The sweet smell of technology will force closure of the campground at Natural Bridges National Monument for 10 days later this month as crews install new toilet systems.

Monument Superintendent Corky Hays says the 13-site campground will be closed beginning Wednesday morning, August 10, and not reopen until the afternoon of August 19th. The closure will give workers using heavy equipment time to replace two aging vault toilets with newer “Sweet Smell” technology toilets that utilize recyclable materials and an improved venting system, she says.

The new toilets are handicapped accessible and meet “green” purchasing guidelines. During the closure, campers will be directed to the joint NPS/BLM campground overflow area near the junction of Utah State Highways 95 and 261. Campers will also have the option of camping at non-designated, but frequently used, campsites off the Deer Flat and Bears Ears Roads.

“Should work progress exceed our expectation we will reopen sooner,” said Superintendent Hays. “We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause, but ask for the public’s patience while we complete this improvement of services.”