Leave no trace at hoffler creek
An Eagle Scout project by certified Leave No Trace trainer, Aliya Summers
You've found an egret sign! This scavenger hunt is designed to help you discover the seven Leave No Trace Principles—easy-to-follow guidelines that minimize our impact on nature. These principles apply everywhere, from remote wilderness to local areas like Hoffler Creek Wildlife Preserve.
Keep your eyes open for the other signs along the trail to learn how these principles specifically help protect the wildlife and habitat right here at Hoffler Creek.
Principle 4: Leave what you find
The items we find in nature have a role to play, either in the ecosystem or the story of the landscape. Leaving what we find in place helps to preserve both. Allow others a sense of discovery by leaving rocks, plants, archaeological artifacts, and other objects of interest as you find them.
The basics of this principle are:
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Once more, leave rocks, plants, and other natural and cultural objects as you find them.
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Avoid introducing or transporting non-native species.
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Do not build structures, furniture, or dig holes, unless permitted to do so by Hoffler Creek staff.
respect the vegetation of hoffler creek
Do not carve into trees. Carving can make the trees more susceptible to disease and cause lasting damage.
Want to leave a personalized mark? You can do so by drawing on our chalkboard wall by the Pavilion, or by making a donation and being honored on our Giving Tree inside the Visitor Center.
Natural Objects and Cultural Artifacts Around Hoffler Creek
Please leave rocks, plants, antlers, flowers, and other natural objects of interest as you find them:
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These items may provide essential nutrients or habitat for wildlife. As a wildlife preserve, we prioritize their needs.
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Do not forage for food (berries, mushrooms, etc.). We need to leave food for the wildlife, and misidentifying toxic items is a risk even for experienced foragers.
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The same ethic applies to cultural artifacts found around Hoffler Creek Wildlife Preserve. The land on which Hoffler Creek resides has a long history, existing as Floral Point Farm from the 1850s until 1970.
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Some of that history can be seen along the Homestead Trail in the foundation of the once-standing Ballard House.
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​Please do not disturb this historic site. Artifacts such as pot shards, structures, and even antique bottles found on this land should be left in place.
Invasives throughout Hoffler Creek
Invasives are a pre-existing threat under constant management here. Your help is essential:
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Please do not bring plants, seeds, or animals to relocate to Hoffler Creek Wildlife Preserve unless you first consult with staff.
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Be sure to clean outdoor gear (especially footwear) before visiting Hoffler Creek and other natural areas to avoid accidentally spreading invasive species.​
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If you launch your own kayak, be sure to clean, drain, and dry it before bringing it here.
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If you would like to volunteer to assist in invasive plant removal, you can find more information and sign up here.
About
Meet Aliya Summers
I am a certified Leave No Trace Trainer, BSA Scout, BSA Sea Scout, BSA Venturing Scout, OA Brotherhood member, Girl Scout, AFJROTC cadet, Civil Air Patrol cadet, Karate Black Belt, and student at Nansemond River High School, class of 2026.
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For my Eagle Scout project, I aimed to execute something that was helpful to Hoffler Creek Wildlife Preserve and my community by educating visitors about Leave No Trace Principles. Teaching people about Leave No Trace while in nature is beneficial and can have a lasting impact, helping preserve nature for future generations.
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The idea for this project was inspired by the Leave No Trace Big Foot Trail at Cheaha State Park in Alabama, which I hiked when I was ten years old. I give my heartfelt appreciation to Hoffler Creek Wildlife Preserve for helping me bring my vision to life.
