Since its inception, the Chesapeake Bay Trust has been working hard to promote public awareness and public participation in the protection and restoration of the Chesapeake Bay and its tributary rivers and streams. Now you can help too by entering their Hooray for the Bay! Contest, running through September 15, 2010.

To participate, simply complete this entry form and send your “Why I Love the Bay Message.” Or you can text “BAYPLATE” to 24587. Finally, as part of their efforts to raise awareness, the Trust has planted 100 Chesapeake Bay factoid signs in parks, schools, and community centers around Maryland. If you see one of these signs, photograph it and send your picture to contest@baytrust.org.

With three easy ways to enter, there’s no excuse not to. What’s more, the first 100 entrants will win a free Treasure the Chesapeake license plate. All participants are entered to win a grand prize of $2,500 cash. The grand prize winner will be chosen by a panel of judges who will select the best “Why I Love the Bay” message, based on originality, creativity, relevancy, and amusement factor – so make your message a great one! Winners will be posted on the Chesapeake Bay Trust website at www.bayplate.org before November 15, 2010.

For more information, including official rules and conditions, visit www.bayplate.org/contest.html.