When it rains, it drains! Stormwater runoff is NOT treated, but rather goes directly into our local waterways, along with any other pollutants it collects along the way. This water remains in our local stormwater bodies and when full, the water is pumped to the Everglades.  

Stormwater systems are designed to handle rainwater, not waste. Everything that enters these systems can end up in our natural water bodies, where fish, recreate, and pull water for irrigation. This water can harm people, animals, aquatic bird, and plants. We all need to ensure a clean water future by preventing pollution before it happens. In other words, Scoop the Poop!

• Pet waste is a major environmental pollutant.
• Pet waste can carry viruses and diseases that are extremely harmful to the health of humans and other animals. 
• The organic matter in pet waste can degrade water quality. The decay of pet waste in water depletes oxygen that fish and other water-based life need to survive.
• Pet waste contains nutrients that can cause excessive algae growth upsetting the waters natural balance.
• It is raw sewage; like human waste, it carries pathogens.

Be a good pet owner, help keep your neighborhoods clean and Scoop the Poop!

Additional information can be found on our website. 

What About Wildlife and Poop?

You might wonder why dog waste is problematic when wild animals also leave waste outdoors. The key differences are in diet and population density. Wild animals consume natural diets, and their waste is a part of the ecosystem's nutrient cycle. In contrast, dogs often eat commercial pet foods rich in proteins and nutrients not native to the local environment. Their waste introduces unnatural nutrient loads, disrupting local ecosystems. Moreover, the high concentration of dogs in urban areas means their impact to local waterways can be significant.