Our Ground Rules

Everything we do comes back to a few simple ideas:

• Keep people safe
• Respect the land and its history
• Take care of each other
• Do the right thing, even when it’s inconvenient

Permits, Regulations & Land Managers

We operate under permits with agencies like the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), National Park Service (NPS), U.S. Forest Service (USFS), and applicable state land agencies.

That means:

• We follow all permit conditions, group size limits, and route restrictions - no exceptions.
• We use only approved access points, camps, and routes.
• We respect seasonal closures and wildlife protections.
• We accurately represent our activities (no “freelance” guiding outside permit scope).
• We carry required permits and documentation on every trip.
• We cooperate fully with rangers and land managers.

Safety Comes First

• No shortcuts when it comes to safety - on the river, in the canyons, or in the backcountry.
• Stay current on required certifications (WFR/EMT, food handlers, swiftwater rescue, drivers license, technical systems, etc.).
• Run solid briefings: risks, expectations, communication plans.
• Speak up early if something feels off.
• Always document and report incidents and near misses.

We don’t let client expectations, weather windows, or schedule pressure override good judgment. As much as possible, we stay on the course of the route that is represented in our advertising and website.

Desert Ethics (Leave It Better Than We Found It)

Desert environments don’t bounce back quickly. We travel lightly:

• Follow Leave No Trace (LNT) principles every time.
• Pack it in, pack it out (yes, everything, including human waste where required).
• Stick to durable surfaces and established routes.
• Use low-impact rigging and avoid building new anchors unless absolutely necessary and allowed.
• Don’t touch rock art, structures, or artifacts.
• Keep camps tight and low-impact, only at permitted sites.

We also teach this mindset. Every trip is a chance to help guests understand why it matters.

Respectful Behavior

Including but not limited to:

• Respecting interpersonal boundaries and others’ boundaries.
• Respecting each individual's identity, including but not limited to: ability, age, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, education, political beliefs, religion.
• Refrain from disrespectful behavior including and not limited to: harassing, bullying, obscene or discriminatory language, abusing alcohol or drugs (drugs, including marijuana, are prohibited on Federal lands including National Parks).
• Firearms are never permitted on trips or on Navtec Expeditions property.

If you observe or experience offensive behavior on any of our trips or at our office, please speak with Navtec Expeditions staff.

How We Work Together

• Communicate clearly: before, during, and after trips.
• Back each other up in the field.
• Give and receive feedback like professionals.
• Address problems early instead of letting them grow.

Gear & Systems

• Check gear before every trip. Rafts, ropes, PPE, all of it.
• Retire or report anything questionable immediately.
• Use systems that match conditions and team ability - not just what’s fastest.

Social Media & Representation

• If you post, make sure it reflects safe, respectful practices and Navtec Expeditions policy.
• Don’t take or share anyone's images without permission.
• Don’t post content that could jeopardize permits or relationships with land managers.