Nature calls, even when you’re out in nature!
Hello Adventurers!
As we venture into the beauty of nature, it’s crucial to understand and follow proper wilderness etiquette to minimize our impact on the environment. We want to bring awareness on a sensitive but important topic: how to responsibly take care of human waste in the woods and along ocean trails. By adhering to Leave No Trace principles, we can all ensure that these natural areas remain pristine for everyone to enjoy.
Handling Human Waste in the Wild
Nature calls, even when you’re out in nature! Here are some guidelines to handle human waste properly:
- Plan Ahead
-Know the Regulations: Research and understand the regulations for waste disposal in the area you’ll be visiting. Some places may have specific rules or provide facilities for waste disposal.
- Pack the Right Gear
– Trowel: A small, lightweight trowel for digging cat holes.
– Biodegradable Toilet Paper: Use sparingly and choose biodegradable options.
– Waste Bags: To be able to pack out your toilet paper.
- Choose the Right Spot
– Distance: Find a spot at least 200 feet (about 70 steps) away from water sources, trails, and campsites.
–In coastal areas: Find a spot below the high tide line.
– Privacy: Ensure privacy for yourself and fellow hikers.
- Dig a Cat Hole
– Depth and Width: Dig a hole 6-8 inches deep and 4-6 inches in diameter.
– Covering: After use, cover the cat hole with the soil you removed, making sure it’s completely buried and disguised to prevent animals from digging it up.
- Use toilet paper sparingly
– Pack It Out: If you use toilet paper, pack it out in a sealed plastic bag to avoid littering.
– Natural Alternatives: Consider using natural materials like leaves or smooth stones, which can be left in the cat hole.
Join Us in Preserving Our Trails
By managing human waste responsibly and following Leave No Trace principles, we can all contribute to the preservation of our natural areas. Let’s ensure that future generations can enjoy the same unspoiled beauty we do today.
