JACKSON, Wyo. — The USDA Forest Service has shared tips for being a good steward while camping in the great outdoors.
“While the vast majority of forest visitors respect the rules, we are hoping to reach everyone with these important reminders to keep our forests safe and beautiful for all,” the Forest Service said via Facebook.
The following is a list of good stewardship practices:
Campfire safety: Fires that appear to be going out — even those in established fire rings — can still carry a lot of heat, as proven by this abandoned campfire that a law enforcement officer measured at 715 degrees Fahrenheit.
Always use the “drown, stir, feel” method to make sure a fire is completely cold before leaving. Drown the campfire with lots of water. Make campfire soup by stirring water with ash and burned materials. Feel materials with a bare hand — if it’s too hot to touch, it’s too hot to leave.
Respect trees: Cutting branches or live trees harms the environment and is against regulations. Let’s keep the forests thriving.
Pack it in, pack it out: Trash, especially glass and aluminum, doesn’t belong in fire rings. Always pack out all trash and leave the campsite cleaner than it was found.
“Let’s all do our part to protect the places we love,” the Forest Service said in its post. “Remember to leave no trace!”
