BMC publishes national Crag Code

by Tina Gardner The BMC has produced a new code of conduct – the Crag Code – to encourage the sustainable use of crags in England and Wales.The code consists of ten important reminders for people visiting our crags – from respecting the rock and other people, to keeping to established footpaths and keeping dogs under control.Whilst the majority of climbers and boulderers have a positive attitude towards crag access and protection – the BMC felt a code was needed to help prevent situations whereby access may come under threat.You can view the Crag Code HERE Dave Turnbull, BMC Chief Executive, said: ?The BMC Crag Code is a simple set of common sense principles.It?s in all of our interests to look after our crags.Whether you´re an individual climber, part of a club or running outdoor activity courses, the Crag Code applies to you. Read and respect it.? The Crag Code was approved by BMC National Council in September 2007.It is part of a wider programme to help protect our crags – including Green Guides & Tread Lightly publications, which are freely available to all climbers, hill walkers and mountaineers.The idea is that it will be reproduced in guidebooks, climbing magazines/books, Mountain Leader Training literature, outdoor websites, crag noticeboards and posters at climbing walls.We?re calling on organisations and individuals to promote sustainable climbing by following the Crag Code and publicising it as much as possible. Whether you?re writing a guidebook or putting together your club newsletter, there is a suitable format available to download from www.thebmc.co.uk/cragcode ( Source: BMC )