In the four centuries since the explorations of Captain John Smith, the Chesapeake Bay has lost half of its forested shoreline, more than half its wetlands, nearly 80 percent of its underwater grasses, and more than 98 percent of its oysters. Across the watershed, approximately 1.7 million acres of once-untouched land were developed by 1950. Development has accelerated dramatically since then, with an additional 2.7 million acres built on or paved over between 1950 and 1980.
The human pressure of these changes has imposed heavy negative impacts on the health and resilience of the Bay. Although we will never return to the pristine territory explored by Captain John Smith during those early voyages, CBF is fighting to return this fragile ecosystem to balance.
Find out more about our oyster restoration centers, other restoration programs and the issues CBF is working on in your part of the watershed or volunteer for one of our restoration projects.
From Our Blog
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Time’s Running out to Meet Bay Cleanup Goals, Especially in PA
August 14, 2019
The historic federal-state partnership working to clean up the Bay’s pollution is entering the final phase of restoration.
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Northern Neck Oyster Gardeners Help Restore Wild Reefs
June 27, 2019
Oyster gardening gives volunteers the opportunity to play a role in bringing back the beloved Chesapeake Bay bivalve.
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Caring Vet is a Hero Among 'Heroes'
April 17, 2019
Retired Navy Senior Chief and Chef Adam Gagne relishes the chance to share his passion for kayak fishing with veterans and first responders.
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One Prolific Voice for Clean Water
March 12, 2019
CBF's Hampton Roads Grassroots Manager Tanner Council describes Hampton resident Claire Neubert as one of the most prolific volunteers CBF has ever worked with.
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This Week in the Watershed: The Bay's Cornerstone
February 22, 2019
Following decades of restoration work, we are making progress restoring the Bay's native oyster population. And two pieces of legislation before the Maryland General Assembly would take restoration efforts even further.
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Optimism Amid Challenges as Maryland’s Oyster Farming Industry Continues to Grow
February 20, 2019
2019 Maryland Shellfish Aquaculture Conference highlighted changes in the Bay’s regenerative business.
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This Week in the Watershed: Exposing Our Values
February 15, 2019
There is perhaps no document more revealing than a budget.
