[Paddlewise] Bug Repellents/Fuel

Dan Hagen wrote:
"Soon I'll be heading to the upper reaches of Glacier Bay where there's
not much by way of fuel. I am wondering (1) if there will be enough fuel
(probably yes, given that the stove requires only twigs), and (2) if
they are legal in that area (probably not, given that the Park Service
requires the use of gas stoves in the upper bay). I will check" 

Dan, I just returned from a week of kayak camping in Glacier Bay National
Park.  It is a truly special place, and I'm sure you'll enjoy it.  
	However, fuel for fires, even twigs or driftwood for a Sierra Zip stove,
was not available at most of the places we camped.  In the upper Bay,
virtually all the campable beaches were rocky, with rock ranging from
gravel size to melon-sized boulders.  And landward, coming right up to the
beaches were either impenetrable alder thickets or rock cliffs.  The alders
are not only tough going but were obviously definitely bear habitat. By all
means check with the National Park Service in Glacier Bay before leaving
your liquid fuel behind, especially if you don't already know exactly where
you'll pitch your tent. (And you probably don't, because there may be
someone else there ahead of you.)
  Actually I would still recommend using liquid fuel anyhow, because I see
that area as certainly calling for "Leave No Trace" camping. It was clear
that visitor pressure is on the rise for the Park.  There is a visitor
orientation required at the Park HQ, including watching bears on videotape
and obtaining bearproof food containers.  Certain areas within the Park are
closed, either due to fairly recent bear/human interactions, or for
protection of wildlife such as the pupping seals.  You might also want to
consider the recent Paddlewise discussion on packing out human body waste,
kitty litter in sealable containers, etc.  We were there the week before
the big Memorial Day seasonal opening and the park was immaculate.  I hope
kayakers can demonstrate a commitment to keep it in as good a condition as
we saw it in. 
	Enjoy your trip! (And be prepared for rain!)

		John Somers

***************************************************************************
PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List
Submissions:     paddlewise_at_lists.intelenet.net
Subscriptions:   paddlewise-request_at_lists.intelenet.net
Website:         http://www.gasp-seakayak.net/paddlewise/
***************************************************************************