4-12. MOUND LATRINE
A mound latrine (figure 4-6) may be used when a high ground water level or a
rock formation near the ground surface prevents the digging of a deep pit. A dirt mound
makes it possible to build a deep pit latrine and still not have the pit extending into the
water or the rock. The number of mound latrines required is computed in the same
manner as the requirement for deep pit latrines.
Figure 4-6. Mound latrine.
a. Constructing the Latrine. Form a mound of earth with a flat top that is at
least six feet wide and six feet long. The mound should be constructed so that a two-
hole latrine box may be placed on its top. The mound should be high enough to meet
the pit's requirement for depth. The bottom of the pit should be at least one foot above
the water or the rock level. Before the mound is built, the area where it is to be placed
should be broken up or plowed to aid the seepage of liquids from the pit. The mound is
then built in one-foot layers. The surface of each layer is roughened before the next is
added. When the desired height has been reached, the pit is dug into the mound. It
may be necessary to brace the walls with wood, sandbags, or other suitable material to
prevent cave-ins. The size of the base of the mound will depend on the type of soil in
the area. The base should be made larger if the slope is too steep. Steps going up the
slope may be added if needed.
b. Maintaining the Latrine. The mound latrine should be fly-proofed in the
same manner as the deep pit latrine. It is closed in the manner described in
paragraph 4-9.
MD0535
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