The Boise National Forest is reporting an increase of trash and human waste being left behind at campsites.
All ranger districts are reporting more trash, but the Lowman Ranger District has been hit especially hard along Highway 21 and in the Deadwood Reservoir areas.
Fire pits have been loaded with trash. Fecal material has been found near the camps. Toilet paper has been left behind. That’s according to John Kidd, Lowman District Ranger.
“Not only is this disgusting for future campers using the area, it also creates sanitation problems and potentially human/bear interactions,” Kidd says in a press release.
Kidd suggests burning paper trash in a fire pit, while cans and glass bottles should be packed out. Toilet paper should also be packed out; do not bury it.
As for human waste, rangers say dig a 6-to-8 inch hole at least 200 feet from camp, any trails, and water sources. When you're done camping re-cover the hole. Campers can also pack in portable toilets.
Kidd says aim for “no-trace camping.” That’s where you leave a site pristine. The next camper should not be able to tell you were ever there.
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