·          Since 2007, Maryland has invested more than $900 million in grants and loans for water quality projects, leveraged to a total of $1.3 Billion (including local and federal funds) in capital projects that are estimated to have generated as many as 17,000 jobs.

·          By the end of 2012, we completed upgrades of 29 major wastewater treatment plants and more than 3,600 septic systems -- which will prevent an additional 1.8 million pounds of nitrogen pollution per year from entering the Bay. In 2012, we invested $180 million to reduce pollution from stormwater, septic systems and wastewater treatment plants, supporting more than 2,364 jobs

·          Maryland invested a record $22.5 million in our cover crops initiative -- allowing us to set another record – enrolling 1,860 farmers last year. Maryland farmers planted more than 413,000 acres of cover crops last year to protect the Chesapeake Bay – for a total of 1.89 million acres planted since 2007.

·          This year, Maryland is investing record amounts in our Bay 2010 Trust Fund, bringing our total investment to $120 million in just 6 years. We have also supplemented this investment with $74.5 million in capital funds over FY 13 and 14.

·          This year, Maryland is investing nearly $113 million in our Bay Restoration Fund and $10 million for new oyster sanctuaries.

Reclaim the Bay Poster Contest

The Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) invites students grades K through 8 to participate in MDE's first Earth Day poster contest. This year's theme is "Reclaim the Bay." Students are encouraged to submit an entry that depicts what Marylanders can do to help restore the Chesapeake Bay.

Maryland is a leader in the Bay watershed's restoration efforts. The purpose of Maryland's Reclaim the Bay campaign is to bring public awareness to these efforts and let Marylanders know what they can do to help restore the Bay.

This poster contest is a great way to challenge young environmental advocates around the State to think about what they can do to Reclaim the Bay.

10 Things Marylanders Can Do To Reclaim the Bay 

·          Don’t Litter – Reduce the amount of trash that ends up in the Chesapeake Bay.

·          Use Fertilizer Sparingly – Limit the amount of fertilizer used on your lawn and garden. Excessive levels of nutrients in the Bay lead to lower levels of oxygen needed for aquatic life.

·          Build a Rain Garden or Rain Barrel – Stormwater carries pollutants such as lawn chemicals from our yards into the Bay. Creating backyard habitats can minimize runoff and reduce yard work.

·          Scoop the Poop – Make your neighbors happy and keep harmful nitrogen out of the Bay by always cleaning up after your pet.

·          Drive Less – More than one-third of the nitrogen pollution entering the Chesapeake Bay originates from air pollution. Consider carpooling, using public transportation, biking or walking whenever possible.

·          Reduce Electricity - Coal-burning power plants are among the largest sources of nitrogen compounds in air pollution.

·          Volunteer – Cleaning up the Bay begins in your hometown. Find a local watershed group and volunteer for a clean-up.

·          Make an Appointment to Service Your Septic System – Septic systems should be inspected yearly to ensure proper functioning. Failing systems can leak into the groundwater and eventually end up in the Bay.

·          Dispose Properly of Hazardous Household Items – Oils, anti-freeze, paint, cleaners and prescription drugs shouldn’t be poured down a household or storm drain. Check with your local waste management service to find out what hazardous materials they accept.

·          Tell a Friend – Share one of these tips with a friend today and help us achieve our goal of Reclaiming the Bay. Give the gift of a tree to help spread the word.