The Chesapeake Bay Foundation (CBF) is very fortunate to have the help and support of thousands of citizens who volunteer their time and who have demonstrated their commitment to a cleaner, healthier, Chesapeake Bay. Every year, volunteers donate more than 25,000 hours to CBF programs that advance the Bay's health. The immediate results of their work are impressive. But the value of their undertaking for future generations is priceless. We salute our volunteers for their contribution to a better community and a restored Bay.
Following are just a sampling of the many ways that you, too, can get involved.
If you would like to become involved and have not volunteered before or would like more information, please complete our Volunteer Information Form. If you are already a CBF volunteer and would like more information about current or specific opportunities, contact our office at 410-543-1999.
In the Field
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Stream and Shoreline Restoration
Planting native trees and shrubs along the banks of waterways in one of the most effective ways to keep polluted runoff out of streams. Creating living shorelines with native wetland plants and grasses helps restore habitat for wildlife, preventerosion, capture sediment, and filter pollution.
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Oyster Restoration
Before their dramatic decline, the Chesapeake's native oysters were a powerful natural force in the Bay ecosystem, filtering contaminants from the water and providing habitat for crabs and fish. To bring back this key species, CBF's oyster restoration programs grow native oysters and transplant them to sanctuary reefs.
In Your Community
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Advocacy
CBF volunteer advocates speak for the Bay and its rivers and streams. They are the infantry in our fight for clean water, making their voices heard on public policy, legislation, development, and other issues that affect our waterways. Advocacy volunteers contribute at many levels. They show up at rallies, send e-mails, make phone calls, gather signatures for petitions, and remind citizens and public officials of the need to restore the Bay and its rivers and streams.
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Clean Water Captains
Clean Water Captains are ambassadors for clean water in their communities. CBF staff can't be in all 92 localities that drain to the Bay, so we rely on captains to help be the eyes, ears, and voice for the Chesapeake Clean Water Blueprint. Clean Water Captains take action in support of clean water by sharing information with their neighbors, congregations, community, and elected officials to help raise awareness and help realize practical, effective, local solutions. Captains help find solutions that work to restore clean water in their communities.
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Events, Fairs, and Festivals
We frequently are looking for volunteers to assist at CBF seminars, workshops, and other events. These are great opportunities for learning more about the Bay while you meet other Bay supporters. There are also many great fairs and festivals in the area, such as Harbor Fest and the Boardwalk Art Show. We often get requests to be at these events, but simply cannot attend them all due to staff limitations. Staffing a CBF table is a great volunteer opportunity to help spread the word about CBF and its programs. You will receive free entry into the event if you volunteer.
