News & Updates

An Urgent Message from Leave No Trace

Mark Eller - May 26, 2020

A message from Dana Watts, Leave No Trace Executive Director on May 26, 2020

Image: Dana enjoying the trails in Boulder, Colorado.

I’ll make this to the point: Leave No Trace needs your support — now perhaps more than any other time in our history.

People are turning to nature like never before as the COVID-19 crisis ripples through our lives — many are seeking outdoor experiences for the first time.

As areas across the country begin to reopen, all indications are that people will visit parks and protected areas in record numbers this summer … despite the fact that many of these places are even more understaffed and overwhelmed than they were before the crisis. Some trails in Colorado, for example, are already experiencing a 400-percent increase in daily use.

The need for Leave No Trace and its highly effective educational programs has never been so profound.

That’s why I’m asking you to please make a donation today so we can continue our work.

Unfortunately, the outdoor industry, from which the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics derives much of its financial support, is suffering. Many outdoor retailers have been forced to close their stores, and some manufacturers have shuttered their factories. Facing these challenges, some of our most critical partners are being forced to reduce or withdraw their support for The Center’s important work.

The Center’s individual membership program faces similar challenges as many of our supporters are forced to tighten their household budgets.

Yet we won’t back away from our mission in this time of crisis. Not one step!

Moving forward, our vision remains clear: We will provide science-based solutions addressing the threats natural areas face; assist families and youth educators with effective resources (usually free or low-cost); and inform the public about how to enjoy nature in a sustainable, healthy way.

Please, contribute today and ensure our work continues — I am grateful for your donation and I thank you!

Yours for the outdoors,

Dana Watts

PS: The Center is publishing compelling research on how COVID-19 is shaping new patterns in outdoor recreation. These valuable insights are freely shared with land managers and peer organizations to help protect the places that we all cherish.

Let’s protect and enjoy our natural world together

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