Food Waste
Can you leave fruit peels or bread crumbs behind in the wilderness since they are biodegradable?
No. Even biodegradable food waste should be packed out because it decomposes slowly and can harm wildlife.
Why is it important to properly dispose of human waste in nature?
To prevent pollution, protect water sources, avoid spreading disease, and preserve the natural experience for other visitors.
Can you pour leftover dishwater or toothpaste spit directly into a stream or lake?
No. Always dispose of wastewater at least 200 feet away from any water source to prevent pollution.
What should you do if you find litter on the trail that isn’t yours?
Pick it up and pack it out, even if it’s not yours. Removing it helps protect the environment and sets a good example.
Gahwhaaaahhhht?
Caigun
Why is it important to pack out all food scraps, even small ones?
Because even small scraps can attract wildlife, leading to dependence on human food and disrupting natural behavior.
What is a cathole and how big does it need to be?
A cathole is a small hole dug 6–8 inches deep to bury human waste.
Why is it important to scatter dishwater instead of dumping it all in one spot?
Scattering dishwater spreads the impact over a larger area, helping the water to soak into the ground naturally and prevent soil erosion.
Why is it important to carry a small trash bag or zip-top bag when hiking or camping?
So you can easily collect and carry out trash, including your own and any litter you find, without making a mess in your pack.
Berry Nice
Bronx
What is the recommended method for managing food waste when backpacking in a remote area?
Pack it in, pack it out!
Store all food and scraps securely, pack out all waste in a sealed bag or container, and never bury or burn food waste.
How far away from water sources, trails, and campsites should you dig a cathole?
At least 200 feet away to prevent contamination and protect other visitors' experience.
Why is it important to strain food particles from dishwater before disposing of it?
To avoid attracting wildlife, prevent food buildup in the environment, and reduce the risk of animals associating campsites with food.
How does picking up litter left by others support the “Leave No Trace” principle of leaving places better than you found them?
It helps restore natural beauty, protect wildlife from eating or getting tangled in trash, and encourages others to care for the area too.
I’ve never seen that animal before!
Arien
How can improperly disposed food waste affect the health of wild animals?
It can cause digestive issues, nutritional imbalance, and increase the risk of human-wildlife conflict due to animals becoming food-conditioned.
Why is burying toilet paper discouraged in some environments, even in a cathole?
Because toilet paper breaks down slowly, especially in dry or cold environments. It can become exposed and pollute the area. It's better to pack it out in a sealed bag.
After straining dishwater, what’s the recommended method for disposing of the graywater in the backcountry?
Scatter it broadly over a wide area, at least 200 feet from water sources, campsites, and trails, so it can filter naturally through soil.
What are some safe ways to pick up and pack out trash that might be hazardous, like broken glass, rusty cans, or used hygiene products?
Use gloves, a trash grabber, or a thick bag to avoid cuts or contamination.
With Melissa, you can do anything.
Taya
In a group camping setting, what are two practices we can use to reduce and properly handle food waste according to Leave No Trace?
Plan meals carefully to reduce leftovers and packaging.
Use a sealed trash container for all food waste, and store it with your bear bag/keg.
What should you do in a situation of winter camping where the ground is frozen and covered in snow, making cat holes unavailable?
Pack out the waste.
In what situations would gray water need to be packed out?
In sensitive environments or when the water contains harmful substances (chemicals, oils, non-biodegradable soap, etc.)
How can individual actions, like removing a small amount of litter, contribute to broader environmental stewardship and cultural change in outdoor spaces?
Small acts of stewardship model responsible behavior, build a culture of care and respect, and help protect ecosystems from long-term damage. Over time, this can encourage others to follow Leave No Trace, and lead to cleaner, more sustainable recreation areas.
Sometimes manipulation in leadership is a good thing…
Melissa