The way humans use the land has the greatest impact on the Bay and local waterways. Natural areas like forests and wetlands have a positive effect on water quality, while areas developed for farming or cities generally have a negative impact.
The decline of the Chesapeake Bay is directly linked to the rise in population in the watershed: since 1950, the number of residents has more than doubled. Projections through 2030 show continued population growth, loss of natural areas and increases in urban development, which are all challenges to protecting and restoring the Chesapeake.
Even more influential than population growth is the corresponding development. People are moving into sprawling suburbs and living in bigger houses on larger lots, causing forests, farms and other valuable lands to be transformed into subdivisions, shopping centers and parking lots. This land conversion severely impacts the health of streams, rivers and the Bay.
The indicator is not related to a goal at this time.
Long-term Trend (since start of data collection)
From 1950 through 2008, the Bay watershed population increased from 8,385,982 to 16,883,751.
Short-term Trend (10-year Trend)
The 10-year trend is not available, since the most recent annual data points are 2000 through 2008. During this time, population increased from 15,700,408 to 16,883,751.
Change from Previous Year (2007-2008)
Population increased from 16,797,132 to 16,883,751.
Future Population Growth and Tracking
Experts predict that the watershed’s population will increase to more than 20 million by 2030.
Variations in Population Growth
While the overall population of the Bay watershed continues to grow, population changes vary from state to state and region to region. Some areas are gaining population at a high rate, while populations in other areas are leveling out or declining.
Peter Claggett at (800) 968-7229 ext. 771