(I asked this on gardening.se but it was suggested I try asking it here. Hope this is an appropriate place to ask...)
I'm a relatively new dog owner. Living in a relatively woodsy area with an acre of land.
The dog poops. I feel odd bagging it and tossing it in the trash each time. Seems a) wasteful and b) tedious.
I've been reading a bit about mulching or using a mini-septic system for dog waste.
One technique I've seen mentioned a few times is to take a plastic trash can, cut out the bottom, dig a hole about as deep as the can, put the can in there, line with rocks for drainage, and then start putting the poop in there along with some septic starter and water. Essentially, making a small septic system just for dog waste.
Has anyone used this method? Does it cause any health issues for trees in the immediate vicinity? Does it smell? I've also seen commercial products that tend to emulate that same technique (essentially a 4' hole with a plastic bucket on top that overflows into the pit).
Are there other methods (such as some form of mulch pile) I should consider?