The Mobile Bay National Estuary Program (MBNEP) is calling on residents, workers and visitors to engage in shaping the future of the Eastern Delta Watershed.

A Watershed Management Plan is in development to safeguard and enhance this vital area's natural, recreational and economic assets.

The Eastern Delta Watershed, spanning 49,191 acres in Baldwin County, includes Whitehouse Creek, Upper Bay Minette Creek and Lower Bay Minette Creek. These watersheds drain directly into Bay Minette Creek, ultimately flowing into Blakeley River and Mobile Bay. This watershed plays a critical role in maintaining the health of Mobile Bay, which supports diverse wildlife, provides recreational opportunities and drives the local economy.

Community involvement is essential to the success of the Watershed Management Plan. The public meeting on Aug. 15 from 5:30-6:30 p.m. at Bay Minette City Hall, 301 D'Olive St., offers a valuable opportunity for residents to voice their concerns, share ideas and influence the future of their environment. Attending the meeting ensures that local perspectives and needs are incorporated into the plan, which aims to address issues such as water quality, habitat preservation and sustainable development.

If you cannot attend in person, MBNEP has made it easy to participate through an online survey at www.surveymonkey.com/r/RRFZ3GT. Your feedback will help identify potential solutions and priorities for preserving the watershed for future generations.