We've said it before, but complex problems require complex solutions. A frustrating, yet inescapable truth, this reality is encountered daily in our work to save the Bay and its rivers and streams. This week was no exception to this rule.
For years, some have pointed to the sediment piled up behind the Conowingo Dam as the central culprit for all the Bay's water quality issues. While the Conowingo deserves attention, studies have shown that the most cost effective approach to reducing pollution coming across the dam is to implement practices that will reduce pollution upstream.
Ultimately, there is no silver bullet that will Save the Bay. We need a comprehensive strategy that will implement best management practices yielding tangible results, all the while holding polluting parties accountable. Fortunately, this strategy exists in the Chesapeake Clean Water Blueprint. And we're seeing results.
This week, Baltimore took major steps to improving their sewer infrastructure.
Last week, farmers, government officials, and others, toured a Pennsylvania farm learning about sustainable agriculture.
And, advocates maintained the fight for continued federal funding in the Bay cleanup.
Not one of these things individually will Save the Bay. But with the implementation of the Blueprint, and an army of advocates fighting for clean water, we will leave a saved Bay to future generations.
This Week in the Watershed: Dam Dredging, Sewer Upgrades, and Rainwater Beer
- Citizen scientists in the Charm City are working to identify the air cleanliness on Baltimore's streets. (Baltimore Sun—MD)
- Maryland Governor Larry Hogan announced a pilot project to dredge a portion of the sediment behind the Conowingo Dam. A wide variety of opinions exist in the environmental community on the Conowingo's true impact on the Bay's health. (Bay Journal) BONUS: CBF Press Statement
- The city of Baltimore announced a major sewer improvement project to reduce pollution in Baltimore's waterways and the Bay. (Baltimore Business Journal—MD) BONUS: CBF Press Statement
- Last week, farmers, government officials, and nonprofit groups toured a Pennsylvania farm which has implemented many conservation practices, learning how they can integrate clean-water friendly practices into their sphere of influence. (Lancaster Farming—PA)
- To celebrate our 50th anniversary, we partnered with Pleasure House Brewery to brew a custom beer from filtered rainwater gathered at our Brock Environmental Center! (The Virginian-Pilot—VA)
- CBF's Board of Trustees Chairman Harry Lester discusses how the Bay and its rivers and streams are integral to the Hampton Roads community, and why federal support is essential for their continuing recovery. (The Virginian-Pilot—VA)
- Despite all the evidence demonstrating the benefits of students learning outside, federal support for environmental literacy is in jeopardy. (Free Lance Star—VA)
- The Altantic States Marine Fisheries Commission has released a draft amendment to their Menhaden fisheries plan for public comment. Stay tuned.
What's Happening around the Watershed?
August 26
- Wrightsville, PA: Join CBF, Heroes on the Water, and local Trout Unlimited chapters for a day of fishing, paddling, and fly-fishing lessons on the Susquehanna River as we celebrate our veterans and the value of clean waterways. Veterans, community members, paddlers, fishermen, friends, and family are welcome at Shank’s Mare Outfitters from 1 to 5 p.m., to discover and appreciate the Susquehanna. From 5 to 7 p.m., CBF will host a dinner and open bar with live music for all participants. There is a $5 entrance fee for dinner and drinks.
September 6
- Easton, MD: Why should you care about menhaden? Learn about this incredibly important critter and join us for a film screening of “Menhaden: The Most Important Fish in the Bay,” followed by a discussion with CBF Maryland Fisheries Scientist, Allison Colden. All attendees will be eligible to win a goodie basket chock full of fun, fishy menhaden swag. This event is free and open to the public, but registration is required. Click here to register!
- Richmond, VA: CBF's Virginia office is holding a candidates forum to hear from Lt. Gov. Northam and Ed Gillespie, contenders for the Governor's office. Stay tuned for details.
September 10
- Virginia Beach, VA: Help us celebrate our 50th anniversary—join us at Save the Bay Family Day! Bring your family and friends for a thrilling day of educational experiences, local bites, live music, and more! This event is free and open to the public, but registration is required. Click here to register!
September 16
- Easton, MD: Join us on International Coastal Cleanup Day to clean ponds and streams that lead to the Tred Avon River. All participants will receive a free, reusable CBF tote. This event is free and open to the public, but registration is required. Click here to register!
October 1
- Upper Marlboro, MD: Join us at Burgers and Brews for the Bay! A fun-filled afternoon on our Clagget farm, enjoy live music, craft-brewed beers, and mouth-watering food created by area chefs using local ingredients. A family friendly event, it features live bluegrass music, hay rides, fish printing, and educational stations. Learn more and buy your tickets here!
Issues in this Post
Chesapeake Clean Water Blueprint
Advocacy Agriculture Conowingo Dam and
Chesapeake Bay Runoff Pollution Water Quality
CBF in Maryland CBF in Virginia Eastern Shore Office CBF at the Federal Level Hampton Roads Office Maryland Office, Annapolis CBF in Pennsylvania Virginia Office, Richmond
