Wilderness Water Safety: Staying Hydrated in the Backcountry

Embarking on an adventure in the stunning landscapes surrounding Durango, CO, demands careful preparation, and wilderness water safety stands as a cornerstone of that planning. Ensuring you have enough clean drinking water and knowing how to procure and purify more if needed can be the difference between a memorable experience and a dangerous situation. This guide will equip you with essential knowledge to confidently navigate water-related challenges in the backcountry of La Plata County and beyond.

Calculating Your Water Needs

How much water should you carry for your trek? A general guideline suggests packing 1 liter of water for every two hours of hiking. Furthermore, for every 2,000 feet of elevation gain you anticipate, it’s wise to add another half a liter to your supply. Keep in mind that a liter of water weighs approximately 2.2 pounds. Therefore, while your pack might feel heavier at the start of your journey, this initial investment in hydration can pay significant dividends as you hike and steadily consume water, gradually lightening your load. Remember, unexpected delays or increased exertion can quickly deplete your water reserves, underscoring the importance of carrying a surplus.

Identifying Backup Water Sources

Beyond your initial supply, identifying potential backup water sources along your planned route is a critical step in your trip planning. Lakes, ponds, rivers, and streams can serve as these secondary options. However, it’s paramount to understand that water found in the backcountry is generally not safe to drink without proper treatment. Various hazards, including harmful bacteria like E. coli, the parasite Giardia, animal waste, and even agricultural chemicals, can contaminate these seemingly pristine sources. Consuming untreated contaminated water can lead to severe dehydration and other debilitating, potentially life-threatening, symptoms.

Wilderness Water Safe: Filtration

Therefore, mastering water purification techniques is non-negotiable for anyone venturing into the wilderness. The most effective method for eliminating harmful microorganisms involves both filtering and then boiling the water. First, filter the water to remove sediment, sticks, leaves, and other particulate matter. A commercial pump-style water filter is an excellent tool for this purpose. If you find yourself without a commercial filter, a makeshift one can be constructed. By cutting off the bottom of a plastic soft drink bottle and creating a barrier at the screw-top end using layers of coffee filters and cotton balls, you can create a simple pre-filter. Remember to collect the pre-filtered water in a separate clean container for the next stage of treatment.

Making Wilderness Water Safe: Purification

Following filtration, the next crucial step is to kill any remaining germs. Bring your clear, filtered water to a rolling boil for one full minute. If your elevation is above 6,500 feet, which is common in areas around Durango and throughout much of La Plata County, extend the boiling time to three minutes to ensure thorough disinfection. While many portable water filters can effectively remove parasites, they may not eliminate all bacteria and viruses. To address these remaining threats, you can use chemical disinfectants such as unscented household chlorine bleach, iodine tablets, or chlorine dioxide tablets. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully when using chemical treatments.

Safety Around Water Sources

When approaching any wilderness water source, prioritize safety. Carefully assess the surrounding environment. Are there any signs of potentially dangerous animals nearby? Is the ground stable and safe for access? Are there indications of recent flash floods, which can contaminate water sources and make the approach treacherous? If you have any doubts about the safety of a particular water source, it is always best to seek an alternative. The La Plata County Sheriff Department often issues safety advisories regarding backcountry conditions, so checking with them or local authorities before your trip can be beneficial.

In addition to water safety, remember other crucial backcountry safety practices.

• Always carry a well-equipped first aid kit to address minor injuries.
• Trekking with one or more companions is strongly recommended; there truly is safety in numbers.
• Be vigilant about the risks of hypothermia, which can occur even in relatively mild temperatures. Recognize the signs:
  • shivering
  • slow and shallow breathing
  • confusion and memory loss
  • drowsiness
  • slurred speech
  • loss of coordination

Should someone in your group exhibit these symptoms, take immediate steps to help them warm up and avoid further heat loss.

• Avoiding getting wet is a key preventative measure against hypothermia.
• Before you head out, always consult a “Know Before You Go” checklist and ensure you are carrying the 10 essentials for wilderness survival.
• Fire safety is another critical consideration in the backcountry, especially during dry conditions. Be aware of fire restrictions and practice Leave No Trace principles, including proper handling of any campfires or cooking stoves.

Preparation is Key in the Backcountry

Our team at La Plata County Search and Rescue is a non-profit, fully volunteer organization dedicated to ensuring the safety of individuals enjoying the outdoors in La Plata County. We understand the importance of preparedness and encourage everyone to educate themselves on essential skills like wilderness water safety. Proper planning, including understanding your water needs, identifying backup sources, and knowing how to treat water effectively, significantly increases your safety margin in the backcountry.

To further enhance your preparedness, consider practicing water collection, filtering, and treatment techniques before your actual trip. Familiarity with your equipment and these procedures will make you more efficient and confident when you need these skills in a real-world situation. By taking the time to learn and prepare, you can become a master of wilderness water safety – before you need it most.

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