We all know that waste from farm animals and lovable pets can smell bad. No doubt about it. But, beyond that, there is an important reason why we should keep it off the land and out of our streams. Why?

Read all about it!
 
Raw animal waste contains tiny organisms, bacteria, and viruses that we can't see. Disease-carrying organisms are called "pathogens." Pathogens can cause human illnesses, like diseases of the digestive system and ear, eye, and skin infections. If our children swim in that water, they can become ill.
 

Also, animal waste can contain nutrients that cause excess algae and weed growth in streams. Algae and weeds can use up the oxygen in the water, which is necessary for fish and other critters to live.
 
When there is a storm, animal waste containing pathogens and excess nutrients runs off the land into rural drainage ditches and urban storm sewers. Then it flows through underground waterways, or through drainage systems, directly into your streams. Untreated!
 
That's right. The untreated waste, along with the pathogens and nutrients, makes its way into your streams. And, these streams flow toward larger streams, directly affecting the health of the fish we eat and the water where our children swim!

What you can do!

For farm animals,

•	Fence livestock away from streams.
•	Make sure animal wastes can be dropped away from bodies of water.
•	Contact your County Extension Agent for help in making any changes to your farm so that you are part of the solution.

If you have lovable pets,

•	Pick up the poop promptly from your yard. It's that simple!
•	Use disposable bags along curb sides, in the park, and along roadways. We can all do that, can't we? For our children's health!

Remember: If you have farm animals or a loveable pet, keep the waste up—off the land and out of the water!