10 Things Marylanders Can Do Today to Reclaim the Bay

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  1. Don’t Litter – Reduce the amount of trash that ends up in the Chesapeake Bay.
  2. Use Fertilizer Sparingly – Limit the amount of fertilizer used on your lawn and garden. Excessive levels of nutrients in the Bay lead to lower levels of oxygen needed for aquatic life.
  3. Build a Rain Garden or Rain Barrel – Stormwater carries pollutants such as lawn chemicals from our yards into the Bay. Creating backyard habitats can minimize runoff and reduce yard work.
  4. Scoop the Poop – Make your neighbors happy and keep harmful nitrogen out of the Bay by always cleaning up after your pet.
  5. Drive Less – More than one-third of the nitrogen pollution entering the Chesapeake Bay originates from air pollution. Consider carpooling, using public transportation, biking or walking whenever possible.
  6. Reduce Electricity - Coal-burning power plants are among the largest sources of nitrogen compounds in air pollution.
  7. Grab a Friend and Volunteer – Cleaning up the Bay begins in your hometown. Find a local watershed group, grab some friendsand volunteer for a clean-up.
  8. Make an Appointment to Service Your Septic System – Septic systems should be inspected yearly to ensure proper functioning. Failing systems can leak into the groundwater and eventually end up in the Bay.
  9. Dispose Properly of Hazardous Household Items – Oils, anti-freeze, paint, cleaners and prescription drugs shouldn’t be poured down a household or storm drain. Check with your local waste management service to find out what hazardous materials they accept.
  10. Recycle Oyster Shells – A healthy oyster population can help filter and clean Chesapeake Bay waterways. A recycled oyster shell can return 10 new oysters back into the Bay.