Hiker Headlines: Clean Boots, Permits, Interior Secretary, Volunteer Safety

It’s February 25. Learn what hikers can do to stop the spread of invasive species. Permit applications for many of Washington’s most popular recreation areas are either open now or will be soon. Confirmation hearings for Interior Secretary are ongoing. And, it’s a good time to revisit safety guidelines if you’re thinking of volunteering on trail. Here’s some news you may have missed while out on trail this week.

 
Invasive species can spread from one trail to another when their seeds get stuck in the tread of hiking boots. Brushing out your boots between hikes is a great habit to stop the spread. Photo by Sara Madura.  

It’s Invasive Species Awareness Week: Invasive species can cause lasting disruptions to the ecology of natural areas. As hikers, it’s good to know the ways invasive species spread so you can play your part in preventing these harmful plants from putting down roots along a trail. Always clean your boots and gear when moving between different locations, and when it comes to firewood, remember to buy it where you burn it.

Open permits: It’s that time of year when applications for backcountry permits are due. The Enchantments lottery is now open through March 1. Permits to climb Mount St. Helens in April will go live on March 1. And early-access applications for Mount Rainier National Park's backcountry open on March 2.

Secretary of Interior confirmation ongoing: The confirmation process for Secretary of the Interior is ongoing. If confirmed, nominee Deb Haaland’s priorities for the new administration will soon follow. WTA will be watching closely to see how we can work together with the administration to support outdoor recreation in the coming years.

Volunteer safety tips: With spring around the corner, it’s a great time to start thinking about getting out and volunteering on trail. Safety is the first priority on every WTA work party, especially during these times. Our friends at DNR have a great reminder about the ways to keep everyone on the crew safe, including wearing a face mask, working apart from one another, and washing your hands.

BE IN THE KNOW

• Keep up to date with Trail News, our monthly email newsletter.
• Check our Hiking Guide for information on what trails are open.
• Check trip reports for latest conditions on trails. And if you go for a hike, file your own trip report.
• Sign up for Families Go Hiking, our email newsletter for families with plenty of tips on keeping kids busy.