Public Access

Over the past century pollution, physical barriers (such as fences and bulkheads), and prohibitions (the privatization of beaches and waterfront developments) have diminished public access to the Estuary. Under the Public Trust Doctrine (PTD), Baykeeper has defended the public's inalienable right of access to these waters. People have the right to walk beside, safely catch and eat fish, swim, and boat in our waterways. Baykeeper advocates for construction of waterfront walkways, public boat ramps and docks, for open space preservation as parks and other access points, and for pollution clean up. We also work to gain public access to illegally restricted private beaches and waterfront developments.