One footstep can destroy cryptobiotic crust for decades. It is important to use developed trails in these areas. If you must travel off-trail, walk on rocks or other durable surfaces. Cryptobiotic crust is also extremely vulnerable to mountain bicycle and horse travel. Desert Puddles and Mud Holes .
Water is a preciously scarce resource for all living things in the desert.
Don't walk through desert puddles or mud holes, or disturb surface water in any way. Potholes are also home to tiny desert animals. Camp on Durable Surfaces Selecting an appropriate campsite is perhaps the most important aspect of low-impact backcountry use. It requires the greatest use of judgment and information and often involves making trade-offs between minimizing ecological and social impacts. A decision about where to camp should be based on information about the level of use in the area, the fragility of vegetation and soil, the likelihood of wildlife disturbance, an assessment of previous impacts, and your party's potential to cause or avoid impact.