Climate Change
The Chesapeake region has already begun to see the effects of global climate change in the form of sea level rise and higher water temperatures. Scientists predict that climate change could also cause:
Invasive Species
Invasive species are animals and plants that are not native to their habitat and negatively affect the invaded ecosystem. Once an invasive species population is established it is unlikely to be completely eradicated. In the Bay region there are more than 200 invasive species thought to cause serious problems; the mute swan, nutria, phragmites, purple loosestrife, water chestnut and zebra mussel are the species that pose the greatest threats.
Fisheries Harvest and Pressures
The Bay and its tributaries have historically been rich grounds for commercial and recreational fisheries. Demand for seafood has driven these commercial fisheries, and crabbing and angling have long been popular activities for residents. But these fisheries have put tremendous pressure on the population of key Chesapeake species, such as blue crabs and oysters.
The indicators are not related to goals at this time.
Nita Sylvester at (800) 968-7229 ext. 711