When your pet goes on the lawn, remember ... it doesn't just go on the lawn.

When our pets leave those little surprises, rain can wash pet waste and bacteria into our storm drains that can pollute our waterways. So what to do? Simple! Dispose of it properly. Then that little surprise gets treated like it should.

Clean water is important to all of us.

It's up to all of us to make it happen. In recent years, sources of water pollution like industrial wastes from factories have been greatly reduced. Now, more than 60 percent of water pollution comes from things like cars leaking oil, fertilizers from farms and gardens, and failing septic tanks. All these sources add up to a big pollution problem. But each of us can do small things to help clean up our water too-and that adds up to a pollution solution!

Why do we need clean water?

Having clean water is of primary importance for our health and economy. Clean water provides recreation, commercial opportunities, fish habitat, drinking water, and adds beauty to our landscape. All of us benefit from clean water-and all of us have a role in getting and keeping our lakes, rivers, streams, marine, and ground waters clean.

What's the problem with pet waste?

It's a health risk to pets and people, especially children. It's a nuisance in our neighborhoods. 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 get very sick. Unless people take care of it, the waste enters our water with no treatment.

Clean Water Tips: How can you get rid of pet waste and help keep our waters clean?

• Never dump pet waste into a storm drain or catch basin, since the average dog dropping produces 3 billion fecal coliform bacteria.
• Montgomery County Animal Control enforces pet waste (e.g., "scooper" law), with $100. violations.
• Scoop up and seal pet wastes in a plastic bag. Dispose of properly, in the garbage.

Did You Know? 

The Town of Poolesville maintains eleven pet waste stations. They are located at Cambell Park, the dog park at Dr. Dillingham Park, Elgin Park, Halmos Park, Lorie Gore Park, Perkins Park, Stevens Park, Whalen Commons, and on the trail between Wootton Avenue and Collier Circle Pond. You can find the pet waste station locations on a map at here.