Animal waste contains pathogens such as bacteria, parasites and viruses that pose unnecessary public health and environmental risks. When it rains, that gets carried into the storm sewer system and ends up in stormwater ponds, ditches, and the Straight River. Improper disposal of pet waste is strictly prohibited by City Ordinance Chapter 52.
When not cleaned up properly, pet waste can create a public health nuisance in our neighborhoods and recreational areas.
Feeding ducks and geese is often perceived as a harmless and fun activity, however, it actually has negative effects on wildlife, the waterfowl and local water. While ducks, geese and other waterfowl like eating bread, chips and crackers, it causes them to congregate in high numbers which results in large, concentrated quantities of waste in and along the community’s water resources.
Waterfowl waste also soils parks and trails. In addition to the environmental issues, feeding them can cause long-term health problems and other nutritional consequences for the waterfowl and other wildlife as they become overcrowded and dependent on humans for food. Instead of feeding wild ducks and geese, make a trip to a zoo, county fair or wildlife preserve.