[pct-l] PCTA statement on water caches (Jason)

[Gail Van Velzer]

One idea is to get the word out.  People found the info about the water 
caches, then they can find the info that would say not to rely on them too. 
I would take them out of the online water reports first, even if the water 
is still stocked in those spots.

Golly


----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Jason" <wright.jstuart at yahoo.com>
To: <pct-l at backcountry.net>
Sent: Tuesday, March 03, 2015 8:46 PM
Subject: [pct-l] PCTA statement on water caches (Jason)


> http://www.pcta.org/2015/problem-water-caches-pct-27677/
>
> I can see where the PCTA is coming from, especially in their anticipation 
> of ever greater numbers on the trail, but this post seems premature and 
> raises larger questions about what the appropriate role of the PCTA should 
> be.
>
> On the first point, I'd say it is risky to generalize water caching as 
> negative (except for the four deemed good). The reality is, many nobos end 
> up counting on caching, so to impulsively attempt to remove this 
> incultured aspect of the trail only puts them at unnecessary risk.  I 
> understand and sympathize with the need to preserve the beauty of the PCT, 
> but part of that beauty is the organic culture that has grown up around it 
> and the kind hearted angels who make such a meaningful impact on its 
> travelers.
>
> If one wants a more solitary, less aided/cached, and perhaps in that 
> regards more challenging experience....well, that option exists.  Go 
> southbound.
>
>
> - Jason Wright
>
> P.S. I like the idea, mentioned in the post, of putting a few more 
> permanent sources of water in (maybe start with the giving rather than the 
> taking).
>
> I don't like the idea of trail spontaneity being replaced by a central 
> regulating agency that decides, for everybody, what is good and bad for 
> the trail.  I do not want the PCTA moving in a direction to become such a 
> thing, even just a step.  Such a thing, regardless of good-intentions, 
> would be more of a danger to the PCT than any of the issues and potential 
> problems arising from its gaining popularity and use.
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