be Considerate of Others come into play. Though I adore the scrappy squirrels of the big city, and as fulfilling as it is to see them enjoy various tasty treats (have you ever seen a squirrel munch on a slice of pizza?), Leave No Trace taught me it’s really in their best interests if we admire from a distance – and if they hold out for that stray acorn! This principle also applies to the importance of keeping all companion animals on a leash. The birds do not appreciate a rogue kitty in the park! Now my trips to the park are enjoyable and safe for all involved.

Incorporating Leave No Trace principles into everyday outdoor activities may seem small but every little bit helps. By being mindful of our actions and the impact they have on the environment, we can all do our part to protect and preserve the spaces we love.

*Brooke is the sister of Gillian Rossi, Leave No Trace State Advocate.