Williston, ND: Your Dog’s Poop Is Your Responsibility

Ah, spring in Williston! The snow’s melted, the birds are chirping... and the poop piles are back! According to my co-worker Sam, there’s nothing like stepping outside your apartment in the morning, taking a deep breath of fresh air… and getting hit with Eau de Dog Doodoo.

National Scoop the Poop Week

As residents of Williston, we should take pride in our community’s beauty and cleanliness. But there’s one issue that continues to affect our local parks, sidewalks, and public spaces—dog poop.  

It’s wild to me how something as simple as picking up after your dog can be overlooked. Particularly at apartment complexes, because a majority of them provide free waste bags. 

In honor of National Scoop the Poop Week, let’s talk about why all dog owners need to scoop the poop.

Why Pick Up After Your Dog? 

1. Health Hazards - Dog poop is more than just unsightly, it can be harmful. It can contain nasty bacteria, parasites, and viruses like E. coli, salmonella, and roundworms, which can spread to humans and other animals. By picking up after your dog, you reduce the risk of these pathogens being transferred. 

2.  Good Neighbor Etiquette - No one wants to step in dog poop while walking through the park or on a sidewalk. It's not just gross, it’s also disrespectful to your neighbors and the community. 

Be a Responsible Dog Owner 

It’s not hard to be part of the solution. Always carry a few extra waste bags with you when you walk your dog - even if you’re just going around the block. Once you’ve scooped the poop, seal it tightly and toss it in a trash bin, not a storm drain or on the side of the road.  

Williston, Let’s Work Together! 

Williston is home to a designated dog park at Spring Lake Park, which is a great place for everyone to enjoy, and we all play a role in keeping it, and our town clean. 

It only takes a moment to scoop the poop—just do it!