When it comes to enjoying Mother Nature’s playground, one thing we often forget to talk about is how to handle our, well, call of nature. Sure, we all know about picking up trash and leaving nature as we found it, but what about that other, slightly awkward business? In this blog, we’re going to chat about the Leave No Trace approach to dealing with that natural urge when you’re in the great outdoors. So, put on your adventure boots, and let’s dive into the world of proper waste disposal in the backcountry.
The Leave No Trace Principles
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of how to deal with your, uh, outdoor activities, let’s do a quick recap of the Leave No Trace (LNT) principles. Think of these principles as the golden rules for responsible outdoor fun. They help us minimize our impact on the environment and keep our wild places, well, wild. Here are the fab seven Leave No Trace principles:
- Plan ahead and prepare.
- Travel and camp on durable surfaces.
- Dispose of waste properly.
- Leave what you find.
- Minimize campfire impact.
- Respect wildlife.
- Be considerate of other visitors.
For this blog, we’re zooming in on number three: “Dispose of waste properly,” with a focus on managing human waste in the backcountry.
The Downside of Going Wild
Dealing with your business while out in nature can be, well, a bit of a challenge. It’s not the most comfortable topic, but it’s vital for responsible outdoor ethics. In many wild areas, you won’t find any restrooms or handy facilities, which means you’ve got to know how to handle your business in a way that’s kind to both nature and your fellow outdoor enthusiasts.
Why Proper Waste Disposal Matters
Now, you might be wondering, “Why do I need to bother with all this waste stuff when I’m trying to enjoy the wilderness?” Great question! There are several reasons why proper waste disposal is a big deal:
- Saving Mother Earth: Human waste can mess up water sources, harm wildlife, and mess with the balance of nature. Plus, it doesn’t break down very quickly, which means it can stick around for ages, wreaking havoc on the environment.
- Keeping It Pretty: Nobody wants to stumble upon someone else’s waste while taking in the stunning views of the great outdoors. Responsible waste disposal helps keep our wild places looking pristine and maintains our outdoor ethics.
- Staying Healthy: Improper disposal of human waste can lead to the spread of diseases and illnesses. Taking care of your waste properly isn’t just about protecting nature; it’s also about safeguarding your health and that of your fellow adventurers.
Now that you know why it’s important, let’s dive into the different methods for handling human waste when you’re out in the backcountry while following the Leave No Trace principles.
Methods for Proper Waste Disposal
- Hit the Throne: In some well-traveled backcountry spots, you might find established toilets or outhouses. Always use these facilities when they’re available since they’re designed to minimize environmental impact and promote proper waste disposal.
- Pack It Out: In areas where there are no fancy toilets, the best practice is to pack out your waste. You can use these cool things called “wag bags” or “restop bags” to safely stash your waste and carry it back with you. Make sure to follow the instructions on how to use and seal these bags properly.
- Cat Holes: If you’re in the middle of nowhere, and packing out your waste isn’t doable, you can dig a small hole (aka a “cat hole”) at least 200 feet away from water sources, trails, and campsites. After you’ve done your business, cover the hole with dirt and natural stuff to help it break down. Always check the local rules because some places might have specific guidelines for cat holes.
- Portable Thrones: Some adventurers prefer to carry portable toilets, like lightweight backpacking toilets or foldable commodes. These options offer a more comfortable and hygienic way to handle your business in the backcountry.
- Loo Kits: Some Leave No Trace groups and land management agencies provide “loo kits” for use in sensitive areas. These kits usually include a simple portable toilet seat and a bag to contain your waste.
- Follow Leave No Trace Rules: Whichever method you choose, remember to stick to the Leave No Trace guidelines for waste disposal. That means burying, bagging, or packing out your waste and making sure it’s sealed up tight to prevent any leaks or spills.
Educating Your Fellow Adventurers
Being responsible in the backcountry isn’t just about what you do; it’s also about sharing your knowledge with your outdoor buddies. If you see someone not handling their waste properly, kindly clue them in on the Leave No Trace principles and the potential environmental and health issues that can arise from not doing so.
Conclusion
Proper waste disposal in the backcountry is a must for responsible outdoor fun. By following the Leave No Trace principles and using the right methods for managing your waste, you can minimize your impact on the environment, protect your health and the health of others, and keep our wild places wild and beautiful for years to come. So, the next time you head into the backcountry, remember to “go wild” responsibly and leave no trace behind. Happy trails!