If you're looking for some ways to show the Bay, or in this case your Bae, some love this Valentine's Day, we've got you covered:
Mi agua, su agua
Who doesn't love a long, hot shower? Talk about steamy! But your Bay-Bae needs water, too. The same rivers and streams that supply water to homes and businesses across the Chesapeake Bay region, also supply water to the Bay itself. On average, the American family uses more than 300 gallons of water per day at home. Roughly 70 percent of this use occurs indoors. How can you save water at home?
- You've heard it before, and you'll hear it again—Never let faucet water run needlessly as you wash or rinse dishes, wash your hands or face, brush your teeth or shave.
- Fix your leaky faucets—not to mention that constant dripping sound can kill any mood!
- Only run the dishwasher while full. Guess you'll have to make that four-course meal for two after all!
- Replace toilets, showerheads, washing machines, etc., with a water-friendly version, like those that are EPA WaterSense-certified.
- We know it can be hard but shortening your shower will help save water, too!
Don't just talk hot air about saving the Bay
Did you know that each year, more than 85 million pounds of nitrogen pollution—about one-third of the Bay's total yearly load—comes from air pollution? You don't want your Bay-Bae breathing that! While some of that pollution comes from industries, there are simple ways that you can help curb the air pollution that you contribute to the Bay.
- Eat less meat. We know, not everyone wants to go vegan, but meatless Monday is an easy addition to the week!
- Drive less. Sure, the thought of a moonlit drive might be romantic, but the Bay much prefers moonlit strolls, bike rides, carpools, or even kayak rides!
- Get your Bay Footprint grade! Our Bay Footprint Calculator determines how much nitrogen pollution you contribute to the Bay watershed and offers you ways to reduce it.
- Reduce energy use. Turn those energy efficient lights off and light some candles!
Buy fresh, buy local
Did you know that most foods you eat travel 1,300 miles before they get to your plate? Who knew those chocolate-covered strawberries were so long-distance—unlike your close relationship with the Bay. Buying food that's grown on local farms minimizes transportation-related emissions. It also keeps local farmers in business—which is good for Bay lands and, ultimately, your Bay-Bae's water quality. Try shopping for your produce at farmers' markets, or join a Community Supported Agriculture farm, such as CBF's Clagett Farm.
Speak up for your Bay-Bae
As you can imagine, the Chesapeake Bay can't speak for itself. The Bay has no way of telling people that to be its Valentine, it wants native plants—not bouquets of roses. By standing up and lending your voice to the Bay and its rivers and streams, you can help ensure that they are restored and protected for generations to come.
- It's time for your Bay-Bae to meet the parents. The only way to get more people interested in the protection and restoration of the Bay is to tell them about it! Ask your friends and family if they'll also be the Bay's Valentine on Facebook or Twitter.
- Become an informed voter. The Bay can't vote, but you can vote for politicians who prioritize Bay-friendly policies. Learn about Bay-friendly legislative priorities in Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Virginia.
- Take action. By joining our Action Network, you can get email alerts delivered directly to your inbox that allow you to immediately contact your local, state, and federal leaders on important clean water issues.
So, will you show the Bay how much you love it this Valentine's Day? You can certainly start by following some of the above tips! Not interested in being the Bay's valentine? Give your real valentine a gift in the Bay's honor!
