Re[2]: [at-l] shelters

[Bob Cummings <ellen@clinic.net> (Bob C.)]

"...Why are they open on one side?" asks Shane.

 The answer is tradition. Shelters evolved from simple shelters built by hunters
 and trappers in the north. They needed shelter that could be built fast and
 provide protection from rain and snow.

 A better question is why are we still building them. Trail use has increased so
 much that everyone has to carry portable shelter of some kind to be assured of
 protection from the elements.

 We still build them, I suspect, because "building things" is one of the many
 hobbies of trail maintainers. My suggestion is that they would be more useful
 building simple roofed shelters opened on all four sides, for cooking and
 eating during storms and platforms for keeping tents out of the mud and
 puddles.

 Weary