Pawsitively Clean Parks Begin Here!
We love our furry friends and know you do too! To ensure our parks remain clean, safe, and enjoyable for everyone, we’ve provided convenient pet waste stations throughout our park areas.
By responsibly disposing of pet waste, you’re not only helping to keep our community beautiful, but you’re also protecting local wildlife, water quality, and public health.
But don’t just take our word for it…
Get The Facts
The Scoop on Pet Poop
With more than 1,000 dogs in the city of Independence, they collectively produce over 275,000 lbs of waste per year.
Just one gram of dog feces contains approximately 23 million fecal coliform bacteria, contributing significantly to water pollution.
Dog waste can contain harmful bacteria and parasites, including E. coli, Salmonella, and Giardia, which can contaminate water supplies.
Pet waste left on lawns and sidewalks gets washed into storm drains, rivers, lakes, and streams during rainfall, significantly affecting water quality.
Approximately 20-30% of bacteria found in urban waterways can be traced directly back to pet waste.
The CDC confirms that many different worms (hook, ring & tape) can spread by contact with contaminated dog waste.
Contrary to popular belief, dog waste does not fertilize lawns or naturally disappear quickly; it can take up to one year to fully decompose if left untreated.
Dog waste contributes nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus, causing excess algae growth in waterways, which harms aquatic ecosystems.
Nutrients from pet waste can alter the natural nutrient balance of ecosystems, negatively impacting local wildlife and native plant species.
Just one gram of dog feces contains approximately 23 million fecal coliform bacteria, contributing significantly to water pollution.
Dog waste can contain harmful bacteria and parasites, including E. coli, Salmonella, and Giardia, which can contaminate water supplies.
Pet waste left on lawns and sidewalks gets washed into storm drains, rivers, lakes, and streams during rainfall, significantly affecting water quality.
Approximately 20-30% of bacteria found in urban waterways can be traced directly back to pet waste.
The CDC confirms that many different worms (hook, ring & tape) can spread by contact with contaminated dog waste.
Contrary to popular belief, dog waste does not fertilize lawns or naturally disappear quickly; it can take up to one year to fully decompose if left untreated.
Dog waste contributes nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus, causing excess algae growth in waterways, which harms aquatic ecosystems.
Nutrients from pet waste can alter the natural nutrient balance of ecosystems, negatively impacting local wildlife and native plant species.
Ways to pickup and help the environment
Pet waste isn’t just a nuisance—it’s a serious environmental and public health concern. When left behind, it can wash into storm drains and contaminate rivers and creeks with harmful bacteria and parasites. Studies show that up to 40% of dog owners occasionally leave waste behind, contributing to water pollution and health risks for both humans and animals. On the flip side, responsible pet owners who pick up after their dogs help protect local ecosystems, reduce community cleanup costs, and improve neighborhood cleanliness
Bag it and throw it away
Use a local pet waste service
Flush it
(eco-friendly)
location map
Pet Waste Station Map
The city provides 15 pet waste stations for easy disposal while walking your dog(s).
Let us know
Notice an Issue With a Pet Waste Station?
If you see a damaged or empty pet waste station, let us know! Report any issues directly to the Public Works Department so we can address them quickly and keep our parks safe and enjoyable for everyone.
Learn More
Looking For More Ways To Be A Responsible Pet Owner?
Check out the information below for helpful tips, tricks, and resources on managing dog waste. From proper disposal methods to why it matters, these insights will help you keep your yard, neighborhood, and local parks clean and healthy.
