The Access Fund urges all climbers to recognize and to limit the impacts of their climbing practices on the environment, other climbers, land managers, and other users.

The Access Fund believes that the key to effective management is cooperation. Discussion between climbers and land managers will result in climbing-management policies based on mutual agreement. Such policies will help ensure cooperation and effective enforcement of the policy.

Climbers should cooperate with public and private land managers to mitigate the environmental impacts of climbing. The Access Fund believes that regulation affecting any climbing practices, including fixed anchors, is acceptable only if it follows from discussions and agreement between local climbers and land managers. Alternatives to regulation, such as camouflaging fixed anchors, education and self-regulation should be fully explored before regulation. Regulation may be appropriate to protect historical, archeological or environmental resources. Furthermore, climbers must respect regulations against the use of power drills in wilderness areas or other designated areas.

"Chopping" or removing bolts invariably results in damage to the resource and should not occur until and unless a consensus has been reached between all parties. Chipping or gluing of holds on natural rock faces causes unacceptable resource impacts.

Climbing may involve the use of fixed anchors, including expansion bolts or pitons, and their use has long been recognized as legitimate. The use of fixed anchors is often necessary for safe climbing. Climbers have the knowledge needed to install, replace, or remove fixed anchors. When placing fixed anchors, climbers should limit their impact by all reasonable means. All fixed anchors should be camouflaged, in accordance with local practice, to further reduce their minimal visual impact. Climbers should refrain from placing bolts where removable protection is feasible and safe.

The most effective way to deal with access issues is to get involved with the Access Fund at the local level. If you have a local climbing organization, get involved and support its efforts to promote access to climbing areas. If you do not have a local club, form one immediately and contact the Access Fund for help in getting your local organization started.

Above all, climb responsibly. Show respect not only for other climbers, but also for land managers and other users. Never trespass on private land and respect all closures on public lands and report all questionable closures to the Access Fund and to local climbing organizations.