Clean Water, Healthy People, Happy Dogs – Let's Do Our Doody!
Spread the word about cleaning up dog waste! The “Rule #1 is Pick Up #2” campaign is a part of the City of Roswell's stormwater management plan to help improve the water quality in our streams.
The Scoop on Poop
Properly disposing of your dog's waste is an integral part of responsible pet ownership. Dog waste is not only unsightly and smelly; it can also harm other pets, people, your lawn, and our watershed.
It Stinks for Our Streams and Our Health!
In Roswell, dog waste has had a negative impact on our local streams. The same streams that we use for recreation flow through our neighborhoods and feed our drinking water supply. In fact, three of Roswell's streams (Hog Waller Creek, Willeo Creek, and Big Creek) are below state standards for bacteria levels, mostly due to dog waste. Over time, bacteria and harmful nutrients from pet waste are carried into our streams by rain and stormwater, polluting our ponds and streams. A high concentration of bacteria in streams increases the risk for illness and disease in both humans, pets, and wildlife.
It Stinks for Your Yard and Our Parks!
In addition to the negative health consequences, leaving dog waste on your lawn can actually harm it. Unlike cow manure that is processed and used as fertilizer, dog waste is high in nitrogen and phosphorus and can burn yellow spots in grass if left on a lawn. The same goes for other parts of your yard and passive parks with woods and open spaces; pet waste pollutes forests, meadows, and your landscaped gardens. For your safety and the safety of others, picking up your pet's waste will allow you to walk freely in your yard without worry about stepping or slipping in it.
It's the Law!
In the City of Roswell, it is the law to clean up after your dog in public areas (
Code of Ordinances, Section 8.1.20, Removal of Excrement). This ordinance promotes safety and protects our watershed for all.
