Stewardship 101
The Gateway Trail System lies within the scenic and pristine Shasta-Trinity National Forest. Increased use of trailheads, trails, lakes, and rivers has resulted in littered trails, overflowing garbage cans, and damage to the landscape. Below are seven simple steps everyone can take to help conserve this uniquely beautiful area.
1. Plan ahead
Be prepared. Know where you’re headed, grab a map, check the weather, and carry appropriate food, water, and clothing. No one wants to be cold, dehydrated, lost or hangry! Let someone know where you are planning to be for the day.
2. Pack it in, pack it out
You’re responsible for everything you bring or create, including plastic, food, garbage, and human waste. Use WAG bags (waste alleviation and gelling bags) for solid excrement. Dig cat holes 200 feet from water and trails if you don’t have human waste kits. Never leave toilet paper in the forest. Keep in mind that known toilet facilities may be locked.
3. Don’t be a taker
Make sure you’re not greedy or needy. Don’t take any natural souvenirs from the forest. Leave nature the way you found it. This means letting wildflowers grow, so they can reproduce and be around for pollinators and passersby.
4. Stick to the path
Stay on established and designated National Forest System trails. This prevents damage to plants and animal habitat—and it also reduces your chance of getting lost.
5. Control your beasts
Be a kind and considerate alpha. Don’t allow pets to chase wildlife or disrupt the landscape.
6. Listen to Smokey
Check with local ranger stations on campfire regulations. In many locations, campfires are not allowed or require a permit. So save those ghost stories for another time and place.
7. Know about H2O
Don’t wash in streams, rivers, or lakes. Carry water 200 feet from the source to wash dishes, clothes, or yourself. Do not allow soap to get into waterways where it can poison plants and animals.
Additional Resources
“The seven principles of leave no trace” by The Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics
“How to poop (almost) anywhere with a WAG bag” by The Dyrt
Get Involved
Consider joining Clean and Safe Mt. Shasta, an action group comprised of community organizations and residents who have come together to address concerns about cleanliness and safety issues through collaborative problem-solving, resource-sharing, and advocacy. The group hosts clean-up days in the national forest, the town of Mount Shasta, and surrounding areas.