Environmental House

424 Boyer St., Walla Walla, WA 99362

Established in 1981, the Environmental House, more commonly known as the “Outhouse,” has 6 bedrooms and comfortably houses an average of eight residents and one Resident Assistant. The Outhouse focuses on environmental and ecological issues by educating Whitman students about the environment. Outhouse residents also spearhead the campus’ recycling program.

Some activities that have taken place at this house include the well-loved “Outhouse Unplugged,” a venue in which Whitman students have the opportunity to perform music and poetry with candles as the only source of light; there is also tie-dyeing and programs designed to teach students about composting and recycling. In addition, Outhouse residents will often have a weekly environment-saving theme such as no-electricity week, water-conservation week, and more.

The Outhouse is affiliated with the Environmental Studies department and is assigned an adviser from that department. At least once in the semester, the house adviser is invited over for dinner to discuss the programs that Outhouse residents are planning for the semester. The following link will give you access to the Whitman Environmental Studies homepage.

Residents of the Outhouse are responsible for completing weekly chores, having active involvement within the house and the Interest House Community, and promoting Outhouse-sponsored events and activities.

If you would like to arrange to eat dinner at the Outhouse, or have any questions about house activities, please contact the RA.