Bob R sent me a link to an interesting conference:

Managing Human Waste in the Wild, sponsored by the American Alpine club.

Also a related commentary by AAC Past President Jim McCarthy Reflects On Exit Strategies

A significant quote about Garry Oye, former chief ranger of Inyo National Forest:
Quote:
Garry Oye, Chief of the NPS Wilderness and Stewardship Division, gave a forceful and persuasive presentation on his management conclusions concerning waste management on Mt. Whitney and his implementation of Carry Out on a this popular peak. Mr. Oye was quick to acknowledge compliance difficulties, since such programs require a very large attitude shift among users. He then pointed out that knowledge and education were crucial parts of a successful program.


Edit July, 2013: Unfortunately the AAC website no longer carries those articles, and the WAG bag situation has worsened in the Mt Whitney area with reduced ranger presence. It seems the rangers have been personally carrying out abandoned used WAG bags in the past, and with fewer rangers on the trail, the problem has increased. One hiker reported seeing about 50 abandoned bags along the trail this summer on one hike.

For a long-running discussion on the topic, read Solar Toilets vs Carrying Wag Bags thread -- 7 pages so far.

Update 2014: Torching whitney Toilets

Last edited by Steve C; 05/29/14 10:05 AM.