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  2. National Estuary Program (NEP)

What Can YOU Do to Protect Estuaries? (Text Only)

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Infographic version of this information

Estuaries are found where rivers meet the sea. Clean estuaries sustain vibrant economies and healthy coastal communities.

At Home

  • Reduce, reuse, and recycle
  • Have your septic system inspected
  • Choose non-toxic products for household use

In the Community

  • Help plant trees to reduce stormwater pollution
  • Volunteer at a local clean-up to pick up trash
  • Don't dump chemicals or trash down storm drains

In the Yard

  • Pick up your pet's waste and dispose of it properly
  • Plant a rain garden or install a rain barrel
  • Minimize use of fertilizers and pesticides on your yard

On the Water

  • Use designated sewage pump-out stations
  • Keep your boat out of seagrass beds
  • Respect wildlife and keep your distance

National Estuary Program (NEP)

  • National Estuary Program (NEP) Home
    • Basic Information about Estuaries
  • Funding Resources
  • Learn about the National Estuary Program
    • Overview of the NEP
    • National NEP Results
    • Exploring Estuaries
    • NEP Library
      • National Estuary Program Reports
  • Local Estuary Programs
    • Individual Estuary Program Websites
    • Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plans
    • NEPs on Social Media
    • State of the Bay Reports
    • NEP Videos, Virtual Tours and Photo Gallery
  • NEP Success Stories
    • Fact Sheets
    • Habitat Plans
    • How NEPs Address Environmental Issues
      • Aquatic Nuisance Species
      • Climate Change
      • Declines in Fish and Wildlife Populations
      • Habitat Loss and Degradation
      • Nutrient Loads
      • Pathogens
      • Stormwater
      • Toxics
    • Progress Evaluation
    • Successful Watershed Management: NEP Lessons Learned
    • Sustainable Financing Examples
      • Casco Bay Estuary Partnership
      • Coastal Bend Bays & Estuaries Program
      • Partnership for the Delaware Estuary
      • Indian River Lagoon National Estuary Program
      • Narragansett Bay Estuary Program
      • Peconic Estuary Partnership
      • Tampa Bay Estuary Program
Contact Us about National Estuary Program
Contact Us to ask a question, provide feedback, or report a problem.
Last updated on December 23, 2024
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