April

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Post By Jennifer

Celebrating Earth Day 2024 in West Virginia: Embracing Sustainable Outdoor Adventures

Earth Day 2024 is a reminder for us to celebrate and protect our planet, and as outdoor enthusiasts in West Virginia, we have a unique opportunity to embrace sustainability while enjoying the state’s natural wonders. At Country Roads Sporting Goods, we believe in promoting responsible outdoor practices that preserve the beauty of the Mountain State for generations to come.

The Earth is Our Home and Provider

As inhabitants of this incredible planet, it’s crucial to recognize that our well-being is intrinsically linked to the health of the Earth. The natural world provides us with essential resources like air, water, and soil that sustain life. However, these resources are not unlimited and can be depleted or degraded through human activities. It’s our responsibility to be mindful of our impact and act as good stewards of the environment.

Outdoor Adventures in Harmony with Nature

West Virginia offers a wide range of outdoor activities that allow you to immerse yourself in nature while practicing sustainability.ย 

When hiking, follow the Leave No Trace principles by staying on marked paths, properly disposing of waste, and respecting wildlife. By minimizing your impact, you help preserve the natural beauty of areas like the Monongahela National Forest and the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve.

When camping, choose designated campsites and minimize your environmental impact by using reusable water bottles, properly disposing of waste, and following campfire regulations. Leave your campsite better than you found it to ensure that future campers can enjoy the same pristine experience.

For anglers, practicing catch-and-release fishing can help support fish populations, but it’s essential to recognize that the effectiveness of this practice may vary depending on factors such as fish species, water temperature, and handling techniques. Using eco-friendly gear, such as lead-free weights and biodegradable lures, can also reduce your impact on aquatic ecosystems.ย 

Hunters can contribute to conservation efforts by adhering to hunting regulations, respecting bag limits, and properly disposing of animal remains.

Embracing Sustainability in Everyday Life

Beyond our outdoor pursuits, it’s essential to recognize the importance of individual actions in preserving the environment. Simple choices, such as using reusable containers and water bottles and supporting local conservation efforts, can make a significant difference in reducing our ecological footprint. For example, by using a reusable water bottle instead of disposable plastic ones, you can save up to 156 plastic bottles from ending up in landfills or oceans each year.

At CRSG, we are dedicated to promoting sustainable outdoor practices and encouraging our customers to be responsible stewards of the environment. By educating our community about the importance of minimizing our impact and seeking out eco-friendly product options, we aim to foster a culture of sustainability that extends beyond Earth Day.

Protecting the Earth for Future Generations

As we celebrate Earth Day, let’s remember that the planet we call home is a precious gift that we must cherish and protect for the sake of future generations. By being mindful of our actions and making sustainable choices, we can ensure that the natural wonders of West Virginia and beyond remain vibrant and thriving for years to come.

This Earth Day, let’s renew our commitment to being responsible stewards of the environment. Whether you’re exploring the great outdoors or making eco-friendly choices in your daily life, remember that every action counts. Together, we can create a more sustainable future and preserve the beauty of our planet for generations to come.

Happy Earth Day, West Virginia!

CategoriesTips & Tricks
Post By Jennifer

Preparing for Spring Hiking in West Virginia

Spring is a beautiful time to go hiking in West Virginia, with mild temperatures and wildflowers in bloom. The Mountain State has over 1,500 miles of trails, ranging from easy nature walks to challenging backcountry treks. Before hitting the trails, however, it’s important to be prepared. Here’s how to prep for exploring West Virginia’s trails.

Check Trail Conditions

Spring weather in West Virginia can be unpredictable, with lingering snow and ice at higher elevations. Before heading out, check the trail conditions on the West Virginia State Parks website or with the local ranger station. You can also find up-to-date trail information on the All Trails website. In early spring, some trails may be closed due to muddy conditions or trail maintenance.

Wear Appropriate Footwear

Trails may be muddy or slippery in spring, so wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with good traction. Look for boots with a Vibram sole or similar high-quality rubber compound for the best grip on wet surfaces. In early spring conditions, consider using traction devices like microspikes for added stability on icy or packed snow. Trekking poles can also provide additional support on steep or uneven terrain.

Pack Essential Gear

Even on short hikes, it’s important to carry essential gear such as a map, compass, comprehensive first-aid kit, flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries, extra food and water, and layers of clothing. Bring a fully charged cell phone or satellite communicator for emergencies and consider carrying a portable power bank to keep your devices charged. Spring temperatures can vary widely throughout the day, so be prepared for changing conditions. Pack a waterproof jacket and quick-drying layers to stay comfortable.

Be Aware of Wildlife

Spring is a time of increased wildlife activity in West Virginia. Black bears emerge from hibernation and may be more active during the day. Keep a safe distance from all wildlife and store food in bear-resistant containers or hang it at least 10 feet off the ground and 4 feet from the trunk of a tree. Properly dispose of food waste and trash in designated receptacles or pack it out. Snakes, including venomous species like timber rattlesnakes and copperheads, also become more active as temperatures rise.

Watch Out for Ticks

Ticks become active in spring and can transmit diseases such as Lyme disease. Wear long sleeves and pants, use insect repellent containing DEET or permethrin, and check yourself thoroughly for ticks after hiking. If you find an embedded tick, remove it carefully with tweezers, grasping it as close to the skin as possible and pulling straight out. Monitor the bite area for any signs of a rash or flu-like symptoms and seek medical attention if you suspect a tick-borne illness.

Know the Local Regulations

Before heading out, familiarize yourself with the regulations of the area where you’ll be hiking. For example, some wilderness areas like the Dolly Sods Wilderness require a permit for overnight camping. Certain state parks may have specific regulations regarding campfires or group sizes. It’s also important to practice Leave No Trace principles, such as packing out all trash, staying on marked trails, and minimizing campfire impacts.

By following these tips and being prepared, you can safely enjoy the beautiful spring hiking season in West Virginia. Always let someone know your hiking plans and carry a means of communication in case of emergency. With proper planning and preparation, you can have a memorable and enjoyable hiking experience in the Mountain State.

CategoriesTips & Tricks
Post By John

Maximizing Your Success During West Virginia’s Spring Turkey Season

Attention all turkey hunters! The spring turkey season in West Virginia is in full swing, having started on April 15th. If you haven’t had a chance to get out in the woods yet, don’t worry โ€“ there’s still plenty of time to bag a big tom before the season ends on May 19th. We want to help you make the most of the remaining weeks of the season with some expert tips and gear recommendations.

Adapting to Late-Season Conditions

As the spring gobbler season progresses, weather conditions and turkey behavior can change significantly. Late-season gobblers tend to be more wary and less responsive to calls, making them challenging to locate and hunt. To increase your chances of success, consider the following tips:

  1. Scout smarter: Focus on areas with good food sources, like green fields and hardwood ridges, where turkeys are likely to feed throughout the day. Pay attention to signs of turkey activity, such as tracks, droppings, and feathers, to help you pinpoint their location.
  2. Adapt your calling: Use softer, more subtle calls to avoid spooking cautious toms. Soft clucks, purrs, and gentle yelps can be more effective than aggressive cutting and loud gobbling. Remember to vary your calling techniques and be patient, as late-season gobblers may take longer to respond.
  3. Be stealthy: Late-season turkeys are more alert and sensitive to human presence. Wear appropriate camouflage clothing, minimize movement, and choose your setup location carefully to avoid being detected. Consider using natural blinds or ground blinds to conceal your presence further.
  4. Hunt midday: As temperatures rise and turkeys become less active during early morning hours, focus your efforts on midday hunting. Gobblers may be more responsive to calls during this time, as they seek out hens for breeding.

Essential Gear for Late-Season Success

Having the right gear can make a significant difference in your success during the late spring gobbler season. Here are some essential items to consider:

  1. Calls: Experiment with different types of calls, such as box calls, mouth calls, and locator calls, to find what works best for you. Practice your calling techniques regularly to improve your skills and confidence in the field.
  2. Camouflage: Choose high-quality camouflage clothing that matches your hunting environment. Consider lightweight, breathable fabrics to stay comfortable in warmer late-season conditions. Don’t forget to cover your hands, face, and head to minimize the risk of being spotted by keen-eyed turkeys.
  3. Decoys: Realistic decoys can help draw in wary gobblers and give you a shot opportunity. Experiment with different decoy setups, such as using a combination of hen and jake decoys, to create a convincing scene. Remember to position your decoys strategically to ensure a clear shot and to avoid spooking approaching turkeys.
  4. Ammunition: Select high-quality shotgun shells specifically designed for turkey hunting, with a tight shot pattern and ample pellet count to ensure clean, ethical kills. Pattern your shotgun before the season to determine the most effective load and choke combination for your hunting situation.

Safety and Ethics

As with any hunting activity, safety and ethics should always be your top priorities when turkey hunting. Follow these guidelines to ensure a safe and responsible hunting experience:

  • Familiarize yourself with and follow all West Virginia turkey hunting regulations, including season dates, bag limits, and licensing requirements.
  • Respect private property and always obtain permission before hunting on someone else’s land.
  • Practice safe firearm handling at all times, including keeping your gun unloaded and the safety on until you’re ready to shoot. Be sure of your target and what lies beyond before taking a shot.
  • Avoid wearing red, white, or blue colors, which can be mistaken for a turkey’s head, and never shoot at movement or sounds alone.
  • Properly tag and report your harvested turkey as required by law, and consider donating any excess meat to local food banks or charities.

Sharing Your Experiences

We encourage you to share your success stories, photos, and experiences with the turkey hunting community. Connecting with fellow hunters can help you learn new techniques, discover prime hunting spots, and celebrate the joys of the spring gobbler season together. Consider joining local hunting clubs, participating in online forums, or attending turkey hunting events to expand your network and knowledge.

Remember, the spring turkey season is a time to enjoy the great outdoors, test your skills, and immerse yourself in the thrill of the hunt. Whether you bag a big tom or simply enjoy the sights and sounds of the forest, every moment spent in the woods is a valuable experience.

As you prepare for your late-season turkey hunting adventures, don’t hesitate to reach out to experienced hunters, wildlife biologists, or local conservation organizations for additional tips and advice. By continually learning and refining your techniques, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a successful and ethical turkey hunter.

We hope these tips and recommendations help you make the most of the remaining weeks of the spring turkey season in West Virginia.ย 

Stay safe, have fun, and happy hunting!

CategoriesLifestyle
Post By John

Leave No Trace: Preserving Nature Through Sustainable Practices

As outdoor enthusiasts, we have a responsibility to protect and preserve the natural spaces we cherish.ย  At Country Roads Sporting Goods, our mantra is “Leave No Trace,” which means enjoying the outdoors while minimizing our environmental impact.ย  By following the Leave No Trace principles, we can make sure that future generations will have the opportunity to experience the same pristine wilderness we do today.

What is Leave No Trace?

Leave No Trace (LNT) is a set of seven principles that provide a framework for minimizing our impact on the environment while enjoying outdoor activities.ย  These principles were developed by the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics and have been adopted by outdoor adventurers, organizations, and public land management agencies worldwide.

Mama black bear with cub

The Seven Principles of Leave No Trace

By adhering to the following seven principles, we can minimize our impact on the environment and ensure that the outdoors remains a beautiful and sustainable resource for generations to come.

Plan Ahead and Prepare

  • Familiarize yourself with the area you’ll be visiting, including regulations, weather conditions, and potential hazards.
  • Prepare for extreme weather, emergencies, and injuries.
  • Schedule your trip to avoid times of high use and minimize group size.

Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces

  • Concentrate use on existing trails and campsites.
  • Walk single file in the middle of a trail, even when the trail is wet or muddy.
  • Keep campsites small and focus activity in areas where vegetation is absent.

Dispose of Waste Properly

  • Pack it in and pack it out.ย  Check your campsite and rest areas for trash or spilled food. Pack out all trash, leftover food, and litter.
  • Deposit solid human waste in catholes dug 6 to 8 inches deep, at least 200 feet from water, camp, and trails. Cover and disguise the cathole when finished.
  • Pack out toilet paper and hygiene products.

Leave What You Find

  • Preserve the past: examine, but do not touch, cultural or historic structures and artifacts.
  • Leave rocks, plants, and other natural objects as you find them.
  • Avoid introducing or transporting non-native species.

Minimize Campfire Impacts

  • Use a lightweight stove for cooking and enjoy a candle lantern for light.
  • Where fires are permitted, use established fire rings, fire pans, or mound fires.
  • Keep fires small. Only use sticks from the ground that can be broken by hand.
  • Burn all wood and coals to ash, put out campfires completely, then scatter cool ashes.

Respect Wildlife

  • Observe wildlife from a distance. Do not follow or approach them.
  • Never feed animals. The wrong food can damage their health, alter natural behaviors, and expose them to predators and other dangers.
  • Protect wildlife and your food by storing rations and trash securely.

Be Considerate of Other Visitors

  • Respect other visitors and protect the quality of their experience.
  • Be courteous. Yield to other users on the trail.
  • Take breaks and camp away from trails and other visitors.
  • Let nature’s sounds prevail. Avoid loud voices and noises.

Navigating the Complexities of Sustainable Hunting – Leave No Trace and Deer Feeders

At Country Roads Sporting Goods, our mission is to promote sustainable outdoor practices and educate our customers about the importance of minimizing environmental impact.ย  As a company that serves hunters, we recognize the complex relationship between hunting, wildlife conservation, and the Leave No Trace principles.

The LNT principles provide a framework for enjoying the outdoors responsibly while minimizing our impact on the environment. These guidelines, which include respecting wildlife and leaving natural objects undisturbed, have been widely adopted by outdoor enthusiasts and organizations worldwide.ย  However, as a company that sells deer feeders, we understand that there may appear to be a contradiction between the LNT principle of respecting wildlife and the use of feeders. Critics argue that deer feeders can alter natural foraging behaviors, contribute to the spread of disease, and create an unnatural dependence on human-provided food sources.ย ย On the other hand, many hunters view deer feeders as a tool for supporting healthy wildlife populations, particularly in areas where natural food sources are limited. Proponents argue that responsible use of feeders, combined with sustainable hunting practices, can contribute to conservation efforts through hunting license fees and taxes that support wildlife management.

At Country Roads Sporting Goods, we acknowledge this complexity and believe in providing our customers with the information they need to make informed decisions. While we respect the individual choices of hunters, we also want to emphasize the importance of using deer feeders responsibly and in a way that aligns with the principles of Leave No Trace.

If you choose to use a deer feeder, we recommend the following practices to minimize your impact:

  • Follow all local regulations and guidelines regarding the use of deer feeders.
  • Place feeders away from natural water sources and sensitive habitat areas.
  • Use feeders sparingly and as a supplemental food source rather than a primary one.
  • Clean and maintain feeders regularly to prevent the spread of disease.
  • Avoid using feeders during times of the year when natural food sources are abundant.

As a company, we remain committed to promoting sustainable outdoor practices and educating our customers about the importance of Leave No Trace. We believe that by having an open and honest dialogue about the complexities of hunting and wildlife conservation, we can work together to find solutions that support both outdoor recreation and the health of our natural environment.

We encourage all of our customers to familiarize themselves with the Leave No Trace principles and to incorporate them into their outdoor adventures whenever possible. By being mindful of our impact and taking steps to minimize it, we can ensure that future generations will have the same opportunities to enjoy the beauty and richness of the great outdoors.

At Country Roads Sporting Goods, we are committed to promoting sustainable outdoor practices and educating our customers on the importance of Leave No Trace. We encourage you to incorporate these principles into your outdoor adventures, whether you’re hiking, camping, hunting, fishing, or enjoying any other activity in nature.

Remember, it’s our collective responsibility to be good stewards of the environment. By following the Leave No Trace principles, we can continue to enjoy the beauty and benefits of the great outdoors while preserving it for future generations.ย 

Join us in our mission to “Leave No Trace” and help spread the word about sustainable outdoor practices.

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