Protecting Ocean Waters

The choices people make about their yards, their pets, disposal of liquid and solid wastes and basic everyday activities have an impact on the ocean, and on the streams and rivers that flow into the ocean. We must always be mindful of our impact, no matter where we are or what we are doing. Together, we can preserve this beautiful coastline for everyone to enjoy.

Here are a few things that you can do.

Conserve water. The more water you use the more water you send down the drain to be processed at sewage treatment facilities. This excess water can lead to sewer overflows and raw sewage discharges into streams, rivers and beach areas.

Use designated restrooms at beaches. This can help to decrease the amount of human waste that is washed into the ocean. Keep diapered children out of the water and dispose of diapers properly.

Properly dispose of pet waste. Bring bags to collect pet waste and throw it away in a trashcan. This helps decrease the amount of waste that is washed into streams, rivers and beaches when it rains.

Dispose of trash properly. Place all waste in a trashcan, not on the beach or in the water.

Use natural products in your yard. Whenever possible, minimize or eliminate the use of chemical herbicides and pesticides because they pollute the water.