State Launches Review of Open Space Conservation Plan

By Peter Aronson

New York State has announced that it is commencing its periodic Open Space Conservation Plan review. This comes at a crucial time with the climate crisis becoming increasingly urgent and the state vowing to protect 30 percent of its land and water by 2030.

“Land conservation is an essential tool in New York State’s comprehensive actions to address climate change and protect our natural resources,” said New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Basil Seggos. “As work begins to revise the New York State Open Space Plan, DEC and our State and local partners will look to both preserve our lands and waters for future generations while ensuring priorities and projects help to advance New York’s Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act and align with the State’s efforts to conserve 30 percent of our lands and waters by 2030.”

On September 13, the DEC and the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation announced the start of its open space plan review. Under the law, the state must review its plan every three years, relying on recommendations from nine Regional Advisory Committees (RACs). The RACs will recommend land acquisition priorities within their respective regions. The entire process is expected to take two years, with a public comment period expected in summer 2024 and a final plan in 2025.

Since 1992, the Open Space Conservation Plan has served as the blueprint to guide land purchases and conservation efforts by the state. The DEC website lists the state’s land purchases project by project, year by year. In 2022, the state spent more than $20 million in purchasing 5,057 acres in 44 separate transactions. The purchases ranged from 17.49 acres in the Adirondacks Forest Preserve for $500,00 to 925.68 acres in Hudson Highlands, in Putnam County, for almost $7.8 million. In 2021, the state spent more than $33 million in purchasing 16,997 acres. 

 “Open space is simply land or water that is undeveloped” – free from residential, commercial, industrial or institutional use, the DEC website explains. 

During the review process, staff from the DEC and the state Parks Department will collaborate with other state agencies, including the Department of Agriculture and Markets, Department of State and Department of Transportation to make sure the conservation plan protects water and air quality, ensures environmental justice, and, of course, addresses climate change.

The plan will address crucial issues such as farmland protection, coastal land conservation and the connection of transportation to land use, the DEC press release states. 

Much of the funding for future land purchases will come from the $4.2 billion Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act passed by voters in November 2022. Specifically, the bond act authorizes $650 million for open space land conservation and recreation.

The review of the state’s Open Space Conservation Plan comes at a crucial time. The world just experienced its hottest summer in recorded history, dating to 1880, and recent droughts, floods and forest fires caused by global warming have caused death and destruction around the world. 

On December 23, 2022, Gov. Kathy Hochul signed an NYLCV Scorecard bill that established the state’s goal of conserving 30 percent of its land and water by 2030, in keeping with the U.S. goal. At that time, according to a detailed article in The Adirondack Almanack, the state had preserved 19 percent of its land as open space and that the review plan had provided a “well tested strategy and framework” for conserving land, putting New York ahead of many other states. 

“The last few years have dramatically underscored the need for open spaces and parkland to help moderate the negative impacts of climate change and provide people with places to get outside and escape the daily stress of life,” State Parks Commissioner Erik Kulleseid said. “We look forward to hearing from the public as we renew this statewide open space plan – and build on New York State’s outstanding legacy of land conservation and broad access to outdoor recreation.”

Green Tips : Fall Yard Stewardship

Maintaining a lawn or garden can be a fun and rewarding activity. However, landowners and landscapers know all too well that autumn brings additional tasks for up-keeping outdoor spaces. With falling leaves and dropping temperaturesand with an increasing array of composting resourceswe want to make sure that you’re equipped with sustainable yard care tips.

Handling Fallen Leaves

Fallen leaves may add a wonderful fall aesthetic to your land, but can be quite a nuisance if you prefer not to leave them. Below are some tips for removing and using your leaves.

Applying Fertilizer

Fertilizer provides a great boost of nutrients for plants in need. Whether synthetic or natural, it’s important to apply fertilizer in a way that reduces the chance of run-off. Nutrients that run-off can seep into groundwater and make their way into surface water bodies. The build up of nutrients in lakes, ponds, and estuaries can lead to eutrophication that often cause environmental harm and fish kills. Before applying fertilizer ahead of the cold winter season, there are a few things to know!

  • Plants and grasses cannot uptake fertilizer if the soil is below 55°F. Check the regional soil temperature before applying! Unabsorbed fertilizer is at risk to run off.
  • As per New York State law, only use fertilizer that contains zero percent phosphorus. 
  • Avoid applying fertilizer within twenty feet of any body of water. 
  • Keep fertilizer off impervious surfaces, such as sidewalks and driveways. If fertilizer spills onto any of these surfaces, clean it up without washing it away, as doing so can encourage runoff. 

Additional Tips

  • Water your lawn with a soaker hose or watering can to avoid overwatering.
  • Increase the height of your lawnmower blades to three inches. Taller lawns do not need as much water.

We hope you find this week’s Green Tips helpful, and are enjoying the fall season so far!

Mandatory Curbside Composting Coming to Brooklyn!

New York City’s curbside composting program is coming to all five boroughs before the end of 2024, and the next stop is Brooklyn, with collections beginning on Monday, October 2. 

Under the leadership of Mayor Adams, curbside composting began as a pilot program in Queens, and in just three months it prevented a staggering 12.7 million pounds of yard and food waste from reaching landfills. In January, the mayor announced that the program would expand citywide. 

To be as effective as possible, however, it could not be a voluntary measure. Then, thanks to the leadership in the City Council, the Zero Waste Act was passed this summer. This legislative package included Local Law 85, sponsored by Council Member Shahana Hanif, making curbside composting mandatory as it rolls out across the city over the next year.

Yard waste, food scraps, and food-soiled paper constitute a staggering 34% of all residential waste in New York City and reducing waste sent to landfills is a vital part of New York City’s efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 80% by 2050. 

When organic waste ends up in landfills, it decomposes and produces methane gas, a greenhouse gas more than 20 times more potent than carbon dioxide. This gas further pollutes the air in low-income communities and communities of color, where landfills have historically been situated due to environmental racism.

But the benefits of composting go beyond waste reduction. It also enriches soil quality, enhances water retention, and creates opportunities for parks, green spaces, urban greening, and job growth in composting and urban greening.

What items are eligible for composting? The Department of Sanitation (DSNY) will pick up all leaf and yard waste, food scraps, and food-soiled paper. That includes meat, bones, dairy, prepared foods, and even greasy uncoated paper plates and pizza boxes.

(Do not compost diapers, personal hygiene products, animal waste, wrappers, non-paper packaging, and foam products. And don’t compost otherwise recyclable materials.) 

How do you compost? It’s pretty straightforward. Food scraps and food-soiled paper can be placed in any compost-labeled bin (55 gallons or less) with a secure lid or in your DSNY brown bin. Leaf and yard waste separation will also be mandatory, starting in Brooklyn in October.

You can order bins, decals, tip sheets, and building signage here.

The program will extend to the Bronx and Staten Island on March 25, 2024, and to Manhattan on October 7, 2024.

The city has allocated over $23 million to the program. This includes funding for bin deliveries, outreach, communications, and the hiring of new staff to facilitate collection operations.

For those who live in areas still awaiting curbside composting pickup, the city has organized dozens of food-scrap drop-off points throughout the five boroughs. A map of the locations can be found here. 

For those in Upper Manhattan, you can also use the Smart Compost bins that are placed on street corners. The orange metal containers, located in Morningside Heights, Central Harlem, East Harlem, West Harlem, Washington Heights and Inwood, have a scanning link on the front and invite you to download the NYC Compost App with your phone in order to open the bins to dispose of waste.

Mandatory composting has been a long time priority for the League and we applaud Mayor Adams, the City Council, and DSNY Commissioner Tisch for making it a reality. And of course, we salute those who do the real heavy lifting every day of the week, our dedicated sanitation workers—New York’s Strongest.

Additional resources:

NYLCVEF hosted a Lunch and Learn webinar, which can be viewed here.

DSNY will be hosting information sessions on the following dates and times, just follow the links to register:

Other zero waste measures passed by the City Council:

  1. Local Law 86 of 2023, sponsored by Council Member Sandy Nurse, codifies the goal of zero waste by 2030, holding the city accountable and requiring regular reports on progress.

  2. Local Law 87 of 2023, also sponsored by Council Member Nurse, ensures transparency by mandating regular reports on efforts to meet zero waste goals and develop a comprehensive plan.

  3. Local Law 88 of 2023, sponsored by Council Member Keith Powers, brings recycling closer to communities by creating community recycling centers across boroughs.

  4. Local Law 89 of 2023, also sponsored by Council Member Powers, establishes organic waste drop-off sites throughout the city.

It’s Drive Electric Week! Incentives Abound for Your EV Purchase

By Ella Nielsen

Thinking of buying an EV but don’t know where to start? We’ve put together a list of incentives that are available at the federal and state level. 

Federal Tax Credit for New & Used Electric Vehicles 

A federal tax credit is available for drivers purchasing new qualified EVs and FCVs. For vehicles purchased from 2023 to 2032 there is up to $7,500 available in credits. To qualify you must buy it for your own use, and use it primarily in the United States. To qualify the vehicle must have a battery capacity of at least 7 kilowatt hours, weight less than 14,000 pounds, undergo assembly in North America and be made by a qualified manufacturer. See Credits for New Vehicles for a full list of qualifying vehicles and additional criteria related to modified gross income (AGI), retail price, and how to claim the credit. 

A federal tax credit is available for drivers purchasing qualified used EVs and FCVs. The credit equals 30% of the sale price up to a maximum credit of $4,000. The vehicle must be purchased from a licensed dealer for $25,000 or less, have a model year of at least 2 years earlier than the calendar year when the vehicle was purchased to qualify. See Credits for Used Vehicles for a full list of qualifying vehicles and additional criteria related to modified gross income (AGI), retail price, and how to claim the credit. 

New York State

The Charge NY initiative offers New York State residents a point-of-sale rebate towards purchasing or leasing a new EV. Over 60 car models qualify for the Drive Clean Rebate with a discount of up to $2,000 when you purchase from a participating dealer. The Drive Clean Rebate amount depends on the all-electric range of the car model, vehicles with ranges greater than 200 miles receive the full rebate amount. Unless a model year is specific in the qualifying models all model years are eligible for specified models. 

New York state also offers discounts on tolls for electric vehicle drivers, including the Thruway Authority’s Green Pass Discount Plan

Utilities

Local energy utilities may offer incentives, check out the list below to find what your utility offers. 

Con Edison

NYSEG

Central Hudson

PSEG LI

National Grid

There has never been a better time to buy an electric vehicle, check out NYLCVEF’s  factsheets below to learn more information about the benefits of EVs:

State of Electric Vehicles in NY

Electric Vehicles on the Market

Get The Facts On Electric Vehicles: Range Anxiety & Charging

The Economics of Purchasing & Owning an EV

Fighting Climate Change At Home

By Peter Aronson

With fall almost here, it’s a great time to fight climate change at home with energy efficient changes and upgrades.

Even small adjustments made by renters, homeowners and businesses, when added up town by town and city by city, can make a significant difference in reducing our collective carbon footprint. 

The Inflation Reduction Act and state and local governments offer financial incentives for a variety of energy-saving changes, such as installing solar and upgrading insulation to buying energy-efficient appliances.

Let’s start with some basic suggestions to reduce your greenhouse gas emissions at home:

  1. In winter lower your thermostat and in summer raise it;
  2. Change to smart thermostats, which allow for easier and energy-efficient heat and cooling regulation;
  3. Repair air leaks in windows and doors (This often can be done by installing weather stripping);
  4. Install energy efficient windows if you are a homeowner or ask your landlord to do it, if you rent;
  5. Switch to energy-efficient light bulbs;
  6. Switch to energy-efficient electric appliances;
  7. Wash laundry in cold water and hang dry whenever possible;
  8. If a homeowner, install a solar roof;
  9. Use green cleaning products;
  10. If you don’t already do so, start recycling and composting. (NYC is in the process of rolling out its citywide composting program); 
  11. If a homeowner, replace an oil or gas furnace with an electric heat pump, or if a renter, encourage your landlord to do so; and
  12. And do a little spring cleaning in the fall. Go through your closets. If you don’t need certain items, donate it to charity, instead of throwing it in the garbage, where it will end up in a landfill. If you need something, buy something gently used at a vintage shop. 

The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) provides financial incentives in the way of tax credits for many of the changes listed above. 

“New York homeowners can use IRA tax credits to reduce the cost of home energy efficiency improvements, energy-saving renovations, and installing efficient heating and cooling systems,” according to the New York State Website outlining the IRA options. 

NYLCV has compiled a set of IRA consumer guides, and a second New York State website lists myriad financial incentives for energy-efficient changes in homes and businesses in counties and regions all across the state.

Other Resources

  • Con Ed also explains financial incentives attached to some of the improvements.
  • The UN provides Act Now tips for greening your home and life and helpful renewable-energy info.
  • GreenAmerica provides links for how to make many of the changes listed above and where to buy certain green products.
  • NPR offers a 20-minute tutorial on how to green your home.
  • If you want to calculate your families’ current carbon footprint, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency provides a carbon footprint calculator.

And our final thought. Always remember the four Rs, because they apply to your home, as well as every aspect of life (and it can stand as your mantra for the week): Reduce, reuse, repair and recycle.  

Update on Efforts to Reduce Lead in New York State’s School Drinking Water

As classes are set to begin this week for K-12 students, the quality of school drinking water – particularly when it comes to lead – is top of mind for many parents, and for good reason.

Lead is a heavy metal and a known neurotoxin, particularly harmful to the developing brain and nervous system of children. There is no safe level of lead exposure and even small amounts can harm a child’s growth, behavior, and ability to learn.

In 2016, New York State became the first in the nation to enact a law requiring all public schools to test for, report to the school community about, and fix issues concerning lead in drinking water at all outlets used for consumption. 

Here’s an update on the program:

New NYS Department of Health Report Released; Positive news but incomplete data

The NYS Department of Health recently released its 2021 biennial report providing an overview of the program’s status, including a summary of test results, program implementation updates and actions taken. This report covers the “Round 2” period of testing, which occurred from January 1, 2020 – June 30, 2021. 

For Round 2, approximately 96% of the drinking water yielded results below the lead action level of 15 ppb, the current standard. This is an improvement from “Round 1” (2016-2017) where 94% percent of the outlets were below the lead action level. 

What is troubling about this report, however, is the declining level of disclosure by public school districts to the Department of Health. 

  • In the 2019 biennial report covering Round 1 testing, information from nearly 99% of all schools buildings were provided to the Department of Health with results. 
  • In the 2021 biennial report covering Round 2 testing, information from only 93% buildings were reported – a 6% drop. 
    • A deeper look at the data shows that this 6% represents nearly 300 building reports that are missing from the Department of Health dataset. These missing reports are spread around 89 school districts which represents 13% of all school districts which means only 87% of all school districts have fully complied with Round 2 reporting.

                                                                                      Source data: https://health.data.ny.gov

We urge the Department of Health to immediately reach out to school districts that have not submitted all of their reports for Round 2 to ensure compliance with this program.

School drinking water in your area may be getting cleaner thanks to a new state law that took effect late last year.

New regulations advocated by NYLCV and its allies went into effect on December 22, 2022, revising and improving upon the landmark 2016 law creating the Safe School Drinking Water Act. These revisions signed into law by Governor Hochul, will get even more lead out of our school drinking water and close loopholes in the initial program as such:

  • While there is no safe level of lead, the “action level” for lead in drinking water is now 5 parts per billion (ppb), reduced from 15 ppb
    • This change makes New York State the largest state with the most protective health standard in the country, stronger that the federal Lead and Copper Rule

  • Water testing will now occur triennially (every 3 years) reduced from every five years 
    • Schools must initiate their testing between January 1, 2023, through December 31, 2025, with school districts such as New York City and Schenectady already getting started

  • School buildings that previously were declared “lead-free” are no longer exempt from testing requirements
  • Copies of lead sampling results including laboratory reports must be made available to the public and posted on the school’s website
    • An improvement in transparency 

  • Clarifies that if it’s necessary to provide water to school occupants following the temporary removal of a drinking water source, it must be provided free of charge
    • A win for equity and a commonsense approach

See the Future of Clean Energy at the Great New York State Fair!

The Great New York State Fair in Syracuse is renowned for its delicious treats, charming farm animals, exhilarating rides, and, of course, the iconic butter sculpture. But this year, amidst all the traditional fun, you will also have the chance to explore the future of clean energy at the “Clean Energy Corner,” proudly presented by the New York League of Conservation Voters Education Fund (NYLCVEF) and its partner organizations, and located at booth #133 in the Center of Progress Building (to the right of the Sand Sculpture).

At NYLCVEF, we believe in the power of education and awareness to drive positive change. That’s why we’ve teamed up with a group of terrific partners, including the Alliance for Clean Energy NY (ACE NY), Alliance for a Green Economy (AGREE), Climate Change Awareness and Action (CCAA), New Yorkers for Clean Power (NYCP), and United Solar Energy Supporters (USES USA). Together, we’re bringing you an engaging and interactive experience about the ongoing renewable energy revolution happening in New York State.

Here’s what’s in store:

  • Games and Activities: Bring the kids!! We’ve curated an array of games and activities that cater to both children and adults. Explore, learn, and have a blast while uncovering the wonders of clean energy.
  • Stay Informed: Want to stay updated on the latest developments in the world of renewable energy? Visitors can sign up to receive information from NYLCVEF as well as all the participating organizations. This is your chance to stay connected and make a difference.
  • Virtual Reality Solar Farm Tour: Step into our captivating virtual reality tour of a solar farm. Immerse yourself in the world of solar energy production and witness firsthand how this technology is reshaping our energy landscape.
  • Vote for the Future: Which renewable technology is the most fascinating to you? Now’s your chance to voice your opinion! Participate in our informal voting activity and let us know which renewable technology you’re most eager to learn about.

The “Clean Energy Corner” is open to all fairgoers from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily until September 4. Whether you’re a curious kid, an eco-conscious adult, or someone who simply wants to explore the future of energy, our booth is a must-see.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to engage, learn, and be inspired by the potential of clean energy, all while having a little fun.

Look out for Team NYLCVEF—Caroline Hahn, Andrew Williams, Marla Klinger (pictured above, far left), and Alexis Hidalgo—who will be on hand to answer any questions you might have.

Join us as we journey into a clean energy future. See you at the fair!

New Report: No Excuses, NYC: Replace Lead Drinking Water Pipes Now

By Grace Prince

According to a new report by the New York City Coalition to End Lead Poisoning, an estimated 1 in 5 New Yorkers may be drinking from lead service lines (LSLs). The report, No Excuses, NYC: Replace Lead Drinking Water Pipes Now, co-authored by the New York League of Conservation Voters Education Fund, the Natural Resources Defense Fund, and Earthjustice, identifies the problem of LSLs in the City and recommends urgent action towards their immediate removal. 

The CDC, American Academy of Pediatrics and other prominent health organizations all agree that there is no safe level of lead exposure. Lead poisoning can have adverse health effects at any age level, however, young children and infants are most at risk. 

LSLs are the lead pipes that connect the city water mains under the street to residences and are the biggest source of lead in drinking water. During the early 20th century, the use of LSLs for drinking water was heavily marketed in cities across the U.S. until the public became aware of the effect lead pipes can have on human health. 

“New York City’s drinking water supply is the envy of many other cities. Yet, for all of the money we have invested to protect our watershed, our return on investment is greatly diminished with each lead service line that remains in the ground,” said Joshua Klainberg, Senior Vice President for the New York League of Conservation Voters Education Fund.

The report has already garnered attention in New York City and beyond. In addition to City Limits, NY1, the Gothamist, and the Guardian all featured the findings.

The Lead and Copper Rule is Failing 

While a federal ban was placed on lead pipes in 1986, and New York City banned them in 1961, the EPA does not require the replacement of legacy lead pipes underground. Health experts and state regulators agree that the removal of LSLs is a necessary part of any health-protective drinking water standard. But the EPA Lead and Copper Rule, which regulates lead in drinking water, is failing to protect the health of communities because it does not require water systems to completely replace lead pipes.

Contaminants in drinking water are typically regulated based on a “maximum contaminant level” (MCL), which is the level of the contaminant before known or anticipated adverse health effects may occur. The MCL for lead in water is zero, however the EPA failed to codify an MCL for lead and instead implemented a “treatment technique” designed to reduce lead levels within a water system. 

This technique is wholly inadequate because the treatment process does not require that the water system reduce lead levels below a certain amount—or in many cases, at all. Furthermore, the frequency at which water systems are required to test for lead varies and fails to account for the fluctuation that can occur from day to day. Lead exposure is often episodic, meaning that on one day, lead levels could be near zero, while the next they could reach extremely high levels, making testing for lead levels insufficient unless done over an extended period of time. 

The problem reaches every borough. Compared to the citywide lead or possible LSL average of 42%, Staten Island (39%) and Queens (40%) are below the average while three—Brooklyn (46%), Manhattan (44%), and the Bronx (42%)–are at or above the average.  

The same report found that nearly half of the neighborhoods with the highest number of lead or possible LSLs are also neighborhoods with the highest percentage of elevated blood lead levels for children under the age of six. While it is impossible to know for certain the source of the lead poisoning, the high degree of LSLs in these neighborhoods deserve a closer look by the DEP and the NYC Department of Health.

“This report should be a wake-up call for the city, as lead is a dangerous neurotoxin with health impacts that last a lifetime,” said Lonnie Portis, New York City Policy and Advocacy Manager at WE ACT for Environmental Justice.“It confirms that lead service lines are located primarily in low-income communities and communities of color, like East Harlem, which is ranked second highest in the city for potential lead water contamination. These are the same neighborhoods where the majority of the homes with lead paint are located, and with some of the worst air pollution in the city.

Newark Shows the Way Forward

Answers on how to replace LSLs quickly, efficiently, equitably, and affordably lie across the Hudson in Newark, New Jersey. 

Following an NRDC lawsuit on behalf of local schoolteachers, Newark replaced all of its lead service lines in under three years. Key to its success was an ordinance that fully funded the mandated replacement of all lead service lines in the city. The full report details more of the provisions that led to Newark’s success, but experts agree both the requirement of the removal of the pipes and the provision of funding for the project were essential components. 

“Cities like Newark, NJ have demonstrated that complete replacement of lead pipelines is possible and proving to be successful in reducing toxic lead exposure,” said Marissa Lieberman-Klein, associate attorney at Earthjustice. “We urge NYC lawmakers to take action and help prevent toxic lead exposure, especially for our children who can be irreparably harmed by lead in their drinking water.”

The report estimates that replacing all of the lead service lines in NYC would cost around $1.35 billion or around $8,800 per LSL. A mandated replacement program can help reduce costs by utilizing economies of scale and with contractors covering large areas of the city at a time, resulting in less cost per LSL removal. Add to that the state and federal sources of funding available, removing LSLs could come at a minimal financial cost to New Yorkers. 

Having identified the problem, the solution, and sources of funding, what we need now is the political will.  The report calls on the NYC City Council to pass a local law, similar to that of Newark, mandating the replacement of all lead service lines within ten years, at little or no cost to New Yorkers.  

“It’s not rocket science,” Joan Matthews, a senior attorney for the NRDC, told City Limits. “We know what the problem is. We know what needs to be done. And now we need to have our local government officials make it happen.” 

Read No Excuses, NYC: Replace Lead Drinking Water Pipes Now 

A Responsible Trip to the Great Outdoors: Your Guide to Leave No Trace

By Nate Cohen

Sunny skies, long days, warm weather—summer is the perfect time to enjoy the outdoors. Luckily, New York State is brimming with stunning destinations for both day trips and overnight adventures. From the Catskill and Adirondack mountains to the beaches of Long Island, to the many lakes, waterfalls, and scenic vistas that define our state parks, there is no shortage of places to explore. However, outdoor recreation can also have its drawbacks—namely harm to plants and wildlife. So before you embark on your next adventure, remember these key Leave No Trace principles.

What is Leave No Trace?

Leave No Trace, or LNT for short, is perhaps the most basic conservation principle. You might hear it from park rangers, or see it on a posted sign or on a trail map. The precise meaning of LNT will change based on the environment and activity, but these are the basic principles:

  • Practice Proper Waste Disposal

Whether hiking, sunbathing or camping out, be sure not to leave any trash of any kind behind. Dispose of all food and non-food waste in a garbage can, or carry it out with you. This may require some planning, by carrying in an empty garbage bag with you if no garbage cans are available on site. The reason for this is simple: Even food waste can severely alter and harm an ecosystem. And you certainly don’t want to leave litter behind for the next visitor to see.

If nature calls, use a trowel to dig a hole at least 200 feet from a water source. After you finish your business, be sure to cover the hole completely. This avoids contamination of nearby water sources, preventing the spread of water-borne illnesses.

  • Leave What You Find

Visitors should avoid altering the natural setting of an environment. As tempting as it may be to pick flowers or collect shells or pebbles on your next hike, camping trip or beach outing, LNT dictates that you leave these natural artifacts behind. Moreover, visitors should avoid physically altering nature by doing anything destructive, including hammering nails or carving initials into trees. We want the natural beauty to remain as is for future visitors.

  • Respect Wildlife

For some, witnessing wildlife can be the highlight of their outdoor adventure. For others, a wildlife encounter may be their worst fear. Regardless, when exploring outdoors, you should be aware of the creatures who inhabit the area and the dangers they pose. Wildlife may be unpredictable, cause serious injuries, or spread disease. Thus, to ensure your safety, avoid feeding or touching wild animals. It’s also best to avoid carrying scented items, including food in open containers. This can attract wildlife and create a hazard. 

Following these principles can go a long way towards protecting the environment and wildlife, and ensuring the outdoors remains pristine for future visitors. 

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