What is the best way to wash pots and dishes? In campgrounds, you're not supposed to wash at the water pump or in bathrooms.

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Whether you are in the backcountry or in a campground, the goal is the same -- to leave as little impact as possible. Here's how"

On trail, to spread out impact, designate a wash area on a durable surface (like a rock, or sand or gravel) separate from the kitchen. Choose a wash area 200 to 300 feet from a river or lake.

Pick up any food that you drop in the kitchen or wash area (even crumbs attract animals).

If you use soap at all, use biodegradable soap and use only as much as you really need.

Pour wash water (and rinse water, if needed) through an old bandana or a piece of cheesecloth to strain out bits of food.

Carry out the dregs (never bury). In a campground, discard of dregs in a trash can, not down the sink or at the pump site (it's not inviting to look at what someone else had for dinner while you fetch water or brush your teeth).

Here are a few other tips to lessen impact:

Plan your menu and pack carefully, so there are as few leftovers as possible.

Eat everything in your bowl, pour in some hot water and swish it around to make a broth, then drink the broth.

Use handful of sand or snow rather than soap to scour a pot.

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