Tread Lightly and Other Responsible Hunting Tips

Photo courtesy of the
Bureau of Land Management

Antelope, mule deer, and elk
make their home on forests and public lands.
Please respect their space,
and stay on trails.

Travel and Recreate with Minimum Impact

Stay on established or designated trail and routes to reduce impacts to wildlife habitat.
Please do not cut switchbacks or take shortcuts; "pioneering trails" destroy vegetation and will cause others to use the unauthorized route.
Use an OHV to retrieve your downed game, or for emergencies, not to pursue game.

Respect the Environment and the Rights of Others

Respect and be courteous to others who also want to enjoy the lands and waters you are using. Set an example of courtesy for all.
Be aware that other hunters may be in the area, and be respectful of their hunts. It is unlawful to intentionally interfere with another person who is lawfully hunting.
When driving, be especially cautious around horses, hikers, and bikers. Pull off to the side of the road or trail and let them pass.
As you travel, comply with signage. Honor all gates, fences, and barriers that are there to protect our natural resources, wildlife, and livestock.
Park your vehicle so that it does not block roads.

Educate Yourself, Plan and Prepare Before You Go

Know the local laws and regulations for hunting. It is illegal to chase game with a vehicle.
On private lands, be sure to obtain the owner or land manager's permission to cross or use their lands.

Allow for Future Use of the Outdoors — Leave It Better Than You Found It

Avoid sensitive areas, such as stream banks, lakeshores, and meadows.
Carry out what you carry in. Don't burn or bury trash.
Flagging and marking trails is unsightly. If flagging is necessary, remove it as you leave.

Discover the Rewards of Responsible Recreation

Hunting provides the opportunity to get away from it all and builds family traditions.
Help preserve the beauty and inspiring attributes of the great outdoors for yourself and generations to come by hunting responsibly.
Do all you can to help protect the forest, lands, and waters that mean so much to you.

Tread Lightly! is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to protecting the great outdoors through education. www.treadlightly.org