Our members are the lifeblood of everything we do. Your critical support—whether through advocacy actions taken, generous donations, or volunteer hours—is saving the Bay. And now we want to hear from you.
Please take a few moments to give us your honest opinion. What clean water issues are important to you, and how can we improve our work?
The Bay suffered a massive assault in 2018. Extraordinary weather flushed enormous amounts of pollution into our waterways, causing the Bay's score to drop in our recent State of the Bay report. But despite this setback, there is heartening evidence that the Bay is showing signs of resiliency. Underwater grasses remain intact and recent studies indicate an improving trend in dead zones over the long term.
There is no doubt, however, that the Bay's recovery is fragile. We need you more than ever to maintain the momentum we have built through the Chesapeake Clean Water Blueprint. That's why it's so important that we hear from you. We need your input and feedback as we set our course in 2019. Your insight is invaluable, and we look forward to planning a successful 2019 together!
This Week in the Watershed: Restoring Oysters, Rising Seas, and Moving Ash
- CBF Maryland Executive Director Alison Prost sets the record straight on the scientific record of underwater grasses in the Bay and CBF's work to prevent pollution from poultry manure on the Eastern Shore. (Baltimore Sun—MD)
- A bipartisan agreement will recycle or move a massive amount of toxic coal ash to eliminate its threat to clean water. (WTVR—VA) BONUS: CBF Press Statement
- Virginians can help save the Bay by growing underwater grasses as part of CBF's "Grasses for the Masses" program. (Inside NOVA—VA) BONUS: Learn more and register here!
- An ominous new report warns that Maryland will face a dramatic increase in the rate of sea level rise later this century. (Bay Journal)
- The work to restore the Bay's native oyster fishery is not without obstacles and challenges. (WYPR—VA)
- CBF Hampton Roads Director Christy Everett writes on the need for citizens to stand up for clean water. (Daily Press—VA) BONUS: Learn more about Virginia's legislative priorities!
- More intense storms as a result of climate change likely will harm the health of the Bay due to increased erosion and polluted runoff. (The Post Journal)
What's Happening around the Watershed?
January 12-February 11
- Throughout Virginia: Help restore the health of the Chesapeake Bay and Virginia's rivers by participating in CBF's Grasses for the Masses program. Participants grow wild celery, a type of underwater grass, in their homes for 10-12 weeks. After 10-12 weeks of grow-out, participants will gather to plant their grasses in select local rivers to bolster grass populations and help restore the Bay. With workshops held throughout Virginia, there's plenty of opportunity to get involved. Find a workshop near you!
January 27
- Easton, MD: Join us for the second annual Oysters & Wine on the Shore. While sampling farmed oysters paired with complementary wines, get all your oyster questions answered by the policy experts, scientists, and oyster farmers themselves. And don't forget the authentic Smith Island cake paired with the perfect bubbly, Bay themed hors d'oeuvres, and live music. Get your tickets while they last!
January 31
- Easton, MD: Join us for the first event in our Angler's Night Out program series. Gather with anglers and fishing aficionados from around the Shore to watch fishing flicks, hear from experts and guides, and mingle with friends while enjoying food and drink specials. Learn more and register!
February 6
- Annapolis, MD: Come on out for an informative afternoon with the Maryland environmental community. Hear from advocates and elected officials about Maryland's environmental legislative priorities. Learn more here!
February 12
- Virginia Beach, VA: Join us for our next installment of our Brock Environmental Learning Series, as we dive into caring for your yard and practices that can save the Bay, your back, and your wallet. Reserve your spot now!
February 21
- Baltimore, MD: Join us for the second film in Docs on the Docks film series, featuring the award-winning documentary Trash Dance. This film highlights the unseen men and women who pick up our trash. Immediately following the viewing, an expert panel will discuss the film and encourage participants to advocate for change in their communities, city, and watershed. Register here!
