Natural Choices Code of Ethics
Reduce Environmental Impact
Programs and events should seek to have a minimal impact on the natural environment by adhering to the following practices:
- Keep group size small (appropriate to the carrying capacity of the site you visit). Small groups are easier to guide safely and allow for more meaningful encounters with the natural world.
- Comply with any use restrictions posted by landowners. According to the State, more than 90 percent of all outdoor activities in Maine occur on private lands. Future access depends upon good communication with landowners and respectful treatment of the land. See the State's Landowner Relations website for more information."
- Be particularly careful in and around fragile habitats (e.g., wetlands and areas with moss, lichen, or alpine vegetation).
- Recycle, reduce waste generation, and dispose of all waste responsibly. Carry out all trash (including food scraps, toilet paper and human waste). Rely on reusable and returnable containers whenever possible. Use nontoxic and biodegradable products.
- Travel and camp on durable surfaces (using established trails and campsites).
- Ask program participants to leave what they find in place (not carrying away plants, rocks, shells or other objects).
- Obtain a permit for an open fire and burn only paper waste and dead wood. Always make sure a fire is completely extinguished before leaving.
- Respect wildlife, keeping enough distance that animals do not change their behavior. Do not feed wildlife or interrupt their feeding, nesting or courtship activities. Avoid any commerce in wildlife, native plants or wildlife products. Treat work animals kindly.
Use Resources Sustainably
Programs and events should seek to use energy efficiently, minimizing consumption of non-renewable resources and relying on recycled products whenever feasible. Motorized excursions are not appropriate for inclusion (unless they have an educational mission such as whale-watching or birdwatching).
Provide Skilled Leadership
Programs and events should be led by skilled and conscientious individuals who are well prepared (with detailed trip itineraries, emergency plans, and adequate supplies) and share their knowledge of Maine’s natural and cultural history. Businesses should abide by any codes of ethics or standards established within their industry to protect the resource and improve visitor experience.
Act with Professional Integrity
Program providers should conduct operations fairly and honestly; supply all necessary information (including conditions, obligations and any known hazards) prior to clients’ booking; ensure participant safety at all times; maintain equipment and vehicles; and keep confidential all their clients’ personal data. Staff will act in a professional and courteous manner with all clients and participants, being sensitive to the needs and rights of minorities, children, elders, handicapped, and indigenous people.
Give Back to Place
Businesses should be sensitive to the needs and concerns of their host communities and organize activities that contribute to the well being of local people and the integrity of place. They should invite their clients and guests to give back to place through their own initiatives or larger-scale programs.
Download a copy of the Natural Choices Best Practices Questionnaire
