It’s a simple lesson that we all learn as kids, pick up after yourself. But sometimes we need to be reminded of the basics. Follow the link to learn how one Apple Valley pond is suffering because we’ve forgotten this childhood message…
It’s a simple lesson that we all learn as kids, pick up after yourself. But sometimes we need to be reminded of the basics. Frequently, City staff run across locations where it couldn’t be more evident that a little reeducation needs to occur.
Such is the case with Hidden Pond. 
Take a walk down to the edge of the pond and you will see an unpleasant sight - litter and lots of it. All kinds can be found – plastic bottles, old cell phones, toys, the list goes on and on. Where is all this trash coming from? Us. Hidden Pond is located next to Cedar Avenue, so in some cases it is what is thrown out of car windows. In other cases, it is coming from neighborhoods several blocks away. Hidden Pond is connected to the stormwater system; litter left on the street elsewhere can get washed into the stormdrain during rains and be taken directly to Hidden Pond via the stormwater system.
Of course the situation at Hidden Pond and other similarly situated ponds can change. It just takes us remembering that old childhood lesson of picking up after ourselves. Keep a trash bag in your car for unwanted wastes. Walk the extra 20 feet to throw your trash in the garbage can at the park. Be prepared when you take your dog on a walk, and pick up after your pet. Read up on what is recyclable and how to dispose of hazardous wastes. Those who live, play, and do business by these ponds will thank you.