One of the main reasons for getting out on the water, whether in pristine or developed areas, is to get closer to nature. From the cockpit of a kayak or the seat of a canoe, a water-level perspective gets us closer to wildlife and the landscape. But like most forms of outdoor recreation, our actions can have negative impacts on the objects of our affection.
Leave No Trace
Every paddler has a responsibility to preserve the natural beauty, wildlife, habitats, and environmental integrity of the Columbia River. Minimum impact principles should be followed at all times. "Leave No Trace" means just that -- when you depart, the site should show virtually no sign that you were there. Begin with planning. Know your route, the regulations, learn about sensitive areas, and consider all that you'll need for a low-impact experience.
Camping
Travel in small groups, or divide larger parties into groups of four to six. Use existing campsites where available. In pristine areas, seek out sites where you'll create the least disturbance, away from vegetation, and keep campsites small. Protect riparian areas by camping at least 200 feet from the river. Avoid crushing plants or seedlings with your boat or shoes. Don't build lean-tos or benches, or dig trenches. Use biodegradable soap for bathing, and wash dishes with sand or gravel. Leave rocks and plants as you found them. When you break camp, take time to make sure that the site looks as natural as it did when you arrived.
Fires
A lightweight stove for cooking and a candle lantern for light are preferable to a campfire, even in areas where fires are permitted. If you will have a campfire, use an existing fire ring or a site below high tide. Gather dry or downed deadwood taken from different locations, or pieces of driftwood. Keep fires small. Don't burn food scraps or plastic. Be sure the fire is completely out, then scatter the cool ashes in the river.
Fish and Wildlife
Even unwittingly, paddlers have the potential to disturb wildlife and disrupt their behavior patterns. Move slowly and quietly, and observe wildlife from an ample distance, using binoculars or a long-lensed camera. Do not approach or try to follow them. Sometimes seals will pop up and watch or even follow a kayak. Stay where you are or paddle away in the opposite direction. Be aware of sensitive areas during mating and nesting seasons and avoid those habitats. Give bird rookeries a wide berth. Never feed wildlife; store food and trash securely. Control pets at all times, or leave them at home.
Pack It In, Pack It Out
Take all your trash home with you. Pick up litter -- yours, and what others may have left behind. Repackaging your food and removing excess packaging before you leave home will result in less trash. Store your garbage bag in a sturdy nylon stuff sack to keep it from tearing and spilling. Use toilet paper sparingly and pack it out. To keep from damaging plants, it's best to urinate in the river below high tide. Human waste can be buried in a cathole, dug six to eight inches deep and at least 200 feet from water, camp and trails. Another option is a three- to five-gallon waterproof container with a garbage-bag liner and tight-fitting lid or an easy-to-make "poop tube." In the U.S. it's illegal to deposit solid human waste into a river or ocean. Before leaving, inspect the campsite and rest areas for forgotten items, food scraps and litter.
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