2021 Press Releases

Chesapeake Bay Trust Issues Chesapeake Oyster Innovation Awards

December 21, 2021

The Chesapeake Bay Trust, in partnership with the Chesapeake Oyster Alliance, is pleased to announce the approval of 13 grants in Maryland and Virginia for the Chesapeake Oyster Innovation Awards, a program supported by CBF.

CBF Applauds Final Near-Term GHG Standards, Urges EPA to Make Next Round Stronger

December 20, 2021

Today EPA released final limits on greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from cars, pickup trucks, and SUVs for model years 2023 to 2026. The rule reverses the Trump administration’s harmful rollback of these standards, which are essential to restoring the Chesapeake Bay and fighting climate change.

CBF Issues Statement on Executive Council Meeting

December 15, 2021

The Chesapeake Executive Council met today in Richmond, Virginia, and selected EPA Administrator Michael Regan to be the next Council Chair. Following the meeting, CBF President William C. Baker issued this statement.

CBF Statement on the Death of Sen. Bernie Fowler

December 13, 2021

CBF President William C. Baker issued this statement on the passing of Sen. Bernie Fowler

CBF Supports Biden White House Proposal to Restore Environmental Review Rules

November 22, 2021

CBF today submitted comments supporting the Biden administration’s proposal to restore important protections to the rules for reviewing the environmental impacts of federal projects. CBF filed joint comments with the Choose Clean Water Coalition, the Coalition for the Delaware River Watershed, and the Healing Our Waters—Great Lakes Coalition.

CBF Cheers House Passage of $27 Billion for USDA Conservation Programs

November 19, 2021

CBF hailed today’s 220-213 vote by the U.S. House of Representatives to pass a $1.7 trillion budget package that would devote $27 billion to conservation programs run by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

CBF Issues Statement on Green 2.0 Report Card

November 17, 2021

Today, Green 2.0 released new diversity and inclusion data from environmental NGOs and foundations. Green 2.0 is a nonprofit organization working to increase racial and ethnic diversity among environmental organizations.

CBF Congratulates New USDA Under Secretary for Farm Production and Conservation Robert Bonnie

November 16, 2021

CBF congratulates Robert Bonnie on winning Senate approval of his nomination to be Under Secretary of Agriculture for Farm Production and Conservation. The Senate voted 76-19 to confirm Mr. Bonnie, who currently serves as deputy chief of staff for policy and senior climate advisor to Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack.

Enactment of Infrastructure Legislation is Major Victory for Chesapeake Bay

November 15, 2021

Today, President Biden signed the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. The bill contains an increase of $238 million over five years for the Chesapeake Bay Program through EPA and an additional $11.715 billion over five years for the Clean Water State Revolving Fund.

House Passes Infrastructure Bill with Historic Boost for Chesapeake Bay Program

November 5, 2021

CBF hailed passage today by the U.S. House of Representatives of the $1.2 trillion bipartisan infrastructure bill, which boosts funding for EPA’s Chesapeake Bay Program by a historic $238 million over five years.

CBF Welcomes New Federal Legislative and Policy Attorney Keisha Sedlacek

November 2, 2021

CBF is pleased to announce Keisha Sedlacek has joined the Federal Affairs Office as Federal Legislative and Policy Attorney. Ms. Sedlacek’s first day was October 12.

CBF Board Selects New President & CEO

November 1, 2021

The CBF Board of Trustees has selected Hilary Harp Falk, a proven expert in large-scale ecosystem restoration, leading organizational change and coalition building, to be CBF’s next President & CEO. She will succeed William C. Baker, who began working for CBF as an intern in 1976 and has been President & CEO of the organization since 1981.

CBF Issues Statement on Water Quality Assessment

October 28, 2021

The most recent data from the Chesapeake Bay Program estimates that only a third of the Chesapeake Bay and its tidal rivers are healthy enough to support essential aquatic species. The score is lower than the previous assessment, which the Bay Program attributes to unusually wet weather.

Juvenile Striped Bass Numbers in Chesapeake Bay Remain below Average in Maryland

October 15, 2021

The Virginia Institute of Marine Science and the Maryland Department of Natural Resources today released the results of annual surveys of the juvenile striped bass population in the Chesapeake Bay. For the third consecutive year, the Maryland numbers are below average, while the Virginia numbers are about average.

CBF Commends the Selection of Adam Ortiz as EPA Region III Administrator

October 12, 2021

Alison Prost, CBF Vice President for Environmental Protection and Restoration, commended the selection of Adam Ortiz to be the new EPA Region III Administrator.

Chesapeake Executive Council Falls Short: CBF Issues Statement

October 1, 2021

The Council’s job is to lead Bay restoration efforts, establish the policy direction for the restoration and protection of the Bay and its living resources, and be accountable to the public for progress made under the Bay agreements. By those measures, the Executive Council has fallen short.

CBF Praises Watershed Farm Leaders’ Letter Urging More Money for USDA Conservation Programs

September 20, 2021

CBF applauds the state Farm Bureaus of the Bay watershed’s six states for urging the U.S. Department of Agriculture to devote nearly three quarters of a billion dollars to reducing agricultural pollution in the Chesapeake Bay and the local creeks, streams, and rivers that feed into it.

August Dead Zone Is Bad News for the Bay

September 17, 2021

CBF raised concerns about Bay restoration efforts following the August dead zone report. The report, from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources and Old Dominion University, found that dissolved oxygen conditions in Maryland and Virginia were worse than average this August following two better-than-average months.

CBF Urges Congress to Direct Large Share of USDA Budget Boost to Conservation Programs

August 24, 2021

CBF applauds the U.S. House of Representatives for adopting a budget resolution that boosts USDA funding by $89.1 billion. CBF urges lawmakers to invest a significant amount of those funds in conservation programs that improve soil health, reduce pollution, and bolster resilience to climate change.

Statement from CBF President William C. Baker on Senate Passage of Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill

August 10, 2021

CBF welcomed today's passage by the U.S. Senate of a $1.2 trillion infrastructure bill that would increase funding for EPA's Chesapeake Bay Program by $238 million over five years.

CBF Bands in the Sand Event Postponed until June 2022

August 10, 2021

CBF's Bands in the Sand event, originally scheduled for August 28, 2021, has been postponed to June 11, 2022.

CBF Praises Additional USDA Funding in Senate Budget Resolution

August 9, 2021

CBF praised the fiscal year 2022 Senate budget resolution introduced today for including an increase of $135 billion over ten years for U.S. Department of Agriculture programs.

CBF Hails Senate Appropriations Committee's Fiscal 2022 Spending Plan for Army Corps

August 6, 2021

The Senate Appropriations Committee’s fiscal year 2022 spending plan for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers includes a dedicated $9.6 million to restoration projects in the Chesapeake Bay watershed.

CBF Praises House Passage of Legislation to Fund Priority Programs Next Year

July 29, 2021

CBF praised today’s passage by the U.S. House of Representatives of fiscal year 2022 spending bills that include promising budget numbers for EPA’s Chesapeake Bay Program, a new Interior Department program to restore habitat in the Bay watershed, and Army Corps of Engineers oyster restoration work.

CBF Issuses Statement on 2020 Bay Grasses Survey Results

July 28, 2021

The Chesapeake Bay Program has released the results of the 2020 Bay grasses survey, which found a 7 percent decline from 2019.

CBF Endorses Sen. Casey’s Bill to Revitalize the Civilian Conservation Corps

July 22, 2021

CBF today endorsed legislation authored by Sen. Bob Casey (D-Pa) to create a new Civilian Conservation Corps that would put people to work restoring waterways and public lands, adopting sustainable farming practices, and improving resilience to climate change in local communities.

CBF Issues a Statement on the June Dead Zone Assessment

July 16, 2021

Data from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources and Old Dominion University found that the dead zone in the Chesapeake Bay was smaller than average in June.

CBF Cheers House Committee Push to Increase Oyster Restoration Funds in Fiscal 2022

July 16, 2021

The Chesapeake Bay Foundation (CBF) welcomed the House Appropriations Committee’s approval today, 33-24 of a fiscal year 2022 budget for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers that would explicitly dedicate funds next year to on-going large-scale oyster restoration work in Maryland and Virginia.

CBF Encouraged by Proposed Fiscal 2022 Funding Boost to NOAA Education and Habitat Restoration Programs

July 16, 2021

CBF applauded the House Appropriations Committee for voting 33-26 today to approve a fiscal year 2022 budget for NOAA that includes encouraging funding increases for watershed education and oyster restoration programs.

CBF Lauds Sens. Cardin, Casey for Championing PA Conservation Projects

July 9, 2021

CBF thanks U.S. Sens. Ben Cardin (D-Md.) and Robert Casey (D-Pa.) for their efforts to help achieve those requirements by seeking funds in next year’s budget for projects to tackle the biggest challenge to restoring the Bay—reducing polluted runoff from Pennsylvania farms.

CBF Cheers Robust Fiscal 2022 Funding for Priority Programs in House Committee Bill

July 1, 2021

The House Appropriations Committee today approved a fiscal year 2022 spending bill that would boost Chesapeake Bay Program funding by $3 million and provide $15 million for a new grant program to protect and restore fish and wildlife habitat in the watershed.

CBF Issues Statement on 2021 Dead Zone Forecast

June 23, 2021

The Chesapeake Bay’s dead zone is predicted to be smaller than average this summer. The forecast is largely based on the amount of rainfall from January to May.

CBF Statement on President Biden’s Fiscal Year 2022 Budget Request

May 28, 2021

President Biden today released a fiscal year 2022 budget request that would boost funding for the federal Chesapeake Bay Program to $90.5 million from its current level of $87.5 million. This $3 million increase, if enacted, would result in full funding for the Program.

CBF Statement on the Passing of Former Senator John W. Warner of Virginia

May 26, 2021

Upon the passing of former Senator John W. Warner of Virginia, CBF President William C. Baker has issued the following statement.

CBF Praises Bipartisan, Bicameral Bill to Reauthorize NOAA Chesapeake Bay Office and Education Program

May 25, 2021

Reps. John Sarbanes (D-MD), Rob Wittman (R-VA), Robert C. “Bobby” Scott (D-VA), and Sen. Mark Warner (D-VA) today introduced companion legislation in the House and Senate to reauthorize the Chesapeake Bay Office of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and authorize increasing its funding from $17 million in Fiscal Year 2022 to $22.6 million by Fiscal Year 2025.

Blue Crab Survey Results Show ‘Mixed Bag’

May 21, 2021

The Virginia Marine Resources Commission and Maryland Department of Natural Resources released the results of the 2021 Blue Crab Winter Dredge Survey, an annual estimate of the population of blue crabs in the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries.

CBF Issues Statement on the Billion for the Bay Initiative

May 13, 2021

Chesapeake Bay Foundation President William C. Baker commended the region’s leaders for the Billion for the Bay Initiative proposed in a letter to Congressional leaders today.

CBF Applauds EPA Move to Restore States' Ability to Adopt Tougher Auto Standards

April 26, 2021

CBF applauds EPA’s proposal taking the first step toward restoring states’ authority to adopt tougher clean vehicle standards than the federal government requires in their fight against transportation emissions and climate change.

CBF Applauds Rep. Spanberger's Growing Climate Solutions Act

April 22, 2021

Rep. Abigail Spanberger (D-VA) today introduced bipartisan legislation to help farmers, ranchers, and foresters overcome barriers they face when trying to participate in voluntary carbon markets, where they can sell credits they earn for implementing climate-friendly conservation practices.

CBF Responds to the Conviction of Derek Chauvin

April 21, 2021

Clean air, clean water, and a life without fear of violence are rights we all share. We must all continue to raise our voices for racial justice.

CBF Welcomes New Investments in Farm Conservation Programs

April 21, 2021

Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack today announced new investments the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) plans to make in the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) and other programs that help farmers adopt environmentally friendly best management practices that can also mitigate the effects of climate change.

U.S. Secretary of State Blinken Delivers Climate Speech from Chesapeake Bay Foundation Headquarters

April 19, 2021

Today, Chesapeake Bay Foundation (CBF) President Will Baker welcomed U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken to CBF’s headquarters in Annapolis. In a speech, Sec. Blinken announced stronger U.S. efforts to mitigate climate change.

Environmental Justice for All Act is a Crucial Step to Empowering Vulnerable Communities

March 19, 2021

House Natural Resources Committee Chairman Raul Grijalva and Rep. Donald McEachin have introduced landmark legislation that would strengthen the ability of communities overburdened by multiple sources of harmful pollution to protect and enforce their rights to good health and a clean, safe environment.

CBF Congratulates Regan on Confirmation as EPA Administrator, Praises His Commitment to Saving the Bay

March 10, 2021

The U.S. Senate confirmed Michael S. Regan as EPA administrator. At his confirmation hearing, Administrator Regan pledged the EPA would be a partner in meeting the Chesapeake Clean Water Blueprint.

"Do Nothing" Toxic Ozone Rule Challenged by Health and Environmental Groups

February 11, 2021

Today, fourteen health and environmental groups challenged ozone standards in a lawsuit in a federal appeals court. The move comes in response to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Trump administration’s last-minute refusal to strengthen the National Ambient Air Quality Standards for ozone, and less than a month after Earthjustice sued the EPA over a similar rule affecting particulate matter.

After Major Striped Bass Decline, ASMFC Opens Fishery Plan to Comment

February 3, 2021

In another step towards rebuilding the striped bass population, an Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC) panel will open the Public Information Document for Amendment 7 for public comment.

CBF Welcomes Court Rebuke of Trump EPA "Secret Science" Rule

February 1, 2021

A federal court today threw out the Trump EPA’s rule limiting the agency’s access to the best available science.

CBF President Will Baker to Retire

January 22, 2021

CBF President William C. Baker and the Board of Trustees today discussed succession planning for Baker’s retirement at the end this year.

CBF Applauds Biden Administration's Promising Start

January 20, 2021

CBF is thrilled the Biden administration has hit the ground running to reverse its predecessors’ dismal record of sidelining science, ignoring public health, and issuing flawed rules that undermine the intent of our nation’s bedrock environmental laws and the Chesapeake Clean Water Blueprint.

CBF Praises DC Circuit Decision to Vacate Trump EPA's Affordable Clean Energy Rule

January 19, 2021

Today’s decision overturns the ACE rule, which contains the repeal of the Clean Power Plan, and directs EPA to write a new rule to regulate GHG emission from power plants.

CBF Sues EPA for Failing to Protect Watershed Residents and the Bay from Particulate Pollution

January 19, 2021

CBF and environmental and public health partners today sued EPA for refusing to strengthen air quality limits for small, airborne particles (known as particulate matter).

Groups File Brief with D.C. Circuit Opposing Trump Administration’s “Indefensible” Clean Cars Rollback

January 14, 2021

CBF and several of the nation’s largest public health, consumer and environmental groups today presented the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia with a detailed and substantial case showing why the Trump administration’s rollback of the Clean Car Standards is unlawful.

CBF Slams New Rule Limiting EPA Access to Sound Science

January 5, 2021

EPA finalized a rule today that hamstrings the agency’s ability to use all available sound science in its work, including setting and revising standards essential to restoring the Chesapeake Bay and its waterways.

CBF's 2020 State of the Bay Score Down Slightly

January 5, 2021

This year, the Chesapeake Bay Foundation's assessment of the State of the Bay remained at a D+, but declined by one point from 2018. While concerning, the decline is largely due to ineffective management of the Bay's striped bass population, as opposed to water quality concerns.

MDE Permit for Valley Proteins Critically Deficient

December 16, 2021

CBF, ShoreRivers, and Dorchester Citizens For Planned Growth have filed comments on the proposed Maryland Department of the Environment wastewater discharge permit for Valley Proteins, finding it critically deficient.

BWB and CBF Take Action Against Short-Sighted Stormwater Permits

December 6, 2021

Blue Water Baltimore, partnering with CBF, today filed a petition for judicial review of to the municipal separate storm sewer system (MS4) permits recently issued for Baltimore City and County.

CBF Raises Concerns over New MDE Permits

November 5, 2021

CBF raised serious concerns about municipal separate storm sewer system (MS4) permits that the Maryland Department of the Environment issued today for Baltimore City and Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Prince George’s, and Montgomery Counties.

New Report Raises Questions about Maryland Department of the Environment’s Draft Wastewater Permit for Massive Eastern Shore Development

October 27, 2021

An engineering report being released today found several issues with Maryland Department of the Environment’s issuance of a draft wastewater permit that would enable the proposed Lakeside at Trappe development to spray wastewater onto fields near Miles Creek and the Choptank River.

Partners Introduce Oyster Spat to New Solar-Powered Aquaculture System in Baltimore

October 21, 2021

Staff from CBF and Solar Oysters loaded about 300,000 spat-on-shell oysters onto a new automated aquaculture platform in the Baltimore Harbor. The platform uses solar power to rotate large oyster cages filled with young oysters to clean the bivalves and help them grow over time.

Volunteers Needed for Tree Plantings in Maryland This Month

October 13, 2021

CBF is hosting three tree plantings in October to help bolster shorelines and reduce Bay pollution. Volunteers are invited to planting events across Maryland to bolster shorelines along streams.

Prizes Announced for Rod and Reef Slam Fishing Tournament That Starts Oct. 9

October 5, 2021

Anglers who catch the most different species of fish in the unique Rod and Reef Slam Fishing Tournament can win a grand prize worth up to $1,400 in Under Armour fishing apparel and All Tackle gift certificates while division winners receive other exciting prizes.

Maryland Environmental Groups Respond to Newly Released Draft Wastewater Permit for Valley Proteins’ Eastern Shore Rendering Plant

September 16, 2021

Yesterday, Maryland Department of the Environment issued a new draft wastewater permit for the Valley Proteins chicken rendering facility, which is the largest point source polluter in the Transquaking River watershed on Maryland’s Eastern Shore.

CBF Issues Statement on EPA Proposal to Add Bear Creek Sediments Site to Superfund List

September 8, 2021

Today, the federal Environmental Protection Agency proposed adding at least 60 acres of Bear Creek in Baltimore County to the Superfund National Priorities List (NPL). The NPL lists hazardous waste sites eligible for cleanup financed by the federal Superfund program.

Chesapeake Bay Foundation’s Outdoor Education Program Restarts This Fall after Pandemic Shutdown

September 1, 2021

CBF educators are excited to welcome teachers and students back to outdoor education programs this fall. The outdoor class program was suspended in March 2020 when the pandemic began.

Rod and Reef Slam Fishing Tournament Returns This October in Maryland

September 1, 2021

The Rod and Reef Slam Fishing Tournament returns for its fourth year in Maryland waters this fall from Oct. 9 to Oct. 17. The contest is designed to highlight the diversity of fish that surround oyster reefs. To do that, anglers will fish in areas where oyster reefs have been restored in Maryland.

CBF Urges Baltimore Department of Public Works to Fix Major Issues at Maryland’s Two Largest Wastewater Treatment Plants

August 31, 2021

CBF is urging Baltimore’s Department of Public Works to take swift action to address the litany of pollution problems revealed at the Back River and Patapsco wastewater treatment plants. The issues have the potential to significantly harm the success of Maryland’s ongoing Bay cleanup work, which depends on significant pollutant reductions from wastewater treatment plants.

Partnership Adds 78 Oyster Reef Balls off Coast of Chesapeake Beach, Maryland

July 29, 2021

CBF staff and project partners added 78 reef balls to the Maryland Artificial Reef Initiative site located in the Herring Bay oyster sanctuary. The oyster reef balls were placed about two miles offshore in a sanctuary protected from oyster harvesting.

Report: Freshwater Mussels Unsung Heroes at Risk in Chesapeake Bay Watershed

July 29, 2021

Freshwater mussels play an amazing yet little-known role in healthy rivers and streams in the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Maryland recently began several pilot restoration projects to monitor and augment mussel populations in the Bay watershed.

Chesapeake Bay Foundation Issues Recommendations for Maryland Oyster Regulations

June 22, 2021

In comments filed with Maryland's Department of Natural Resources, the Chesapeake Bay Foundation is asking the state to take stronger action to end oyster overfishing and develop a rebuilding plan for areas of the Bay where the oyster population has declined to the lowest levels on record.

CBF Issues Statement on UMCES Report Card

June 22, 2021

The University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science has released its Chesapeake Bay and Watershed Report Card for 2020 and its overall score remained unchanged from last year at a B-.

CBF Statement on 2021 Maryland Oyster Stock Assessment Update

June 9, 2021

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) presented preliminary information Tuesday evening from the 2021 oyster stock assessment update indicating the market-size oyster population in Maryland rose slightly, while spat estimates increased to the highest level in the previous 20 years.

CBF Commends Officials on Formal Kickoff for Baltimore Headworks Project

May 10, 2021

Today, Baltimore and Maryland officials held a formal ribbon-cutting to celebrate the completion of the Headworks Project, a $429 million upgrade to the city’s Back River Wastewater Treatment Plant that’s designed to prevent sewer overflows.

CBF Statement on EPA’s Evaluation of the Conowingo Watershed Implementation Plan

May 6, 2021

The Chesapeake Bay Foundation’s Director of Science and Agricultural Policy, Beth McGee, issued this statement following the release of EPA’s comments on how the additional pollution to the Chesapeake Bay from the lost trapping capacity at Conowingo Dam should be addressed.

CBF Statement on Climate Solutions Now Act and the End of Maryland’s 2021 General Assembly Session

April 13, 2021

The Maryland Senate and House of Delegates were unable to reach an agreement over the two different versions of the Climate Solutions Now Act that each chamber had passed earlier this session. However, some of the legislation’s components were added to other bills that were approved.

Maryland Environmental Groups File Notice of Potential Lawsuit Against Valley Proteins for Pollution Violations

April 13, 2021

Maryland environmental groups sent a notice of intent to bring a lawsuit against Valley Proteins for violating its wastewater permit. The goal of this action is to bring Valley Proteins into compliance and protect water quality, the environment, and public health.

CBF Statement on the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission's Decision to Relicense Conowingo Dam

March 18, 2021

Today, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) approved the relicensing of the Conowingo Hydroelectric Project, effectively ratifying Maryland’s settlement offer with Exelon to enable the utility to continue operating Conowingo Dam. The settlement fails to adequately address water pollution issues associated with the dam’s operations.

CBF Encouraged by Maryland Senate's Approval
of Climate Solutions Now Act

March 12, 2021

Today the Maryland Senate passed a bill requiring the state to reduce 60 percent of its greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and puts in place concrete actions to guide the state to this goal.

CBF: New Maryland Court Ruling Should Prompt Action to Reduce Poultry-Related Air Pollution

March 12, 2021

On Thursday, Montgomery County Circuit Court Judge Sharon Burrell ruled that the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) must regulate ammonia air emissions from large chicken farms.

CBF Statement from President Will Baker on Being Honored by Maryland Senate

February 26, 2021

CBF President Will Baker, who announced in January that he plans to retire at the end of the year, issued this statement in response to the Maryland Senate resolution marking his retirement.

CBF Urges Maryland Legislators to Restore Funding for Outdoor Education

February 22, 2021

CBF is asking Maryland legislators to restore funding for outdoor education programs that Gov. Larry Hogan zeroed out for the second straight year.

CBF Adds 14 Million Oysters to Chesapeake Bay in Maryland in 2020

February 11, 2021

CBF continued its long-term push to restore oyster reefs in the Chesapeake Bay by adding more than 14 million oysters in Maryland waters during 2020’s pandemic-affected season.

CBF Files Lawsuit Contesting Wastewater Permit for Major Proposed Eastern Shore Development

February 1, 2021

Today CBF filed a lawsuit against the Maryland Department of the Environment contesting the legality of the wastewater discharge permit it issued for Trappe at Lakeside, a major development proposed on Maryland’s Eastern Shore.

CBF Urges Legislators to Approve Climate Solutions Now Act

January 27, 2021

CBF is urging Maryland legislators to support a bill that will reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enable the state to plant millions of trees.

CBF Statement on the Passing of Longtime Maryland Senate President Mike Miller

January 15, 2021

"The ongoing restoration of the Chesapeake Bay wouldn’t have been possible without a leader like Sen. Miller. He loved history, and he loved the Bay.”

Josh Kurtz Named Chesapeake Bay Foundation’s Maryland Executive Director

January 12, 2021

In his new role, Kurtz will lead CBF staff in Annapolis and Easton as they work on policies and legislation aimed at helping Maryland reach its 2025 Chesapeake Clean Water Blueprint pollution reduction goals.

CBF Commends New Clean Water Grants and Urges Even Greater Investments

December 16, 2021

Shannon Gority, executive director for the CBF in Pennsylvania, issued this statement after Governor Tom Wolf announced that $17.4 million in grant funding was being awarded to projects in 33 counties to reduce pollution in local rivers, streams and lakes.

Lancaster and Philadelphia Women Honored for Conservation and Community Building in Under-Served Neighborhoods

November 5, 2021

he Keystone 10 Million Trees Partnership has awarded its Mira Lloyd Dock Partnership Diversity Awards to Kiasha Huling of Philadelphia and Shauna Yorty of Lancaster. The women were recognized for their conservation work and community building in under-represented portions of their cities.

Farms and Forests Are Short-Sighted Locations for Solar Projects

October 15, 2021

Most of Pennsylvania's solar farm projects have been proposed for locations that are not only short-sighted and counter-intuitive to tackling climate change, they have the potential to lead to a cascade of other negative ecological impacts.

CBF Applauds NFWF Grants to Improve Pennsylvania’s Water Quality and Urges Greater Federal Support

October 15, 2021

Shannon Gority, Executive Director for CBF in Pennsylvania, issued this statement applauding National Fish and Wildlife Foundation grants totaling roughly $3.88 million to clean and restore polluted rivers and streams in the Commonwealth.

Keystone 10 Million Trees Partnership Enters Fourth Fall Season

September 30, 2021

This fall, the Keystone 10 Million Trees Partnership members will have planted roughly 65,500 native trees. By the end of this year, committed and resilient partners will have planted about 200,000 trees amid lingering pandemic limitations.

CBF Applauds Support for Growing Greener and Clean Streams Fund and Urges Passage by Full Senate

September 29, 2021

The Chesapeake Bay Foundation issued a statement commending the Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee for passing to the full Senate legislation that would allocate $500 million to conservation and clean water programs that help farmers, local governments, and projects across the state.

CBF Applauds Governor Wolf’s Call for $737 Million to Support Farmers’ Clean Water and Climate Change Efforts

September 7, 2021

CBF issued a statement from Pennsylvania Executive Director Shannon Gority today, commending Governor Tom Wolf for urging U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack to implement the $737 million Chesapeake Bay Resilient Farms Initiative (CRFI).

CBF Urges Support for Pennsylvania Program to Reduce Carbon Dioxide Emissions

September 1, 2021

CBF issued the following statement from Pennsylvania Executive Director Shannon Gority today, supporting proposed regulations to establish a Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Budget Trading Program (CDBTP) and the Commonwealth joining the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI).

Call for Nominations: Mira Lloyd Dock Award Recognizes Conservation and Urban Beautification Work

August 26, 2021

The Keystone 10 Million Trees Partnership is accepting nominations for the second annual Mira Lloyd Dock Partnership Diversity Award, given for conservation work in under-represented communities in Pennsylvania.

It’s an Opportune Time for Action and Cleaner Water

August 5, 2021

Seizing current opportunities can put Pennsylvania back on track toward its goals for cleaner local rivers and streams and saving the Bay. But action must be taken now; time is running out.

"Livers of Our Rivers" Could Help Clean Up Pennsylvania Waters

July 29, 2021

As a new report details the importance of restoring declining populations of freshwater mussels within the Chesapeake Bay watershed, multiple programs in Pennsylvania are working to do just that.

Shuffling Conservation Funds for Other Purposes Is a No-No – Says State Supreme Court

July 22, 2021

CBF issued the following statement from Pennsylvania Executive Director Shannon Gority, applauding the state Supreme Court’s ruling this week that it is unconstitutional for the Commonwealth to transfer monies from the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Oil and Gas Fund to the General Fund in order to fill budget gaps.

Squad of CBF Students Sets Out to Squish Spotted Lanternflies

July 22, 2021

CBF’s Student Leadership Council has launched “Squish Squad,” joining efforts throughout Pennsylvania to contain and eradicate the invasive spotted lanternfly.

CBF Urges Municipalities to Use Some Pandemic Recovery Funds to Invest in Local Waters

July 14, 2021

The Chesapeake Bay Foundation issued the following statement from Pennsylvania Executive Director Shannon Gority, encouraging municipalities within the Commonwealth’s portion of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed that will receive a portion of a total of $170 million of American Rescue Plan funding, to invest some of it in projects that will clean up and protect water quality in their local communities.

Report on Economic Impact of Agriculture in Pennsylvania Reinforces Call for Greater Investments in the Industry

April 30, 2021

The Chesapeake Bay Foundation issued a statement by Pennsylvania Executive Director Shannon Gority following release of a new report on the economic impact of agriculture in Pennsylvania.

Pennsylvania's Proposed Budget Does Little to Address Chronic Underfunding for Clean Water

February 4, 2021

Unfortunately, Governor Tom Wolf’s $37.8 billion General Fund budget proposal for fiscal year 2021-22 does little to help the Commonwealth change course from being significantly behind in meeting its clean water goals.

Virginia Biennial Budget Proposes Historic Funding for Clean Water

December 15, 2021

Today Virginia Governor Ralph Northam previewed his proposed budget for clean water, covering fiscal years 2023 and 2024. The budget proposes $1 billion for programs to clean up local waterways and the Chesapeake Bay.

CBF, JRA, and EIP Issue Statement on Henrico Consent Order

December 14, 2021

The State Water Control Board today approved another consent order with Henrico County that fails to solve chronic water pollution violations by its sewage treatment plant and sewage collection system.

Virginia Releases Coastal Resilience Master Plan

December 7, 2021

Today Virginia Governor Ralph Northam released Virginia’s Coastal Resilience Master Plan, which aims to protect communities vulnerable to flooding and provides a roadmap for adapting to climate change.

Clean Water Advocates File Federal Lawsuit to Halt Decades of Violations by Henrico Sewage System

December 6, 2021

Three environmental organizations filed a federal lawsuit today to halt decades of water pollution violations by Henrico County’s sewage treatment plant and sewage collection system, including the release of more than 66 million gallons of raw sewage into the James River in the last five years alone.

Virginia Air Board Denies Permit for Pipeline Compressor Station

December 3, 2021

Today in a 6-1 vote the Virginia Air Pollution Control Board denied a permit for a controversial proposed compressor station in Southside Virginia.

95-Year-Old Williamsburg Man Honored as Longest-Serving Oyster Restoration Volunteer

December 1, 2021

CBF today presented Walter Zadan with an award for outstanding environmental stewardship recognizing him as CBF’s longest-serving Virginia oyster shell recycling volunteer.

Virginia Completes Major Oyster Restoration Projects

November 30, 2021

Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam today announced the completion of major oyster restoration projects on Virginia’s Piankatank and Great Wicomico rivers, totaling more than 150 acres of oyster habitat combined.

CBF Statement on Election of Glenn Youngkin to Virginia Governor

November 3, 2021

Chesapeake Bay Foundation Virginia Executive Director Peggy Sanner issued the following statement on the election of Glenn Youngkin to Virginia Governor.

CBF Statement on Passing of A. Linwood Holton Jr.

October 29, 2021

CBF Virginia Executive Director Peggy Sanner issued the following statement on the passing of former Virginia Governor A. Linwood Holton.

Southside Richmond Residents Eligible for Free Trees in October Giveaway

October 11, 2021

Southside Richmond residents this October can receive two free native trees or shrubs to plant at home as part of a major initiative to increase tree cover under the Greening Southside Richmond project.

Alexandria Renew Enterprises to Prevent Millions of Gallons of Sewage Pollution

September 30, 2021

This morning, Alexandria Renew Enterprises (AlexRenew), Alexandria’s wastewater treatment provider, celebrated the groundbreaking of a major initiative to control millions of gallons of raw sewage polluting the Potomac River and the Chesapeake Bay.

Fredericksburg to Prevent Litter With Plastic Bag Fee

September 29, 2021

The Fredericksburg City Council has approved an ordinance to prevent litter through a 5-cent fee on disposable plastic bags provided at grocery stores, convenience stores, and drugstores.

Ann Jennings Appointed Virginia Secretary of Natural and Historic Resources

September 22, 2021

Virginia Governor Ralph Northam today appointed Ann Jennings as Virginia’s Secretary of Natural and Historic Resources. Jennings has served for more than three years as Virginia Deputy Secretary of Natural and Historic Resources, helping to implement Governor Northam’s priorities for the Chesapeake Bay, water quality, and natural resources.

Virginia Environmental Leader W. Tayloe Murphy Passes Away

September 16, 2021

Longtime Virginia environmental leader and Chesapeake Bay advocate W. Tayloe Murphy passed away on Wednesday, Sept. 15. Murphy served as Virginia Secretary of Natural Resources from 2002 to 2006 and as a member of the Virginia House of Delegates representing the Northern Neck throughout the 1980s and 1990s.

400,000 Dead Fish Spilled in Hampton Roads Waters by Omega Protein

September 10, 2021

This week Omega Protein, a Canadian owned seafood company, spilled more than 400,000 dead menhaden fish into Hampton Roads waters, according to a Sept. 8 letter by the Virginia Marine Resources Commission. The fish spilled during two separate incidents this week.

Virginia Efforts Plant 3.5 Million Oysters This Season from the Northern Neck to the Eastern Shore

September 7, 2021

CBF's Virginia Oyster Team is completing its 2021 oyster restoration season today after raising about 3.5 million new oysters on innovative oyster barges docked at the Brock Environmental Center in Virginia Beach. The barges produced a CBF Virginia record high spat set this year.

Hampton Roads Faces Harmful Algal Blooms This Week

August 27, 2021

A proliferation of harmful algal blooms this week across Hampton Roads is clear in striking aerial photos and videos captured by CBF and American Multimedia Solutions near the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel on Aug. 26. The algae colored the water reddish-brown in many places, including Ocean View in Norfolk, Chic’s Beach in Virginia Beach, and the Lafayette and York rivers.

Shenandoah’s North Fork under Health Advisory Due to Harmful Algal Bloom

August 13, 2021

The Virginia Department of Health this week urged people to avoid the water on more than 50 miles of the North Fork of the Shenandoah River due to dangerous toxic algal mats recently reported in Shenandoah and Warren counties. These harmful algal blooms can contain toxins that cause illnesses and rashes in people, pets, and livestock.

Virginia Farmers Now Eligible for Portable Fencing Funding to Protect Streams

August 10, 2021

This summer, farmers in Virginia became eligible for state cost-share funding to pay for portable fencing to keep livestock out of streams and rivers. Fencing livestock out of waterways has significant benefits for clean water because it prevents erosion and waste from polluting streams. The practice also contributes to healthier herds.

Virginia House and Senate Boost Budgets for Clean Water Programs

August 9, 2021

The Virginia Senate and House of Delegates, meeting in a special session today, approved appropriations that will substantially increase investments in programs that lead to cleaner water in rivers, streams, and the Chesapeake Bay.

Report: Freshwater Mussels Unsung Heroes at Risk in Chesapeake Bay Watershed

July 29, 2021

Freshwater mussels play an amazing yet little-known role in healthy rivers and streams. As their numbers dramatically decline, we must now focus on restoring mussel populations, according to a report issued this week.

Gov. Northam Proposes Clean Water Investments Totaling $411.5 Million in Federal Funds

July 27, 2021

Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam today announced a $411.5 million proposal to invest federal American Rescue Plan funds in updating Virginia wastewater and stormwater infrastructure.

Virginia Landowners Eligible for Full Funding to Plant Streamside Trees in Upper James Watershed

July 27, 2021

Under a new initiative, landowners in parts of Augusta, Alleghany, Bath, Botetourt, Craig, Highland, and Rockbridge counties can now receive full funding to plant trees along rivers and streams that eventually flow into the James River.

New Virginia Plan Should Protect Clean Water and Communities Vulnerable to Flooding

July 21, 2021

As Virginia seeks feedback from people affected by flooding to develop a coastal protection plan, CBF urges leaders to use this opportunity to provide greater water quality protections while defending vulnerable communities.

Governor Northam Signs Clean Water Bills

June 25, 2021

Today at the Chesapeake Bay Foundation’s Brock Environmental Center, Virginia Governor Ralph Northam signed legislation that will benefit the environment and the Chesapeake Bay. The bills were passed earlier this year by the Virginia General Assembly.

More Portsmouth Residents to Grow Oysters in Chesapeake Bay Foundation Effort

June 24, 2021

More people in Portsmouth will be able to raise oysters for restoration work this year as CBF expands its oyster gardening program. For the first time in more than a decade, CBF is offering an oyster gardening workshop in Portsmouth.

On National Soil Health Day, CBF Highlights Importance to Clean Water

June 23, 2021

As a member of the Virginia Soil Health Coalition, the Chesapeake Bay Foundation supports soil management for its ability to reduce polluted runoff from agriculture and trap carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

Clean the Bay Day Prevents 52,306 Pounds of Litter to Virginia Waterways in 2021

June 11, 2021

More than 2,000 volunteers across Virginia picked up 52,306 pounds of litter as part of Clean the Bay Day in 2021, the Chesapeake Bay Foundation’s (CBF) annual longstanding litter cleanup.

CBF Statement on Gov. Northam Directive to Reduce Polluted Runoff from State Lands

June 3, 2021

Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam issued a new executive directive setting targets for significantly reducing polluted runoff from lands owned by state agencies and public educational institutions.

Newly Open Classroom Redefines School in Chesapeake Bay Foundation-Virginia Beach City Public Schools Effort

May 20, 2021

A cutting-edge new classroom launched this spring is reinventing learning in a partnership between the Chesapeake Bay Foundation and Virginia Beach Public Schools at CBF’s Brock Environmental Center.

Clean the Bay Day Returns the First Week of June after COVID Cancellation in 2020

May 3, 2021

Clean the Bay Day, Virginia’s long-running annual litter cleanup, is coming back in a new way the first week of June after being cancelled in 2020 due to COVID-19. Last year was the first time the Chesapeake Bay Foundation’s Virginia tradition missed a year since the event began in 1989.

Southside Virginia Pipeline Compressor Station Raises Environmental Justice Concerns

April 27, 2021

The Chesapeake Bay Foundation is raising environmental justice and pollution concerns about a proposed compressor station in Pittsylvania County for the Mountain Valley Pipeline. The Lambert Compressor Station, an industrial facility planned to pump gas through the pipeline, would be built within five miles of four environmental justice communities with strong African American and American Indian roots.

Virginia DEQ Announces New Environmental Justice Director

April 23, 2021

CBF is encouraged by the announcement of an environmental justice director at DEQ and hopes it will prove a significant step forward in ensuring that Virginia’s communities have a meaningful voice in environmental decisions that could affect them.

Delegate Lopez Earns CBF’s Virginia Legislator of the Year

April 20, 2021

The Chesapeake Bay Foundation (CBF) this week presented Delegate Alfonso Lopez (D-Arlington and Fairfax) with a Virginia Legislator of the Year award for his work to achieve a healthy Chesapeake Bay and reduce pollution to Virginia’s rivers and streams.

Virginia to Phase Out Single-Use Plastics in State Government

March 23, 2021

Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam today released an executive order requiring the phase-out of single-use plastics by state government agencies, including all state universities and colleges.

Historic Budget for Clean Water Programs Passes Virginia General Assembly

March 1, 2021

Approving historically strong levels of investment in clean water programs, the Virginia Senate and House of Delegates this weekend passed final budget amendments for the upcoming second year of the biennial budget.

Virginia Bans on Balloon Releases and Polystyrene Are Environmental Wins

February 23, 2021

The Virginia General Assembly passed legislation prohibiting the outdoor release of nonbiodegradable balloons and separate legislation requiring food vendors to phase out their use of polystyrene takeout containers will greatly enhance Virginia’s efforts to prevent litter from polluting waterways.

Norfolk Artist's Work Inspired by Chesapeake Bay Foundation Oyster Restoration

February 11, 2021

A new exhibition at the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art displays striking collages by Norfolk artist Andy Harris inspired by CBF's oyster restoration efforts and exploring the connection between food and art.

Virginia House and Senate Release Budgets for Clean Water Programs

February 10, 2021

The Virginia Senate and House of Delegates today formally proposed separate amendments for the upcoming second year of the biennial budget. The budget proposals include investment in key programs that benefit Virginia’s rivers, streams, and the Chesapeake Bay.

Acclaimed Virginia Naturalist, Educator, and Photographer Bill Portlock Retires

January 21, 2021

Following a five-decade career advancing environmental education in Virginia and producing stunning nature photography, Bill Portlock retired earlier this month as Senior Educator for CBF.

Key Virginia Environment Bill Could Expand Tree Planting and Preservation

January 20, 2021

Legislation to allow Virginia counties and cities to better use trees to address flooding, reduce polluted runoff, and take steps to address the “heat island” effect, which is part of the legacy of past discriminatory lending practices, is expected to be heard in key House and Senate committees in the coming days.