You Can Help Protect the Bay!

During the annual observance of Chesapeake Bay Awareness Week (June 3-11), Virginia residents are encouraged to participate in events, activities, and educational programs that increase awareness of the importance of the Chesapeake Bay in their communities. In a proclamation read by the Alexandria City Council on May 23, 2023, the City affirmed its commitment to the Chesapeake Bay and its natural resources.

As part of this week-long observance, the Department of Transportation and Environmental Services invites the community to participate in the Chesapeake Bay Foundation's annual Clean the Bay Day on Saturday, June 10, from 9-11 a.m. at Windmill Hill Park (501 S. Union Street). Register to volunteer for the event by visiting the Chesapeake Bay Foundation webpage (registration is encouraged but not required). The City will provide gloves, trash bags, and first aid kits, but it is recommended that you bring your own water, snacks, and sun protection.

Participating in Chesapeake Bay watershed cleanup events is just one way to celebrate the importance of the Bay, not only this week but throughout the year. Here are some additional actions you can take to help protect the Chesapeake Bay:

• Test your soil using a soil kit from Virginia Cooperative Extension to know how much fertilizer to use and avoid over-fertilizing. Do not fertilize or use pesticides if it rains within 24 hours, as they can harm aquatic life.
• Do not discharge pool water into storm drains. Use this guide to learn how to dispose of pool water safely and follow any property swimming pool discharge guidelines to avoid harm to aquatic and wildlife resources. If you suspect contamination in the City’s waterways, please contact Alex311.
• Plant a tree to prevent nutrients from entering our streams and hold soil in place to prevent erosion.
• Landscape your yard using native plants adapted to local conditions, requiring less water and care, and supporting butterflies, birds, bees, and other pollinators. Visit plantnovanatives.org for ideas on suitable native plants for your yard.
• Use a rain barrel to capture roof runoff during storms and water your plants. This may also earn you a credit reduction on your Stormwater Utility Fee. Visit the City's rain barrel page to learn more.
• Build a rain garden to help capture runoff and help filter out pollutants, like sediment and nutrients.
• Pick up after your dog and dispose of bagged waste in a trash can to prevent it from washing into storm drains or streams. Consider educating other residents about the importance of picking up after their pets through the City’s yard sign campaign.
• Keep our City litter-free, as waste dropped on streets, sidewalks, or parks harms the environment and wildlife and eventually ends up in the Chesapeake Bay.
• Educate your family, friends, and neighbors about protecting our local water resources, the Potomac River, and the Chesapeake Bay.

For more information on the City's efforts to protect the Chesapeake Bay, please visit alexandriava.gov/CleanWaterways.

To request reasonable disability accommodation, contact jessica.lassetter@alexandriava.gov or call 703.746.4127, Virginia Relay 711.

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This news release is available at alexandriava.gov/go/4644.