GRAND TETON NATIONAL PARK — Ever had a change of heart?
One visitor to Grand Teton National Park (GTNP) reevaluated their decision to take home a handful of rocks from Jenny Lake. That visitor sent the rocks back to the park along with a letter explaining they “realized that something as small as taking a rock can have a big impact when everyone does it,” GTNP shared to social media.
“Dear Park Rangers,” the letter begins. “Please accept these rocks, which were accidentally taken from Jenny Lake. I now understand that natural items should stay in the park to protect the ecosystem, and I want to return them to their proper home. Thank you for your time and for taking care of Grand Teton National Park.”
The park took this opportunity to issue a public service announcement about how small choices made by park users can have a big impact on the environment. GTNP also noted that taking natural or cultural resources from the park is illegal.
To leave the park in good shape for the future, GTNP advises adhering to the following stewardship tips:
- Park only in designated areas. Don’t create a parking spot.
- Stay on designated trails. Shortcuts can damage sensitive vegetation and create new trails.
- Store food. Keep food and scented items within arm’s reach or properly stored, and never feed wildlife.
- Pack out any trash. What’s brought into the park needs to be taken back out.
- Recycle when possible. Use designated recycling dumpsters in the front country.
“Together, these small choices help protect Grand Teton for the next generation,” GTNP posted. “Take only photos. Leave only footprints. And thank you for helping care for this place.”
