BALTIMORE, MD (August 27, 2013) - Maryland Department of the Environment Secretary Robert M. Summers encouraged pet owners to "scoop the poop," during an event held today at Patterson Park in Baltimore City.

An estimated 1.3 million dogs live, play and poop in Maryland. Picking up after your dog's waste is important for your health, the health of your pet and Maryland's environment. The simple act of picking up after your dog by “scooping the poop” can assist in removing harmful nutrients and bacteria from local waterways and the Chesapeake Bay, keep our citizens healthy and our yards and shoes clean.

Secretary Summers presented Friends of Patterson Park Executive Director, Jennifer Arndt Robinson and the Fells Prospect Community Association with a proclamation from Governor O'Malley recognizing today as "Scoop the Poop Day in Maryland." Secretary Summers' dog, Max, along with other pooches and owners also took the "scoop the poop" pledge.​