Conservation 📍

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Biodegradable soap is stupid

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The other day I saw a post about biodegradable camp soap. I thought it was a stupid idea – buying more soap when you already have soap that works just fine at home – and I pointed that out. It’s just more trash to landfill or burn. For one thing, most common soaps are largely biodegradable and while many detergents are not, it’s not like they accumulate in the soil or really cause much in problems in the dispersed, remote country I usually camp in.

I am not saying one should not practice good outdoors practices. Certainly don’t dump soapy water near streams and bury your poop as deep as you can away from camp and water. Pack out whatever you can’t completely burn. Keep your camp site tidy and pick up whatever litter you find within reason.

But don’t be afraid of the woods or fully utilizing our natural resources. They’re not going to destroyed because you use a little conventional dish soap up at camp.

Why it’s a huge win for conservationists

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Congress is poised to protect millions of acres of public lands: Why it’s a huge win for conservationists

Today the US House followed the lead of the Senate to pass the public lands bill, which has been called the biggest conservation measure in a decade. The president is expected to sign it. The law permanently enacts the Land and Water Conservation Fund, which provides federal funding from off shore drilling on a federal lands for local parks and preserves. It also expands wilderness areas and the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act.

2 tons of seized ivory crushed to protest illegal trade

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2 tons of seized ivory crushed to protest illegal trade

Prohibition always fails, as it only leads to increased prices, which increases the risks that people will do obtain the product. I think they should look at expanding regulated elephant hunting, and using those funds to provide more elephant habitat to ensure the success of the species. Additionally, more research should be done into elephant farming -- if elephants could be farmed, it could provide a good way to produce the ivory that world demands.

Trump’s Proposed Budget Would Cut Conservation Right Where It’s Needed Most

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Trump’s Proposed Budget Would Cut Conservation Right Where It’s Needed Most

"A broad coalition committed to safeguarding the future of our country’s fish and wildlife populations, outdoor recreation opportunities, and national heritage is dismayed at the deep level of cuts recommended by President Trump in an official budget request released today."

"If enacted, Trump’s budget proposal would offset a $54-billion boost to defense spending by cutting foreign aid and domestic programs. This includes a proposed 12-percent decrease to the Department of the Interior budget, which is likely to slash resources needed to manage public and private lands, support state management of fish and wildlife, and enact conservation across the country. This would have devastating impacts on the ground for natural resources, historic sites, and the rural American communities that thrive off outdoor recreation and tourism spending."