Coexist in Camp

COEXIST IN CAMP How do you feel knowing there is wildlife just outside your tent? Does it change if the animal is small or large? A carnivore or a pollinator? Coexisting starts when we examine our own perceptions and attitudes that shape the ways we interact with people and animals alike.

CAMP WITH CREATURES IN MIND

Whether you are backpacking in a remote area of the North Cascades or relaxing with friends by the lake, remember you are sharing the forest with creatures that live here beyond summer. The old adage of “leave it cleaner than when you found it” is a great place to start. Beyond leaving with your trash, there are many ways to keep your activities in balance with the needs of animals and people around you.

• Take measures to keep attractants such as food, dishes, deodorants or marshmallows in animalproof containers.

• For others enjoying the woods, listen to the sounds of nature and try to keep your camp on the quiet side once you are settled. On the flip side, it’s a good idea to make like Adele while you are hiking so you don’t surprise anyone.

• Encourage your family and friends to carpool to the trail head to keep vehicle traffic through remote areas to a minimum.

• Do you really need a campfire? Make sure you are practicing safe fire- building, especially in wildfire-prone areas of the Northwest. • Mind the trail, Fifi! Always hike with your pup on a leash to avoid encounters with wildlife, chases or lost pets. And we know you scoop that poop.

• Hands to yourself. Never approach or feed wildlife—25 yards away is a safe bet—from chipmunks to bears and elk, it’s best to never teach wildlife to associate humans with food. It’s for their safety, and yours.

• Avoid hiking at dawn or dusk if you can—that's the time a lot of critters are on the move.

• Do you know what to do if you run into a bear, snake or cougar? What about an elk herd? Do some research before you go so you are prepared to share the forest.

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