April 17, 2007
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Dr. John Sigler, Senior Environmental Coordinator, at 239-6983
PET WASTE AND
Both City and Federal Storm Water Permits Have Requirements
The City of Pocatello Animal Control Department, Parks &
Recreation Department and the Science and Environment Division of Public Works
are collaborating to install 10 additional “Mutt Mitt” dispensers in City
parks. Under provisions of the federal
National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Municipal Separate
Storm Sewer System storm water permit, the City is required to take action to
reduce input of pollutants of concern into the
City ordinances require that all pet owners clean up after their pets. City Code 6.04.130 states:
No owner/custodian of any animal shall cause or allow such animal to urinate or defecate on any public property or upon any street, sidewalk, public way, play area or common grounds, unless such owner or custodian immediately removes and disposes of all feces deposited by such animal.
This violation is a misdemeanor violation and can carry a fine of up to three hundred dollars ($300.00) and/or jail term of up to six (6) months.
The “Mutt Mitts” are being provided at City parks to provide
citizens with a convenient mechanism for cleaning up after their pets while on
City property. The principal, however,
applies throughout the community. In
areas like City Creek, Gibson Jack and elsewhere on the benches, pet owners are
encouraged to take along one or two used plastic grocery sacks and clean up
after their pets. “Pack It Out,” is
really appropriate for pet wastes in all watershed areas surrounding the city
and will help reduce the bacterial contamination in the tributary streams and
the
Additional information can be found on the City’s Science and Environment Division web page.
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