Chesapeake Bay Foundation sets eyes on improving water quality this Maryland legislative session

MARYLAND – The Chesapeake Bay Foundation announcing their legislative priorities with a major focus on improving water quality.

The organization says there’s currently a deadline of 2025 for the Chesapeake Bay Clean Water Blueprint focused on tackling nutrient and sediment pollution for the Bay.

We’re told much of that progress has been seen in the wastewater sector.

This session, they’re looking to increase the use of natural filters to help finish the job of restoring the Bay.

A lot of the legislation they’re supporting surrounds the benefits of natural filters, including more protection for trees and forests. “It would also ensure that any forest that is lost from development is mitigated by ensuring that when a tree comes down a tree is put back. The current law expects that and it’s not working,” CBF Eastern Shore Director Alan Girard said.

“These forests are great natural filters for water quality, and they also help clean the air. They’re great for wildlife habitat and help attenuate climate change from flooding.”

The Chesapeake Bay Foundation is supporting legislation to increase the use of living shorelines along state waterfronts and support diversity and inclusion in the oyster aquaculture industry.