5 Min Read • 15 days ago The Art Of Polite Pooping

 

An additional, and rather peculiar behaviour, that some of our beloved canine companions seem to have a penchant for: rolling in human waste. Yes, you heard that right. You let your dog off for a woodland romp and they emerge smelling like yesterday's lunch from the local fast-food joint dumpster. It's not just a quirky habit; science has yet to confirm exactly why but it’s either camouflage or a terrible perfume choice. Dogs have an incredibly keen sense of smell, and to them, rolling in strong scents like human waste could serve as a way to mask their own scent or, they may simply think they smell like a new scent from Calvin Klein. So, the next time you catch Fido in the act, don't be too quick to scold. After all, it's just their way of blending into the wild or a warm olfactory embrace, albeit a pungent one.

Let’s not forget about the waterways. 

You know, those babbling brooks and pristine rivers that we rely on for drinking, fishing, and, dare we say, frolicking? Turns out, when you let your waste run wild, you're not just polluting the environment; you're putting your own health at risk. Ever heard of the Mamquam River in Squamish? Yeah, it's got more warning signs than a haunted house, all thanks to our collective inability to clean up after ourselves.

But fear not, fellow adventurers, for there is a light at the end of this rather stinky tunnel. It's called education, awareness, and a healthy dose of common sense. Here are a few tips on how to be a good outdoor enthusiast and leave the wilderness better than you found it.

Polite Pooping 101

First off, let's talk about best practices. When nature calls, don't just drop your drawers and do your business wherever the mood strikes. Instead, follow the golden rule of outdoor pooping: dig a hole. Yep, it's that simple. Grab a trusty shovel or trowel and dig yourself a cathole at least 15-20 cm (6-8 in.) deep. This will help prevent water contamination, reduce the spread of disease, preserve the area for all and support waste decomposition. Bonus points if you're able to do your business at least 60 m (200 ft.) away from any water source. And, don’t forget to pack out your used toilet paper.

Now, we get it, not everyone's a fan of digging holes in the great outdoors. That's where portable toilets and waste bags come in handy. These nifty little contraptions are a godsend for those who prefer a more civilized approach to answering nature's call. Just remember to pack out what you pack in and dispose of your waste properly.

And while we’re at it, let's talk about those fancy toilets you find at campsites and trailheads. Yeah, they're convenient, but they're not a catch-all solution for your waste disposal needs. Most of these toilets rely on a delicate balance of chemicals and bacteria to break down waste, and dumping anything other than toilet paper down the bowl can upset that balance faster than you can say "eww."

So, what's the bottom line here? 

It's simple, really. Know your impacts and be part of the solution. Take the time to educate yourself on proper waste disposal techniques, pack out what you pack in, and above all, Leave No Trace. In fact, 'Dispose of Waste Properly' is one of the 7 Principles of Leave No Trace. Because when it comes to preserving wilderness for future generations, every little bit counts.

Next time you're out on the trail and nature calls, remember: be smart, be responsible, and for the love of all things wild and wonderful, #DontLoveItToDeath.

And with that, happy trails, fellow adventurers. May your journeys be filled with wonder, beauty, fiber, and just the right amount of toilet humour.