Waste Management Systems for Cabins

Fri, 18 Feb 2022 20:46:01 GMT

We are first time cabin owners in the Cleveland National Forest, Mt Laguna, CA. Upon purchase of cabin we knew a new septic would be needed and were told it was a long process (year long) - It was never disclosed to us that the Forest Service was shying away from septic systems due to impact on environment. We put in a septic system replacement request and have been asked to look at alternatives for handling waste (Gray and black waste). Suggestions to use were, sharing septic's between cabin owners, above ground storage systems, composting toilet. Would love to hear what cabin owners across the country are doing to handle both gray and black water waste. Trying to educate ourselves on alternatives. And not get too discouraged by this process. Appreciate your input

Response

Sun, 20 Feb 2022 00:35:26 GMT

The options for waste management are location and resource dependent. For cabins with adequate water supply, the USFS favors on-site septic systems over most other options. For cabins without adequate water supply; vaulted toilets, composting toilets, or incinerator toilets are generally acceptable alternatives. While pit toilets (out houses) were commonly used for waste management originally, many Forests, encouraged by local health agencies, have required conversion to more sanitary alternatives like on-site septic systems.

On-site septic system design, installation, and inspection are typically regulated by County Health agencies. The USFS generally requires the cabin owner obtain county approval for the installation of new or replacement septic systems.

I do not have personal experience with some of the other options for waste management, but I encourage other NFH members to reply to your post if they are willing to share the experience with alternative solutions.

Doug Gann
NFH President