3rd year of keeping our footprint miniscule! But we can do better: CARPOOL IS THE WORD! Check out details on Osprey Packs Car Pooling prize...
NO-WASTE INITIATIVE! 1000 people; 3 days; virtually no trash! Keep Stepping Up...Bring your Kit!
We still have not heard of anyone anywhere doing a better job of keeping their event sustainable. So, we are laying claim to having the most environmentally neutral event in the country. Show us an event anywhere that is doing a better job of reducing impact. All of this is thanks to you guys. You brought your kit and you took your trash and recyclables home with you. We asked you to Step Up or Stay Home and you did.
This policy has become the cornerstone of the event and we can all proud of it.
Here is the thinking that led us to the No-Waste Initiative: --We believe climbers are smart, conscious, awake, aware and willing to do the right thing. --We believe climbers are versed the ethics of Leave No Trace and Pack it in and Pack it out. We know how to camp! --We believe we have had years at the Rendezvous to generate good group mojo and psyche for this next challenge. During the event, we have three days to create a utopia. Why not take advantage of it? We can make it the way we dream it. --For all these reasons, we believe that climbers are the ideal guinea pigs for establishing a national model about how to do an event of this size in a totally sustainable way. --We have chosen "Step Up or Stay Home" as our motto to challenge all of us in a fun, playful way to jump in with both feet and make this thing happen with style and grace. --We believe this group effort will energize the Rendezvous and make it even more fun, cohesive and kick-ass. What do you believe?
We like what past Rendezvous participant Colby Challenger had to say: "I really think it's necessary for the climbing user group in general to be a leading force in the clean and green revolution that's sweeping our nation." Amen
What does this all mean for you? --Adopt a minimalist mindset. Only bring what you need. Think about the waste you will generate and try to keep it down. --Keep up with your stuff. We will have plenty of Sharpies around so you can label your beer mug so you can find it when you are done dancing. --Take all your trash and recyclables home. Our goal is to wrap up the event with several bags of garbage. --Bring your own plate, fork, cup, etc. We will provide a wash station!
REMEMBER: The National Park Service doesn't allow glass on their property, so you'll have to forego your favorite imports unless you can find 'em in a can.
We would like to thank Gene Kistler and Chris Anthony for articulating the vision and helping us find our way.
THANKS FOR COMING, CARING, AND FOR COMPLYING!
_____________________________________________________________________________________________ I think it (the no-waste initiative) is an awesome idea. I attend alot of kayak festivals and they havent gotten very active in that area yet so hopefully soon. ETSU is East Tennessee State University and we always carpool, we took 13 people to El Potrero Chico Mexico for spring break in 2 cars so we are used to it.--Chris Vella
İNew River Alliance of Climbers, 2010
PO Box 145 Fayetteville, WV 25840
Got any questions? maura@waterstoneoutdoors.com