LNT Recommends 2-4-inch Webbing Straps

[packeagle]

I imagine any worthwhile scientific testing for cambium zone damage would have to involve hundreds of trees of differing varieties using many strap/suspension configurations repeatedly dynamically loaded over a period of time involving all seasons followed by core sampling a few years later to compare ring growth, etc., etc.

I doubt we will ever see this happen unless one of you wants to donate the funding.

That's why both sides are just guessing and challenging the other to show proof. Neither wants to commit the resources.

[OneClick]

I imagine any worthwhile scientific testing for cambium zone damage would have to involve hundreds of trees of differing varieties using many strap/suspension configurations repeatedly dynamically loaded over a period of time involving all seasons followed by core sampling a few years later to compare ring growth, etc., etc.

I doubt we will ever see this happen unless one of you wants to donate the funding.

Exactly. Unfortunately it seems any rules will be based on hearsay evidence and ultimately decided by someone sitting at a desk.

For the record, I feel comfortable with my 1" webbing, but wouldn't make a fuss having to use 2".

[TallPaul]

From the LNT site
We will ensure our information is science-based, effective and changing people’s behavior in the outdoors. - See more at: http://lnt.org/about/what-we-are-wor....SUcXnmHj.dpuf

A number of us are just asking to see the science before changing. The OP made it sound like the opinions of a bunch of people as opposed to science based recommendations, which is why he thought having a study done might be worthwhile (not to put words in his mouth).

[OCDave]

The OP made it sound like the opinions of a bunch of people as opposed to science based recommendations, which is why he thought having a study done might be worthwhile (not to put words in his mouth).

At the very least, you would think the LNT center might seek input from some group that might have some experience.

If only there existed a collection of individuals who have endeavored to enter the woods and actually hang hammocks from said trees. If only this group could collectively do this over and over and over for a period of several years, refining their techniques as they progressed. If only this group shared their ideas among each other advancing the techiques which were most successful. If such a group were to exist, the LNT would certainly take advantage of that valuable resource when formulating any recommendation.

I know, I must live in some fantasy world were reason has a place. Perhaps I'll seek medication to cure myself of these delusions.

[gmcttr]

...A number of us are just asking to see the science before changing...

Is the LNT form of science anything more than "State Park surveys"? I doubt that State Park surveys will address cambium zone damage....how much trash they perceive to be left behind...maybe.

[Loki]

At the very least, you would think the LNT center might seek input from some group that might have some experience.

If only there existed a collection of individuals who have endeavored to enter the woods and actually hang hammocks from said trees. If only this group could collectively do this over and over and over for a period of several years, refining their techniques as they progressed. If only this group shared their ideas among each other advancing the techiques which were most successful. If such a group were to exist, the LNT would certainly take advantage of that valuable resource when formulating any recommendation.

I know, I must live in some fantasy world were reason has a place. Perhaps I'll seek medication to cure myself of these delusions.

Most excellent OCDave!

[VictoriaGuy]

If only there existed a collection of individuals who have endeavored to enter the woods and actually hang hammocks from said trees. If only this group could collectively do this over and over and over for a period of several years, refining their techniques as they progressed. If only this group shared their ideas among each other advancing the techniques which were most successful. If such a group were to exist, the LNT would certainly take advantage of that valuable resource when formulating any recommendation.

What's considered a successful technique here at HF? Something that saves pack weight, or something that minimizes our impact on the environment where we recreate?

I've read thousands of messages here at HF, and haven't seen a lot of talk about going back to examine possible damage to trees. (Yes, Shug has pics of his backyard trees, and I've seen a couple of other examples....but not a lot...till this thread was started.)

OTOH, lots and lots of talk about saving a few grams by going to narrower and narrower hammock suspension straps (or even 7/64 cord with a fabric tube to 'protect' the tree) can easily be found.

And, there are posts here about 'campcraft' -hackin' and sawin' and buildin' and campfires, (and introducing the young 'uns to this camping style) so HF doesn't seem to be a hotbed of LNT thinking.

I'm not saying that LNT (LeaveNoTrace) camping is the only appropriate way, just that it is not surprising to me that the LNT movement doesn't consider us (as a 'community') here at HF a valuable resource.

[XTrekker]

What's considered a successful technique here at HF? Something that saves pack weight, or something that minimizes our impact on the environment where we recreate?

I've read thousands of messages here at HF, and haven't seen a lot of talk about going back to examine possible damage to trees. (Yes, Shug has pics of his backyard trees, and I've seen a couple of other examples....but not a lot...till this thread was started.)

OTOH, lots and lots of talk about saving a few grams by going to narrower and narrower hammock suspension straps (or even 7/64 cord with a fabric tube to 'protect' the tree) can easily be found.

And, there are posts here about 'campcraft' -hackin' and sawin' and buildin' and campfires, (and introducing the young 'uns to this camping style) so HF doesn't seem to be a hotbed of LNT thinking.

I'm not saying that LNT (LeaveNoTrace) camping is the only appropriate way, just that it is not surprising to me that the LNT movement doesn't consider us (as a 'community') here at HF a valuable resource.

I see your point but, hammocks in general leave little to no trace compared to tents. And as a community, the majority of us participate in using webbing for our suspension to the tree vs cordage. Personally I believe that we lean towards leaving less trace than most methods of wilderness camping just by the very nature of our shelter.

[OCDave]

...I've read thousands of messages here at HF, and haven't seen a lot of talk about going back to examine possible damage to trees...

OTOH, lots and lots of talk about saving a few grams ...

... it is not surprising to me that the LNT movement doesn't consider us (as a 'community') here at HF a valuable resource.

So, let's change that. Rather than accept limitations placed by someone who is not invested in our hobby, rather than "bemoan" our lot, do something!


VictoriaGuy, I'm sure you've hung from the same trees multiple times over the years. What size straps do you use. What impact have you seen?


hk2001, you've seen damage to trees. Do you attribute that damage strictly to the strap width or did the tree size or species play some role?

Most hammockforum members have trees they have returned to over and over. What impacts have you seen? Should LNT center be made aware of those experiences?


DemostiX is absolutely 1/2 right, 'stead of bemoaning... elegant...solutions are required.


Many of the most experienced hammockers in the world are the members of this forum. If anyone in the world should value changing the LNT's guidance statement it should be this forum's members.

ANYONE want do DO anything about it?

[swankfly]

Nah, not tonite anyway...ask me again tomorrow.