It's a scene that's far too common. A fleet of gas-guzzling bulldozers flatten acres of high-value, mature, and healthy forest. In a flash, decades, even centuries, of nature's hard work is reduced to stumps and mud. Gone with it is the forest's ability to filter air and water, provide vital habitat for wildlife, and alleviate flooding and runoff. And we are poised to witness this scene again. Right now, bulldozers are waiting to destroy more than 200 acres of Maryland's highest-value, contiguous forest.
Commissioned by Georgetown University, the project makes room for a solar field, fragmenting the largest forest in Southern Maryland and degrading a high-quality stream. While renewable energy is a critical tool to combating climate change, there are better places for solar. We cannot sacrifice this forest that plays such a critical role in the local environment and economy.
But before this project can move forward, it needs approval from the Maryland Department of Environment (MDE). Take action to defend this forest. Tell MDE—before the deadline March 13—to reject this project!
Want to do more to speak for the trees?
- Marylanders: Urge your representatives to pass a comprehensive package of legislation in Annapolis to protect all Maryland forests.
- Pennsylvanians: Implore your legislators to support the Keystone Tree Initiative!
- Virginians: Thank your leaders for supporting clean water in the 2019 legislative session, highlighted by unprecedented investments in critical clean water programs, that include planting more trees throughout the Old Dominion.
This Week in the Watershed: Bivalve Bonanza, Bulldozing Trees, and a Clean Water Budget
- A new technology might change the way we eat oysters. (Washington Post)
- The upsurge of the oyster aquaculture industry in Maryland is good for the Bay and local economy, but it is facing several challenges. (Baltimore Sun—MD)
- A new poll shows overwhelming support from Marylanders for strong forest conservation measures. (Maryland Matters—MD)
- Municipalities throughout Pennsylvania are considering new fees to support critical projects to alleviate an onslaught of polluted runoff. (Patriot News—PA)
- A proposal to clear more than 200 acres of high-value Maryland forest is under fire. (Bay Net)
- Five oyster restoration tributaries in Maryland waters are the subject of debate, as legislation would protect the oysters from harvest. (Capital Gazette—MD) BONUS: Take action and raise your voice for Maryland's oysters!
- Great news for the Bay and Virginia's rivers and streams, as the Commonwealth's budget makes major investments in clean water programs. (WTVR—VA) BONUS: CBF Press Statement
What's Happening around the Watershed?
- Hopewell, VA: Attend a Tree Pruning 101 workshop, covering basics such as best time of year to prune, how and where to cut limbs, and what types of tools to use. Learn more and register here!
- Weyers Cave, VA: Shenandoah Valley landowners, farm managers, and hunters are invited to join us to learn the ins and outs of planting and maintaining riparian buffers that improve local water quality and support wildlife. Staff from CBF, Natural Resource Conservation Service, and Virginia Department of Forestry will share technical and financial resources that can kickstart projects to plant riparian buffers. Learn more and register here!
March 14
- Newport News, VA: As more local oyster farms are producing oysters, join us to indulge in some this beloved bivalve and learn more about this growing industry from a local oyster farmer. Learn more and register here!
March 19
- Richmond, VA: As more local oyster farms are producing oysters, join us to indulge in some this beloved bivalve and learn more about this growing industry from a local oyster farmer. Learn more and register here!
March 20
- Annapolis, MD: Join us at CBF headquarters for an ice cream social and learn about the Buy Fresh Buy Local Chesapeake program and Clagett Farm's Community Supported Agriculture program. Learn more and register here!
March 21
- Baltimore, MD: Join us for our Docs on the Docks film series, featuring the new documentary Saving Sea Turtles. This film highlights the history of the Kemp's Ridley sea turtles and how humans have impacted the species' population. 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!
March 28
- Easton, MD: Join us for the second 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!
Issues in this Post
Forest Loss Advocacy Climate Change Conservation Habitat Loss Land Use Runoff Pollution Sprawl Trees 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
