Water quality is the most important measure of the Chesapeake Bay’s health. For the Bay to be healthy and productive, the water must be safe for people and must support aquatic life, such as fish, crabs and oysters. The water should be fairly clear, have enough oxygen, contain the proper amount of algae and be free from chemical contamination.
However, the indicators in this section show that water quality in the Bay remains extremely poor because of pollution from nitrogen, phosphorus, sediment and chemicals. Rain causes these pollutants to run off into local streams, creeks and rivers and the Bay itself.
To improve water quality, the flow of pollution must continue to be reduced. This will increase water clarity and oxygen levels in the Bay and will decrease harmful algae blooms and chemical contaminants.
The Bay’s water quality is measured with four indicators: Dissolved Oxygen, Water Clarity, Chlorophyll a and Chemical Contaminants. Quantitative restoration goals have been set for these indicators. When all of the goals are reached, it should mean restored water quality.
Long-term trend
N/A -- data for all component indicators have only been collected for three years.
Short-term trend (2006-2008)
The Water Quality Index score decreased from 23.6 percent to 21.4 percent of goal achieved.
Change from previous year (2007-2008)
There was no significant change (from 21.1 percent to 21.4 percent of goal achieved)
The most up-to-date monitoring data gathered by Bay Program partners are used to provide a scientifically based assessment of the Bay’s water quality.
Percent achievement values for each indicator assessed in this category were averaged to create the index score.
For more information contact:
Nita Sylvester at 800-968-7229 ext. 711
Chesapeake Bay Program Office