At ACI, we want people to get outside and build a relationship to the land. However, one of the biggest barriers to enjoying the outdoors that people face is a lack of bathrooms. In 2018, the National Park Service and UCLA surveyed more than 4,300 trail users in California's Santa Monica Mountains and found that bathrooms topped the list of things visitors wanted to see at trailheads [1].

Bathrooms can be the difference in people getting out on the land—or not.

For giving season this year, we're raising $5,000 to build a double-crib moldering privy at Mountain Laurel Trailhead. (That's a fancy way of saying a nice composting toilet with lots of capacity!).

Last year, 68 members from this community came together and raised over $7,700 to build the Mountain Laurel Trail. Now, it's time to make this trail even more welcoming by building comfortable, accessible restroom facilities.

Access to Mountain Laurel Trail is free and accessible to the public with a General Recreation permit from our website.

Give big or give small. It doesn't matter to us. Let's come together to make nature even more accessible for everyone in our community!

FAQs

What exactly is a moldering privy, and how is it different from a regular outhouse?

Think of it as an upgraded, eco-friendly outhouse. We're planning to build what's called a double-crib moldering privy with urine diversion, which is considered a gold standard for backcountry sanitation. That's a mouthful, we know. Basically, instead of collecting waste in a hole in the ground like a traditional outhouse, this system allows nature to break it down over time.

How does the natural decomposition process work?

Nature does most of the work for us, with a little help from some very hardworking worms. Much like fallen leaves break down on the forest floor, tiny organisms and composting worms help break down organic material over time. The privy has two separate chambers, so while one is being used, the other gets a chance to rest and let nature do its thing. Who knew worms could be part of the maintenance crew?

Does it smell? And is it sanitary?

We know what you're thinking, and it's a fair question. Moldering privies are designed with ventilation and natural decomposition to help keep odors under control. With regular maintenance, they're a safe and sanitary option for places without traditional plumbing. In fact, similar systems have been used along the Appalachian Trail for years.

Is a moldering privy environmentally friendly?

Absolutely. One of the best things about these restrooms is how little infrastructure they need. No running water, no electricity, and no traditional septic system. They rely on natural processes to manage waste, making them a great fit for a place like ACI. Having restrooms available near popular trails also helps us care for the surrounding land while keeping the outdoor experience as natural as possible.

Why does ACI need a restroom, and who will use it?

If you've visited ACI before, you probably know that restroom options are pretty limited. Actually, they're nonexistent right now. With nearly 11,000 acres to explore, we know there will always be times when nature calls and the woods are the only option. But as more people come out to hike and enjoy the property, we'd love to offer a few basic amenities to make their visits a little more comfortable. Our first restroom will be near the Mountain Laurel Trail and available to visitors exploring the property.

What exactly will my donation pay for?

We're hoping to raise $5,000 to build our very first restroom near the Mountain Laurel Trail. Your donations will go toward the building materials, while ACI staff and volunteers take care of construction. And if we can raise $10,000, we'd love to build a second one near Tates Point. ACI will cover any additional costs, so every dollar donated will help us get these restrooms built.

[1] Santa Monica Mountains survey: UCLA Luskin Center for Innovation, 2018 Visitor Survey

Let's Build a Privy at Mountain Laurel Trailhead

Help us make the outdoors more accessible with a composting toilet