Protect Our Parks, Streams and Neighborhoods: Put Pet Waste in the Trash
January 2, 2026
Pet waste belongs in the trash, not on the ground. Pet waste contains twice as much bacteria per gram as human waste. In your yard, in parks, in the dog park – wherever you are, pick up the poop and put it in the trash.
Follow these tips to prevent pet waste from contaminating our streams:
Carry disposable bags and pick up after your pet, even on trails and in the woods. If you hire a dog walker, make sure they pick up after your pet when on their walk.
Properly dispose of pet waste by bagging the waste and depositing it a trash can or pet waste receptacle.
Do not throw bagged pet waste into storm drains or the woods, and do not leave it on the ground.
Be sure to pick up pet waste on your property, too. Anything washed away by rain will end up in streams.
Reuse bags that would have ended up in the trash to pick up after pets. Ask co-workers, neighbors and friends to collect plastic bags used for bread, newspapers, bagels or produce. Save money by not having to buy pet waste bags or pay the 10-cent fee for bags at grocery stores.
