Leave only footprint

Destinations on both coasts of the US are protecting the beaches by encouraging responsible travel. In this post examine initiatives from as far apart as the  Alabama beaches and Laguna Beach in California.

Alabama beaches: Leave only footprints

In Alabama, Leave Only Footprints is an initiative designed to help residents and visitors enjoy Alabama’s beaches in a sustainable and responsible way. The initiative tries to keep the ecosystem and wildlife preserved while providing a fun experience for visitors. Before visiting, travelers are encouraged to learn and familiarize themselves with beach-use rules and regulations, helping them become more mindful vacationers from the start.  The goal is to preserve natural habitats while still providing a fun and memorable beach experience. By addressing common environmental challenges, the initiative encourages appropriate behavior and shared responsibility. 

Visitors are invited not walk on the dunes, not dig deep holes in the beach, and to remove their belongings from the beach each day. Visitors are advised to keep their pets outside of the beach; Avoid bright lights at night, which can disrupt nesting sea turtles. Recycling is encouraged. And it is clearly asked  to leave natural items where they belong, as shells and other materials are essential to the beach ecosystem.

Tips for DMOs:

– Provide clear, itemized guidelines so visitors fully understand behavioral expectations.

– Provide necessary information regarding expected behavior upon booking or arrival.

– Use encouraging language that explains how responsible behavior helps preserve beach beauty and ecosystems for the future.

– Offer options such as “how to help” for visitors who want to learn more or contribute beyond guidelines.

Laguna Beach: Outdoor Ethics

Visit Laguna Beach leads a comprehensive stewardship initiative aimed at reducing visitor impact on local environments. Through a partnership with Leave No Trace, a membership-based nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting the outdoors through science-based education that inspires responsible recreation. 

The destination promotes responsible behavior by educating and empowering visitors, residents, and a network of local partners.

This partnership helps to create a unique take on the seven principles of Leave No Trace. 

This initiative supports the conservation of natural landscapes for current and future generations of residents, locals, and visitors. The seven principles are designed to be easy to understand and practice, including: “Know Before You Go; Stick to Trails and Sand; Dispose of Trash Properly; Leave It as You Find It; Respect Wildlife and Sealife; and Be Considerate of Others on Beaches and Trails.” 

Laguna Beach demonstrates a strong commitment to preserving its natural character while maintaining a welcoming visitor experience.

Tips for DMOs:

– Implement initiatives that are simple, practical, and easy for visitors to follow.

– Design programs that can be adapted or scaled by other destinations.

– Seek partnerships with established organizations or complementary initiatives to address shared environmental challenges and strengthen impact.