NWSI 2025 New Research-Based Methods for Managing Poop in the Backcountry скачать в хорошем качестве

NWSI 2025 New Research-Based Methods for Managing Poop in the Backcountry

Description: In 2024, PACT Outdoors partnered with Leave No Trace, Penn State University and Colorado Fourteeners Initiative to study whether users would pack out their poop in high-use, sensitive ecosystems like Colorado's 14K foot peaks. They installed a "wag bag" kiosk and disposal station at the trailhead of Mt. Elbert and surveyed hikers as they returned. The data from the study was surprising on multiple fronts. Only 30% of the 1,650 hikers who pooped on Mt. Elbert used the vault toilet, while the other 70% were going somewhere on their hike. Following the installation of the kiosk, 30% of hikers began packing out their poop immediately, using complimentary wag bags, while also reporting a strong willingness to do so in the future. The study showed that while awareness of wag bags is high, few have tried the practice. During a time when public lands resources are limited this research suggests that users are willing and capable of taking on greater responsibility in managing their waste. This talk with share the extensive data about attitudes and beliefs around packing out as well as best practices for implementing a successful pack out kiosk strategy in high use areas. Presenter: Jake Thomas, Co-Founder, PACT Outdoors, Inc.