Pet/Animal Waste

In regards to stormwater, pet waste refers to the solid waste typically produced by domestic cats and dogs.  Uncollected pet waste is not only unsanitary and odorous, it contains pathogenic bacteria and other parasites.  When pet waste remains on the ground, it can enter our stormwater and eventually be washed into our lakes and streams.  As it decays in the water, oxygen is depleted and ammonia is released, which can be harmful to fish and other aquatic life.  In addition, elevated bacteria levels can cause unsafe swimming conditions.  Lastly, pet waste contains nutrients that foster weed and algae growth. 
To help prevent these harmful effects, please clean up after your pets and properly dispose of their waste by placing it in the trash. 

Failure to clean up after your pets is also a violation of City Code Section 95.25

To learn more about the impact pet waste can have on the environment, please click here. 

Another significant source of animal waste is Canadian geese.  Many of Minnesota's lakes and ponds are ideal habitat for them and they can quickly overpopulate an area.  As with pets, the waste they produce depletes oxygen levels, releases ammonia, increases nutrients and bacteria, and is an unsightly blight on the landscape.  Rocky shores and tall grasses will discourage geese from settling in a particular area, but one of the simplest tactics is to not feed them.  Feeding the geese not only encourages them to stay, but foods such as corn and bread are not meant for geese and can give them serious health issues.