Picking up after our dogs is a common courtesy that makes parks, trails and yards more enjoyable to use. It’s also an important way to prevent pollution and the spread of disease. Pet waste is raw sewage. When left outside, it contaminates stormwater runoff that drains directly to local streams and lakes. This contributes to known bacteria problems in local waterways. The Canines for Clean Water program encourages residents to pledge to “Scoop it. Bag it. Trash it. Everywhere.” The program also offers free resources to help residents follow the pledge and address pet waste issues in neighborhoods.