Even when you are having a good time outdoors boating, picnicking, or taking a walk you can be one of Nature's Caretakers.
Think of yourself as one small part of the universe, living alongside millions of other creatures, most of them smaller than you.
We are all linked together in a great chain of life. If we break only one link, we may cause far-reaching changes that we do not see or understand until many years have passed.
Walk softly, tread lightly.
Can you put yourself in this picture?
Caretaker's Checklist
When you are boating:
- Maintain low speed in narrow creeks and bays to prevent erosion of stream banks.
- Don't overfill your gas tank. Estimate fuel needs and pump accordingly. When changing the oil, be sure to mop up any oil that spills into the bilge of the boat. Recycle used oil.
- Never discharge sewage into the water. Use sewage pump-out facilities.
When you are near the water:
- Watch for changes in water quality, such as erosion, foul smells, direct discharges, algal blooms or fishkills. Report problems by calling state personnel at 1-800-682-2632.
- Keep away from nesting birds. They may become agitated and leave their nests if you intrude.
- At any time:
- Don't be a litterbug! Litter is unsightly, it can hurt animals, and littering is against the law. If you see litter, pick it up
Each
year, over 50,000 birds and mammals are killed because they eat or are
strangled by plastics that we dump in the ocean.
