[CMCEmail] 5 Things to Know Before You Climb in the Alpine

[CMCEmail@Californiamountaineer.com]

5 Things to Know Before You Climb in the Alpine

 

 <http://www.opengate.org/.a/6a014e8b8dc0e7970d01b8d1f5b1d2970c-pi> Alpine



As the weather heats up, many of us will be heading into the alpine to get
our climbing fix in cooler temperatures. The alpine zone, typically
occurring above consistent tree line, is characterized by rocky talus
slopes, dwarfed trees, and highly sensitive vegetation. The alpine
environment is one of the most fragile places we climb. Shorter growing
seasons, limited soil, and fragile plant life make it especially important
for us to tread lightly and reduce our impact. As an increasing number of
climbers are heading into the alpine, land managers have growing concerns
and are paying close attention.

Here are 5 things to keep in mind before you head into the alpine on your
next climbing adventure.

1.	Stashing pads and gear is illegal in most places and hurts wildlife.
We get it. Alpine approaches can be arduous. If you're projecting, hauling
all that gear is a drag. But stashing gear is not worth the price we'll all
pay for access if a land manager finds it (and trust us, they are looking).
It's also not worth the hit to your wallet or the health of wildlife if
hungry marmots eat it. Mountain goats, marmots, and other wild critters
crave salt, and they will munch on your sweaty pad, giving them an unhealthy
mix of synthetic fibers and human salt.
2.	Thin alpine soil lacks the micro-organisms needed to biodegrade
human waste properly. If you don't know how to pack out your own poop in a
bag, it is time you learned. Bag systems like RESTOP or Cleanwaste WAG Bags
seal up tight with virtually no stink or nasty factor. Pack out that TP as
well.
3.	Plant species in the alpine will take decades to restore if
trampled. Don't pile on a bunch of extra crash pads, and be extra careful
where you place your pads and gear. Limit group size to minimize your
impact. When traveling off trail, stick to durable surfaces like rock or
talus slopes so you aren't crushing sensitive plants.
4.	Many alpine areas require permits. Do your research ahead of time.
Many remote, backcountry areas in alpine environments have a permit system
to limit the number of visitors in a particular area due to its sensitivity.
5.	Marmots, pikas, and bears all want to steal your lunch. Unless you
want your favorite boulder field patrolled by hungry bears, take care to
store your food so that critters can't get into it. Hang your food, pack out
trash and food waste, and use a bear canister where recommended by land
managers. Improperly stored food will attract wild critters, leading to food
conditioning and increases in human-wildlife encounters.

The alpine environment can be one of the most spectacular places to climb.
Thanks for doing your part to take care of this sensitive environment and
ensure we don't lose access.

Posted by Access Fund

 

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