Scooping To Prevent Poo-lluting
Extension Education
Susan Lunt
Water Resources Extension Associate
United States
Pendleton
Abstract
The Pet Waste Wall Calendar: IF YOUR DOG POOPS, PICK IT UP is an educational outreach tool I developed using materials from the Carolina Clear Water Resources Team (CCWRT), a Clemson University Cooperative Extension Service (CUCES) program. The calendar addresses bacteria pollution—the leading cause of waterbody impairment in South Carolina (SC)—by combining humor, science-based messaging, and strategic distribution to encourage proper pet waste disposal and protect waterways. CCWRT contributed humorous photos of dogs “in the act,” paired with engaging “fun facts” capturing attention while delivering key environmental messages. The calendar explains how pet waste contributes bacteria to stormwater runoff and includes a QR code linking to the CCWRT pet waste webpage, along with contact information for Water Resources Agents statewide. The webpage reinforces routine waste pickup, proper disposal practices, and participation in the Pet Waste Pledge to encourage long-term behavior change. A total of 350 printed 22”×28” calendars were distributed to all 46 CUCES county offices and key stakeholders statewide at the end of 2025. While this underestimates reach, 2,990 interactions were recorded across CUCES offices, with thousands more expected through stakeholder locations—demonstrating broad visibility. The potential environmental impact is significant. With an average of 340 grams of waste per dog per day and approximately 23 million fecal coliform bacteria per gram, one properly disposed-of daily cleanup can prevent over 7.8 billion grams of fecal coliform bacteria from entering the environment. With an estimated 1,431,360 dogs in SC, more than one million pounds of dog waste are generated statewide each day; the cumulative poo-llution adds up quickly. The USEPA estimates that waste from 100 dogs over just a few days can contain enough bacteria to close a swimming or shellfishing area—posing risks to recreation and the state’s $16.6 billion beach tourism industry. SC currently has more than 350 waterbodies impaired by bacterial pollution, making them potentially unsafe for recreation, shellfish harvesting, or drinking water supply. By promoting simple, actionable behavior, the calendar empowers residents to reduce bacterial pollution, protect public health, and preserve water quality through everyday action.
Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC
This poster is being submitted for judging. It will be displayed at the AM/PIC if not selected as a State winner. The abstract will be published in the proceedings.
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Authors: Susan Lunt, Alejandra Carranza
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Lunt, S. Water Resources Extension Associate, Clemson University Cooperative Extension Service, South Carolina, 29670
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Carranza, A. UPIC Intern, Clemson University Student, South Carolina, 29670