The TRAVELER'S JOURNAL, August twenty-ninth, with rules for the off- road.

By some accounts, ecotourism is the fastest growing sector of the world's largest industry. Although it's a loosely defined category, more people are going to more formerly off-beat and off the trail places than ever. All that traffic can have both negative and positive impacts on a given environment and its denizens, human and otherwise.

That's why the U.N. has designated 2002 as the International Year of Ecotourism. "Leave it as you found it," is the basic tenet for the rules of the off-road recently complied by a consortium of ecology-minded organizations. Here are particulars.

First, it's up to those visiting off- beat places to make responsible choices about where they go, how they spend their travel dollars and the way they act while there. Before deciding on a trip, research the issues of an area, along with its hotels and beaches. Familiarize yourself with local customs, as well as health hazards or security risks. Learn enough of the local language to greet and thank people. Listen and observe, but don't criticize or act as if you have all the answers.

Whether alone or in a group, be no louder than necessary. Don't offend the privacy of people who may not want to be photographed. Respect sacred sites, and dress appropriately for places you visit. Where prudent, support the local economy by shopping in their markets and eating in their restaurants.

When in the wilderness, stay on designated trails and out of fragile environments. Don't disturb wildlife or pick plants. Leave no trace, take away only memories, along with trash and human waste.

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