There have been some new environmental laws enacted both at the State and County level this year which affect all San Diego County parks. The laws require parks to implement a stricter control of grey water disposal to avoid soil and underground water-source contamination. These new laws require that the only water to touch the soil is rainwater, to the extent that this is feasible.
What that means for us is that we need to be extremely diligent about collecting water after doing dishes, washing or cleaning, etc. It also means that we should not pour out soft drinks, juices, alcohol, or any bottled water directly onto the soil, if it can be avoided.
As such, it is the responsibility of each camp or household to take care of collecting their grey water in a sealed container, and to avoid letting it spill or leak out onto the ground. Grey water may be disposed of at any of the stone privies, or at the grey water dump near the Ranger Station. Please do not dump grey water into the porta-privies.
If we are not compliant with these new laws, it is within the power of the Rangers, the Environmental Protection Agency, and any County Environmental agents to shut down our event. The Rangers are very supportive of our organization, but their first priority is the protection of the park and following all county regulations. It is our responsibility to comply with this to the best of our ability.
If you have any questions about grey water or grey water disposal, please see the staff at Basecamp or speak with one of the Park Rangers.
