Biologists Track Bay Grasses

Submerged aquatic vegetation is an indicator of Bay health

The abundance of underwater grasses can tell us a lot about the health of the Chesapeake Bay. This photo essay follows scientists and volunteers as they sample grasses to gauge water quality.

Biologists Track Bay Grasses
Biologists Track Bay Grasses

Wade-In Measures Water Quality

Event uses “sneaker index” to set clean water goals

The Patuxent River Wade-In brings attention to the polluted waters of the Chesapeake Bay. Each year, Senator Bernie Fowler uses the “sneaker index” to track the Patuxent’s changing health.

Wade-In Measures Water Quality
Wade-In Measures Water Quality

Urban Wetland a Refuge for Wildlife

Manmade habitat is a home for Chesapeake Bay critters

Built to offset area pollution, the wetland that sits outside of the historic Fort McHenry has created a refuge for Baltimore's wildlife and residents alike. The National Aquarium now uses the space as an educational tool.

Urban Wetland a Refuge for Wildlife
Urban Wetland a Refuge for Wildlife

Bay 101: Algae Blooms

Excess nutrients fuel blooms in the Chesapeake Bay

Warm weather is here, and algae blooms are appearing across the Chesapeake Bay! Watch this Bay 101 video to learn how algae blooms form and why they can spell trouble for underwater life.

Bay 101: Algae Blooms
Bay 101: Algae Blooms

West Virginia Farm Cuts Pollution

Conservation practices can lead to clean water

Elwood and Hunter Williams run Misty Mountain Farm. From planting trees to fencing off streams, the father and son are using conservation practices to keep clean water flowing into the Bay.

West Virginia Farm Cuts Pollution
West Virginia Farm Cuts Pollution

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    Critter of the Month

    American Black Bear

    June's Critter - The American black bear is a common bear with a brown face and a white patch on its chest.

    Featured Chesapeake Bay Websites

    • Chesapeake Bay TMDL

      Chesapeake Bay TMDL

      The EPA established a "pollution diet" to reduce nutrients and sediment in the Bay.

    • Bay Executive Order

      Bay Executive Order

      Calls on the federal government to lead a renewed effort to restore the Bay.

    • ChesapeakeStat

      ChesapeakeStat

      A tool to assess progress and enhance accountability and transparency.

    • Maryland BayStat

      Maryland BayStat

      A powerful statewide tool designed to assess, coordinate and Bay restoration.

    River Flow into the Chesapeake Bay

    River Flow into the Chesapeake Bay

    During the 2012 water year, the annual average river flow to the Chesapeake Bay was 52 billion gallons per day. This is close to average.


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    “Grasscycle” Lawn Clippings

    Instead of fertilizing, leave leftover grass clippings on your lawn for a natural source of nitrogen.

    More Bay News »
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