ACA Environmental Awareness & Ethics 2

Question 1

When camping on a riverbank, what is the recommended minimum distance from the water's edge to set up a camp kitchen?

Accepted Answer

100 feet (30 meters)

Answer

Leave No Trace principles recommend camping and cooking at least 200 feet from water, but the ACA and LNT standard minimum for camp kitchens near waterways is 100 feet to protect riparian zones.

Question 2

A student wants to collect a beautiful river rock as a souvenir. As an ACA instructor, how should you respond?

Accepted Answer

Discourage it and explain that removing natural objects disrupts the ecosystem

Answer

Leave No Trace principle 'Leave What You Find' prohibits removing natural objects, as this disrupts habitats and, if done by many paddlers, causes cumulative damage.

Question 3

What is the primary reason ACA instructors are taught to use biodegradable soap even when camping far from water?

Accepted Answer

Even biodegradable soap requires soil microbes to break it down, so distance from water protects aquatic ecosystems

Answer

Biodegradable soap still needs soil microbes to decompose and can harm aquatic life if it reaches water before breaking down, so it must be used at least 200 feet from any water source.

Question 4

Which federal law most directly protects migratory birds that nest along paddling waterways in the US?

Accepted Answer

Migratory Bird Treaty Act

Answer

The Migratory Bird Treaty Act (1918) prohibits harassing, capturing, or killing migratory birds and their nests, making it directly relevant when instructors lead groups near nesting areas.

Question 5

During a class, you notice blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) bloom on a lake. What is the correct action?

Accepted Answer

Cancel or relocate the session and report the bloom to local authorities

Answer

Blue-green algae blooms can produce cyanotoxins dangerous to humans and animals; instructors must avoid all contact, cancel water activities, and notify local environmental or health agencies.

(ACA) American Canoe Association Instructor Certification Practice Test

(ACA) American Canoe Association Instructor Certification Practice Test

ACA Environmental Awareness & Ethics 2