Change how we farm
Much of the pollution that winds up in the bay originates in the fertile farmland upstream, flowing down the Susquehanna from Pennsylvania. A number of simple things can mitigate that, according to environmentalists.
Farm practices how fields are tilled and crops managed can be altered to reduce runoff into streams and creeks.
Farmers can fence off wetlands and streams to keep cattle from excreting waste into the watershed.
Farmers can reduce the number of areas they cultivate to provide natural buffers between fields and streams.
Plant more trees
Planting trees along creeks as riparian buffers reduces the amount of runoff that can flow from the watershed. In addition, planting grasses and native plants creates a kind of natural water treatment system that filters toxins and excess nutrients from runoff.