Gunks Anchor Initiative Survey Results

The eroded and stressed tree atop “Jackie”

The Gunks Climbers’ Coalition has been working with the Mohonk Preserve to address rappel anchors. Specifically, the GCC is advocating for bolted anchors to replace tree rappel anchors where trees are suffering from climber impact. Additionally there are some fixed gear rappel anchors composed of pitons and/or other aging hardware that the GCC is requesting be replaced with bolted rappel stations.

In the Spring of 2014 the GCC presented our concerns to the Mohonk Preserve’s Land Stewardship Committee. We conducted a survey in which close to 1,000 people responded. The results of the survey were presented to the Mohonk Preserve in August of 2014.

At this point the GCC is working with the Preserve on an anchor management plan which will address environmental impact concerns and climber safety.

Wear and tear on “Betty”

The survey was conducted over a 3-week period with the bulk of responses being registered in just the first few days. Close to 1,000 people responded and over 14,000 words were written in the comments section. The results and comments were shared with the Mohonk Preserve.

1) How often do you climb in the Mohonk Preserve?
Never 1%
1-5 times per year 30%
6-20 times per year 36%
More than 20 times per year 33%

2) There are environmental concerns regarding the state of some fixed rappel anchors in the Mohonk Preserve.
Strongly Agree 53%
Agree 38%
Neutral 5%
Disagree 1%
Strongly Disagree 1%
I don’t know 2%

3) There are safety concerns regarding the state of some fixed rappel anchors in the Mohonk Preserve.
Strongly Agree 53%
Agree 34%
Neutral 6%
Disagree 3%
Strongly Disagree 1%
I don’t know 2%

4) There are concerns about whether or not there are enough bolted rappel anchors in the Mohonk Preserve. Would you say there are…
Not enough bolted anchors 71%
Enough bolted anchors 15%
Too many bolted anchors 2%
I don’t know 10%

5) I would support replacing an existing rappel anchor with a bolted rappel anchor if the anchor…
(CHOOSE ALL THAT APPLY)

o) poses a negative environmental impact. (ie. erosion, soil compaction, tree bark wear) 90%
o) is unsafe due to rusted pitons, old gear, or aged/nested slings 90%
o) I do not support any form of bolted anchor 2%
o) I don’t know 2%

[message_box title=”Learn More” color=”blue”]Click here to go to the Anchor Initiative Project page.[/message_box]