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Wilderness Pledge Achievement Requirements

463945I-1_Kate Smallwood

Under the guidance of the crew Wilderness Pledge Guia (Guide), each participant in a trek may work to fulfill the requirements of the Wilderness Pledge Achievement Award. Once requirements are met, the Wilderness Pledge Achievement Award Patch may be purchased in person at the Tooth of Time Traders. For those who have already left Philmont, please complete this order form and fax it to the Tooth of Time Traders at 575-376-2542. The proceeds from the purchase of this award are used to expand Philmont’s sustainability initiatives (recycling efforts, sustainability education, etc.).

Requirements

  1. Take part in the Ranger led training for the Philmont Wilderness Pledge and Leave No Trace.
  2. Follow all Philmont camping practices as outlined by your Ranger throughout your trek.
  3. Practice all Philmont bear and wildlife procedures throughout your trek.
  4. Take part in seven trail discussions with your crew that will focus on each of the seven principles of Leave No Trace and find examples of the focus principle during that day of the trek.
  5. Complete three hours of conservation work under the direction of a member of the Philmont Conservation Staff. (Three hours of conservation work is also a requirement for the Philmont Arrowhead Patch. Conservation work is built into every itinerary, and hours count towards both awards.)

Philmont Wilderness Pledge

The major points of emphasis in the Philmont Wilderness Pledge are:

  1. Litter/Graffiti – Each camper should make sure that all trails, campsites and facilities are left neat and clean.
  2. Wildlife – Respect wild (and domestic) animals. Do not feed or harass any wild animals.
  3. Water – Remember, you are in a land where water is scarce and very precious. You should never bathe or do laundry or dishes in or near a spring or stream. Do not throw rocks in springs or touch any solar systems. They are easily damaged and the flow of water can be disrupted.
  4. Trails – Pledge yourself to respect all trails. Do not cut or mark green boughs or trees. Do not cut across switchbacks, and do not alter trail signs.
  5. Campsites – Each crew is responsible for leaving a neat and orderly campsite. Whether it be in Camping Headquarters, staffed camps, or non-staffed camps, your campsite should be left litter-free with its latrine and sump clean. Fires (if permitted) must be left DEAD OUT.