PACK IT IN PACK IT OUT
Before you hit any trail, make sure your backpack is loaded with these ten essentials. Carry each one and know how to use them.
Take care of all spaces that you’re exploring by taking all of your trash and belongings with you. A good rule of thumb is: if you brought it with you, it’s trash. Food waste and garbage can harm wildlife and the environment. Even seemingly natural food waste, such as cores, peels, and pits, are considered trash and should be taken with you. If in doubt, just pack it out!
Watch out for little pieces of trash, such as gum wrappers, twist ties, and bottle caps as well. These items seem small, but they add up to a major problem for nature and wildlife. Avoid an accidental drop by placing your trash bag in a zippered pocket.
“Pack it in, pack it out” applies to waste of all types from all creatures. When exploring with your furry companions, always carry your own poop bags and clean up after your pets while you’re on the trail. Whatever you do, please don’t leave a pet waste baggie on the trail. Even if you genuinely intend on picking it up on your way out, people forget. Instead, carry it with you until you can properly dispose of it. You can even outfit your furry buddies with their own packs so they can pack it out themselves!
Even better than packing it out is to leave a place better than you found it by safely picking up and disposing of garbage that has been left by those before you. It’s a group effort, so let’s work together to trash the trash and clean up our natural spaces!
