Pet waste left on the ground washes from surfaces into storm drains, which lead directly to local waterways.

Did you know, that every gram of pet waste contains 20,000,000 colonies of fecal coliform bacteria and other harmful pathogens? Harmful disease and parasites significantly impact water quality and human health.

Not only does pet waste contain unhealthy bacteria, it also:

• Causes harmful algae and aquatic weeds to grow
• Reduces oxygen levels for fish and other animals
• Makes water aesthetically unappealing for recreational use. Learn more about TMDL in Greensboro and throughout NC. 

What is TMDL?

TMDL stands for Total Maximum Daily Load. A TMDL is assigned when the EPA and state Department of Environmental Quality determine that a stream or water body is not meeting water quality standards.

Where does fecal coliform come from?

Fecal coliform is a bacteria that can come from many sources, such as sanitary sewer overflows, improper discharges, pets, and wildlife.

How can you reduce the amount of bacteria in our streams?

To learn more about ways to protect our water and health and meet water quality standards, view the tips listed below:

• Pick up after your pet; it's the neighborly thing to do and the right thing to do for the environment.
• When walking your dog, always carry a bag with you to pick up your pet’s waste. Never leave your dog’s waste on the ground.
• Properly dispose of pet waste by flushing it down the toilet, bagging it and placing it in the trash, or burying it in a hole at least 12 inches deep covered with a minimum of eight inches of dirt. 
• Routinely inspect your property for pet waste.
• Report any environmental issues such as sewer overflows, spills, unusual odors, etc. to 336-373-CITY (2489).