Consider plants and animals
We are only visitors to water environments. Other animals and plants live there all the time.
- Avoid disturbing wildlife. Keep your distance from marine mammals and birds (especially if they are nesting). Use binoculars.
- Make sure your pets keep well clear of birds and other wildlife. Keep dogs on a leash if necessary, and don't take pets where they're not allowed.
- Teach children to care for nature. Don't take wildlife home. Observe sea creatures in buckets then release them back where you found them.
- Avoid operating power boats or jet skis too near riverbanks and estuary shorelines. Go slow; the wake of a speeding vessel causes erosion and disturbs wildlife.
- Exotic weeds and fish are big problem in some waterways so clean your gear and boats before you leave to prevent their spread to new waterways.