A Day on the Water with the Blue Crab Winter Dredge Survey

For decades, the annual blue crab winter dredge survey, conducted by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources and the Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS), has provided crucial information for assessing the health of the Chesapeake Bay’s blue crab population. In March 2023, we joined VIMS researchers as they surveyed the lower Chesapeake Bay at 18 different locations between New Point Comfort and Cape Charles, Virginia. They pulled the dredge along the bottom for 60 seconds at each location, then recorded important information about each crab caught. This is one of many trips by Virginia and Maryland researchers that takes place each winter around the Bay and its tidal rivers to paint a picture of the Bay’s blue crab population.

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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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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