Environmental Impact of Rock Climbing

[MOB]

I'm doing a Biology seminar on the environmental Impact of Climbing.

Are there any particular issues you think should be addressed?

I'm also looking for info such as, total amount land secured for climbing (conservation) in Red River Gorge through organizations such as RRGCC, Access fund...
I checked their websites, but couldn't find hard numbers like total acreage. This info may be in the Guidebook, I haven't checked yet.

Input would be appreciated.

[climbboy]

The impact of trails and the tamping down of dirt at the base areas certainly seems important.

Also, the impact of user trails vs. actual planned tread that takes into account drainage issues etc.

Raptors.
Lichen.
Plant life.
Petroleum use getting to and from the crag.
carbon footprint for manufacturing cams, etc.

That's my two cents.

[pumpout2004]

While the negative aspects are fairly obvious, it would be interesting to see if rock climbing brings about an appreciation for the natural beauty of the rock and nature itself. I know that for myself, even if the climbing on a particular trip is sub-par I'm always thrilled just to be outside, and I feel that rockclimbing has been integral in providing the means for this appreciation.

[pigsteak]

based on cigareet butts, ebergy bar wrappers, and cloth tape thrown at the crags, my guess is that climbing is good for the environment. climbers appear to be mass consumers, therefore stimulating the ecomnomy. my 3 cents worth.

[Andrew]

How about what percentage of the cliff line in Kentucky has climbing on it. I am guessing its less than 0.5%. Is this really a significant amount. As dave said above, does the enviromental impact outway the clean up days, and other environmental advocacy that climbers bring to the area.

Something to think about.

[Meadows]

You all do a fabulous job of promoting cliffs being/staying opened.

[anticlmber]

i dont think climbing brings about or fosters a love for the outdoors, that is something that is there before.
i see people treat it just like they are in the city or home and that isnt any good. also for many people its get to the cliff climb, climb,c limb, then spray spray spray, leave, repeat.

my 6 rubel

[Andrew]

Don't lump me into that group meadows. Yea there are a few jerks who litter, but think of all the people who helped cut trees down this week.

[woodchuck008]

Any human presence affects the ecosystem. Anyhow, anyway. So we are guilty just for existing, breathing out CO2 and using up fresh water, etc. So let's not single out climbing. For practicality, just put it in comparison against other outdoor activities. Such as: Do climbers/hikers create less erosion to a wilderness than a mountain biker? All walking/hiking involved outdoor sports are certainly much more eco-friendly to the lands than motorized vehicles, just in emissions and resource use alone. Overall, it is possible that backpackers and climbers are living a more eco friendly lifestyle, compared to the motor home owner who drags a trailor full of boats, motorbikes and ATV's to burn gas for entertainment purposes. Maybe you need to redefine your seminar project in some way.

[pigsteak]

Don't lump me into that group meadows. Yea there are a few jerks who litter, but think of all the people who helped cut trees down this week.

she wasn't..you are being lumped into the climb, climb, climb...spray, spray, spray group.