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High bacteria levels have been documented in some surface waters in Cobb County resulting in several stream segments being listed on Georgia’s 303(d) impaired waters list.  To address this issue, we have partnered with Cobb County Parks, Recreational and Cultural Affairs to install Pick It Up pet waste disposal stations along our trails and in local parks.  The main goal of Pick It Up is to reduce bacteria levels in our surface water, thereby improving water quality, by reducing pet waste in public areas.  We hope for additional water quality improvement as citizens adopt a Pick It Up practice on their private property.  

Pick It Up further promotes the stewardship efforts of our education programs.  For the park patrons, Pick It Up improves aesthetics and public health by the reduction of exposure to fecal material.  Pet waste disposal stations are strategically installed along parks and trails in public areas.  Each station includes a bag dispenser to pick up pet waste, receptacles to ensure proper disposal, and signage to provide educational messages both encouraging pet owners to be responsible and educating the general public about water quality.  Although a small act, the impact of the Pick It Up program improves environmental conditions for the entire community, including those living downstream of Cobb County.    

Here are some pet waste education materials you can use if pet waste is a problem in your community:

It’s Your Doodie - brochure
Try Swimming In It – poster
Here’s The Scoop – poster