Leave No Trace Guidelines

Be good stewards of the outdoors and our partners’ property!

As Chestnut members, we model the behavior for the mission we seek. That includes doing our part to maintain and enhance our vanishing landscapes and ecosystems. We strive to be environmentally aware as painters and respect both nature and the property on which we are allowed to paint.

When we paint outside, whether in a public park, on private land, or on the grounds of an historic landmark, we need to be aware of our natural surroundings and commit to do the following:

• Leave everything as you found it. Leave rocks, plants, and limbs where they are — let your brush make changes on your canvas if something needs to be moved or altered. And remember to take everything you brought in.

• Stay on designated routes and tread lightly. Leave gates as you found them, and avoid trampling on vegetation where you set up to paint.

• Keep a close eye on your trash. Attach a trash bag to your easel or tripod and watch for items that might blow away. When you leave, pack your trash bag and dispose of it properly at home.

• Never dump solvent, medium, paint or related toxic materials onto the ground or into streams or lakes.

• Always use the restroom facilities that are available. When restrooms are not available, be responsible and follow the guidelines listed under the “Leave No Trace” Seven Principles.

Considerations for painting on other’s properties

Guidelines vary from one property owner or organization to another. Look for the specific rules when details about an event or paint out is announced. For example, in some instances, we can show up and paint while in others we need to check in or obtain a pass. For all properties, only paint during the organized activities for which we have been granted permission. And finally, please make a special effort to personally thank the individuals who have made it possible for Chestnuts to paint on their property.
Thank you in advance for helping us continue to foster lasting relationships with the many beloved organizations in our community.