Davies, Mary Ann. 2001. Fixed Anchors in the Wilderness. 0123 2826. Missoula, MT: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, National Technology and Development Program. 6 p.

Describes an unsuccessful search for products that could eliminate the need for fixed climbing anchors in designated wilderness areas. Allowing fixed anchors, expansion bolts, and hangers in designated wilderness is controversial. Advocates of fixed anchors believe the anchors are essential for safety. Opponents of fixed anchors in wilderness base their argument in the statutory language of the Wilderness Act of 1964, which prohibits "installations" for other than administrative purposes. The Missoula Technology and Development Center located one product, the "Geartriever", to retrieve gear (such as slings and runners) that would normally be left behind. The author thinks the likelihood of finding a technical solution that would make fixed anchors obsolete is slim.

Keywords: active recreation, climbing, climbing devices, equipment, recreation, regulations

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