Across the lower deserts, we're starting to get into those prime hiking months. More people are getting outside with their pets. This also means we're seeing more of one type of pollutant — pet waste.
The City of Phoenix is raising awareness on this issue.
On Dec. 4 and Jan. 8, 2025, the City of Phoenix will be at South Mountain Park in Phoenix. Their mission is to educate the community about the negative effects of pet waste and how we can help.
"Pet waste doesn't disintegrate...When it rains, it carries the pet waste and all the contaminates...and eventually goes into the rivers and parks untreated," City of Phoenix Storm Water Compliance Coordinator, Luis Weisel, explained.
According to South Mountain Park Ranger Sverre Bodung, roughly 10,000 visitors per week pass through the Dirt Road Trail during the cooler months. That's why Bodung currently picks up about three to four pounds of pet waste on that trail alone every single week.
Alex Ridgeway hikes South Mountain with his dog every morning. He said that for the most part, others are helping reduce pet waste. The impacts go beyond local.
"It's important for the aesthetics," said Ridgeway. "People are going to come here from out of town too, and we want to put a good face forward for tourists or for family members that are coming to visit...but I'm sure it's a health risk too."
Bodung said he thinks everyone who comes out cares about the experience.
"We live in one of the biggest cities in the U.S.," he added. "This relatively untouched nature, nice and quiet, is within the reach of the entire city, right? To drive down here, take a walk, take your dog for a walk, go for a walk by yourself, and nobody wants that to be disturbed."
Picking up your pet's number two should always be your number one priority. Here's how you can help stop poo-lution:
- Carry bags: Make sure you're always prepared.
- Pick up: Always pick up after your pets, even in areas off the trail.
- Properly Dispose: Place in a designated pet waste bin or in a regular trash can.
- Spread the Word: Share this information with family, friends, and neighbors. Encourage others to practice responsible waste disposal.
Bag it. Tie it. Trash it! According to the City of Phoenix Water Services Department, pet waste is a pollutant because pathogens, like viruses and bacteria, can pollute soil and water and negatively impact our health and the environment.
Even bagged waste can pollute if it's not properly disposed of. The City of Phoenix Water Services Department also explains that pet waste contains nutrients that can cause weeds and algae to grow; this can lead to additional harm to our local ecosystems.
For more information or questions, email: WSD.ESD.Outreach@phoenix.gov or call (602) 256-3190.
You can also check out www.phoenix.gov/stormwater.
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