Lakeshore Nature Preserve Geocache Placement

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Policy Number:

UW-6048

Responsible Office:

Campus Planning & Landscape Architecture

University Policy

Rationale/​Purpose:

It is the policy of the Lakeshore Nature Preserve to manage properties under its jurisdiction in a manner consistent with the goals of the Preserve Management Plan, to protect site resources and to provide for the enjoyment, safety and security of Preserve visitors. Decisions regarding requests for geocache placement will be based on the possible or expected impact of geocaches on managed properties. All requests for placement shall be governed by the rules identified in this policy. 

Policy:

No geocaches may be placed in the Lakeshore Nature Preserve without a permit. Caches established in violation of these guidelines will be confiscated.

1. Permits: All requests for geocache placement on University of Wisconsin Lakeshore Nature Preserve managed properties will be in writing and must be submitted using the Geocache Placement Permit Application.
2. Geocache Locations: In order to minimize the impact of geocachers on sites within the preserve, the following rules must be observed:
   1. No caches may be located on or in any archeological or culturally sensitive site. A map showing the general locations of archeological or historic sites within the preserve can be viewed on the interactive map. Activate all map layers under the menu button “Human Landscapes” at the bottom edge of the map page.
   2. No cache may be attached to or suspended from any natural feature (e.g., rock outcrops or trees). Never bury a cache or otherwise disturb vegetation or a natural feature. Placing a cache into a naturally occurring crevice or cavity is permitted if the location otherwise complies with rules governing cache placement. However, if a shovel, trowel, or other object is needed to hide or find a cache, the cache will be confiscated.
   3. Geocaches must be placed within 10 feet of existing marked trails and roads to minimize disturbance to sensitive plants and any ongoing restoration work. Caches located further than 10 feet from the trail and road network will be confiscated.
   4. If the program manager determines that the location of a cache poses a risk to students, staff, or visitors, the owner will be contacted and asked that the cache be moved to a safer location. Information regarding potential risk is to be recorded on the original permit.
   5. If the terms of a permit are violated, the program manager has the authority to void the permit and remove the cache from its location. The program manager will attempt to notify the owner on www.geocaching.com that the cache has been removed.
   6. If a non-permitted cache is discovered, the program manager will remove the cache and retain it for 30 days while attempting to notify the owner. If contact cannot be made, the cache will be considered abandoned property.
3. Requirements for a Geocache: In order to qualify for approval for placement, the geocache must meet the following requirements. Violation of any of these requirements will result in the immediate removal of the geocache by Lakeshore Nature Preserve personnel.
   1. The container must be made of clear (see-through) material, with a size no greater than 6"x8"x12". Ammunition boxes or similar military-like containers cannot be used.
   2. The cache container must be clearly marked on the outside with the word “GEOCACHE” and the name and contact information of the owner.
   3. Geocaches cannot contain any food items.
   4. Geocaches cannot contain tobacco, drugs, or any illegal products.
   5. Geocaches cannot contain any "adult" items, offensive or hazardous materials, firearms, ammunition, knives, or similar objects.
   6. The program manager can request that the cache owner provide a photograph(s) of the cache and attach it to the permit.
4. Requirements for Geocache Owners: Once approved for placement, the geocache owners must satisfy the following conditions. Violation of any of these requirements will result in the immediate removal of the geocache by Lakeshore Nature Preserve personnel.
   1. Once approval is received for the geocache from the program manager, the cache owner must post the geocache site information online at www.geocaching.com
   2. Caches must be checked at least once each three months. Verification of this check will be by email, letter, or personal communication from the geocache owner to the program manager (lakeshorepreserve@fpm.wisc.edu).
   3. Permits for caches expire after one year. Permits must be renewed by March 31 of each year or removed. If a cache is removed prior to March 31, the program manager must be notified.
   4. A link to this geocaching policy must be provided in conjunction with any postings of GPS coordinates or other location information.

Policy Administration

Approval Authority:

Associate Vice Chancellor Facilities Planning & Management

Policy Manager:

Interim Director, Campus Planning

Contact:

Assistant Director, Lakeshore Nature Preserve -- Laura Wyatt, laura.wyatt@wisc.edu, (608) 265-9275

Effective Date:

07-10-2019

Retrieved:

04-18-2024 23:33:47