The Chesapeake Clean Water Blueprint is working. By all metrics, we are seeing progress. Citizens, businesses, and governments are rolling up their sleeves to reduce pollution. And it is working.
The University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science's Bay Report card issued last spring, our 2018 State of the Bay report, and the Bay Program's Bay Barometer all document improvements. Bay grasses and crabs are up, and the dead zone is trending smaller. But the recovery is fragile, and many clean water advocates are wondering what they can do to help progress continue.
In these uncertain times, it is more important than ever that citizens let their elected officials know that clean water should be an important priority. That cleaning up local rivers and streams will reduce risks to human health, create jobs, and benefit local economies.
It is very important that our state legislators make the needed investments to reduce pollution. That our governors speak up for the Blueprint. And that our federal representatives ensure EPA's full participation in guiding and implementing the Blueprint.
Help ensure the Bay and its rivers and streams remain a priority. Do these five important things right now to Save the Bay:
- Find out who represents you by clicking here.
- Call your state representatives and urge them to support investments in clean water restoration and saving the Bay.
- Call your governor and urge him or her to support investments in clean water restoration and saving the Bay.
- Call your federal representatives and urge them to seek federal investments for clean water restoration and saving the Bay.
- Contact your friends and neighbors and urge them to do the same.
Bonus Action: One of the most effective ways to influence a politician is a personal visit to their office or a town hall meeting. While that takes time and might be out of your comfort zone, they will take note. And we'd be happy to help you plan a visit to their local office. Just click here and shoot us an e-mail.
Done the right way, citizens can have an impact. Elected officials do listen to their constituents. When contacting your representatives, be sure to explain why clean water is important to you. If they have supported clean water efforts, thank them and ask for their continued support. If they haven't been supporters, encourage them to do so in the future.
In these uncertain times, there is one thing that is certain, you can make a difference. Speak up and save the Bay.
Chesapeake Bay Foundation
