Data collected has already been used by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, validating the credibility of using trained volunteers to collect scientific data. Government has not pursued widespread and systematic water quality sampling due to the expense, but several nonprofit groups have undertaken the task, relying on volunteer help from interested citizens and students. Friends of Casco Bay, Presumpscot River Watch, Friends of the Royal River, area school science classes, and Maine Audubon Society are monitoring water quality in area rivers and the bay. The more volunteers who participate, the more complete a picture will be made of the watershed and bay's health. Sponsoring cleanup days.
Marine debris poses a threat to wildlife as well as an aesthetic blight.
Protecting sensitive habitats through voluntary land conservation. Many productive and sensitive marshes, fields, and woodlands surround Casco Bay, providing essential wildlife habitat. Advocating stronger environmental policies. Statewide organizations like the Natural Resources Council of Maine and the Maine Audubon Society have traditionally advocated in the state legislature for cleanup of Casco Bay, being joined in recent years by members of local and regional Casco Bay organizations. Educating the public.