Waste from dogs, cats, horses, waterfowl and other animals contain disease-causing organisms that are harmful to our families. When animal waste enters our water it can cause serious health risks and unsightly water pollution.
Animal waste that washes into lakes and streams contains nutrients that act like fertilizers and encourage weeds and algae to grow.
Weeds and algae aren’t just unattractive. Decaying weeds and algae consume oxygen which fish and other critters need to live.
Large animals also can trample streamside vegetation that is important to the health of the water. Fencing them away from streams helps restore those areas and keep their wastes from washing in.
Resource: Spokane County Conservation District can provide assistance for managing large animals. Contact the district at www.sccd.org, or call (509) 535-7274.
For pets and animals I pledge to:
- Pick up after pets, dispose of waste in the trash, and when on walks carry a bag.
- Encourage the cat to use the litter box, keep it clean and throw used litter in the trash.
- Stop feeding ducks and geese. This causes their waste to build up in one area. The animals and the environment will be healthier and happier.
- Fence larger animals away from ponds, ditches, lakes and streams. Supply them with an alternative source of water.
- Contain and cover any manure pile, then use it as the valuable compost it is.
