OK, here you go.....should attributes be mandatory on cache description pages?
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OK, here you go.....should attributes be mandatory on cache description pages?
Everyone has the right to be an idiot at times. Just don't abuse the privilege.
Some of the attributes should be on most cache listings. The handicap accessible icon is just a thoughtful thing to do. Other attributes that warn of hazards, like poison ivy or thorns, can prevent a caching day from being ruined. While any concerns could be described in the cache listings, it's easier to just click on the attributes that are applicable. I don't see a downside to stating the attributes and it's good for the game. Groundspeak would never make it mandatory but I would personally encourage the practice as one of those things that's "the right thing to do!" Good question Paul.
Sometimes the road less traveled is less traveled for a reason.
Using attributes has another advantage. You can search for caches in PQ's using attributes and also sort them in GSAK using the attributes.
I think they are VERY important but I do not think they should be mandatory. I do wish more people would utilize this helpful tool however.
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There are obvious advantages to having attributes, but I don't think they should be mandatory either. What I dislike most is when they are misused intentionally (such as using the scuba attribute to designate a power trail) or misused according to my interpretation of it. The "Available during Winter" attribute is one which seems way too open to interpretation. To me, it does not mean that the area the cache is located is open to people during Winter, it means you should be able to access the cache in Winter - which to me means it's most likely above the snow line. But I have seen several caches have this attribute and the cache is under a log on the ground. I have 3 caches on cliffs, I do not have the winter attribute set because I don't want people to think they are designed to be found in the snow. I also don't have the winter attribute set to no because if you really wanted to try to do them in Winter, the land is open for you to try. Unfortunately so many hiders interpret many of the attributes differently.
And for Winter, we also have the snowshoes and cross country skis attributes. Does that mean you need them or you can get to the area where the cache is using them? Does it mean the cache is not buried under 5 feet of snow?
So, no for mandatory, but I think clarification of the attributes would be great. And they should not be allowed to be misused.
Last edited by brdad; 06-26-2011 at 11:56 AM.
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perhaps a more definative explaination of just what geocaching.com powers that be say the attribute means would be in order. That way there would be less interpertation from the individual cache placer???
Hey! Dont forget to submit your suggestions for the Ammo Can! It's your newsletter. Help to make it wonderful!! P.S. I apologize now for the typos and misspellings in my post.