Leave No Trace with Mark Eller

This episode on Tailgate Talks, Donald Forgione sits down with Mark Eller from Leave No Trace for a conversation about protecting the outdoors through education, stewardship, and personal responsibility.

Mark shares the story behind the Leave No Trace movement, the growing pressures facing parks and public lands, and why simple actions by everyday visitors can make a lasting difference. The discussion explores how outdoor recreation professionals, park managers, volunteers, and visitors all play a role in protecting natural and cultural resources for future generations.

The episode also highlights the importance of practical, science-based outdoor ethics, visitor education, and the challenge of balancing increased visitation with conservation. Donald and Mark discuss how Leave No Trace principles apply not only in remote wilderness settings, but also in local parks, campgrounds, beaches, trails, and everyday outdoor spaces.

Topics include:

• The history and mission of Leave No Trace
• The Seven Principles and why they matter
• Protecting parks during periods of heavy visitation
• Visitor behavior and resource impacts
• Education versus enforcement
• Stewardship partnerships with parks and recreation agencies
• How recreation professionals can build a culture of conservation
• The future of outdoor ethics in America

Whether you work in parks, recreation, forestry, wildlife management, tourism, or simply love the outdoors, this episode offers practical insight and inspiration for caring for the places we all enjoy.

About the Guest

Leave No Trace is a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting the outdoors through education, research, and stewardship. Mark Eller serves as Director of Membership and Communications, helping lead outreach, storytelling, partnerships, and educational initiatives that support responsible outdoor recreation.

Learn More

• Leave No Trace Website
• The 7 Principles of Leave No Trace

Contact Information

• General Information: [email protected]
• Mark Eller: [email protected]

Connect with Tailgate Talks

For speaking, training, consulting, or podcast inquiries with Donald Forgione:

• Email: [email protected]
• LinkedIn: Donald Forgione on LinkedIn