Please Remember: Scoop the Poop!

(Conservation Currents, Northern Virginia Soil and Water Conservation District, June 2004)

Pet waste is a subject everyone likes to avoid, although we at the Northern Virginia Soil and Water Conservation District like to bring it up often.

Pet waste is ugly and smelly. But even worse, it poses a health risk to pets, bodies of water, and people. Pet waste left on sidewalks, streets, trails, and grassy areas is immediately flushed into the nearest waterway when it rains. Even if you can’t see the water near you, the pet waste goes into a storm drain where it travels untreated to your neighborhood stream or lake.

Like human waste, animal waste may contain harmful bacteria and viruses, making the receiving water unfit for drinking and recreation. In addition, pet waste contains nutrients that will accelerate the growth of nuisance algae.

What should Fairfax County residents do with animal waste?

• Scoop it up and bag it with the rest of your household garbage.
• Or scoop it up, and flush it down your toilet just like human waste.