5 Simple Things

Much like the Chesapeake Bay’s unique mixing of saltwater and freshwater, this region is also made up of many different types of people. Watermen, boaters, bird watchers, and many more types of Bay lovers. We all connect with the Bay in different ways, and we all share a love for it. If we all take a few simple steps to protect the Bay, it all adds up to have a huge impact. Who says it ain't easy being green?

Here is our list of Five Simple Things that YOU can do to help the Bay. Try one or try them all!

1. Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs

A simple act like switching from a regular incandescent bulb to a compact fluorescent can make a big impact. It saves you money, reduces carbon emissions, and reduces waste. How can this help?

2. Prevent Pollution

Bottles, cans, plastic, styrofoam and discarded fishing equipment do not belong in the Bay. Trash not only looks bad, it can be deadly. Birds, fish and other Bay animals can eat pieces of trash, or get caught in debris, and die. Recycle, and reuse items as much as possible, and always dispose of trash properly. Visit our More Tips page for more ideas about ways you can reduce prevention.

2. Reduce Your Runoff

From eliminating or minimizing lawn fertilizer, to slowing down rainwater as it leaves your yard, to picking up after your pets, all of these efforts reduce sediment and nutrient loading to the Bay and can have a large impact in improving the Bay’s health. Why is this important?

4. Vote the Bay

OK, politics is a sensitive issue so let’s be clear, we are not telling you who to vote for. We are asking you to consider candidates’ position on Chesapeake Bay issues. Let them know the Bay is important to you, and it should be to them too. Once in office, continue to write, call and email your support for a healthy Bay. If you want to find out more about an official or candidates viewpoints, check out sites like the League of Conservation Voters.

5. Join a Watershed Group

There is probably no better way to help at the local level than by joining a local watershed group. Join one and find out how to help streams and rivers close to you. These groups depend on volunteers. Websites like the Chesapeake Bay Program have a directory of small watershed groups to help you find groups close to you.

Or maybe just try this . . .

Whenever you buy a Be the Bay product, you support Bay restoration. We donate 10% from EVERY purchase to support Bay restoration projects. So even if you don't incorporate our 5 simple tips into your daily life (but we hope you do), just by purchasing from us you are helping restore the Bay.