Pets

How can you keep animal waste from becoming a pollution problem?

Droppings from dogs and cats and other commonly kept animals such as horses, exotic birds, rabbits, goats and chickens can be troublesome in two ways. First, animal wastes contain nutrients that promote the growth of algae and aquatic plants if they enter streams and lakes. Second, animal droppings are a source of disease organisms.

The risk of stormwater contamination increases if animal wastes are allowed to accumulate in animal pen areas of are left on sidewalks, streets or driveways where runoff can carry them to storm sewers. Droppings that are not mixed with litter should be flushed down the toilet. Or, if local laws allow it, droppings may either be buried or wrapped and put in the garbage for disposal. If you bury droppings, don’t bury them within 25 feet of a lake, reservoir, stream or a well.

Source: South Carolina Home A-Syst, Clemson Extension.