Impaired Bay

Chesapeake Bay is impaired! It's true. Chesapeake Bay is on EPA's "impaired waters" list. If we don't voluntarily reduce the input of nitrate and phosphate into the Bay by 2010 we face Federal regulations. Here are some things most of us can do which will improve the quality of the water in our waterways to the benefit of our commercial and recreational fisheries and all our citizens:

Maintain septic systems wisely. Have the tank inspected every 5 years, and pumped if necessary. Minimize both the solids and water that go down the drain. Don't use garbage disposals.

Minimize the use of fertilizer. Never use more fertilizer or lawn chemicals than is recommended.

Never throw anything in the water. Nature provides abundant food for our marine life. Nothing we add to the water improves the health of our waterways.

Ask yourself: "How do I release nitrate and phosphate to the environment?" "How can I minimize my contribution to this problem?"