10 Things Marylanders Can Do Today to Reclaim the Bay

Don’t Litter – Reduce the amount of trash that ends up in the Chesapeake Bay.
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.
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.
Scoop the Poop – Make your neighbors happy and keep harmful nitrogen out of the Bay by always cleaning up after your pet.
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.
Reduce Electricity - Coal-burning power plants are among the largest sources of nitrogen compounds in air pollution.
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.
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.
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.
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.