My participation in this forum wanes from time to time. And the reasoning for that, is multitude - but mostly, I don't have much to say on a lot of topics that are not of real interest to me.

Also and although probably younger then most regulars here, the hardcore activities are not once what they used to be for us. In the last 2-3 years, it is apparent to feel that the miles are getting longer, the packs are getting heavier and the trails are getting steeper. So the halcyon hardcore days of which I lived all my life are (mostly) in the twilight and now changing to a more sedate life of weekend camping, day hiking etc. That means that the formerly high priority ETS mindset is not as important as it once was - but there is certainly still a need for the core aspects of which this forum will always be a great resource.

On the topic that ChaosMagnet mentioned re: backup MOD's. I think it is really needed as CM is the only active MOD / Admin the last few years. If he or Doug plan to add a couple/few more, there are some excellent, and knowledgeable members in this forum to choose from.

Edit:
Forgot to add - other fav forums.

https://forums.clubtread.com/

https://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/

https://bushcraftusa.com/forum/