With spring's arrival, Owatonna's citizens once again take up the mantle of guardians of our local waterways. The issue at hand is not merely one of aesthetics but of public health and environmental stewardship. Pet waste, left unattended, becomes a vehicle for harmful bacteria such as fecal coliform, threatening the purity of the Straight River which is an emblem and artery of our community.

In our hands lies the power to enact change with simple yet impactful actions. The Spring Pet Waste Clean Up initiative paves the way for collective action. The city has conveniently placed pet waste stations in our public parks, and these should be utilized to their fullest potential. Alongside this, routine yard cleanups, especially after snowmelt, prevent the leaching of waste into the storm drains that feed into our hallowed waterways.

Basic practices, when honored by each pet owner, become a force for communal well-being. Securely bagging and discarding pet waste are not just acts of civic duty; they are reflections of our commitment to preserving the vibrant ecosystem that defines Owatonna. Let us come together this spring in a concerted effort to maintain our town's environmental integrity for now and the generations that follow.