ALACHUA COUNTY, FL - Eleven pet waste disposal stations were recently installed in County parks, as part of the Alachua County Environmental Protection Department (ACEPD) and Gainesville Clean Water Partnership pet waste public outreach campaign. Four additional stations will soon be installed at the Florida Department of Transportation I-75 rest areas located on Paynes Prairie. "It just got even easier to scoop, bag, and trash pet wastes in Alachua County," says Stacie Greco, Senior Environmental Specialist, Alachua County Environmental Protection.
The pet waste disposal stations hold biodegradable bags for cleaning up after pets. Alachua County Parks and Recreation staff installed the stations, and keep them stocked with biodegradable bags. Squirrel Ridge and Forest Park have designated dog areas. Dogs must be leashed at the remaining County parks and are not allowed at Poe Springs Park.
Cleaning up after pets is important, because pet waste can harm waterbodies, human health, and the health of pets. ACEPD encourages citizens to be prepared, and hopes the new stations will help those that forgot their bags at home.
For more information, visit www.AlachuaCountyWater.org or call ACEPD at 352-264-6800.
To find County parks, visit the Alachua County Parks and Recreation's website.