It Happens

by Ryan Corrigan, JRA's Director of Marketing and Membership

It happens. After all, when you take your best friend on long strolls through the park, sometimes nature calls. Sometimes, in fact, that’s why you’re taking your best friend on a long stroll. And before I go any further let me publicly state I too go on long strolls with my best friend. And nature always calls, which is why the James River Association is encouraging pet owners to “scoop the poop.”

The James River Association has installed 30 pet waste stations throughout City of Richmond parks, the James River Park System and Chesterfield County parks. Thanks to a Department of Environmental Quality grant funded by the US Environmental Protection Agency, it’s now super convenient for pet owners to clean up. This ultimately helps improve the water quality in the James River. How does cleaning up after our pets help the James? Super question.

Pet waste contains high levels of bacteria, such as E. coli, so when it rains, bacteria is washed into local waterways and storm drains making its way into the James River. Bacteria in waterways can negatively impact wildlife and be detrimental to human health. Picking up after our pets is an easy way to reduce this form of pollution.

So next time you’re out on a stroll with your furry friend, please remember to scoop the poop!

By the way, if you’re walking your cat, more power to you.