Code of Ethics & Conduct

The AMGA Code of Ethics and Conduct demonstrates the commitment AMGA members make to uphold high standards of ethics and professionalism. The AMGA Code of Ethics and Conduct ensures exceptional service to the public, promotes respect and integrity among AMGA members, and advances the professionalism of the industry.

The AMGA Code of Ethics and Conduct applies to all AMGA members in circumstances when a member is acting in a professional capacity or engaging in personal activities that have a direct reflection on the AMGA. Violation of the Code of Ethics and Conduct may result in disciplinary action.

  1. Managing risk and the welfare of our clients is our prime concern.
  2. Where possible and practical, we should provide assistance to persons having difficulty by offering help which is appropriate under the circumstances. In providing assistance to others, we should avoid compromising the welfare of our clients.
  3. Our clients have the right to expect us to be up to date on the latest methods and techniques and to use appropriate and well-functioning equipment.
  4. We must be aware of our own physical, technical, and experiential limitations. We should use routes and terrain that are within our expertise and capabilities.
  5. We are expected to teach and practice Leave No Trace principles and to be knowledgeable of local natural history.
  6. We facilitate a welcoming and inclusive environment for all people, regardless of their intersecting identities whether based in gender, race, sexuality, religion or any other identity.
  7. We will not engage in any form of discrimination, harassment, or other prohibited behavior as described in the Anti-Harassment and Prohibited Behavior Policy.
  8. As representatives of the AMGA we must conduct ourselves in a manner that reflects well on the AMGA. This applies during AMGA programs as well as anytime we are interacting with clients, the public, our fellow guides, government agencies, and others.
  9. We must understand our level of training and certification as defined by the AMGA Scope of Practice (SOP). After July 1, 2022, we will work only within our training and certification level(s) as defined by the SOP.
  10. We will accurately and unambiguously represent the level of our training and certification to clients, the public, government agencies, and others as described in the AMGA Brand Use Policy.
  11. We must work within the regulatory, permit, certification, and aspirant requirements of the country and/or land management agency in or under which we intend to work. We must obey all laws, rules, and regulations applicable to our guiding or other activities.

Effective January 1, 2022

CodeofEthics