Pier users can affect water quality by the way they conduct their activities. For example, improper fishing activities can lead to bacteria growth in the waters near the pier. Disposing unwanted or unused bait into the ocean can lead to increased bacteria levels as well as decreased oxygen levels in the ocean. Similarly, cleaning catch outside of properly designated catch-cleaning areas can also lead to increased bacteria levels and decreased oxygen levels.

1. Never dump unused or unwanted bait into the ocean.
2. Always clean catch in properly designated areas to ensure waste does not enter the ocean.
3. Dispose of all waste in appropriate containers

Bird feeding on or near piers can also affect water quality. Birds are a major contributor of bacteria at piers. Feeding birds creates waste and draws more birds to the area which in turn creates more waste and therefore more bacteria.

• Refrain from feeding birds as it increases bacteria levels in the waters near the pier.
• Dispose of trash, refuse, debris, fish waste, etc in appropriate containers to decrease the availability of food for birds.