Switchback

Readers chime in on the region's most controversial topics. Check out the live ballot on our home page.

Should the Southeast coast be opened to offshore oil drilling?

September 2008

53% NO

47% YES


Do mountain bikers damage trails more than other groups?

August 2008

Do you support a boycott of the Olympic ceremonies in Beijing?

July 2008

Has coal helped Appalachia?

June 2008

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May 2008
Should outdoor enthusiasts hitchhike?

Do you carry a weapon for protection on the trail?

April 2008

Are vegetarians healthier than meat eaters?

March 2008
Are vegetarians healthier than meat eaters?

Is Into the Wilds Chris McCandless a hero?

February 2008
The dictionary’s definition of a hero is a man of distinguished courage or ability, admired for his brave deeds and noble qualities.

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January 2008

Should hunters and hikers share the same trails?


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December 2007

SWITCHBACK

November 2007

Do you check air quality forecasts before venturing outdoors?

October 2007

ONLINE RESULTS

YES

18%

NO

82%


Should more wind farms be built in the Appalachians?

September 2007
More renewable energy projects need to be completed to help wean ourselves from polluting fossil fuels. More importantly, however, efficient use of electrical power must be a priority for us all.

Does slackpacking diminish an A.T. thru-hike?

August 2007

ONLINE RESULTS

YES - 47%

NO - 53%


Do you wear deodorant when venturing outdoors?

July 2007

ONLINE RESULTS

YES 59%

NO 41%


Why is there a lack of ethnic diversity in the outdoors?

June 2007
As a black man, I am always happy and surprised on those rare occasions when I see black faces on the trail. The first (and only) time I’ve seen a black woman at a mountain bike trailhead, I had to walk up to her and express my delight.

Are visitor quotas needed for national parks in the Southeast?

May 2007
Reader Forum

Has minority participation in outdoor adventure increased?

April 2007
Switchback Reader Forum

Is Athleticism Determined By Genetics?

March 2007
Reader Forum

Do you stretch before exercising?

January 2007
Reader Forum

Is the proposed Blackwater Canyon National Park a good idea?

December 2006
Reader Forum

Are you an athlete if you don't compete?

October 2006
Reader Forum

Is it ok to run 'bandit' in a race?

September 2006
Reader Forum

Next Month's Switchback

September 2006
Reader Forum

Is it okay to bushwhack off-trail when hiking?

August 2006
Reader Forum

Does marijuana enhance the outdoor experience?

June 2006
Reader Forum

Should wildfires be allowed to burn in national forests?

May 2006
Reader Forum

Should dogs be allowed on National Park trails?

April 2006
Reader Forum

Do you support the proposed Interstate 3?

March 2006
Reader Forum

Do you support day-use fees on public lands?

November 2005
Reader Forum

Should ATVs be allowed on U.S. Forest Service trails?

October 2005
Reader Forum

Should speed records be kept on long distance paths like the Appalachian Trail?

September 2005
Reader Forum

Do you listen to music while running?

August 2005
Reader Forum

What qualifies as a sport-and what doesn’t?

April 2005

Does the Southeast need another National Park?

January 2005

Should commercial logging be allowed in National Forests?

November 2004

Is Lance the best athlete of all time?

October 2004

Should mountain bikes be allowed in Wilderness?

September 2004

Should all dogs be leashed on the trail?

August 2004

Should outdoor enthusiasts follow a low-carb diet?

July 2004

Is it cool to skinny-dip in public?

June 2004