1. Pet Waste – A Source of Water Pollution! Chatham County – Savannah Metropolitan Planning Commission (MPC) Water Resources Planning Section 912/651-1440

2. What’s the problem with pet waste?

3.  It’s a health risk to pets and people, especially children.  Pet waste is full of bacteria that can make people sick.  If it’s washed into the storm drain and ends up in a lake, stream, or marine water, the bacteria ends up in shellfish. People who eat those shellfish can then get very sick.  Unless people take care of pets’ waste, the waste enters our water with no treatment.

4. Here are some tips to protect yourself and your water source. Walk your pets in grassy areas, parks, or undeveloped areas; pet waste on pavements will be carried by storm water into streams.

5. Here are some tips to protect yourself and your water source. Pick up your pets’ waste when possible, and dispose them in your garbage or toilet. Pet waste contains nutrients and pathogens that can contaminate surface water.

6. Here are some tips to protect yourself and your water source. Bury small quantities in your yard where it can decompose slowly. Dig a hole one foot deep. Put three to four inches of waste at the bottom of the hole. Cover the waste with at least eight inches of soil. Bury the waste in several different locations in your yard and keep it away from vegetable gardens.

7. Bags on Board If you are interested in receiving a Bags on Board package for your companion please contact the MPC’s Water Resources Planner, Ms. Jackie Jackson at 651-1454 or Jacksonj@thempc.org.

8. For more information contact: Jackie L. Jackson & Bethany Jewell MPC Water Resources Planners 651-1440MPCNaturalResources.org