Geocaching Tips & Tricks

Ah, summer is back and the Geocachers are out, along with mosquitoes, snakes and other creatures.  Most cachers seem to like warm weather much better than the cold.  Just about everyday new caches show up on “Groundspeak” Internet site.  Also, let me remind you of the 2^nd Annual Brown Bag Meet and Greet Geocachers Event coming up on Saturday, July 24, 2010 at Loudy Simpson Park.

For you that are new to Geocaching or would like to know more about the subject there is a very informative program on the Geocaching website (wee.geocaching.com).  This site is free and very easy to access.

Now let’s talk about some caching etiquette, never place a cache where someone could get hurt retrieving it.  This not only relates to the cache container, but is there a safe parking or access close by.  These is not saying making your caches easy for everyone, but do consider the skills and age of some of our cachers, Geocaches have presented some problems for Law Enforcement Agencies across the country.  Mark your container with “Geocache”, some caches have been destroyed as they were thought to be bombs or hazardous.  And there have been reports of cachers being arrested or detained until the issue had been resolved.  Let’s keep Geocaching a fun sport, no one wants to sit in jail, this is a not a Monopoly game.

Evaluate your caches for difficulty and terrain, some people process data differently than others and not all of us are as agile as we wish.  This is especially important around here with the fast running creeks and rivers, steep slopes and higher elevations.

When caching, always replace the cache where and how you found it.  If it is damaged (dumped-out or wet, etc.), try to repair it.  If it is badly damaged, notify the owner when you log your find.  And owners, if you get a message that your cache is damaged, repair it as soon as possible.  If I come across a damaged cache, I try to repair it.  I carry extra log sheets, pencils, and on a couple of instances, I have replaced a badly damaged or missing a container.

After establishing a cache, do not abandon it.  You need to check on the cache and watch the logs for any statements relating to an issue with your cache.  If you get tired of caching, find someone in the area to adopt your cache.  Most caches will do this for you.  Remember it’s  better to find a new owner for your cache than letting it become "trash".  People do not like traveling long distances across rough terrain not to find a cache or find an empty container, full logbook, etc.

If you set a cache on private property, ALWAYS obtain the landowner’s permission.  Explain to them there will be people coming in to the site at odd times and different types of vehicles.  When you prepare your description, state any requests the landowner may require: i.e. close the gate, enter only during daylight hours, no motorcycles, or ATV’s, etc.

For caches set on public lands, check with the management/supervision of these lands.  Many of them will offer some suggestions for cache sites or relate any restrictions they may have for their land.

Hope to see you all at the Geocache Meet and Greet.

Robert C. Arring