TRASH
- Don't put trash into the water, not even cigarette butts.
- Remove trash from water and shores when/if possible.
- Recycle bottles, cans, packaging, batteries, oil, even fishing line.
MAINTENANCE
- Use environmentally safe paints instead of anti-fouling paints that contain copper, mercury, arsenic, or volatile organic compoiunds (VOCs).
- When washing your boat, try plain water, or use phosphate free detergents, biodegradable and non-toxic cleaners.
- Keep oil absorbant material in bilge and replace it once per year. Never discharge bilge water with oily sheen. A single drop of oil can pollute a million drops of fresh water.
- Pump out sewage at approved facilities. Use approved Marine Sanitation Devices (MSDs) or use restrooms ashore when possible.
OTHER
- Consider changing to a 4-stroke (low emission) outboard engine, or an electric engine.
- Observe speed restrictions and go slow to protect habitat and prevent shore erosion from boat wakes.
- Follow channel markers to avoid disturbing sensitive shallow bottom habitats.
- Sign up for "Boaters for the Bay" - a program sponsored by the Chesapeake Bay Foundation promoting good boating practices (click here)
- Report problems: If you are out on the water and you notice a spill, fish kill, or other violation, call the appropriate authorities.
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