I noticed the last few seasons in Algonquin Park, the increase of "Wet wipes" tossed aside, in the bush around campsites. A type of Antibacterial cloth for hand and face cleansing. They are conveniently packaged in re-sealable plastic bags.
On my last trip out, I noticed on three sites(one on White Trout Lake, one on Burntroot Lake, and one on McIntosh Lake), the presence of these "Wipes" in the bush surrounding each campsite. In today's 'throw-away' society, I see these wipes becoming a problem in Algonquin Park. I do not know the degradability of the wipes, but the ones I have seen didn't look in any way to suffer the effects of exposure, like toilet paper does(breaks down visibly). My fear is that the growing popularity of the wipes, will make them a magnet for easy disposal in the bush, thus increasing the level of trash in the back-country. I can only wonder what it is like in the drive-in campgrounds around The Park, given the higher level of visiting populations, but then again, there are staff to clean-up after messy people. In the back-country there is not. I am also concerned that such products left lying around might affect wildlife or even attract wildlife, as some of the wipes are sold as 'scented'.

I can think of only two ideas at this point;

1. Make an awareness of the problem visible to the public, through the ABR web site.
2. Petition companies that manufacture these products to make them more "eco-friendly".

I am wondering if anyone else shares these concerns, and might have ideas to provide solutions to what I see as a potential growing problem.



Mark Rubino
Mark's Algonquin Park Sampler - Blog
Mark's Algonquin Park Sampler

http://www.ABRweb.ca .. Algonquin Backcountry Recreationalists - Caring for Algonquin's Backcountry

I am also concerned with this type of trash. It takes a long time to break down and is very unsightly not to mention a discusting germ depository. If they are back in the bush line outside of the main camp you can bet they weren't used for wiping a nose or hands. I don't mind picking up litter and burning it (although I would rather not have too). I trip with kids and a dog and don't want any of them messing with some unknown persons sanitary products.
Education would seem to be the most likely route. The manufacturers make them out of synthetic materials to make them strong - it is unlikely that this will easily be changed.

I must admit I haven't noticed them before. I'll keep my eyes peeled for them this year.

Mark.

I have to admit - I do use them on ocassion as they are unscented and are deposited in the privy.

The issue is with disposal - be it paper or wipes.

You can't protect against lazy people.

Education is the answer but with some teeth.

I proposed a system a while back where an additional form would need to be completed, read, and signed at the permit offices - that would in essense be a more direct version of Leave No Trace.

Topics would include (with associated fines):

- Packing out garbage
- Littering (toilet paper, etc...)
- Hacking/cutting down live trees
- Etc....

I would require the permit owner print their name and address, sign it and have the permit number included by the permit office.

I'd go as far as having the permit owner read outloud a short section on the offenses and fines to the group prior to signing it.

While it would not help determine offenders or prevent lazy people for doing stupid things it would put folks on notice. Maybe help control a yahoo in the group by peer pressure.

If cost were not an issue I would make it a duplicate form - one for the office (for legal prosecution) and one for the permit owner that would need to be produced for a park ranger. I think this would help them ticket an individual or group if a violation is found.

Carl

Although I wouldn't like to see any trash, My first outing at the park included a large area off to the side of the campsite littered with feminine napkins, a good dozen thrown all around, they could of at least been buried.