A recent report tells us of the need to prevent nitrogen compounds from vehicle exhausts and agricultural run-off from encouraging the growth of nettles and other ‘thug-like weeds’ that will lead to the extinction of rarer types of wild flowers.

Simultaneously I read that the National Park authorities are advising walkers to ‘stick and flick’ their dog’s dung from footpaths, rather than bag and remove it.

Considering the nitrogenous content of dog poo this advice is inconsistent with the concerns about nitrogen compounds related to traffic and agricultural activity.

In addition the ‘stick and flick’ idea seems likely to lead to unpleasant experiences.

I would much rather see the ‘business’ hanging in a plastic bag rather than put my foot in it!

However, it would be much better if neither option was available.

The solution to the problem lies in encouraging both individual responsibility and the enforcement of regulations about littering and dog-fouling.

Richard Evans

Woolston