This geocache is an introductory of Rich Mountain WMA and for the modern day geocacher who is seeking geocaches other than the mundane lamp skirts, guardrails, and the tedious park and grabs along road right-of-ways. Urban geocachers have been seen headed out of the cities, wondering off the asphalt to navigate through the back woods getting their cars dirty and experiencing the enjoyment of Georgia's great mountains for an unequal geocaching experience.
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The following information is mountain geocaching etiquette intended for seekers of my geocaches.
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Log Types:
If you're not sure what to include in your 'found it' log, here are 5 steps and ideas for great logs. It's also courteous to note the condition of the geocache. If you can't find the geocache, please don't throw down a container, just log a DNF... The log type that best describes your experience while seeking the geocache is appropriate.
After reading the logs on the listing page and you have learned of an issue being evident with the geocache, please don't make any changes without consulting the CO first.
Trading SWAG Responsibly:
Taking unactivated trackables and/or signature items with you will assist providing great SWAG for trading with the geocache. Shapely rubber bands, free toys, pocket change, golf balls, paper and liquids shouldn't be left behind. Even if the last person to visit the geocache did not exercise SWAG trading properly, you can. It's also courteous to note your SWAG trade with your 'found it' log. If you need some idea's for SWAG, see idea's for SWAG.
Activated Travelbugs:
Before leaving trackables in the mountains, it's best to check with the owner of the trackable making sure they are okay if their trackable does not move for months.
Containers:
Most if not all of my geocaches are ammo cans. The cans are secured with a cable since bears get bored and love to play with them. The wild hogs like to dig around and possibly move the ammo can from the hiding spot out into the open. Please return the ammo can so it's completely hidden and out of sight.
Sometimes, hunters and mountain hikers like to collect ammo cans they accidentally come across in the woods. There is not a need to 'make the hide easier to find' for future seekers as commonly practiced in the urban settings. The geocache is rated appropriately and the experience should reflect the D/T ratings as intended by the geocache owner/hider.
Be prepared:
I should remind seekers of some of the dangers in the mountains. If you're seeking during the hunting seasons, please wear orange. The weather can change almost instantly with approaching weather patterns. Wild animal precautions is a must. Yes, there are bears in the Rich Mountains! Informing someone where you'll be hiking is a great precautionary measure. Cell phone coverage is spotty at best. Obtaining all the mapping information before heading to Rich MTN is wise. Properly prepare your GPS, turn on your 'tracks' and be sure to 'mark' your vehicle. Reading the geocache listings before leaving for your journey is a must. There is a ranger station close by, but I've seen it rarely occupied.
Leave No Trace:
Please, always practice the Leave No Trace principles.
Small note: As required by the USFS for geocaches hidden in the Chattahoochee National Forest. This geocache is prominently labeled as a geocache and the label includes the GC code and the owner's e-mail address.