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We all live in a watershed — the area that drains to a common waterway, such as a stream, lake, estuary, wetland, aquifer, or even the ocean -- and our individual actions can directly affect it. Working together using a watershed approach will help protect our nation's water resources. Wetlands are important elements of a watershed because they serve as the link between land and water resources. Oceans, coasts, and estuaries provide critical natural habitat and recreational areas for our nation. With coastal populations increasing, pressures on oceans and coastal waters are growing.

Participate in the President's community service initiative, United We Serve. EPA's Adopt your Watershed program encourages you to work for clean water by joining with local organizations to monitor water quality, restore habitat, build rain gardens, plant trees, or clean up debris. Share your community service success story.

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we all live in a watershed
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Announcing the EPA Water Quality Video Contest Winners and Honorable Mentions

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"Protect Our Water" by Stephen Michael Small of Morton Grove, Illinois (Flash)

Download the Video (MP4): Protect Our Water (Quicktime) (2.9MB)

"EPA Video Contest" by Alexis Bristor of Flower Mound, Texas

Download the Video (MP4): EPA Video Contest (Quicktime) (2.3MB)

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