After taking pains to lessen the amount of dog droppings left around town, the problem is again rearing its ugly head.

Selectman Paul Silva brought up the issue at Tuesday night’s board meeting. He said someone recently notified him of a number of dog piles on the stretch of the bike path from Mattapoisett Neck Road to Brandt Island Road. Walking the path, Silva said he found 45 piles.

Two years ago, Selectmen authorized the purchase of several stations with dog bags where people could also deposit poop. Pet owners were also put on notice that they would be fined if they were caught not picking up after their dogs. The problem did improve in some areas.

“I think most of the people are responsible dog owners, but obviously we have some people who aren’t,” said Silva.

While Silva gave most dog parents the benefit of the doubt, Animal Control Officer Kathy Massey wasn’t so generous.

“There’s an awful lot of people that just don’t care,” said Massey, who also got complaints about North Street recently.

When Massey and her officers see an offender, they do fine them, but it’s difficult to catch someone in the act.

“It’s up to the individual who owns this animal to be responsible,” she’s said.

Silva said leaving dog poop in environmentally sensitive areas is a problem, and one that has to be dealt with before the bike path is extended.

“We’re taking about continuing the bike path through marshland, over barrier beaches, that’s a real concern,” said Silva.

Massey suggested residents who see an offender take a picture and send it to her, while Silva suggested that Town Administer Mike Gagne gather a group of responsible dog owners to help work on the issue.

“I think education has to be a big part of it,” Silva said.