Re: [Philmont]: Cut To The Chase Advise Part 3

Despite what many people say (even some people at Philmont), Philmont is
not Leave No Trace camping. It is concentrated impact camping. There is a
difference.

I'm glad that you went through the LNT course. More people need to be
educated in how to take care of the land. However, most of the people who
came from LNT to talk to Rangers during the summers were wasting our time.
They were telling us what we already know and also things that are
irrelevant for Philmont use. I've never had much respect for the LNT
people that have come out there to teach (for various reasons). Don't get
me wrong, LNT teaches a lot of great things. I teach alot of that stuff to
the kids in my troop, but alot of it doesn't have a place at Philmont
(unless you go into the Valle).

To echo John's point, Advisors should stay quiet, let the Ranger teach
what ever method he/she teaches, and let the boys practice that. If they
discover something else, great. The only time advisors need to step in is
if safety is concerned. To quote a former staff member "Silly advisor,
Trex are for kids."

I have tried the meal in a cup method once, only becuase my crew insisted
on doing it that way. I was not impressed as I crunched through my
underhydrated food and washed down the pockects of powder clumps. I'm
sure it has worked great for some people, but one experience was enough to
turn me off of it. The only two times I've seen cooking outside the pot
work great is the mashed potatoes in the cup and the oatmeal in the
packet. It's safe to say I've eaten as many Phil-Suppers and as anyone,
and the pot method has always worked. Every time.

FYI, Rangers are not allowed to teach human sumping to crews as it is
considered hazing. Crews are allowed to do it, so long as the Ranger
doesn't bring it up. Rangers still think its the best method for dishes.

Jason
><>
Retired Ranger

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Received on Mon May 5 19:41:58 2003