Spring Run Off!

Ever year North Idaho, and other mountainous regions, awake from the slumber of winter.  Once quiet landscapes awake to the sounds of spring.  Birds and other wild creatures are busy rearing their young.  From macroinvertabre to large mammals, spring is a fantastic time to venture out.  Up here in the high country of North Idaho 'ole man winter seems to want to hang out longer pressuring backcountry travelers to often opt for a set of skis rather than hiking boots.  Still, any way you slice it, springtime can be an excellent time to explore the wonders of our natural ecosystems.  

As the snows yield way to mud there are other things to consider -- MINIMIZING YOUR IMPACT.  While this seems like a pretty simple practice, it can be challenging if you don't want your feet to be a mucky mess the entire way to your destination.  But, before we get into the "how" let's talk about "why".  Why is it important that we minimize our impact in the first place?  

Well, for starters, remember all the creatures we were talking about in the beginning of this entry?  Now, imagine a bunch of folks romping and stomping through you living room, bedroom, kitchen, etc -- say times a thousand!  As dramatic is that example is to some degree, it is relevant in a natural ecosystem.  Spring is a time for yearling ungulates (I have always wanted to use that word in writing), and other plants and animals, to get "their legs underneath them".  These efforts take significant effort and crucial habitat for forging and shelter.  Despite what we (as humans) may think is "no big deal", in terms of creating habitat loss by impacting an area, our irresponsible choices can be yield significant negative results to our flora and fauna friends.  In fact, loss of habitat (no matter how small) is one of the key problems for species to be listed as a threatened or endangered species.  

Some might say -- so what.  Imagine an ecosystem that doesn't have your favorite indengious animals and plants (they go hand and hand).  Perhaps, you are one those individuals that you enjoy hunting or watching these particular species in their natural habitat.  I know I do.  Simply put, by not conserving and preserving critical habitat we are jeoprodizing the very existance of these and other key species, which for some of us is the very thread that creates the tapestry of our environment.

So, you might be asking yourself -- "what can 1 person do about this?"  For starters, look at the list below and challenge yourself to be a better steward for this and future generations! 

1. Follow signage!  USFS, BLM and other government agencies spend a great deal of time and energy restricting critical habitat to give our 4-legged friends a fighting chance.  On most occasions these agencies will list these restrictions on their government website, maps and at trail heads.  It is our obligation to follow these restrictions and not take 2 and 4-wheeled vehicles where they don't belong.  Mountain bikes and motor bikes alike can destroy key habitat if not used responsibly.
2. Get geared up!  Purchase gear that will allow you to traverse "muddy" trails without creating a new one.  A pair of waterproof full-grain leather boots and gaiters go a long way on a spring trail.
3. Get involved!  Sign up for local organizations that support rehab work (i.e., trail crews, non-profits, government agencies.
4. Get trained!  Look for organizations which offer training, such as Leave No Trace, so you can inform yourself and those your recreate with and do so responsibly!

For more information, on Leave No Trace training visit our website.  As always, we look forward to seeing you on the trail!