Connecticut and campfires
I know the rules state no campfires in any CT camp sites on the AT but does that really hold up? Haven't done any overnight yet in CT AT but wondered if hikers still made campfires when appropriate conditions are present.
I passed thru Caesar Brook Campsite recently and saw a pretty substantial rock fire pit that looked like it had been used often and recently but that the only place I recall a fire pit.
Connecticut Trail Maintainer
I maintain a section of trail in Salisbury Ct. The AT is clearly marked "No Fires Only Stoves". Several of the shelters have posted inside why no fires are allowed in Connecticut. I am not going to list all of them here. The section of trail that goes thru the northwestern part of the state gets used by by a lot of hikers and campers. The Connecticut AMC chapter - which I belong - makes every effort to keep the area as natural looking as possible so everyone can enjoy it for years to come. Campfires typically make camping areas look over used and trashy. I have not seen the remains of a camp fire that did not contain trash. The area surrounding the fire ring generally contains litter. From what I understand the primary reason for no fires is the concern that a forest fire could be started.
The times that I caught people making a fire , I told them that fires were not allowed. They generally give a dumb look. I think to myself that the turons can't read , just don't care or have no clue what leave no trace means. There were a few times when when I have been short with fire makers - sorry - sometimes it's hard to be nice after doing hard trail work then finding people leaving a mess for me to clean up like their personal janitor. When a maintainer finds evidence of a campfire the following is suggested to discourage more campfires and keep the area natural looking: Remove burnt rocks and place them charred side down in the woods. Better to put in water where they cannot be seen , Remove all burned and un-burned trash from coals. Pack out and dispose of properly ,
bury cold coals or put in stream in not too visable location. Yes a lot of work.
Text of the campfire prohibition rule?
Can someone post the exact language of the rule or a readable image of the sign mentioned? A link to the land management agency's website where this rule is published would be a handy thing to have now and for future reference.