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DCL
I recently wrote a blog post about Leave No Trace and they sent me a really cool information packet about their organization and the stuff that they do. They also sent me a booklet chock full of tips on how to properly interact with the wilderness. One of the best parts of the booklet is tips on how to avoid spreading non-native plants and animals to areas where they do not belong.
This is an overlooked issue that is so important. Florida has been in the news recently. Burmese pythons have moved in and are overrunning the rest of the wildlife. Every time that you go camping or visit the wild, you run the risk of contaminating a habitat with non-native plants and animals. This is how you avoid it.
1. Don't take non-native plants (weeds, aquatic plants, flowers) with you into the wilderness.
2. Clean all of your gear after every trip. The dirt that's collected on your tent or backpack may contain seeds, plants, spores or creatures.
3. Remove dirt from your tires and boots.
4. Don't discard live bait by throwing it into the water.
5. Brush your pets off. Make sure their coats are seed and spore-free.
6. Make sure your pets are immunized.
7. If you bring hay for horses or pack animals, the hay should be free of weeds. You can obtain certified weed-free hay.
8. If you see infested areas, notify the game commission or park rangers.
Source: Leave No Trace: Skills and Ethics
