Participate in Chesapeake Bay Cleanup June 1 to Celebrate Bay Awareness Week

ALEXANDRIA, VA-Beginning Saturday June 1 and continuing through Sunday June 9, the City of Alexandria will observe Chesapeake Bay Awareness Week. An Alexandria eNews bulletin released this morning (May 28) calls it “an opportunity to celebrate the history and continue to protect the Chesapeake Bay.” The release adds tthat the Chesapeake Bay Foundation will organize the annual Clean the Bay Day, which brings the community together to clean areas along the Bay.

This year, it will take place June 1 from 9 am to 12 pm. Find locations and registration HERE.

In addittion to Clean the Bay Day, the bulletin shares other ways to keep this treasured waterway clean. They include:

Keep pet waste out of the City’s storm drains, which causes bacteria contamination. Pick up and properly dispose of pet waste in a trash can; keep the City litter-free, as waste dropped on streets, sidewalks, or parks ends up in local waterways and the Chesapeake Bay; and reduce or eliminate fertilizer use on home lawns. Excess fertilizer causes poor water quality. Consider applying for a ten-percent Stormwater Utility Fee credit for the no-fertilizer pledge.

In addition, people are invited to take part in the stream cleanup event, hosted by the city department of Transportation and Environmental Services, June 8 at Ornoco Bay Park (100 Madison St.).City staff will provide gloves, trash grabbers and bags, and first aid kits. Be sure to bring sunscreen, snacks, and water, and wear appropriate clothing.

At tonight’s City Council meeting, the mayor will read a proclamation declaring the city’s commitment to protecting the Bay and its natural resources.

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