Loose impediments are natural objects. Examples: stones, leaves, twigs, branches etc… , dung, worms and insects and casts, sand and loose soil on the putting green only, and snow and natural ice can be either casual water or loose impediments, at the golfers discreteion.

While outside of a hazard a loose impediment may be removed without penalty. However, if the ball lies within the boundary of a hazard, like a bunker, the natural objuect cannot be removed. An un-natrual object like an aluminum can can be remove because it is classified as a movable obstruction.

Points to remember:

1. Loose impediments are natural objects.
2. Sad and loose soil are loose impediments only on the putting surface
3. Natural ice and snow can either be a loose impediment or casual water
4. Dew and frost are not loose impdeiments

Note:
When removing loose impediments take care in that your ball does not move from the influence of removing the impediment.