How to properly dispose of human waste while hiking to protect the environment and other hikers

Summary

This article addresses the environmental and public health impact of human waste left behind by hikers in natural areas. It explains how pathogens in human feces can survive for over a year outdoors, contaminate waterways, and cause gastrointestinal diseases. The piece provides guidance on proper outdoor waste disposal methods, including digging catholes, packing out waste, and using portable toilets, while also emphasizing that land managers can help educate and prepare hikers to minimize their impact.