RICHMOND, Va. — Potentially dangerous bacteria found in dog poop makes its way into the James River every time it rains, the James River Association said. That is one reason why the association worked with Richmond parks, Chesterfield parks and the James River Park System to install 30 pet waste stations to encourage pet owners to “Scoop the Poop.”
“The intent of this project is to make it convenient for pet owners to clean up after their dogs, thereby improving water quality in the James River,” James River Association Watershed Restoration Manager Amber Ellis said. “Pet waste contains high levels of bacteria, such as E. coli. When it rains, this bacteria is washed into local waterways and storm drains, ultimately making its way into the James River. Bacteria in waterways can negatively impact wildlife and be detrimental to human health. Picking up after your pet is an easy way to reduce this form of pollution.”
The association is encouraging pet owners to take the “Scoop the Poop” pledge.
The James River Association is also working with the Middle James Roundtable’s James River Pet Waste Coalition to educate the public about the environmental impacts of pet waste and the importance of picking up after pets. You can enter the Canines for Clean Streams photo contest to win gear for your dog and have your pet’s picture featured on their website and Facebook page. Visit www. facebook.com/JamesRiverPetWasteCoalition by August 15, 2015 to post a photo of your dog and take the pledge to “scoop the poop” for clean waterways.
