I keep my minnows alive as long as I can as it's a PIA to buy them. The few dead ones left on the will not hurt one bit. I no longer smoke so I leave no trash if I can help it. 2 years ago I tried chasing an empty bottle and slipped and fell smack on my back. I will do my best but on a windy day I can't guarantee a few bits of trash won't blow out of my control.