|
DWM Publications > Table of Contents > Chapter Five |
|
|
THE CLEAN WATER BOOK:
|
|
| CHAPTER 5:
ANIMAL WASTE |
|
| Animal
waste from pets, wildlife and livestock are a significant source of water
pollution in some areas of New Jersey. Animal waste contains a high concentration
of nutrients as well as pathogens and bacteria.
Animal waste is not always a problem; it can be an excellent fertilizer when properly applied. One of the most common fertilizers used by gardeners is composted horse and cow manure. However, when untreated animal waste enters waterways in large quantities it can cause two types of problems; those associated with its high nutrient content and those related to the pathogens and bacteria it contains. A number of water-borne diseases including tuberculosis and salmonella can be transmitted to humans by microorganisms in animal feces. Bacteria levels in stormwater appear to be greater in urban and suburban areas than in commercial or industrial zones. One cause may be the high concentration of pets associated with residential areas. Frequently pets are walked along roadways or near waterways, areas where animal waste can quickly find its way into nearby lakes and streams. The high nutrient levels in animal waste present another set of problems. Nutrients, such as phosphorus, nitrogen and potassium, are necessary for proper plant growth. The high levels of nutrients in animal waste fertilize the water, just as they do your lawn or garden. Too many nutrients cause increased plant growth in lakes, ponds and reservoirs which can diminish their ecological health and recreational value.
|
|
| WHAT YOU CAN DO | |
| If
you have a pet, dispose of their waste properly in the trash or toilet.
Support and obey "pooper scooper" laws in your community. If your
community does not have one, assist your community leaders in adopting
a "pooper scooper" ordinance.
Pet owners, or anyone in control of a pet, must dispose of the waste properly. Most New Jersey municipalities are required to adopt and enforce pet-waste ordinances about pet waste. The ordinances, or local regulations, must require that pet owners or their keepers immediately and properly dispose of their pet's solid waste deposited on any public or private property not owned or possessed by that person. Municipalities may adopt requirements that are stricter and more protective of the environment and public health than what is required by the State of New Jersey. Some municipalities have requirements for pet waste on your own private property. So, make sure you know what your municipality requires - and follow it.
|
|
| back to top | |
| back to Table of Contents | |