How to poop outdoors in a way that won't harm the environment and other hikers
10 days ago
- #sustainable recreation
- #public health
- #outdoor ethics
- Human fecal contamination in natural areas is a public health concern, with pathogens remaining active for over a year.
- Fecal waste can enter waterways, harming water quality and causing gastrointestinal diseases for future visitors.
- Leave No Trace provides guidelines for minimal-impact outdoor practices, including proper human waste disposal.
- Many parks and protected areas, like Colorado's White River National Forest, now require visitors to pack out their waste.
- Trailhead toilets are preferred by hikers, but remote areas often lack such infrastructure.
- Many hikers are unaware of proper waste disposal rules, leading to improper practices in the backcountry.
- Clear messaging and actionable guidelines can influence hikers to adopt better waste disposal habits.
- Cat holes are recommended for waste disposal in areas with suitable soil, at least 70 steps from water sources.
- In areas where digging is impossible (e.g., alpine zones, deserts), wag bags are used to pack out waste.
- Research shows hikers are willing to use wag bags when provided with proper tools and information.