Save the Bay News: Voting for the Bay

Mariners Museum_WillParsonChesBayProg_1171x593

Sunset falls over the James River at Mariners' Museum and Park in Newport News, Virginia.

Will Parson/Chesapeake Bay Program

Stories, resources, and other things you need to know to vote for the Bay

Election Day is quickly approaching. For some people in the Chesapeake Bay region, that means taking a boat, hiking, or tasting their way along the country’s largest smorgasbord to cast their vote at some of the watershed’s most unique polling places. But no matter how or where you vote this year, your voice matters greatly for the health of the Chesapeake Bay and our local rivers and streams. Learn more about priority issues and voting resources in your area, questions to consider when researching candidates for office, and why others are voting for the Bay this year. Beyond the election, as the watershed faces new pressures, it’s a critical moment for leaders to recommit to restoration and think big. Public support and advocacy for the Bay year-round—not just on Nov. 5—will be more important than ever to make that happen (these resources can help you take action all year long). Other big headlines this month include: a study linking osprey starvation to menhaden; opposition to waterfront development on Kent Island; a community-oriented oyster restoration project in the Hampton River; and more. 

A bald eagle sits in the middle of a marsh with brown and gold grasses, looking off in the distance.

Debra Brown

Vote for the Bay

To save the Bay now and for generations to come, participation in our democracy is essential. That's why it's so important to urge candidates running for public office to support policies that are good for clean water and good for our communities. Learn more about priority issues and voting resources in your area. 


An aerial view of forests flanking a river.

At sunset on a calm day, the Sassafras River reflects the sky like a mirror.

Sam Shoge

Five Questions for Candidates

Elections matter. Your vote matters. If continued protections for clean air and water and healthy communities are important to you, know the issues and where each candidate stands. To get you started, we compiled a list of questions to consider when researching candidates for office, attending town halls, or more.


A skiff is tied up to a sign that reads Watch for Children on a marsh across an inlet from buildings and a water tower at sunrise.

Early morning calm on the West Ridge facing Tangier School and the water tower on Tangier Island.

Caroline Maryan

Hiking to the Polls

For many, heading to the polls on election day means a visit to a school, community center, or library. But this election day, some people in the watershed will head to these 11 surprising locations to cast their vote—including a nature center, a whiskey distillery,  and the country’s largest smorgasbord. 


The noonday sun creates sparkles on the water.

Jessica Srebroski

A Moment to Think Big

Chesapeake Bay restoration started as an impossible dream. But strong action from the region’s leaders over the past 40 years led to major wins: the phosphate ban, big declines in wastewater pollution, and large-scale oyster reef restoration. As the watershed faces new pressures, CBF President and CEO Hilary Harp Falk calls on leaders to once again recommit and think big


A bald eagle stares at its reflection.

A bald eagle appears to admire its reflection at Rock Creek, Washington, D.C.

Brian Wee

Sign the Pledge!

The Bay can’t vote, but YOU can! Thanks to clean water advocates like you, we've celebrated many wins across the watershed. But those wins start with electing officials at all levels, from local to state to federal, that prioritize the environment. So do your part and pledge to vote for the Bay this fall. 

In the News

Shop CBF's New Fall Merch

Fall is officially here, and it's time to get cozy with fresh merch from the CBF Store! From soft sweatshirts to trendy tees, enjoy the cool weather in style. We've even restocked some fan favorites, including our Sunset Crewneck Sweatshirt and Terrapin Save the Bay T-Shirt.

What You Can Do

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Disclaimer

The views and opinions expressed in the media or articles on this site are those of the speakers or authors and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions held by CBF and the inclusion of such information does not imply endorsement by CBF. CBF is not responsible for the contents of any linked Website, or any link contained in a linked Website, or any changes or updates to such Websites. The inclusion of any link is provided only for information purposes.


The Bay Needs You

The State of the Bay Report makes it clear that the Bay needs our support now more than ever. Your donation helps the Chesapeake Bay Foundation maintain our momentum toward a restored Bay, rivers, and streams for today and generations to come.

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Volunteer

Do you enjoy working with others to help clean the Chesapeake Bay? Do you have a few hours to spare? Whether growing oysters, planting trees, or advocating for a clean Bay, there are plenty of ways you can contribute.

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