Chesapeake Bay

The Chesapeake Bay is the largest estuary in the United States, stretching over 200 miles and spanning parts of six states: Maryland, Virginia, Delaware, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, and New York. Its watershed covers more than 64,000 square miles, making it one of the most extensive and ecologically significant watersheds in North America. 

The Bay is home to a large variety of fish, plant, and bird species, including migratory birds that use the bay as a crucial stopover point. The Bay also plays a vital role in the economy, supporting commercial and recreational fisheries, as well as providing a source of livelihood for many communities along its shores. 

Please watch this video to learn more. 

The Bay faces many environmental challenges, including pollution, habitat loss, and overfishing. Efforts to restore and protect the bay involve collaboration among multiple stakeholders, including government agencies, environmental organizations, and local communities. Various initiatives, such as the Chesapeake Bay Program, aim to address and mitigate the environmental challenges facing the bay, emphasizing water quality improvement, habitat restoration, and sustainable resource management.

Please watch this video to learn more about the history of Bay restoration and about key organizations that have contributed to creating a healthier Chesapeake Bay.