To Protect the Parks

“Trashing” a park means more than leaving behind litter; it means being unkind to the land in other ways. These do’s and don’ts are offered by the National Parks and Conservation Assn., a private Washington-based membership organization dedicated to protecting and promoting the national parks:

DO . . . try to visit after the midsummer peak.

DO . . . take advantage of guided walks, talks and other activities and the rangers’ knowledge.

DO . . . minimize driving in the parks and use public transportation, ride a bicycle or walk.

DON’T . . . rush. Leave time to explore and unwind.

DON’T . . . litter, feed wildlife or touch artifacts.

DON’T . . . forget that animals are wild and potentially dangerous. Keep a respectable distance.

DON’T . . . wander alone into the backcountry. If taking children, make certain they have ID and know what to do if lost.

The National Park Service and the state Department of Parks and Recreation offer these additional tips:

DON’T . . . plan to camp over the Fourth of July without a reservation. Campsites are virtually booked up.

DO . . . call (800) 444-7275 for computerized information on availability in the state parks.