This document discusses different methods for waste management while camping or in a survival situation. It describes catholes and latrines as Leave No Trace methods for human waste disposal when staying at a site for less than or more than two days respectively. It also discusses packing out waste in winter conditions or when other methods are not suitable, and surface disposal as a last resort option. Proper distances, depths, and techniques are outlined to minimize environmental impact for each method.

1. Waste Management
HKR 3220
Stephanie Delaney
June 21st, 2015

2. Table of Contents
 Overview
 Catholes
 Latrines
 Packing Out Human Waste
 Surface Disposal
 Conclusion
 References

3. Overview
 Waste management is an essential part to any survival trip. We must be
considerate of the environment around us and always strive to maintain a
“Leave No Trace” lifestyle.
 Catholes and Latrines are two ways in which campers/survivalists follow the
“Leave No Trace” rule. Both require a shovel, which should be packed in a
community bag.
 It is important to be aware that each camp site is different and therefor
may require a different method of waste disposal. Knowledge of many
disposal techniques is an asset.

4. Catholes
 Catholes can be used if you are staying at a particular site for less than two
days.
 Catholes are a great way to dispose of dirty dishwater, spoiled food, etc.
 Specifications:
 Must be 60 meters away from water for human waste disposal
 Must be 15 centimetres deep and 10-15 centimeters in diameter
 Organic material must be present to ensure decomposition
 Select a location away from traveled areas of the campsite for human waste catholes
 Areas that receive a lot of sunlight are optimum for catholes because the heat from
the sun can help in decomposition
 If possible, use natural toilet paper such as leaves
 NEVER burn toilet paper in a cathole or in a campfire
 Cover in the cathole with the organic material that originally came out when dug

5. Catholes

6. Latrines
 Latrines should be used if staying at a particular site for two or more days.
 Latrines should only be used for human waste disposal.
 After every use, a handful of soil should be thrown into the latrine to aid in
decomposition.
 Specifications:
 Must be 60 meters away from water
 Must be 30 centimeters deep and 45 centimetres wide
 Must be dug in a location that has an ample duff layer and soil base for returning
it to its original state
 Privacy is key
 Must be covered in before leaving site

7. Latrines

8. Packing Out Human Waste
 In winter, catholes and latrines are not always possible because of the
frozen ground
 A Pack Out Kit should be assembled before leaving for a trip. It should
include:
 Kitty litter
 Paper bag
 Toilet paper
 Heavy duty resealable bag
 Aspirin (crush to control odors in bag)

9. Surface Disposal
 When neither catholes, latrines, or packing out is an option, surface disposal
may be used.
 A flat rock is recommended
 Ideal in deserts
 Must be in an area that is not traveled and is in direct sunlight

10. Conclusion
 Knowing these four techniques of waste disposal is helpful for camping in
different locations where not all of them may be suitable.
 Environmental concerns should always be at the forefront of any decision
regarding waste disposal.

11. References
 Dispose of Waste Properly. (2009). Retrieved from
http://www.leavenotrace.ca/principle-dispose-waste-properly
 Dwyer, S., & Foran, A., & Redmond, K. (2010). Quality Lesson Plans for
Outdoor Education. United States: Human Kinetics.