https://en.scoutwiki.org/api.php?action=feedcontributions&user=DigitalScout&feedformat=atomScoutWiki - User contributions [en]2024-03-29T09:22:37ZUser contributionsMediaWiki 1.39.5https://en.scoutwiki.org/index.php?title=Ten_Essentials&diff=30995Ten Essentials2010-01-23T01:11:21Z<p>DigitalScout: ScoutWikify, removed dead link, & scouts dont use machetes</p>
<hr />
<div>{{ThisPageWasImported}}<br />
The '''Ten Essentials''' comprise the basic equipment that many consider essential in the backcountry. These items are recommended as the very minimum materials necessary to increase the likelihood of survival when in the field. The Ten Essentials are normally carried in a small, separate waterproof container or pack so that they can always be carried on person, and are thus less likely to be lost. In the event that a hiker loses the bulk of his equipment, these ten essentials ensure that the individual will have the fundamental materials needed to have or improvise the human needs for food, shelter, and fire, and in some instances, the ability to navigate out of dangerous circumstances. Although they are referred to as the "Ten Essentials," the list is generally supplemented by a several additions, such as a plastic tarp, duct tape, sewing kit, etc.<br />
<br />
The ''Ten Essentials'' were first described in the 1930s by The Mountaineers (Pacific NW)|The Mountaineers, a hiking and mountain climbing club. Many [[hiking|hikers]], [[backpacking|backpackers]], and climbers rigorously ensure they have the ten essentials with them [http://gorp.away.com/gorp/activity/hiking/skills/teness.htm].<br />
<br />
According to the standard textbook Mountaineering: The Freedom of the Hills, the ten essentials are:<br />
# [[Map]]<br />
# [[Compass]] (optionally supplemented with a [[GPS]] receiver)<br />
# [[Sunglasses]] and [[Sunscreen]]<br />
# Extra Food and Water<br />
# Extra Clothes<br />
# [[Headlamp]]/[[Flashlight]]<br />
# [[First Aid Kit]]<br />
# [[Fire]] Starter <br />
# Matches <br />
# [[Knife]]<br />
<br />
The textbook recommends supplementing the ''ten essentials'' with:<br />
* Water treatment device (water filter or chemicals) and water bottles<br />
* [[Ice axe]] for glacier or snowfield travel (if necessary)<br />
* Repair kit, including duct tape and a basic sewing materials.<br />
* [[Insect repellent]] (or clothing designed for this purpose)<br />
* Signaling devices, such as a [[whistle]], cell phone, two-way radio, unbreakable [[signal mirror]] or flare.<br />
* Plastic tarp and rope for field expedient shelter.<br />
<br />
Not every expedition will require the use of an ''essential item''. However, carrying these basics makes sure that one is prepared for unexpected emergencies in the outdoors. For instance, if a hiker experiences a sudden snow storm, it is imperative that he have fresh clothes and fire starter to keep himself warm; otherwise it is likely that he will suffer hypothermia, and perhaps death. In most circumstances, the Ten Essentials will transform a potentially life threatening experience into a mere discomfort.<br />
<br />
== Details ==<br />
<br />
* A '''map''' and '''compass''' prevents one from getting lost in the field. Losing one's bearing in unfamiliar terrain raises the risk of anxiety and panic, and hence, physical injury. Maps that cover the relevant area in sufficient detail and dimension (topography, trails, roads, campsites, towns, etc.) and the skill and knowledge to use them are indispensable when traveling through the outdoors, especially when the place of travel lacks signage, markings or guides. Even a basic compass can help an individual find his way to safety.<br />
<br />
* A '''flashlight''' protects against physical injury when traveling in the dark. A flashlight is also useful for finding things in the pack, observing wildlife in dark crevices and folds, and for distant signaling. Extra batteries and bulbs are highly recommended.<br />
<br />
* '''Extra food and water''' can prevent or cure [[hypothermia]] and dehydration, common illness that can be serious risks in the backcountry where immediate medical response is not possible. These items also minimize the likelihood of panic. It is not recommended that one eat food when there is no water, as the body requires water to metabolize food.<br />
<br />
* '''Extra clothes''' protect against hypothermia. Multiple layers of clothes are generally warmer than a single thick garment. By having the ability to simply take off a layer of clothes, one can avoid overheating, which can cause sweat and dampen clothing. Moreover, a change into dry clothes is the fastest way to become warm. Extra clothing is also useful for protection from the elements, including thorns, insects, sun, wind, and often cold. If necessary, they can be cut into bandages, used as a tree climbing aid, made into hotpads, pillows, towels, or makeshift ropes. For overnight trekking, one should keep one set of clothes dry for wear in the evening. One can wear the "day" clothes during the next day's hike when they are drier.<br />
<br />
* '''Sunglasses''' help prevent [[snowblindess]]. Sunlight, especially when reflected in snow, can seriously limit visibility, and jeopardize one's ability to travel safely.<br />
<br />
* A '''first aid kit''' usually contains items to treat cuts, abrasions (blisters), punctures and burns. Additional items might address broken fingers, limbs, [[Heart condition|cardiac conditions]], [[hypothermia]], frostbite, hyperthermia, hypoxia, decompression sickness, insect and snake bites, allergic reactions, burns and other wounds. If applicable, include any personal medications.<br />
<br />
* A '''knife''' is useful for opening packages, building shelter, shaving wood for tinder, eating, field surgery (after sterilization), cutting rope and clothing, etc. A heavier ax or knife is more effective when one has larger needs for construction or for collecting firewood.<br />
<br />
* '''Matches''' (or a lighter) and '''fire starter''' (tinder and kindling) to light a campfire is useful for preventing [[hypothermia]] and to signal for aid. In an emergency, a fire increases one's psychological will to survive.<br />
<br />
* A '''water treatment device''' (filter or chemical treatment) make water potable. All water, including that from streams, lakes, or pools, needs to be treated for bacteria and viruses in order to ensure safety. Most backcountry travelers carry a water filter: low end models are inexpensive and provide protection against many pathogens, but not viruses. Some more expensive filters and improved chemical treatments get rid of most health risks, including [[giardia]] and other protozoa and viruses. Treating the water reduces the likelihood of gastrointestinal diseases. Since some chemical treatments such as iodine or chlorine may leave a bad taste, many suggest mixing in a flavor to hide the taste. These include powdered lemonade or fruit drinks, or other Tang, Gatorade, or Crystal Light.<br />
<br />
* A '''whistle''' is a compact, lightweight, and inexpensive way to signal for help. Although a person cannot shout for a long period, he can whistle for extended amounts of time. Moreover, the sharp sound of a whistle travels over longer distances than the human voice, and provides a much more distinct sound. Although environmental factors such as wind, snow, and heavy rain may drown out a voice, the sound of a whistle is clearly distinguishable in the field.<br />
<br />
== Other "ten essentials" ==<br />
Other outdoor organizations have variations of the ''Ten Essentials'' pertinent to local conditions. For example, Utah's Wasatch Club lists extra water in place of food, as Utah is mostly desert terrain, and water is more difficult to find.<br />
<br />
The Spokane Mountaineers list "thirteen essentials," which supplement the list with emergency shelter such as a [[space blanket]], signaling device, and toilet paper and [[trowel]] (for sanitary disposal of human waste. The toilet paper also doubles as tinder for starting a fire).<br />
<br />
<br />
== References ==<br />
* Mountaineering: The Freedom of the Hills, 6th edition, Mountaineers, pages 35-40, (1997), ISBN 0-89886-427-5<br />
* [http://www.backpacking.net/ten-essl.html Backpacking.net list of ten essentials]<br />
* The ''[http://www.spokanemountaineers.org/ Spokane Mountaineers] Backpack School manual''<br />
<br />
== See also ==<br />
[[Hiking equipment]]<br />
<br />
[[Category:Hiking equipment]]</div>DigitalScouthttps://en.scoutwiki.org/index.php?title=Hiking&diff=30991Hiking2010-01-21T00:09:35Z<p>DigitalScout: ScoutWikify</p>
<hr />
<div>{{ThisPageWasImported}}<br />
<br />
'''Hiking''' is a form of walking, undertaken with the specific purpose of exploring and enjoying the scenery. It usually takes place on [[trail]]s in rural or [[wilderness]] areas.<br />
<br />
The word '''hiking''' is understood in all English-speaking countries, but there are differences in usage. In some places, '''off-trail hiking''' is called '''cross-country hiking''', '''bushwhacking''', or '''bush-bashing'''. In the United Kingdom, '''hiking''' is a slightly old-fashioned word, with a flavor rather of 'heartiness' and 'exercise' than of 'enjoying the outdoors' (people in the UK would be more likely to use more modest terms such as '''hillwalking''', or simply '''walking'''). Australians use the term '''bushwalking''' for both on- and off-trail hiking. New Zealanders use '''tramping''' (particularly for overnight and longer trips), '''walking''' or '''bushwalking'''. Hiking in the mountainous regions of Nepal and India is sometimes called '''trekking'''. '''Overnight hiking''' is called '''[[backpacking (wilderness)|backpacking]]''' in some parts of the world. Hiking a [[long-distance trail]] from end to end is referred to as '''thru-hiking''' in some places.<br />
<br />
== Comparison with other forms of touring ==<br />
Hiking is one of the fundamental [[outdoor activity|outdoor activities]] on which many others are based. Many beautiful places can only be reached overland by hiking. Enthusiasts regard hiking as the best way to see nature. It is seen as better than a tour in a vehicle of any kind (or on an animal; see horseback riding) because the hiker's senses are not intruded upon by distractions such as windows, engine noise, airborne dust in large quantities, and fellow passengers. It has an advantage over standing in one place because the hiker may cover a wide area.<br />
<br />
On the other hand, hiking over long distances or over difficult terrain does require some degree of physical ability and knowledge, as well as a [[backpack]] to carry food, water and [[Ten Essentials|essential equipment]]. Hikers may be caught in inclement weather or suffer mishaps. Some jurisdictions (for example, New Hampshire) now require inadequately prepared hikers to pay for their own rescues.<br />
[[Image:Trailblazesymbols.jpg|150px|thumb|right|The most common symbols used in [[trail blazing]]]]<br />
<br />
== Ecological impact of hiking ==<br />
<br />
Hikers often seek beautiful environments in which to hike. Ironically, these environments are often fragile: hikers may accidentally destroy the environment that they enjoy. The action of an individual may not strongly affect the environment. However, the mass effect of a large number of hikers can degrade the environment. For example, gathering wood in an alpine area to start a fire may be harmless once (except for wildfire risk). Years of gathering wood, however, can strip an alpine area of valuable nutrients.<br />
<br />
Generally, protected areas such as parks have regulations in place to protect the environment. If hikers follow such regulations, their impact can be minimized. Such regulations include forbidding wood fires, restricting [[camping]] to established camp sites, disposing or packing out [[human feces#Feces disposal|fecal matter]], imposing a quota on the number of hikers per day.<br />
<br />
Many hikers espouse the philosophy of [[Leave No Trace]]: hiking in a way such that future hikers cannot detect the presence of previous hikers. Practitioners of this philosophy obey its strictures, even in the absence of area regulations.<br />
<br />
[[Image:Cathole.png|frame|right|A cathole may be dug with a trowel.]]<br />
<br />
Human waste is often a major source of environmental impact from hiking. These wastes can contaminate the watershed and make other hikers ill. Bacterial contamination can be avoided by digging catholes 10 to 25 cm deep (4 to 10 inches, depending on local soil composition) and covering after use. If these catholes are dug at least 60 m (200 feet) away from water sources and trails, the risk of contamination is minimized. <br />
Many hikers warn other hikers about the location of their catholes by marking them with sticks stuck into the ground.<br />
<br />
Sometimes, hikers enjoy viewing rare or endangered species. However, some species (such as martens or bighorn sheep) are very sensitive to the presence of humans, especially around mating season. Hikers should learn the habits and habitats of the endangered species, in order to avoid adverse impact.<br />
<br />
There is one situation where an individual hiker can make a large impact on an ecosystem: inadvertently starting a wildfire. For example, in [[2005]], a Czech backpacker burned 7% of Torres del Paine National Park in Chile by knocking over an illegal gas [[portable stove]]. Obeying area regulations and setting up cooking devices on bare ground will reduce the risk of wildfire.<br />
<br />
== Etiquette of hiking ==<br />
<br />
Because hiking is a recreational experience, hikers expect it to be pleasant. Sometimes hikers can interfere with each others' enjoyment, or that of other users of the land, but they can minimize this interference by following good etiquette. For example:<br />
<br />
* When two groups of hikers meet on a steep trail, there may be contention for use of the trail. To avoid conflict, a custom has developed in some areas whereby the group moving uphill has the right-of-way. In other situations, the larger of the two groups will usually yield to the smaller.<br />
<br />
<br />
* Being forced to hike much faster or slower than one's natural pace can be annoying, and difficult to maintain consistently. More seriously, walking unnaturally fast dramatically increases [[Fatigue (physical)|fatigue]] and exhaustion, and may cause injury. If a group splits between fast and slow hikers, the slow hikers may be left behind or become lost. A common custom is to encourage the slowest hiker to hike in the lead and have everyone match that speed. Another custom is to have an experienced hiker sweep up the rear, to ensure that everyone in the group is safe and nobody straggles.<br />
<br />
* Hikers often enjoy the silence and solitude of their surroundings. Loud sounds, such as shouting or loud conversation, disrupt this enjoyment. Some hikers purposely avoid loud sounds, out of deference to other hikers. Staying quiet will also increase the likelihood of encountering wildlife. (This is a hazard if dangerous animals are present; see "Personal safety hazards".) <br />
<br />
* Hikers sometimes trespass onto private property from public land or rights of way ([[easement]]s). Such trespass can alienate the property owners and (in countries where rights of way are not protected by law) close down hiking rights-of-way. To maximize hiking opportunities for everyone, most hikers will either stay on public land and easements, or solicit permission from property owners. Staying on well-marked trails avoids the possibility of trespass.<br />
<br />
* Tree branches or other vegetation often hang low across trails. A passing hiker may cause a tree branch to snap back in the face of a hiker behind. While it is courteous to warn following hikers if a branch is likely to snap back, it is every hiker's responsibility to allow enough space between himself and the hiker ahead to avoid the hazard.<br />
<br />
* In rural Britain, when two groups of hikers meet, it is considered a common courtesy to exchange greetings (either verbal or physical (e.g. smiles and friendly nods)). To pass another group without such acknowledgement is seen as rude.<br />
<br />
== Personal safety hazards ==<br />
{{main|Hazards of outdoor activities}}<br />
<br />
Hiking may produce threats to personal safety. These threats can be dangerous circumstances while hiking and/or specific accidents or ailments. Dangerous hiking circumstances include losing the way, inclement weather, hazardous terrain, or exacerbation of pre-existing medical conditions. Specific accidents include metabolic imbalances (such as dehydration or [[hypothermia]]), topical injuries (such as frostbite or [[sunburn]]), attacks by animals, or internal injuries (such as ankle sprain).<br />
<br />
Hikers often propose a set of behavioral prescriptions to minimize these threats. A well-known example of such a set of prescription is the [[Ten Essentials]].<br />
<br />
== See also ==<br />
<br />
*[[Hiking equipment]]<br />
*[[List of long-distance footpaths]]<br />
*[[Ten Essentials|Ten essential items of gear]]<br />
<br />
Kinds of hiking:<br />
*[[Hiking]]<br />
*[[Trekking]], a multi-day, often arduous hike especially in mountainous regions<br />
*Thru-hiking, hiking a trail from end to end<br />
<br />
<br />
Related activities:<br />
*Adventure tourism<br />
*[[Geocaching]]<br />
*[[Orienteering]]<br />
<br />
== External links ==<br />
*[http://www.worldhiking.com/directory/index.php Directory of regional hiking websites]<br />
*[http://www.americanhiking.org American Hiking Society]<br />
*[http://dmoz.org/Recreation/Outdoors/Hiking/ Recreation: Outdoors: Hiking] - category on hiking sites, from the Open Directory<br />
<br />
<br />
[[Category:Hiking| ]]<br />
[[Category:Scoutcraft]]<br />
<br />
[[de:Hike]]<br />
[[fi:Haikki]]<br />
[[fr:Exploration]]<br />
[[it:Hike]]<br />
[[nl:Hike]]<br />
[[sv:Hajk (scouterna)]]</div>DigitalScouthttps://en.scoutwiki.org/index.php?title=Hiking&diff=30990Hiking2010-01-21T00:04:41Z<p>DigitalScout: ScoutWikify more</p>
<hr />
<div>{{ThisPageWasImported}}<br />
<br />
'''Hiking''' is a form of walking, undertaken with the specific purpose of exploring and enjoying the scenery. It usually takes place on [[trail]]s in rural or [[wilderness]] areas.<br />
<br />
The word '''hiking''' is understood in all English-speaking countries, but there are differences in usage. In some places, '''off-trail hiking''' is called '''cross-country hiking''', '''bushwhacking''', or '''bush-bashing'''. In the United Kingdom, '''hiking''' is a slightly old-fashioned word, with a flavor rather of 'heartiness' and 'exercise' than of 'enjoying the outdoors' (people in the UK would be more likely to use more modest terms such as '''[[hillwalking]]''', or simply '''walking'''). Australians use the term '''bushwalking''' for both on- and off-trail hiking. New Zealanders use '''tramping''' (particularly for overnight and longer trips), '''walking''' or '''bushwalking'''. Hiking in the mountainous regions of Nepal and India is sometimes called '''trekking'''. '''Overnight hiking''' is called '''[[backpacking (wilderness)|backpacking]]''' in some parts of the world. Hiking a [[long-distance trail]] from end to end is referred to as '''thru-hiking''' in some places.<br />
<br />
== Comparison with other forms of touring ==<br />
Hiking is one of the fundamental [[outdoor activity|outdoor activities]] on which many others are based. Many beautiful places can only be reached overland by hiking. Enthusiasts regard hiking as the best way to see nature. It is seen as better than a tour in a vehicle of any kind (or on an animal; see horseback riding) because the hiker's senses are not intruded upon by distractions such as windows, engine noise, airborne dust in large quantities, and fellow passengers. It has an advantage over standing in one place because the hiker may cover a wide area.<br />
<br />
On the other hand, hiking over long distances or over difficult terrain does require some degree of physical ability and knowledge, as well as a [[backpack]] to carry food, water and [[Ten essentials|essential equipment]]. Hikers may be caught in inclement weather or suffer mishaps. Some jurisdictions (for example, New Hampshire) now require inadequately prepared hikers to pay for their own rescues.<br />
[[Image:Trailblazesymbols.jpg|150px|thumb|right|The most common symbols used in [[trail blazing]]]]<br />
<br />
== Ecological impact of hiking ==<br />
<br />
Hikers often seek beautiful environments in which to hike. Ironically, these environments are often fragile: hikers may accidentally destroy the environment that they enjoy. The action of an individual may not strongly affect the environment. However, the mass effect of a large number of hikers can degrade the environment. For example, gathering wood in an alpine area to start a fire may be harmless once (except for wildfire risk). Years of gathering wood, however, can strip an alpine area of valuable nutrients.<br />
<br />
Generally, protected areas such as parks have regulations in place to protect the environment. If hikers follow such regulations, their impact can be minimized. Such regulations include forbidding wood fires, restricting [[camping]] to established camp sites, disposing or packing out [[human feces#Feces disposal|fecal matter]], imposing a quota on the number of hikers per day.<br />
<br />
Many hikers espouse the philosophy of [[Leave No Trace]]: hiking in a way such that future hikers cannot detect the presence of previous hikers. Practitioners of this philosophy obey its strictures, even in the absence of area regulations.<br />
<br />
[[Image:Cathole.png|frame|right|A cathole may be dug with a trowel.]]<br />
<br />
Human waste is often a major source of environmental impact from hiking. These wastes can contaminate the watershed and make other hikers ill. Bacterial contamination can be avoided by digging catholes 10 to 25 cm deep (4 to 10 inches, depending on local soil composition) and covering after use. If these catholes are dug at least 60 m (200 feet) away from water sources and trails, the risk of contamination is minimized. <br />
Many hikers warn other hikers about the location of their catholes by marking them with sticks stuck into the ground.<br />
<br />
Sometimes, hikers enjoy viewing rare or endangered species. However, some species (such as martens or bighorn sheep) are very sensitive to the presence of humans, especially around mating season. Hikers should learn the habits and habitats of the endangered species, in order to avoid adverse impact.<br />
<br />
There is one situation where an individual hiker can make a large impact on an ecosystem: inadvertently starting a wildfire. For example, in [[2005]], a Czech backpacker burned 7% of Torres del Paine National Park in Chile by knocking over an illegal gas [[portable stove]]. Obeying area regulations and setting up cooking devices on bare ground will reduce the risk of wildfire.<br />
<br />
== Etiquette of hiking ==<br />
<br />
Because hiking is a recreational experience, hikers expect it to be pleasant. Sometimes hikers can interfere with each others' enjoyment, or that of other users of the land, but they can minimize this interference by following good etiquette. For example:<br />
<br />
* When two groups of hikers meet on a steep trail, there may be contention for use of the trail. To avoid conflict, a custom has developed in some areas whereby the group moving uphill has the right-of-way. In other situations, the larger of the two groups will usually yield to the smaller.<br />
<br />
<br />
* Being forced to hike much faster or slower than one's natural pace can be annoying, and difficult to maintain consistently. More seriously, walking unnaturally fast dramatically increases [[Fatigue (physical)|fatigue]] and exhaustion, and may cause injury. If a group splits between fast and slow hikers, the slow hikers may be left behind or become lost. A common custom is to encourage the slowest hiker to hike in the lead and have everyone match that speed. Another custom is to have an experienced hiker sweep up the rear, to ensure that everyone in the group is safe and nobody straggles.<br />
<br />
* Hikers often enjoy the silence and solitude of their surroundings. Loud sounds, such as shouting or loud conversation, disrupt this enjoyment. Some hikers purposely avoid loud sounds, out of deference to other hikers. Staying quiet will also increase the likelihood of encountering wildlife. (This is a hazard if dangerous animals are present; see "Personal safety hazards".) <br />
<br />
* Hikers sometimes trespass onto private property from public land or rights of way ([[easement]]s). Such trespass can alienate the property owners and (in countries where rights of way are not protected by law) close down hiking rights-of-way. To maximize hiking opportunities for everyone, most hikers will either stay on public land and easements, or solicit permission from property owners. Staying on well-marked trails avoids the possibility of trespass.<br />
<br />
* Tree branches or other vegetation often hang low across trails. A passing hiker may cause a tree branch to snap back in the face of a hiker behind. While it is courteous to warn following hikers if a branch is likely to snap back, it is every hiker's responsibility to allow enough space between himself and the hiker ahead to avoid the hazard.<br />
<br />
* In rural Britain, when two groups of hikers meet, it is considered a common courtesy to exchange greetings (either verbal or physical (e.g. smiles and friendly nods)). To pass another group without such acknowledgement is seen as rude.<br />
<br />
== Personal safety hazards ==<br />
{{main|Hazards of outdoor activities}}<br />
<br />
Hiking may produce threats to personal safety. These threats can be dangerous circumstances while hiking and/or specific accidents or ailments. Dangerous hiking circumstances include losing the way, inclement weather, hazardous terrain, or exacerbation of pre-existing medical conditions. Specific accidents include metabolic imbalances (such as dehydration or [[hypothermia]]), topical injuries (such as frostbite or [[sunburn]]), attacks by animals, or internal injuries (such as ankle sprain).<br />
<br />
Hikers often propose a set of behavioral prescriptions to minimize these threats. A well-known example of such a set of prescription is the [[Ten Essentials]].<br />
<br />
== See also ==<br />
<br />
*[[Hiking equipment]]<br />
*[[List of long-distance footpaths]]<br />
*[[Ten essentials|Ten essential items of gear]]<br />
<br />
Kinds of hiking:<br />
*[[Hiking]]<br />
*[[Trekking]], a multi-day, often arduous hike especially in mountainous regions<br />
*Thru-hiking, hiking a trail from end to end<br />
<br />
<br />
Related activities:<br />
*Adventure tourism<br />
*[[Geocaching]]<br />
*[[Orienteering]]<br />
<br />
== External links ==<br />
*[http://www.worldhiking.com/directory/index.php Directory of regional hiking websites]<br />
*[http://www.americanhiking.org American Hiking Society]<br />
*[http://dmoz.org/Recreation/Outdoors/Hiking/ Recreation: Outdoors: Hiking] - category on hiking sites, from the Open Directory<br />
<br />
<br />
[[Category:Hiking| ]]<br />
[[Category:Scoutcraft]]<br />
<br />
[[de:Hike]]<br />
[[fi:Haikki]]<br />
[[fr:Exploration]]<br />
[[it:Hike]]<br />
[[nl:Hike]]<br />
[[sv:Hajk (scouterna)]]</div>DigitalScouthttps://en.scoutwiki.org/index.php?title=Hiking&diff=30989Hiking2010-01-20T23:57:57Z<p>DigitalScout: Rough ScoutWikify</p>
<hr />
<div>{{ThisPageWasImported}}<br />
:''This article is about hiking on land. [[Hiking (sailing)]] is a different activity.''<br />
<br />
<br />
'''Hiking''' is a form of walking, undertaken with the specific purpose of exploring and enjoying the scenery. It usually takes place on [[trail]]s in rural or [[wilderness]] areas.<br />
<br />
The word '''hiking''' is understood in all English-speaking countries, but there are differences in usage. In some places, '''off-trail hiking''' is called '''cross-country hiking''', '''bushwhacking''', or '''bush-bashing'''. In the United Kingdom, '''hiking''' is a slightly old-fashioned word, with a flavor rather of 'heartiness' and 'exercise' than of 'enjoying the outdoors' (people in the UK would be more likely to use more modest terms such as '''[[hillwalking]]''', or simply '''walking'''). Australians use the term '''bushwalking''' for both on- and off-trail hiking. New Zealanders use '''tramping''' (particularly for overnight and longer trips), '''walking''' or '''bushwalking'''. Hiking in the mountainous regions of Nepal and India is sometimes called '''trekking'''. '''Overnight hiking''' is called '''[[backpacking (wilderness)|backpacking]]''' in some parts of the world. Hiking a [[long-distance trail]] from end to end is referred to as '''thru-hiking''' in some places.<br />
<br />
== Comparison with other forms of touring ==<br />
Hiking is one of the fundamental [[outdoor activity|outdoor activities]] on which many others are based. Many beautiful places can only be reached overland by hiking. Enthusiasts regard hiking as the best way to see nature. It is seen as better than a tour in a vehicle of any kind (or on an animal; see horseback riding) because the hiker's senses are not intruded upon by distractions such as windows, engine noise, airborne dust in large quantities, and fellow passengers. It has an advantage over standing in one place because the hiker may cover a wide area.<br />
<br />
On the other hand, hiking over long distances or over difficult terrain does require some degree of physical ability and knowledge, as well as a [[backpack]] to carry food, water and [[Ten essentials|essential equipment]]. Hikers may be caught in inclement weather or suffer mishaps. Some jurisdictions (for example, New Hampshire) now require inadequately prepared hikers to pay for their own rescues.<br />
[[Image:Trailblazesymbols.jpg|150px|thumb|right|The most common symbols used in [[trail blazing]]]]<br />
<br />
== Ecological impact of hiking ==<br />
<br />
Hikers often seek beautiful environments in which to hike. Ironically, these environments are often fragile: hikers may accidentally destroy the environment that they enjoy. The action of an individual may not strongly affect the environment. However, the mass effect of a large number of hikers can degrade the environment. For example, gathering wood in an alpine area to start a fire may be harmless once (except for wildfire risk). Years of gathering wood, however, can strip an alpine area of valuable nutrients.<br />
<br />
Generally, protected areas such as parks have regulations in place to protect the environment. If hikers follow such regulations, their impact can be minimized. Such regulations include forbidding wood fires, restricting [[camping]] to established camp sites, disposing or packing out [[human feces#Feces disposal|fecal matter]], imposing a quota on the number of hikers per day.<br />
<br />
Many hikers espouse the philosophy of [[Leave No Trace]]: hiking in a way such that future hikers cannot detect the presence of previous hikers. Practitioners of this philosophy obey its strictures, even in the absence of area regulations.<br />
<br />
[[Image:Cathole.png|frame|right|A cathole may be dug with a trowel.]]<br />
<br />
Human waste is often a major source of environmental impact from hiking. These wastes can contaminate the watershed and make other hikers ill. Bacterial contamination can be avoided by digging catholes 10 to 25 cm deep (4 to 10 inches, depending on local soil composition) and covering after use. If these catholes are dug at least 60 m (200 feet) away from water sources and trails, the risk of contamination is minimized. <br />
Many hikers warn other hikers about the location of their catholes by marking them with sticks stuck into the ground.<br />
<br />
Sometimes, hikers enjoy viewing rare or endangered species. However, some species (such as martens or bighorn sheep) are very sensitive to the presence of humans, especially around mating season. Hikers should learn the habits and habitats of the endangered species, in order to avoid adverse impact.<br />
<br />
There is one situation where an individual hiker can make a large impact on an ecosystem: inadvertently starting a wildfire. For example, in [[2005]], a Czech backpacker burned 7% of [[Torres del Paine]] National Park in Chile by knocking over an illegal gas [[portable stove]]. Obeying area regulations and setting up cooking devices on bare ground will reduce the risk of wildfire.<br />
<br />
== Etiquette of hiking ==<br />
<br />
Because hiking is a recreational experience, hikers expect it to be pleasant. Sometimes hikers can interfere with each others' enjoyment, or that of other users of the land, but they can minimize this interference by following good etiquette. For example:<br />
<br />
* When two groups of hikers meet on a steep trail, there may be contention for use of the trail. To avoid conflict, a custom has developed in some areas whereby the group moving uphill has the [[Traffic#Priority (right of way)|right-of-way]]. In other situations, the larger of the two groups will usually yield to the smaller.<br />
<br />
[[Image:Hiking_group.jpg|thumb|right|150px|Hiking in a group increases safety, but hikers may wish to hike at different rates.]]<br />
<br />
* Being forced to hike much faster or slower than one's natural pace can be annoying, and difficult to maintain consistently. More seriously, walking unnaturally fast dramatically increases [[Fatigue (physical)|fatigue]] and exhaustion, and may cause injury. If a group splits between fast and slow hikers, the slow hikers may be left behind or become lost. A common custom is to encourage the slowest hiker to hike in the lead and have everyone match that speed. Another custom is to have an experienced hiker sweep up the rear, to ensure that everyone in the group is safe and nobody straggles.<br />
<br />
* Hikers often enjoy the silence and solitude of their surroundings. Loud sounds, such as shouting or loud conversation, disrupt this enjoyment. Some hikers purposely avoid loud sounds, out of deference to other hikers. Staying quiet will also increase the likelihood of encountering wildlife. (This is a hazard if dangerous animals are present; see "Personal safety hazards".) <br />
<br />
* Hikers sometimes trespass onto private property from public land or rights of way ([[easement]]s). Such trespass can alienate the property owners and (in countries where rights of way are not protected by law) close down hiking rights-of-way. To maximize hiking opportunities for everyone, most hikers will either stay on public land and easements, or solicit permission from property owners. Staying on well-marked trails avoids the possibility of trespass.<br />
<br />
* Tree branches or other vegetation often hang low across trails. A passing hiker may cause a tree branch to snap back in the face of a hiker behind. While it is courteous to warn following hikers if a branch is likely to snap back, it is every hiker's responsibility to allow enough space between himself and the hiker ahead to avoid the hazard.<br />
<br />
* In rural Britain, when two groups of hikers meet, it is considered a common courtesy to exchange greetings (either verbal or physical (e.g. smiles and friendly nods)). To pass another group without such acknowledgement is seen as rude.<br />
<br />
== Personal safety hazards ==<br />
{{main|Hazards of outdoor activities}}<br />
<br />
Hiking may produce threats to personal safety. These threats can be dangerous circumstances while hiking and/or specific accidents or ailments. Dangerous hiking circumstances include losing the way, inclement weather, hazardous terrain, or exacerbation of pre-existing medical conditions. Specific accidents include metabolic imbalances (such as dehydration or [[hypothermia]]), topical injuries (such as frostbite or [[sunburn]]), attacks by animals, or internal injuries (such as ankle sprain).<br />
<br />
Hikers often propose a set of behavioral prescriptions to minimize these threats. A well-known example of such a set of prescription is the [[Ten Essentials]].<br />
<br />
== See also ==<br />
<br />
*[[Hiking equipment]]<br />
*[[List of long-distance footpaths]]<br />
*[[Ten essentials|Ten essential items of gear]]<br />
<br />
Kinds of hiking:<br />
*[[Hiking]]<br />
*[[Trekking]], a multi-day, often arduous hike especially in mountainous regions<br />
*Thru-hiking, hiking a trail from end to end<br />
<br />
<br />
Related activities:<br />
*Adventure tourism<br />
*[[Geocaching]]<br />
*[[Orienteering]]<br />
<br />
== External links ==<br />
*[http://www.worldhiking.com/directory/index.php Directory of regional hiking websites]<br />
*[http://www.americanhiking.org American Hiking Society]<br />
*[http://dmoz.org/Recreation/Outdoors/Hiking/ Recreation: Outdoors: Hiking] - category on hiking sites, from the Open Directory<br />
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[[sv:Hajk (scouterna)]]</div>DigitalScouthttps://en.scoutwiki.org/index.php?title=Survival&diff=30385Survival2010-01-17T01:54:08Z<p>DigitalScout: Wikification</p>
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<div>== Wilderness Rescue ==<br />
<sup><u>Bob Geier</u></sup><br />
<br />
I think the notion of [[Boy Scout]]s being taught to "stay put" when lost is inane and dangerous. That's fine for 1st graders in a shopping mall, but not for scout-aged youth in the woods.<br />
<br />
I expect that any of us who have been involved in backcountry S&R operations can relate exactly how difficult it is to find someone who is immobile in the woods. The mostly likely way they'll be found in many areas is next hunting season when someone blunders across the corpse.<br />
<br />
There are a number of simple, easy-to-learn "get yourself found" options that boys should be taught along with the trite STOP acronym. They need to know techniques for Staying calm, what to consider when they Think, what to look for when they Observe, and several good strategies to consider when they Plan. In all but the worst weather and terrain, people should work to self-rescue.<br />
<br />
Stay Calm, Think, Observe, Plan... then ACT. Which almost always means MOVE in some rational and well-considered way. Get yourself "found." Staying put is among the most dangerous and least successful options. <br />
<br />
'''BEFORE A SEARCH IS IN PLAY'''<br />
<br />
There's a time between when you think you're lost and when you know a search effort will begin. We teach the concept of "estimated arrival time" and "freak time." The first is when you expect to be back. The latter is when you want us to "freak out" and assume you need help. These might be the same (as in very technical terrain) or very different (a backpack trip in easy terrain where you have plenty of food might have a freak time days after your estimated return).<br />
<br />
While you're in this "no search timezone" you should make every effort to self-rescue, unless darkness, weather, or technical terrain make such efforts imprudent.<br />
<br />
What you choose to try depends a lot on the area (observe, think, plan).<br />
Remember that you almost always will have gone less far than you think, humans overestimate speed. Recalibrate. Consider backtracking. Move to a point where you can actually see something, don't stop and observe where there's nothing to observe. In hilly or mountainous areas, hike to higher ground where you can see more. In lake country follow a valley or river to the next lake.<br />
<br />
The final option is always to head toward the nearest boundary. A boundary is something large, unmissable, and unmistakable. It could be a river, a good trail, a large lake, or a road. Find the nearest one and shoot [[compass]] or solar vectors straight there. Once you hit the boundary, you now know where you are, though you might be out of your way. (You'll also have put yourself into searchers' paths - see below).<br />
<br />
'''AFTER A SEARCH IS IN PLAY'''<br />
<br />
Searches generally proceed from where the person was last seen, beginning with "hasty search" teams and then adding more resources as time progresses.<br />
The immediate area is searched, and then the search proceeds along natural paths. Searchers follow trails, sidecuts, etc. based on the best information they had about the person's intent. They also notify folks at the trailheads, check parking lots, etc. And they notify county and state authorities to be alert to the possibility of abduction. Things don't start as a "grid search."<br />
<br />
You are most likely to be found at a trailhead, an area boundary (see above), or on the trail you intended. You are next most likely to be found on another trail. Then on a side-cut or an open field visible from the air in good weather, especially if you make every effort to signal as Joe suggests.<br />
<br />
So if you're well past your freak time, you have to take into account the likely actions of the searchers, and if possible get to and stay in high "probability of detection" spots. A good first option is at least get yourself to a trail and then sit there if you must and someone will eventually run into you. But of course, if you get to a trail, you might be better off taking it in the most likely direction to a junction where your chances go up more. But then if you're at a junction, you'll probably be able to figure out where you are and head out. If there's good weather and you hear a plane buzzing around, get to an open field and signal the plane.<br />
<br />
It's true, at some point a grid search will start on the assumption that you're off trail and incapacitated. Except for a small area close to last known location, this isn't going to get serious until day 2 or 3. It takes a huge human resource commitment to grid search a relatively small area. If you're in the more remote backcountry, it just isn't going to be done except by air (and then it will be done multiple times, so there's no strong concern about movement). Even if you're in a smaller state park, this kind of job is daunting. Yes, it's true with a ground grid search that if you move into an already-searched area from an unsearched one (without running into anyone) and then stop, you won't be found. But your chances of being found have gone pretty low at that point anyway. The benefits from any "intelligent" planned movement are still likely to outweigh the risk. Most folks who are "found" during grid searches walk out on their own to the trailhead.<br />
<br />
'''OTHER ISSUES'''<br />
<br />
Moving or searching in the dark is generally a bad idea. Even experienced folks who know an area well can have trouble navigating in the dark. When it's getting dark, make camp. Preferably in one of the "obvious search zones" like smack in the middle of a trail.<br />
<br />
Conserving energy is rarely an issue unless injury is involved. People do just fine without food for many days. But sure, if it's a blizzard or cold rainstorm and you're without gear, bed down until it clears. Then get moving.<br />
<br />
Conserving water is more tricky in desert environments. This might require early morning, late afternoon, or evening movement, and might require you to drop into harder-to-search areas like canyons in order to get water.<br />
<br />
So in summary, we should be teaching boy scouts who are regular wilderness users that "stay put" is the worst good choice. It's the final fallback position when weather or terrain require it for safety, or when any other intelligent option can't be found because of the limits of their experience. But we should make sure when we instruct them that we teach them well enough that they'll have plenty of intelligent options which won't be exhausted.<br />
=== <small>Cooper Wright</small> ===<br />
According to our wilderness survival instructor, he wanted us to stay put.<br />
It all has to do with where the person was seen last being critical to the success of finding that person. I hope that some search and rescue folks chime in on this one, since I'm not the expert, but I can imagine that if you are in a pretty remote backcountry area and are good and lost, with no known landmarks like roads, rivers, etc that you can see, you are only hampering the rescue efforts to move on.<br />
=== <small>C. Scott Davis</small> ===<br />
As both an SAR team member and Wilderness Survival Instructor and MB counselor; it is my preference that one STAY PUT!! Your chances of being rescued are magnified if you are stationary and we are mobile.<br />
=== <small>H. Alan Schup</small> ===<br />
Constantly moving in the attempts to save oneself by oneself is contrary to the two most significant items in being found:<br />
* You have limited water, and the exertion will only speed up the onset of dehydration. Your very first concern should be drinkable water supply if you suspect help is more than a day away (that is, if your ETA is days in the future and thus nobody suspects you are missing). Drink normally and not try to self-ration the water... people have been found dead from dehydration with a half-full canteen when, if they drank normally until empty, they would have delayed the onset of dehydration and been clear-headed longer. <br />
* Assuming you communicated your plans/route with someone at your destination that will be expecting you, rescuers will concentrate on the route then spread out. If you are truly lost, your aimless wanderings might be leading you away from the route you told others you would be taking, thus increasing the time it will take others to find you.<br />
<br />
If one must move for whatever reason (safety, shelter...), leave evidence of where you have been and the direction you are traveling.<br />
=== <small>Craig Gissler</small> ===<br />
If you get lost<br />
* As soon as you realize you are lost, stop traveling and mark your location. Backtrack the route in your mind and try to figure out where you lost the way. If you have a map, try to pinpoint your location. Do not let panic interfere with your thinking. <br />
* If you have been traveling along a trail, ridge or stream - or if you can follow your own tracks back the way you came - turn around and retrace your steps until you're sure of your whereabouts. Resist the temptation to push ahead while hoping to come across some familiar landmark. <br />
* Try to find a highpoint from which to survey the area. Look for roads, major rivers and any signs of habitation and any other clues to help determine your location. <br />
''Source: Wilderness Survival''<br />
<br />
Articles that say to reason your way out and back track, do not seem to recommend you move more than an hour from where you realize you were lost, if you can get up on a ridge, in an open area if possible, use your whistle, fire, mirror or other signalling devise...<br />
=== <small>Dr. Jack Berdeaux</small> ===<br />
SAR officals tell hiking groups, [[Boy Scout]]s, [[Girl Guide and Girl Scout|Girl Scouts]], Parents, and anyone that can listen:<br />
1. Do not move once you realized you are lost. HUG-A-TREE Program is what we teach kids.<br />
2. Do not separate<br />
3. Use your emergency survival kit (what you do not have one in your fanny-pack or your pocket - get one together).<br />
4. Always and I will repeat this "Always" let someone know where you are going, what you plan to do (even if you change your mind after getting<br />
there) and when you expect to return. Then if you don't return, tell them call the sheriff’s office immediately - even if they find you in the parking lot after calling-out SAR to look for you. Most states have delegated/legislated SAR to the county Sheriffs departments across the US.<br />
<br />
Urban fire departments may be the default SAR for in town searches in park preserves, etc. even if the county is responsible.<br />
<br />
''Copied from http://scouting.wikia.com/wiki/Survival''<br />
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[[de:Survival]]<br />
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[[Category: Scoutcraft]]</div>DigitalScouthttps://en.scoutwiki.org/index.php?title=Fire_pan&diff=30384Fire pan2010-01-17T01:15:03Z<p>DigitalScout: fire pan article imported from Wikipedia</p>
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<br />
A '''fire pan''' is a pan for holding or conveying [[campfire|fire]] which is often used as method for building a [[Leave No Trace]] fire. <br />
<br />
== Background ==<br />
<br />
Fire pans were initially used by river guides to minimize the impact of their fires but they are becoming increasingly popular with [[Backpacking (wilderness)|backpackers]] and other outdoor users. The pan is usually a metal tray with rigid sides at least three inches high such as a metal oil drain pan or a backyard barbecue grill. <br />
<br />
== Purpose ==<br />
<br />
The use of a fire pan reduces the impact to the ground, vegetation and rocks, and its compact size results in the burning of less wood. Fire pans also allow users to easily burn their accumulated garbage. Combustible items will be reduced to ash. A fire pan user can [[Leave No Trace]] of their previous fire because the ashes can be collected and buried.<br />
<br />
== Usage ==<br />
<br />
When using a fire pan care should be taken so the heat does not scorch vegetation or sterilize the ground, therefore it is necessary to elevate the pan with rocks or line it with several inches of mineral soil. Used in winter a fire pan can be placed atop limbs or logs to keep the pan from sinking into the snow. A fire pan can be more convenient than a traditional [[campfire]] because it allows you to pick up your fire and move it around should the need arise.<br />
<br />
==External links==<br />
* [http://www.backcountryattitude.com/fire_pan.html Using Fire Pans for Minimum Impact Campfires]<br />
<br />
[[Category:Campfire]]<br />
[[Category:Camping]]</div>DigitalScouthttps://en.scoutwiki.org/index.php?title=Leave_No_Trace&diff=30383Leave No Trace2010-01-17T00:57:58Z<p>DigitalScout: another broken redirect from geocities</p>
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[[Image:LNTLogo.GIF|right]]<br />
'''Leave No Trace''' is a set of principles for participation in outdoor recreation that seeks to minimize the impact on the natural environment. Proponents of Leave No Trace believe that individual impacts caused by recreation can accumulate to degrade the land. Therefore, the Leave No Trace message encourages people who spend time in the out-of-doors to behave in such a way that they can minimize unavoidable impacts and prevent avoidable impacts. It is often summarized: "Take only photos, leave only foot prints."<br />
<br />
== Origins ==<br />
The roots of Leave No Trace can be traced to the 1970s and 1980s.<ref name="lnthist"> {{cite web | last = | first = | authorlink = | coauthors = | year = | url = http://lnt.org/about/history.html | title = In Depth History of Leave No Trace | format = | work = | publisher = Leave No Trace | accessdate = 2006-08-03}}</ref> In those decades, the [[United States Forest Service]], the Bureau of Land Management, and the National Park Service started to teach their non-motorized visitors how to have a minimal impact on the land. Also in the 70s, groups such as the [[Sierra Club]] were advocating minimum impact camping techniques. A pilot program in the 80s between the [[Boy Scouts of America]] (BSA) and the [[High Uintas Wilderness]] tried to reach a wide audience. Finally, a national education program was developed in 1990 by the [[United States Forest Service]] in conjunction with the [[National Outdoor Leadership School]] (NOLS). <br />
<br />
James M. Turner<ref>{{cite journal|last=Turner|first=J.M.|title=From Woodcraft to 'Leave No Trace':Wilderness, Consumerism, and Environmentalism in Twentieth-Century America|journal=Environmental History|pages=462-484|volume=7|number=3|date=July 2002|url=http://www.foresthistory.org/Publications/EH/July2002/Turner.pdf}}</ref> has examined the political history of "Leave No Trace". Turner attributes the creation of the LNT ethic to wilderness advocates, who needed popular support for wilderness, but wanted to minimize human impact on wilderness. Severely limiting wilderness access would lose support for the Wilderness Act. Turner claims that wilderness advocates turned wilderness ethics 180 degrees, from 'woodcraft' (where wilderness travelers exploit wilderness resource in order to rebel against modern technology), to 'Leave No Trace' (where travelers use the latest technology to minimize impact).<br />
<br />
The Leave No Trace program is managed by the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics,<br />
<ref name="lnthome">{{cite web | last = | first = | authorlink = | coauthors = | year = | url = http://lnt.org | title = Center for Outdoor Ethics | format = | work = | publisher = Leave No Trace | accessdate = 2006-08-03}}</ref> formerly Leave No Trace, Inc., which is a [[501(c)(3)]] non-profit organization. The Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics is an international nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting and inspiring responsible outdoor recreation through education, research and partnerships. Leave No Trace tries to build awareness, appreciation and respect for our wildlands.<br />
<br />
== Principles ==<br />
Leave No Trace provides a framework for outdoor recreation decision making, which is summarized in the following 7 principles:<ref name="lntprin">{{cite web | last = | first = | authorlink = | coauthors = | year = | url = http://www.lnt.org/programs/lnt7/index.html | title = Seven Principles of Leave No Trace | format = | work = | publisher = Leave No Trace | accessdate = 2006-08-03}}</ref><br />
<br />
#''Plan Ahead and Prepare:'' Poorly prepared people, when presented with unexpected situations, often resort to high-impact solutions that degrade the outdoors or put themselves at risk. Poor planning can result in improperly located [[campsite]]s because groups failed to plan enough time to reach their intended destination, or improper [[campfire]]s or excessive trash because of failure to plan meals or bring proper equipment.<br />
#''Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces:'' Damage to land occurs when surface [[vegetation]] or communities of organisms are trampled beyond repair. The resulting barren area leads to unusable [[trail]]s, campsites and soil erosion.<br />
#* In high-use areas, Leave No Trace suggests that people concentrate activity, which makes further damage unlikely.<br />
#* In areas of very little or no use, Leave No Trace encourages people to spread out. Taking different paths when hiking off-trail will avoid creating new trails that cause erosion. Dispersing [[tent]]s and equipment, and moving camp daily will avoid creating permanent-looking camp sites.<br />
#''Dispose of Waste Properly:'' Though most trash and litter in the backcountry is not significant in terms of the long term ecological health of an area, it does rank high as a problem in the minds of many backcountry visitors. Many people believe that trash and litter detract from an area's naturalness. Thus, Leave No Trace recommends that trash and litter should be packed out. Further, backcountry users create body waste and [[wastewater|waste water]] which requires proper disposal according to Leave No Trace. [[Image:Cathole.png|thumb|right|150px|A cathole may be dug with a trowel]]<br />
#*Waste water: Avoiding soap and dispersing [[dishwashing|dishwater]] far away from natural water sources will prevent contamination. <br />
#*Human waste: Proper human waste disposal prevents spread of disease, exposure to others, and speeds decomposition. Catholes, 6 to 8 inches deep and 200 feet from water, are often the easiest and most practical way to dispose of feces.<br />
#''Leave What You Find:'' Leaving [[rock (geology)|rocks]], [[plant]]s, [[Artifact (archaeology)|archaeological artifacts]] and other objects as found will allow others a sense of discovery. Similarly, Leave No Trace directs people to minimize site alterations, such as digging tent trenches, hammering nails into trees, permanently clearing an area of rocks or twigs.<br />
#''Minimize Use and Impact of Fire:'' Leave No Trace encourages people to use lightweight [[portable stove|camp stoves]], instead of fires, because the naturalness of many areas has been degraded by overuse of fires and the increasing demand for [[firewood]]. If a campfire is constructed, Leave No Trace suggests using an existing [[fire ring]] in a well-placed campsite or to use a [[fire pan]] or mound fire. True Leave No Trace fires show no evidence of having ever been constructed.<br />
#''Respect Wildlife:'' If enough people approach or interfere with [[wildlife]], it can be disruptive to animal populations.<br />
#''Be Considerate of Other Visitors:'' Following hiking [[etiquette]] and maintaining quiet allows visitors to go through the wilderness with minimal impact on other users.<br />
<br />
== Application in the United States ==<br />
<br />
The Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics has partnerships with the National Park Service, the [[U.S. Forest Service]], the Bureau of Land Management and the [[U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service]]. The "Leave No Trace" method is encouraged strongly in the Boy Scouts of America. An example of how this partnership works is that [[wilderness areas]] managed by the U.S. Forest Service actively promote adherence to Leave No Trace principles. The Center has also developed partnerships with other parks, municipalities, and agencies that wish to incorporate the Leave No Trace program in information and messages provided to the public.<br />
<br />
== References ==<br />
<references/><br />
<br />
== See also ==<br />
<br />
* [[Clean climbing]]<br />
<br />
== External links ==<br />
*[http://lnt.org Leave No Trace organization]<br />
*[http://www.blm.gov/education/lnt/principles.html BLM Leave No Trace principles] (public domain source)<br />
*[http://www.backcountryattitude.com/leave_no_trace.html Leave No Trace Outdoor Skills for Outdoor Users]<br />
*[http://www.cspack378.org/other/leave-no-trace-awareness-award-2/ Leave No Trace Cub Scouts]<br />
<br />
[[Category:Hiking]]<br />
[[Category:Scoutcraft]]</div>DigitalScouthttps://en.scoutwiki.org/index.php?title=Campsite&diff=30382Campsite2010-01-17T00:50:08Z<p>DigitalScout: fixed bad redirect</p>
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[[Image:Campsite-Oludeniz.JPG|thumb|250px|A campsite on [[Oludeniz]] beach]]<br />
[[Image:Car Camping .jpg|thumb|250px|A campsite at [[Hunting Island State Park]] in South Carolina]]<br />
[[Image:Nova Scotian campsite.jpg|thumb|250px|Campsites are often situated in or near forests.]]<br />
A '''campsite''' (or campground) is a place used for overnight stay in the out of doors. The term 'campsite' usually means an area where an individual, family, group or military unit might camp. There are two types of campsites:<br />
<br />
* an impromptu area (as one might decide to stop while [[backpacking (wilderness)|backpacking]] or [[hiking]]<br />
* a dedicated area with improvements and various facilities (see below).<br />
<br />
The term "camp" comes from the [[Latin]] word ''campus'', meaning field. Therefore, a campsite consists typically of open pieces of ground where a camper can pitch a [[tent]] or park a camper. More specifically a campsite is a dedicated area set aside for camping and for which often a user fee is charged. Campsites typically feature a few (but sometimes no) improvements.<br />
<br />
Dedicated campsites usually have some amenities. Common amenities include, listed roughly in order from most to least common:<br />
* Fireplaces or [[fire pit]]s in which to build [[campfire]]s (this can be a circle of rocks, a metal enclosure, a metal grate, a concrete spot, or even just a hole).<br />
* Pit toilets (outhouses)<br />
* [[Road]] access for vehicles<br />
* [[Picnic]] tables<br />
* Piped [[Drinking water|potable water]]<br />
* Sinks and mirrors in the bathrooms<br />
* [[Flush toilet]]s and [[shower]]s<br />
* Utility hookups, such as gas, [[propane]], [[water]], electricity and sewer, primarily for the use of caravans or similar<br />
* A small [[convenience store]]<br />
* Raised platforms on which to set up [[tent]]s<br />
* Shower facilities (with or without hot water)<br />
* Marked spaces indicating a boundary for one camper or a group of campers<br />
* Reservations to ensure there will be available space to camp<br />
* Wood for free or for sale for use in cooking or for a [[campfire]]<br />
* A gravel or concrete pad on which to park a camper or car so as not to get stuck in the mud<br />
* A gravel, paved, and/or marked road so one knows how to get a vehicle to and from the campsite<br />
* Garbage cans or large rubbish bins in which to place refuse<br />
* A set of rules governing how loud noise is handled, what hours one may enter and leave the campground, rules governing nudity, the use of local wood, how to dispose of garbage, etc.<br />
<br />
Camping outside a designated campsite is often forbidden by law. It is thought to be a nuisance, harmful to the environment, and is often associated with [[Vagrancy (people)|vagrancy]]. However some countries have specific laws and/or regulations allowing camping on public lands (see ''[[Freedom to roam]]'').<br />
<br />
In the US, many [[national parks|national]] and state parks have dedicated campsites and sometimes also allow impromptu backcountry camping by visitors. U.S. [[National Forest]]s often have established campsites, but generally allow camping anywhere, except within a certain distance of water sources.<br />
<br />
There are many private, commercial campgrounds as well as those on public lands. The [[Kampgrounds of America]] (KOA) is a large chain of commercial campgrounds located throughout the US and Canada. Many travellers prefer to use KOA, or similar campsites, as an alternative to [[hotel]]s or [[motel]]s, independent campsites, or parks.<br />
<br />
Both commercial and governmental campgrounds typically charge a nominal fee for the privilege of camping there, to cover expenses, and in the case of an independent campground, to make a profit.<br />
<br />
In the U.S., backcountry camping is common in National Parks and these areas can only be reached on foot or on [[horseback]]. The camping areas are usually established "zones", which have a predetermined maximum number of persons that are allowed to stay in the section per night. Strict regulations are imposed regarding food storage and resource protection, and in most cases, open fires are not permitted and all cooking must be done with small portable stoves. Usually these backcountry campsite zones require a free permit obtainable at visitor centers and ranger stations.<br />
<br />
Most National parks do not have as many amenities as the state and private parks. <br />
<br />
== See also ==<br />
*National Park Service<br />
*[[Bear bag]]<br />
*[[Military camp]]<br />
*[[Cantonment]]<br />
<br />
== Movies and documentaries on a campsite ==<br />
*''[http://www.galafilm.com/galafilm/f/news/96187556.php Mon été au camping]'' ([[2003]])<br />
*''[http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0082379/ The Forest Primeval]'' ([[1983]])<br />
*''[[Carry On Camping]]'' ([[1969]])<br />
*''[[Camping Cosmos]]'' ([[1996]])<br />
*''[http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0389831/ Camping Sauvage]'' ([[2004]])<br />
*''[http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0090788/ Camping del Terrore]'' ([[1987]])<br />
<br />
== External links ==<br />
<br />
*[http://www.backcountryattitude.com/choosing_perfect_campsite.html Choosing the Perfect Campsite]<br />
*[http://www.bigfreeguide.com/camping/ Find Campsites in the UK]<br />
*[http://www.eurocampings.co.uk/en/europe/ Find Campsites in Europe]<br />
*[http://www.gocampingamerica.com/ Find Campsites in the USA]<br />
*[http://www.campcanada.com/ Find Campsites in Canada]<br />
<br />
pl:Kemping<br />
<br />
[[Category:Camping]]<br />
[[Category:Backpacking]]<br />
<br />
[[fi:Leirialue]]<br />
[[sv:Campingplats]]</div>DigitalScouthttps://en.scoutwiki.org/index.php?title=Bear_bag&diff=30381Bear bag2010-01-17T00:46:33Z<p>DigitalScout: fixed bad redirect</p>
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<div>{{ThisPageWasImported}}<br />
A '''bear bag''' is a device used when [[camping]] in areas that bears frequent to keep [[food]] and perishable items out of reach of the bear by raising it into the air by some means. The idea is if the bears cannot reach the food, they will not be tempted to venture too close to the camp and thus will not be a danger to humans or themselves. An alternative is to use a [[bear-resistant food storage container]].<br />
<br />
Lightweight nylon stuff sacks are often used for bear bags, but they can be made simply of a large enough square or rectangular piece of cloth or [[tarp]] with the food items placed in the center of the tarp and the corners brought up and [[tie]]d around with [[rope]]. The rope is then used to tie the bag in the air where it cannot be reached from the ground or from a [[tree]] by a bear. Often this is done by tying another length of rope tightly between two trees or other tall objects. In problem areas, a bear bag should be at least 12 feet (3.5 m) high and 10 feet (3 m) from any vertical support. The counterbalance method, Marrison system, and the Pacific Crest Trail method are a few different techniques to use when hanging a bear bag.<br />
<br />
In areas where trash cannot be burned (much of the United States and especially during dry seasons) and no fortified trash containers are available, trash may also be raised in a separate bear bag to keep the food smells from attracting bears or other animals.<br />
<br />
== External links ==<br />
*[http://www.backcountryattitude.com/bearbagging.html Bear Bagging]<br />
<br />
[[Category:Camping equipment]]<br />
[[Category:Survival skills]]</div>DigitalScouthttps://en.scoutwiki.org/index.php?title=Bear_bag&diff=30380Bear bag2010-01-17T00:44:50Z<p>DigitalScout: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{ThisPageWasImported}}<br />
A '''bear bag''' is a device used when [[camping]] in areas that bears frequent to keep [[food]] and perishable items out of reach of the bear by raising it into the air by some means. The idea is if the bears cannot reach the food, they will not be tempted to venture too close to the camp and thus will not be a danger to humans or themselves. An alternative is to use a [[bear-resistant food storage container]].<br />
<br />
Lightweight nylon stuff sacks are often used for bear bags, but they can be made simply of a large enough square or rectangular piece of cloth or [[tarp]] with the food items placed in the center of the tarp and the corners brought up and [[tie]]d around with [[rope]]. The rope is then used to tie the bag in the air where it cannot be reached from the ground or from a [[tree]] by a bear. Often this is done by tying another length of rope tightly between two trees or other tall objects. In problem areas, a bear bag should be at least 12 feet (3.5 m) high and 10 feet (3 m) from any vertical support. The counterbalance method, Marrison system, and the Pacific Crest Trail method are a few different techniques to use when hanging a bear bag.<br />
<br />
In areas where trash cannot be burned (much of the United States and especially during dry seasons) and no fortified trash containers are available, trash may also be raised in a separate bear bag to keep the food smells from attracting bears or other animals.<br />
<br />
== External links ==<br />
*[http://www.geocities.com/Yosemite/Falls/9200/bearbagging.html Bear Bagging]<br />
<br />
[[Category:Camping equipment]]<br />
[[Category:Survival skills]]</div>DigitalScout