The streams, creeks, rivers, and the Chesapeake Bay are polluted by nutrients and sediments from a number of sources, but in Anne Arundel County which is largely suburban, the largest sources of sediment are open construction sites and eroding stream banks.  The Federation works to address the former by monitoring construction sites and making sure that all of the appropriate sediment and erosion controls are in place and by working with State and County staff to ensure that law is enforced.  The Federation also works with local landowners and other interested parties in undertaking restoration projects that keep water on the landscape, allowing it to infiltrate and take pressure off our streams and creeks, or in some cases, carrying out restorations of the damaged streams and wetlands themselves.  

Aside from sediment, nutrients, such as nitrogen and phosphorus run off into our rivers and the Bay from sources such as wastewater treatment plants, septic systems, fertilized yards, and pet waste.  Each of us can take steps at our own home ranging from upgrading our septic system, to properly disposing of pet waste, and using soaps and detergents that don't contain phosphates.