Backpacking (Part two)
© Nicholas Bittner
First in line, it says Define limits on the number of backpackers who should be in a backpacking crew. Ok, this is simple. You don't want more then maybe a dozen people on your average backpacking trip. The reason for this is that too many people mean more supplies needed, more space for sleeping, and the greater the impact on the environment. Next, it says to explain the upper and lower limits in a backpacking crew. Well, you need at least two people for safety reasons, but a lower limit should be around three to four. The reasons for at least three, is if one person gets injured (Something disabling them to walk, like a broken leg) then one person can stay with them while the other goes for help, or the two can carry their injured friend. It's always a good idea to stay with your buddy at all times. Now, the upper reason, you don't want it too large because the supplies you'll need will add a lot of weight. Also, you'll have to find a much bigger place to sleep, and the impact of it on the environment. More people means the trails get worn more, and the noise will almost certainly be increased by three times that of an average backpacking crew.
Tell environmental considerations that are important for backpackers and describe five ways to lessen their impact on the environment. Describe proper methods for disposing of solid and liquid wastes. Well, when planning a trip, you should always consider the terrain. If you have inexperienced hikers with you, try a relatively flat area. Also, check the weather. Make sure you plan if there's going to be snow, rain, hail, or other such weather conditions. When backpacking, it's hard to cross rocky terrain, so try to pick a place with set paths and not too many large rocks. Ok, now for the list. Hike in a straight line, so you don't trample the brush and bushes, etc. Keep the noise level down. Animals get frightened easily, especially from noise. Let's see here, what next. Make a latrine. One long latrine is better on the environment than several small cat holes. Also, make sure you refill your latrine with dirt when you leave the campsite. There's three, two more. Remember the leave no trace rule. After you leave the campsite, pick up all the trash, even if it's not yours. And if you take away anything like leaves, you might try putting some back, to cover up all trace you were there. Last, don't throw trash or food on the ground while hiking. Even a little nut or piece of dried fruit could be harmful to the environment. Now, for disposing of solids, I recommend you take them with you. Remember, never leave something behind on the trail. For liquids, dig a small hole, pour it in, and cover the hole. Don't just dump it on the nearest bush you see.
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