Michael Underwood is a local photographer in Colorado that recently went viral for a post about people not respecting Colorado’s fragile ecosystems. Take a look at his post below and let us know what you think in the comments.
I’m sorry to have to make this post, but it has to be done. These areas we love are incredibly fragile, and their wellbeing protection always comes first in my photography so I was so disheartened, sad, and infuriated to see them treated like this.
What is easily the most beautiful and scenic spots in this area looked like this yesterday. This was the first time I had been up here this season and was absolutely shocked by the amount of people here. They parked and camped literally everywhere showing absolutely zero regard for nature. Crushed flowers and tire tracks where they should never be, used toilet paper feet away from lakes laying out in the open, the list goes on. I should’ve taken more photos but honestly was so depressed by it all I didn’t even think.
This isn’t acceptable. If we don’t treat these places with respect, they won’t be here next year. Park in an established spot and never drive off road, walking a few more minutes for your 14er won’t kill you like it will the tundra. Stay on trail, walk with care, and don’t trample flowers, your photo or mine is never worth it. Dispose of your waste properly. Camp with as little impact as possible. Please follow these simple things to make sure this basin doesn’t become a giant dirt parking lot, but stays and looks beautiful like it always should.
Leave it better than you found it!
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