AboutTom Newman Expertise Scoutmaster with Boy Scout Troop 43 in Fort Wayne, IN. We have an outing every month. Most months involve tent camping, usually in State Parks. We have made 4 trips where we have hiked 50+ miles on the Appalachian Trail. We expect to continue this until we have hiked the whole trail... (40+ years).
Question I work for a Youth Conservation Corp in the summers..and I am gonna be working in a state park this summer, and for a "equipment" list they tell us to have biodegradable soap, shampoo, etc.. where is the best place to find it? and is it cheap? ive heard that some is.. i just dont want to spend a whole lot of money on it.. thanks for your time and help :).
Answer Hi Brooke,
Even biodegradable soap can eventually pollute lakes and streams if it is not used sparingly so you generally use only a drop or two. The bacteria that break down soap are present mostly in soil. When you wash, be sure that your soapy rinse water ends up in the soil away from fresh water sources like lakes, rivers, and streams. Generally you want to be at least 200 feet from any fresh water when you dispose of the water.
You can find biodegradable soap about anywhere from the Internet to camping stores to Walmart.
Since you only use a drop or 2 8 oz will probably get you through the entire summer. Finally remember that you will not see a lot of suds with this type of soap. You have to trust that it is present in the water working to clean your hair, body or even dishes.
If you need further clarification please feel free to contact me here or directly at scout043@aol.com
