Have a green picnic

[B](COCO)[/B] – While summer slowly comes to a close, our island picnics will continue on. Here’s a few ways to keep the environment in mind as we soak up the sun and take an ocean dip.

[B]1. Know Before You Go[/B]

Like it or not, beaches close for a variety of reasons. The water may be polluted from a sewage run-off. There could be a nearby oil spill. To find beach water quality reports for Saipan, Tinian, Rota and Managaha check out www.deq.gov.mp/section.aspx?secID=4 or http://www.cnmicoralreef.net/wq/beachcloseweeklyresults.htm .

[B]2. Beachwear: The Ultimate Reuse[/B]

Beach clothes are going to get dirty. You’re lying in sand and swimming in water filled with all kinds of plants and animals. Instead of buying brand new apparel for your beach excursions, wear some old clothes you’ve been meaning to throw out. Perfect beach attire can be t-shirts filled with holes, promotional giveaway hats, etc.

[B]3. Keep Dogs on a Short Leash[/B]

Dogs enjoy playing in the water and many of us bring them to the beach. However, dog droppings do not belong there. They are a source of E Coli and other bacteria that can close beaches while also causing health hazards to swimmers. Pick up after your pets.

[B]4. Stay Away from Stormdrains[/B]

You may not think that water from our village streets ends up in the ocean, but it does. When streets get wet, traces of motor oil, pesticides and animal waste go down these drains. Swimming near storm outlets gives you direct access to this dirty water. Stay out in the open where these traces are diluted.

[B]5. Sail Your Cares Away[/B]

If you’re looking to spend the day at sea, rent a sail boat or wind sail over a motor boat or a jet ski. Sail-powered boats use renewable energy (wind) and are less likely to pollute the surrounding water. If your transportation does have a motor, practice clean boating.

[B]6. Drink Plenty of (Fresh)Water[/B]

Make sure you stay hydrated while you’re at the beach. But that means bringing water from home, not drinking it from the ocean. Ocean water is full of salt (and who knows what else), so it will do the opposite of hydrating you.

[B]7. Take Only Photographs[/B]

The beach is filled with all kinds of fascinating “souvenirs.” Rainbow-lined shells. Slippery seaweed. Keep in mind that all of these things are part of a local ecosystem. If you’re out snorkeling or scouting tide pools, avoid the desire to touch things or pick things up. This is also a great way to avoid bites and stings.

[B]8. Leave Only Footprints[/B]

On a windy day, it’s easy for trash to blow into the nearby water, where it can harm sea life. Make sure all your garbage ends up in the appropriate place. Recycle your bottles and cans!
Source: www.earth911.org