Dry Spring Could Mean Smaller Dead Zone in Chesapeake Bay

The annual dead zone that threatens underwater life in the Chesapeake Bay is expected to be smaller than average this summer, according to a forecast issued today by the Chesapeake Bay Program and partners.

The dead zone forecast comes as much of the Chesapeake Bay region is experiencing a drought. Dead zone fluctuations from year to year are connected to weather, as well as efforts to keep nitrogen and phosphorus pollution out of waterways.

Runoff from rainstorms washes pollutants into the Bay. This pollution, together with wastewater treatment plant discharges, fuels algal blooms. When these algal blooms die and decompose, they use oxygen in the water and create dead zones. These are areas in the Bay and its rivers that don’t contain enough oxygen to support culturally and economically important animals such as fish, crabs, and oysters.

Chesapeake Bay Foundation (CBF) Senior Vice President for Programs Alison Hooper Prost issued the following statement.

“A smaller dead zone forecast this summer is welcome news, but dry weather won’t save the Chesapeake Bay. We’re currently in a drought that could have devastating consequences for farmers. But the long-term trend for our region is wetter weather and more intense storms, which equals more polluted runoff and dirtier water.

“Federal and states leaders from across the region just signed an updated Chesapeake Bay Watershed Agreement. Now it’s time to put the plan into action with policies and investments needed to restore the Bay for generations to come. That includes funding for USGS monitoring efforts that support the dead zone forecast and help more efficiently and effectively restore the Bay.”