Pick up your pet’s waste and keep Lake Erie clean!
Pet waste is a major contributor to stormwater pollution and degradation of water quality all year round. Stormwater is not treated. Runoff from rain or snow melt flows directly to storm drains and streams.
Health Issues
Pet waste contains bacteria, parasites, and viruses, which can make humans sick. When pet waste is left on surfaces like the tree lawns, beaches, trails and sidewalks, stormwater washes them into storm drains and ditches. Pollutants are then washed directly into our waterways and Lake Erie untreated through stormwater flow.
Nutrient Problems
Pet waste can contribute to excessive amounts of nutrients in our waterways. Nitrogen and phosphorus found in dog waste can runoff with stormwater and cause an increase in algae growth possibly leading to a Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB). This type of algal bloom can produce toxins, which has the potential to close beaches and make Lake Erie, our drinking water source undrinkable!
Follow these steps to help keep bacteria and nutrients out of our stormwater.
- Pick up after your pets! Don’t forget your waste bags when you go on that walk with your dog in public places.
- Never leave pet waste on the trail during walks in the neighborhood or in community parks.
- Flush dog waste down the toilet at home. Remember, wastewater is treated to remove bacteria.
- Because pet waste contains bacteria, it cannot be composted. Bury pet waste in your yard at least 5” deep if far from gardens, streams and storm drainage ways.
- Be a good neighbor do not leave pet waste anywhere but in the trash!
- Never leave your dog waste by the curb. It could wash into the storm drain and our waterways.
For more information, contact Lake County General Health District at (440) 350-2543 or the City of Mentor Building and Engineering Department at (440) 255-1100.