Porta Potty Forum

Hunting camp: Will a standard unit attract bears or other wildlife?

Luis A.asked 2 viewsHome Renovations & Long-termLong term rentalOdorHolding tankDeodorizerWildlife

We operate a hunting camp on the ranch, and I'm renting a standard unit to leave up there for the entire season, about a month. The camp is remote, a good 40-minute drive from the main house on a rough track. We'll have a crew of maybe six guys using it on weekends, no alcohol, just basic camp cooking. The holding tank is my main worry. We have black bears and curious cattle that roam through that area. I know the rental company uses a deodorizer, but I'm not sure if that floral smell actually masks the waste scent from an animal's nose or if it just makes it worse. The service visit is only scheduled for once a month, which is fine for the usage, but that's a long time for odors to build up. Has anyone had issues with wildlife being attracted to a porta potty? Should I be asking the rental company for a specific type of odor control?

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Ray M.Dallas, TX

Yes, a standard unit can attract bears and other wildlife. The deodorizer masks odors for humans but does not eliminate the scent of waste, which animals can detect. Bears have an acute sense of smell and may investigate the unit out of curiosity or in search of food. Cattle might also be drawn to it.

For a remote hunting camp, consider these steps. First, place the unit away from sleeping and cooking areas, ideally downwind. Second, ask the rental company if they use a formaldehyde-free deodorizer, as some formulas may be less appealing to wildlife. Third, ensure the unit is securely staked and the door is latched to prevent animals from tipping it over or accessing the interior.

Your service frequency of once a month is adequate for six people using it on weekends, but in bear country, more frequent service might reduce odor buildup. Discuss this with your rental company, as additional service visits will increase the cost due to the travel time and labor involved. Always keep the area around the unit clean and free of food scraps to avoid attracting animals further.

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