Hikers on the mountain of Smar are annoyed by the dog droppings, violators are threatened with a fine of 100 euros

Hikers and walkers on Mount Šmarna have increasingly encountered uncollected dog feces along trails leading to the summit, prompting concerns over cleanliness and safety. The issue has become more pronounced in recent months, with many visitors reporting frequent encounters with these unsanitary deposits. In addition to the feces, improperly discarded waste bags litter the paths, further contributing to environmental degradation and posing risks to pedestrians, especially children and elderly visitors. The situation has worsened significantly during the warmer months, when the sun intensifies the odor of the feces left scattered along the trails. One regular hiker described her experience, noting how she had accidentally stepped on one such deposit, which ruined her outing. She emphasized the need for responsible pet ownership, stating that all users of the trails want them to remain clean and enjoyable, particularly given the high number of families visiting the area. A local resident who walks the trails daily echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the deteriorating condition of the paths and the constant need to watch one's step rather than enjoy the scenery. He argued that the problem stems less from a lack of waste bins and more from a cultural shift toward greater accountability among dog owners. Local authorities have acknowledged the issue and confirmed that they conduct inspections in accordance with municipal regulations regarding the cleaning of public roads and green spaces. These checks are carried out based on complaints received and as part of targeted monitoring efforts, including promotional campaigns aimed at fostering community responsibility. The campaign, launched in 2015, emphasizes the importance of respecting shared public spaces. However, officials clarified that their oversight applies only to public roads and green areas under the jurisdiction of the City of Ljubljana. The hiking trails on Mount Šmarna are largely privately owned, meaning that enforcement actions related to the collection of dog waste are limited to public areas managed by the city’s inspectorate. Fines imposed for failing to collect dog waste on public grounds amount to 100 euros. Despite the availability of designated dog waste stations, the city has decided against expanding the existing network of such facilities. There are currently 234 dog waste poles installed across public areas within the city limits, allowing dog owners to dispose of their pets' waste. Authorities argue that there is no need for additional installations since collected waste can be placed into standard household waste containers available on public surfaces. Occasionally, the city organizes initiatives offering free waste bags to dog owners as part of its broader efforts to encourage proper disposal practices. In addition to the issue of uncollected feces, some trail users have expressed concern about dogs roaming unleashed on the paths. This practice raises safety issues, as unpredictable behavior from even well-behaved dogs can lead to unexpected situations. One visitor noted that while some people appreciate the presence of dogs, others feel uneasy around them. She called for greater adherence to rules ensuring the safety and comfort of all trail users, emphasizing the importance of responsible pet ownership. The growing prevalence of dog waste along the trails has sparked discussions about the balance between recreational use and environmental stewardship. While the city continues to promote awareness through its ongoing campaigns, the challenge lies in ensuring compliance from all trail users. With increasing numbers of visitors, maintaining the cleanliness and accessibility of these popular outdoor spaces remains a pressing concern for both local authorities and the community.