Louisiana State Parks: Right to hang
There was a post earlier from an out of state visitor to one of Louisiana's State Parks where he was told hammocks are banned. I sent the following email out for a clarification and we got positive responses. You may wan to print a copy of the email to show a ranger if you have problems. I would be absolutely certain you use tree huggers for your hammock AND tarp.
swank
Quote:
Originally Posted by
tgbrowning
Rats. Thought I could get more information about some of the state parks so I went to Bayou Segnette and picked up a bunch of pamphlets and specifically asked about hammocks and was informed that there was a ban on them at all state parks.
Anybody know if that's true?
I sent an email off after reading your post to the State Office. I have posted the string below, there are 6 emails. As you can see, there is no official policy on hammocks, only the activity involved in hanging something from a tree. It appears we have a victory here! The final email is a response from the Assistant Secretary for the Office of State Parks.
Once again the good nature and stewardship of the hanging crowd will prevail. Let's not abuse this privilege granted to us.
1-
-----Original Message-----
From: Wes Swank [mailto:[email protected]]
Sent: Sunday, December 02, 2012 8:37 PM
To: Parks
Subject: Hammock use in LA State Parks
I am writing because I have conflicting information regarding the use of
camping hammocks. A properly hung camping hammock uses a "tree hugger"
(1" or wider polyester strap wrapped around trunk to prevent damage to
the tree). The tree hugger then connects to a suspension rope that the
hammock hangs from. When used properly a camping hammock is the perfect
example of LNT Leave No Trace camping as there is no foot print from a
tent causing damage to vegetation. I have been told two different things
by two different parks. Can you please provide what the official stance is
from the states office.
Thank you,
WA Swank
2-
-----Original Message-----
From: Sharon Broussard On Behalf Of Parks
Sent: Monday, December 03, 2012 9:31 AM
To: Dianne Mouton-Allen
Subject: FW: Hammock use in LA State Parks
How would you recommend I process this? We don't have an official policy
on hammock camping.
3-
-----Original Message-----
From: Dianne Mouton-Allen
Sent: Monday, December 03, 2012 9:33 AM
To: Parks
Cc: Stuart Johnson
Subject: RE: Hammock use in LA State Parks
Let's discuss during Section Head tomorrow and come to a preliminary
agreement for Stuart's approval.
Dianne Mouton-Allen
4-
-----Original Message-----
From: Stuart Johnson
Sent: Monday, December 03, 2012 9:46 AM
To: Dianne Mouton-Allen
Subject: RE: Hammock use in LA State Parks
I agree we can discuss this at section heads. Our rules read "No person
shall cut, destroy, or damage timber on any site, except as necessary to
meet established management criteria, including insect control, public
safety, and approved park construction." My take on this is that as
long as the hammock is hung in a manner that does not damage the trees
then it is ok. I would like others input however in case there is
something I am missing.
Stuart Johnson, Ph.D.
Assistant Secretary
Louisiana Office of State Parks
Telephone: (225) 342-8186
Fax: (225) 342-8107
Email: [email protected]
5-
-----Original Message-----
From: Dianne Mouton-Allen
Sent: Monday, December 03, 2012 9:47 AM
To: Stuart Johnson
Subject: RE: Hammock use in LA State Parks
Ok. Thanks
Dianne Mouton-Allen
6-
Stuart Johnson <[email protected]>
2:23 PM (26 minutes ago)
to me
Dear Mr. Swank,
Thanks for contacting us with your concern about discrepancies in the
way we address the use of hammocks in state parks.
Our rules do not address their use but they do read "No person shall
cut, destroy, or damage timber on any site, except as necessary to meet
established management criteria, including insect control, public
safety, and approved park construction." This being the case the use of
hammocks is not prohibited in the parks but they must not in any way
damage the natural resources. From the way you describe how you hang
your hammock it sounds like you are being a good steward of the
resources and I see no problem with your use of it. I will notify the
parks about this situation.
Sincerely,
Stuart Johnson, Ph.D.
Assistant Secretary
Louisiana Office of State Parks
Telephone: (225) 342-8186
Fax: (225) 342-8107
Email: [email protected]
