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Tips for Backing the Bay

Tips for Backing the Bay

SIMPLE TIPS FOR EVERYDAY ACTIONS YOU CAN TAKE TO PRESERVE GALVESTON BAY

Just a few simple actions at home can make a big impact on Galveston Bay. Read more or download the tips here.

Landscape with Native Plants.

Choose low-maintenance, drought-tolerant plants like these that are adapted to our local climate and soil. Because these plants need less water and fewer pesticides and fertilizers, you’ll ultimately reduce harmful runoff into the Bay.

Avoid Fertilizer Runoff.

Stormwater runoff carries fertilizers and other harmful materials to the Bay, which can make it unsuitable for swimming, reduce oxygen levels and contribute to seafood contamination. Leaving grass clippings on the lawn when you mow provides nutrients and can reduce the need for fertilizer.

Keep Trash in Your Boat, Not in the Bay.

Nothing spoils a beautiful Bay like trash. Carry a litter bag and remind passengers of one of the first rules of the outdoors — always pack it out if you pack it in.

Dispose of Oil and Chemicals Properly.

Household products such as motor oil, paint, fuels, pool chlorine, cleaners, pesticides and antifreeze are not something you want to find in your seafood. Remember, if it washes down a storm drain or gutter, it can end up in the Bay. Find recycling and disposal options for your household chemicals and fluids in “What Do I Do With It Now? A Quick Guide to Recycling Resources.“

Don't Water During the Heat of the Day.

Water lost to evaporation doesn’t help your lawn or your utility bill. Set your sprinklers to run before 10 a.m. or after 7 p.m.

Fix Leaky Pipes and Faucets.

Galveston Bay depends on the right mix of fresh and salt water. A faucet leaking at a rate of one drop per second can waste up to 3,000 gallons of water per year. Fix leaks as soon as you spot them and leave more for the Bay.

Clean Up After Your Dog.

Pet waste easily washes into storm drains, where it can contaminate water.

Volunteer for a Wetland Restoration Program.

Give a little back to the Bay by participating in restoration and protection activities like marsh planting, trash clean-ups and removing abandoned crab traps. Need a place to start? Try Marsh Mania, held each year in late spring.

Work to Stop the Spread of Invasive Plants and Animals.

Invasive species such as grass carp, Chinese tallow and fire ants can quickly spread and take over ecosystems. They can choke out native plants and animals and cause economic and environmental harm. View an extensive list of Galveston Bay invasives and ways to help here.

Back the Bay Partner – Galveston Bay Foundation

PARTNERS:

The Back the Bay Campaign

The Back the Bay campaign is funded through the Galveston Bay Estuary Program, a program of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

Featured Event

Back the Bay Day at Houston Zoo

Date: August 12, 2017

Time: 9am – 2pm

Back the Bay is teaming up with the Houston Zoo for a fun and educational event! Come learn about the impact trash and plastic pollution has on our region’s wildlife, water quality and health and how you can help prevent trash and litter ending up in Galveston Bay.