[pct-l] Permanent Campfire Ban on PCT?

[Will M]

I completely understand why hikers want a camp fire but I have to say,
hiking in the Kennedy meadows areas, big bear, etc.. has made me reconsider.

That said, a ban would probably not work.  People are already making
illegal fires and there are not enough patrols to enforce a ban.

I WOULD like to know what the PCTA is doing about this?

I would like to see an article in their magazine about all of the PCT fires
and see this issue brought out in the open more.

Instead of purchasing more land for the trail, perhaps the PCTA should
dedicate more funds to restoring areas harmed by hiker activiities.

On Thu, Sep 13, 2012 at 4:23 PM, <harwoodcreek at gmail.com> wrote:

> Given the documented irresponsibility of some (e.g the catastrophic 2012
> Chips Creek fire likely caused by a PCT hiker), I favor a complete campfire
> ban along the PCT.  This should be enforced through a tip line along with
> occasional ranger patrols.
>
> I see no need for campfires in the wilderness environment.  Water can be
> boiled on a stove; insect repellent, bug jackets and tents repel insects;
> and adequate clothing and sleeping bags provide warmth.  Thru hikers with
> no sense of civic and wilderness responsibility should not be able to get
> away with saving a couple of pounds maximum, skipping the fire ignition
> site incommunicado, and causing millions in damage lasting up to a
> century.
>
> Isn't it time for the next important step in trail protection?
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