Responsible Pet Owners Can Do Their Part to Help the Bay Annapolis (September 15, 2009) -County Executive John R. Leopold announced today a new initiative to install Pet Waste Stations along the B&A and WB&A trails to promote responsible behavior and limit waste polluting the Chesapeake Bay. "I was shocked to learn the statistic that 40 percent of Americans do not clean up after their dogs," County Executive Leopold said. "This leads to bacteria washing down into our rivers and streams, and polluting our Bay. The U.S. Environmental Protection Administration estimates that two or three days worth of droppings from a population of about 100 dogs would contribute enough bacteria to temporarily close a small coastal bay, and all watershed areas within 20 miles of it, to swimming and shellfishing. It is critical the public understands that bad habits greatly harm our waterways." Strategically positioned at primary points of egress along the trails, these convenient stations encourage pet owners to clean up after their pets, thus keeping parks beautiful and preventing run-off of harmful bacteria. County Executive Leopold is inviting pet owners to attend a ceremonial event on Friday, September 18, at 8 a.m. The first station will be unveiled at the entrance to the B&A Trail behind Marley Station Mall. The rain date will be Monday, September 21, at 8 a.m. "We are installing 25 stations as a model to encourage individuals and communities to invest in their own Pet Waste Stations," County Executive Leopold said. "As part of our Lasting Gifts Program, people can make a donation in honor of their pet in exchange for a plaque on one of the stations." | 
