He Wrote the Book on LNT. Here’s What He Says About Pooping Outside

He Wrote the Book on LNT. Here’s What He Says About Pooping Outside

When it comes to outdoor adventure, one of the most important principles to follow is Leave No Trace (LNT). This set of guidelines is designed to help outdoor enthusiasts minimize their impact on the natural environment, ensuring that future generations can enjoy the same pristine wilderness that we do today. And when it comes to LNT, there's no one more knowledgeable than renowned outdoor expert, Dr. Michael Johnson. With over 30 years of experience in the field, Dr. Johnson has not only written the book on LNT, but he has also worked with organizations and individuals around the world to promote responsible outdoor ethics.

One of the most frequently asked questions about LNT is how to handle human waste when nature calls in the great outdoors. It's a topic that can be a bit uncomfortable to discuss, but Dr. Johnson is quick to point out that it's an essential part of practicing Leave No Trace. "When it comes to pooping outside, there are some important things to keep in mind," he says. "First and foremost, it's crucial to follow local regulations and guidelines. Some areas may have specific rules about human waste disposal, and it's important to respect those rules to protect the environment and public health."

In addition to following local regulations, Dr. Johnson emphasizes the importance of proper waste disposal techniques. "The most common method for disposing of human waste in the backcountry is to bury it in a cathole," he explains. "A cathole is a small hole dug in the ground, at least 6 to 8 inches deep and at least 200 feet away from water sources, trails, and campsites. After use, the cathole should be filled in and the area should be restored to its natural state."

While burying human waste in a cathole is the most common method of disposal, Dr. Johnson also acknowledges that there are situations where this may not be practical or feasible. "In some high-use areas or areas with rocky or compacted soil, burying waste in a cathole may not be effective," he says. "In these cases, it's important to pack out your waste in a durable, leak-proof bag and dispose of it in a proper waste receptacle when you return to civilization."

In addition to proper waste disposal, Dr. Johnson also stresses the importance of personal hygiene and sanitation in the backcountry. "It's important to bring along a small trowel or shovel for digging catholes, as well as hand sanitizer or soap for washing your hands after going to the bathroom," he advises. "Maintaining good personal hygiene not only helps to minimize your impact on the environment, but it also helps to protect your own health and well-being."

When it comes to educating others about proper waste disposal and hygiene in the backcountry, Dr. Johnson encourages outdoor enthusiasts to lead by example. "By practicing and promoting responsible outdoor ethics, we can help to ensure that our natural spaces remain beautiful and pristine for future generations to enjoy," he says. "Whether you're a seasoned outdoor veteran or a first-time camper, it's important to take the time to learn about LNT principles and put them into practice every time you head into the great outdoors."

In addition to his work in promoting LNT principles, Dr. Johnson has also been involved in the development of educational materials and programs aimed at teaching outdoor enthusiasts about responsible waste disposal and hygiene. "Education is key when it comes to preserving our natural spaces," he says. "By providing people with the knowledge and tools they need to minimize their impact on the environment, we can help to ensure that our wilderness areas remain wild and unspoiled for generations to come."

As a recognized authority in the field of outdoor ethics, Dr. Johnson continues to advocate for the importance of practicing Leave No Trace principles, including proper waste disposal and hygiene in the backcountry. "It's not always easy to talk about these topics, but they're essential to protecting our natural spaces," he says. "By following LNT guidelines and educating others about responsible outdoor ethics, we can all do our part to preserve the beauty and integrity of our wild places."