Mayor Justin Wilson, City Of Alexandria | City Of Alexandria website
Mayor Justin Wilson, City Of Alexandria | City Of Alexandria website
The City of Alexandria is set to observe Chesapeake Bay Awareness Week from June 1 through June 9, 2024. This period serves as a time to honor the history and ongoing protection efforts for the Chesapeake Bay. The Chesapeake Bay Foundation will coordinate its annual Clean the Bay Day during this week.
On May 28, 2024, Mayor Justin Wilson will read a proclamation at the City Council Second Legislative Session on behalf of the Alexandria City Council. This proclamation will affirm the city's commitment to preserving the Chesapeake Bay and its natural resources. It will also highlight ongoing maintenance activities, stream cleanups, and capital projects aimed at protecting the bay.
In celebration of Chesapeake Bay Awareness Week, Alexandria's Department of Transportation and Environmental Services is inviting community members to join a stream cleanup event on Saturday, June 8, 2024. The event will be held at Oronoco Bay Park from 9:00 am to 11:00 am.
Clean the Bay Day is an annual initiative organized by the Chesapeake Bay Foundation. It aims to unite communities in cleaning and safeguarding waters across various locations along the Chesapeake Bay.
For participants attending Clean the Bay Day at Oronoco Bay, city staff will provide necessary equipment such as gloves, trash grabbers, bags, and first aid kits. Attendees are encouraged to bring sunscreen, snacks, water, and wear suitable clothing like long pants and closed-toe shoes.
Clean the Bay Day helps raise awareness about the bay's significance not only during Awareness Week but throughout the year. Additional measures suggested for protecting the bay include:
- Keeping pet waste out of storm drains to prevent bacteria contamination.
- Maintaining a litter-free environment as waste can end up in local waterways.
- Reducing or eliminating fertilizer use on lawns due to its negative impact on water quality.
Residents suspecting contamination in city waterways are urged to contact Alex311 for assistance.
Further information about Alexandria's efforts to protect local waterways can be found on their Stormwater website.