Jun 09, 2008 ../pictures/thumbnails/00156-PetWaste-tn.jpg When your pet goes on the lawn, remember it doesn't just go on the lawn.

Homeowners and Stormwater - Further Reading

What You Can Do About Pet Waste

When your pet leaves those little surprises, rain washes all the pet waste and bacteria into storm drains. That pollutes our waterways. So what can you do? Simple. Dispose of it properly. Then that little surprise gets treated like it should.

Why?

Clean water is of vital importance for our health, economy, and environment. It exists in very limited supply. We all benefit from clean water — and all of us have a role in keeping our lakes, rivers, oceans, and groundwater clean.

What Is the Problem?

The current number one water pollution problem comes from diffuse or "nonpoint sources" like cars leaking oil, fertilizers washing off of fields, lawns and gardens, and failing septic systems. Making small changes to ordinary activities around the home, like how you clean up after your pet, can make a difference.

What Can You Do?

• Scoop up pet waste. As long as the droppings are not mixed with litter or other materials, flush them down the toilet. This is best because then your community sewage treatment plant or your septic system treats the pet waste.
• Droppings may also be buried or sealed in a plastic bag and put in the garbage.