Remember to “Leave No Trace” on the Black Hills National Forest

Custer, SD – Black Hills National Forest officials would like to remind visitors to “Leave No Trace” when visiting the Forest.

Proper disposal of waste helps maintain a clean Forest, reduces risks to wildlife, and is considerate of current and future visitors.

“Recreational opportunities abound on the Forest, and it is important to keep the Forest clean for all users,” said Scott Jacobson, Public Affairs, Black Hills National Forest. At developed recreational sites such as campgrounds and picnic areas, visitors should always use the receptacles provided for disposal of trash, waste water and sewage.

Visitors should also manage their trash and take it with them when they leave the Forest for recreational activities such as hiking, dispersed camping, target practice or hunting, which are away from developed sites. Remember, whatever is carried in, needs to be carried out.

“To help keep the Forest clean and pristine, “take only pictures and leave only footprints,” said Jacobson.

Many shooting areas receive heavy use and it is important to remove items such as targets, materials used to hold targets, spent shells, cigarettes, food wrappers and beverage containers.

Actions prohibited on National Forests include:

·         Dumping of refuse, debris, trash or litter brought onto the Forest.

·         Placing anything in or near a stream, lake or other water feature which does not belong and may pollute the water.

·         Disposal of garbage, including paper, cans, bottles, sewage, waste water or rubbish onto the Forest.

For more information on the Black Hills National Forest, visit http://www.fs.usda.gov/blackhills.