As fall settles over Minnesota, the state’s natural landscapes become a stunning canvas of vibrant colors, crisp air, and abundant wildlife activity. From hiking through dense forests to observing the last migratory birds of the season, fall offers endless opportunities for outdoor exploration. However, with this beauty comes the responsibility of caring for our natural places. Practicing Leave No Trace principles is essential to Minnesota stewardship, ensuring that our beloved landscapes remain pristine and thriving for future generations.

Why Leave No Trace?

Leave No Trace (LNT) is a set of outdoor ethics that guides us in minimizing our impact on the environment. The goal is to leave the natural world as untouched as possible. As the fall season invites more people to explore, practicing these principles becomes even more critical to caring for our natural places.

The Seven Leave No Trace Principles

Plan Ahead and Prepare

• • Research Your Destination: Before heading out, take the time to research your destination. Understand the local regulations, weather conditions, and potential hazards. Knowing what to expect helps you minimize your impact.
  • Pack Smart: Bring appropriate gear and supplies to ensure your safety and comfort. This includes packing out all trash, carrying a map, and preparing for sudden weather changes typical of Minnesota’s fall season.

Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces

• • Stick to Trails: Stay on established trails and campsites to avoid damaging delicate vegetation and soil. In the fall, this is especially important as many plants and animals prepare for winter.
  • Choose Campsites Wisely: If you’re camping, select sites that are already impacted to minimize your footprint. Avoid setting up camp near water sources to protect wildlife and prevent erosion.

Dispose of Waste Properly

• • Pack It In, Pack It Out: Carry out all your trash, including food scraps, to keep the environment clean and safe for wildlife. Even biodegradable items like apple cores can disrupt local ecosystems.

Leave What You Find

• • Respect Natural and Cultural Resources: Leave artifacts, rocks, plants, and other natural objects as you find them. This ensures that the area remains unaltered for others to enjoy.
  • Avoid Building Structures: Resist the temptation to create rock cairns or other structures, as these can disturb wildlife and alter the natural landscape.

Minimize Campfire Impact

• • Use a Camp Stove: In Minnesota’s fall, dry conditions can increase the risk of wildfires. Use a camp stove instead of building a fire, especially in sensitive areas.
  • Keep Fires Small: If you must have a campfire, use established fire rings and keep the fire small. Burn only small sticks found on the ground, and ensure the fire is completely out before leaving.

Respect Wildlife

• • Observe from a Distance: Fall is a crucial time for wildlife as they prepare for winter. Keep your distance to avoid stressing animals, especially as they forage and store food.
  • Store Food Securely: Avoid attracting wildlife to your campsite by storing food in bear-proof containers or hanging it from a tree. This helps protect both you and the animals.

Be Considerate of Other Visitors

• • Share the Trails: Minnesota’s parks and trails can be busy during the fall season. Be courteous to other hikers by yielding the trail when necessary and keeping noise levels low.
  • Keep Pets Under Control: If you bring a pet, make sure it’s leashed and under control to prevent it from disturbing wildlife or other visitors.

Minnesota Stewardship: Beyond Leave No Trace

Practicing Leave No Trace is an excellent way to care for our natural places, but local stewardship goes even further. Consider participating in community-led stewardship efforts, such as habitat restoration projects or invasive species removal. These activities help maintain the health of Minnesota’s ecosystems, ensuring that the landscapes we love continue to thrive.

Additionally, educating others about the importance of Leave No Trace and Minnesota stewardship is a powerful way to spread awareness. Whether it’s through social media, local groups, or conversations with fellow outdoor enthusiasts, sharing your knowledge can inspire others to take action.

Embrace Leave No Trace This Fall

As you explore Minnesota’s stunning fall landscapes, remember that every step you take has an impact. By following Leave No Trace principles, you can enjoy your adventures while protecting the natural beauty and wildlife that make these places so special. Minnesota stewardship is about more than just enjoying the outdoors; it’s about ensuring that these wild places remain vibrant and healthy for generations to come.

So, as you hike, camp, and observe wildlife this fall, keep these principles in mind. Your actions matter, and together, we can make a difference in caring for our natural places.