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# Chesapeake Bay News

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## Posts

- [News](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/news/)
- [Masonville Cove Bird Banding](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2026/06/20/masonville-cove-bird-banding/) - At Masonville Cove, a bird banding program is helping researchers better understand migration along the Chesapeake Bay, while also revealing something exciting: the return of birds first banded in 2023. Since the program began, more than 3,000 birds representing about 90 species have been banded through a partnership led by the Maryland Port Administration (MPA),
- [Maryland Flood Reduction and Restoration Projects](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2026/06/19/maryland-flood-reduction-and-restoration-projects/) - The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) recently awarded competitive grants for nine flood reduction and restoration projects to help communities plan and design solutions to withstand flooding and other weather-related events. The selected projects will reduce risk for vulnerable communities, incorporate changing environmental conditions into existing plans and policies, and develop nature-based or natural
- [2026 Chesapeake Bay Blue Crab Winter Dredge Survey](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2026/05/23/2026-chesapeake-bay-blue-crab-winter-dredge-survey/) - In May, results of the 2026 Chesapeake Bay Blue Crab Winter Dredge Survey were released by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS). 2026 Chesapeake Bay Blue Crab Winter Dredge Survey Highlights The annual cooperative survey estimates a total of 349 million blue crabs in the Chesapeake
- [2026 Maryland Blue Catfish Fishing Tournaments](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2026/05/07/2026-maryland-blue-catfish-fishing-tournaments/) - Catfish tournaments provide a chance to earn bragging rights and to win prizes. Whether anglers are looking to stuff coolers with wild-caught Maryland seafood or compete for prize money, angling for blue catfish can be rewarding. This list includes upcoming Maryland tournaments and other events that feature targeting of blue catfish and other invasive species:
- [Mid-Chesapeake Bay Island Ecosystem Restoration Project Update](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2026/04/05/mid-chesapeake-bay-island-ecosystem-restoration-project-update/) - In 2026, work on the Mid-Chesapeake Bay Island Ecosystem Restoration Project (Mid-Bay Project) includes the construction of stone sills, breakwaters, and other structures. The Mid-Bay project, in partnership with MDOT MPA, includes restoration of 2,072 acres of lost remote island habitat on James Island and 72 acres of remote island habitat on Barren Island. Over
- [Anne Arundel County Sewer Capacity Moratorium](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2026/03/15/anne-arundel-county-sewer-capacity-moratorium/) - Anne Arundel County Department of Public Works (DPW) announced a sewer capacity moratorium, effective March 2, 2026. The moratorium was into place to protect existing wastewater infrastructure and public health. according to DPW. The moratorium was implemented as Anne Arundel County has recently reached peak flow capacity limitations within the Baltimore City Sewer Service Area
- [Virginia Oyster Season 2026 Extension](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2026/03/09/virginia-oyster-season-2026-extension/) - In February 2026, Virginia Marine Resources Commission (VMRC) notified stakeholders of the the Virginia public oyster fishery that the agency adopted emergency regulatory actions to provide relief following recent ice cover and challenging market conditions. At the February 24th VMRC Commission meeting, the following adjustments to the oyster season were approved to allow harvesters additional
- [Maryland DNR Snakehead Bowfishing Study](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2026/03/02/maryland-dnr-snakehead-bowfishing-study/) - A new Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) study revealed that bowfishing and gigging – using a pronged spear – are the most common ways northern snakehead (Chesapeake Channa) are harvested in Maryland. These methods eclipse hook-and-line, commercial, and departmental management harvest of the invasive fish. The study, published in Integrated and Comparative Biology, also
- [Maryland Oyster Season 2026 Extension](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2026/02/22/maryland-oyster-season-2026-extension/) - The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) recently announced a two-week extension of the 2025-2026 wild oyster season. The extension is intended to help watermen make up for lost harvesting opportunities after many waterways and parts of the Chesapeake Bay froze during frigid temperatures in January and early February. The change will extend the state’s
- [Newport News - James River Jet Fuel Spill](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2026/02/16/newport-news-james-river-jet-fuel-spill/) - On February 13, 2026, a release of JP-5 jet fuel occurred at Huntington Ingalls Industries, Inc. (HII)’s Newport News Shipbuilding Division facility. The incident occurred during a fuel transfer operation to the pre-commissioned John F. Kennedy (CVN 79), resulting in fuel entering the James River near 4101 Washington Avenue in Newport News. Initial estimates placed
- [DC Water Potomac River Sewage Spill](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2026/01/28/dc-water-potomac-river-sewage-spill/) - On January 19, 2026, DC Water workers discovered a Sanitary Sewer Overflow (SSO) from the Potomac Interceptor (PI) sewer line in C & O Canal National Historical Park in Montgomery County, Maryland. A break in a 72 inch diameter sewer pipe caused wastewater to spill into a creek bed leading to the Potomac River. The
- [Baltimore 2025 Christmas Bird Count](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2026/02/11/baltimore-2025-christmas-bird-count/) - Christmas 2025 bird counts at Dredged Material Management Program (DMMP) sites near Baltimore documented an array of birds. Following a successful pilot last year, 2025 marked the first official year of the Baltimore City Christmas Bird Count (CBC) with three count circles: Loch Raven, Middle River, and Baltimore City. Two of these circles include MPA
- [2026 Chesapeake WILD Program Grants](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2026/02/09/2026-chesapeake-wild-program-grants/) - the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, in partnership with the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, announced $6.9 million in funding from the Chesapeake Watershed Investments in Landscape Defense (Chesapeake WILD) Program to support 33 partner-led conservation projects in the Chesapeake Bay watershed. The grants will generate $6 million in matching contributions, resulting in a total
- [Baltimore - Kent Island Maryland Wastewater Infrastructure Projects](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2026/01/30/baltimore-kent-island-maryland-wastewater-infrastructure-projects/) - On January 28, 2026, the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) announced the Board of Public Works has approved more than $29 million in new funding to support two major clean water initiatives: improvements at the Patapsco Wastewater Treatment Plant in Baltimore and the continuation of an effort to move homes off polluting septic systems
- [Maryland Whole Watershed Program Projects 2026](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2026/01/25/maryland-whole-watershed-program-projects-2026/) - Planning and development for Maryland’s Whole Watershed Program is underway, with stormwater management, stream and marsh restoration, tree plantings, invasive species management, and many other projects advancing to help shape the state’s collective effort on targeted watershed restoration. In March of 2025, the state selected five watersheds that would receive initial funding through the Whole
- [MDTA Chesapeake Bay Crossing Study Hearings](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2026/01/24/mdta-chesapeake-bay-crossing-study-hearings/) - The Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) recently announced public hearings for the Chesapeake Bay Crossing Study: Tier 2 National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), which will provide the public an opportunity to review the project and submit comments and testimony. The hearings, scheduled for February 2026, will focus on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) and the
- [Sparrows Point Container Terminal Permit Issued](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2026/01/18/sparrows-point-container-terminal-permit-issued/) - In December 2025, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Baltimore District issued its Section 404/10/408/103 permit decision for the Sparrows Point Container Terminal (SPCT) project, a joint venture between Tradepoint Atlantic and Terminal Investments Limited, to construct a new container terminal and associated facilities at the Port of Baltimore. The proposed project, which will
- [Maryland Yellow Perch Fishing 2026](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2026/01/14/maryland-yellow-perch-fishing-2026/) - In Maryland waters of the Chesapeake Bay watershed, updated regulations for yellow perch will be in effect for the 2026 fishing season. In response to six years of low recruitment, Maryland reduced the limit for yellow perch caught in tidal waters, and freshwater streams and rivers from ten to five yellow perch per person per
- [West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2025/12/31/west-virginia-department-of-environmental-protection/) - An array of grants from the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection (WVDEP) will go towards Chesapeake Bay cleanup, water quality improvement efforts, watershed restoration, and stream stewardship. More than $1.5 million in 2025 Chesapeake Bay Program grants are being awarded to support water quality improvements, watershed restoration, and land conservation efforts across the Eastern
- [Pennsylvania Chesapeake Bay Watershed Conservation Projects](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2025/12/27/pennsylvania-chesapeake-bay-watershed-conservation-projects/) - In December, the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) awarded $17.7 million in 2026 Countywide Action Plan (CAP) Coordinator and Implementation Grants to county teams across Pennsylvania’s portion of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed to support the Commonwealth’s shared progress in reducing nutrient and sediment pollution to restore the health of local streams, rivers, and lakes.
- [Chesapeake Bay Watershed Agreement Revised](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2025/12/27/chesapeake-bay-watershed-agreement-revised/) - In December, during its annual meeting at the National Aquarium in Baltimore, the Chesapeake Bay Program’s Executive Council approved the revised Chesapeake Bay Watershed Agreement. The agreement includes goals that will improve the health of the Chesapeake Bay, increase access to nature, and support livelihoods that depend on the estuary. Representatives from the Chesapeake Bay’s
- [Rockfish Stuffed With Crab Meat](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2010/06/06/stuffed-rockfish-crab-meat/) - This is a simple recipe for serving fresh Chesapeake Bay Rockfish and blue crab meat. Ingredients 2 lbs. fresh rockfish fillets (skin on)1 lb. Chesapeake Bay lump backfin crab meat1 egg, beaten1/2 cup melted butter1/2 cup mayonnaise1/4 cup crab seasoning1 lemon (juice and pulp only)1 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce1 tsp. chopped parsley1/2 cup diced onion1/4 cup
- [Massive Atlantic Sturgeon Caught During Survey](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2025/12/14/massive-atlantic-sturgeon-caught-during-survey/) - This fall, the largest female sturgeon in the Atlantic sturgeon gillnetting survey’s history was captured by Maryland DNR biologists. The fish was netted along Marshyhope Creek, a tributary of the Nanticoke River. Nicknamed Chessie, the large female measured just under 7 feet 10 inches and weighed over 200 pounds. Biologists tagged the fish with a
- [2025 MD-VA Chesapeake Bay Striped Bass Surveys](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2025/10/16/2025-md-va-chesapeake-bay-striped-bass-surveys/) - Recent surveys of juvenile striped bass in the Chesapeake Bay watershed found slightly improved numbers of fish for 2025. Conducted by biologists in Maryland and Virginia, the surveys included counts of juvenile striped bass and other species in waters of the Chesapeake Bay. Maryland The Maryland Department of Natural Resources’ (DNR) 2025 juvenile striped bass
- [Mid-Bay Island Project Construction Safety Zone](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2025/10/13/mid-bay-island-project-construction-safety-zone/) - In October, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Baltimore District, issued an updated notice urging boaters in the Chesapeake Bay to steer clear of ongoing construction activities near the Mid-Bay Island Project, located adjacent to the islands of James and Barren in western Dorchester County. USACE urges mariners to avoid accessing the Construction Safety
- [2025 Maryland LWCF Outdoor Recreation Grants](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2025/10/09/2025-maryland-lwcf-outdoor-recreation-grants/) - The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will distribute more than $12 million in grant funding from the National Park Service’s Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) for state and local projects to enhance outdoor recreation. Funds will be used for acquisition of new park land, renovation of existing facilities, and the development of new
- [2025 Maryland Conowingo Dam Agreement](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2025/10/09/2025-maryland-conowingo-dam-agreement/) - On October 2, 2025, Maryland Governor Wes Moore announced a new agreement with Constellation Energy to fund and implement operational improvements and environmental projects at the Conowingo Dam. Valued at more than $340 million and negotiated in partnership with Waterkeepers Chesapeake and Lower Susquehanna Riverkeeper Association, the commitments will meet enforceable water quality standards by
- [MDE Baltimore City Flood Resilience and Habitat Restoration Funding](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2025/08/27/mde-baltimore-city-flood-resilience-and-habitat-restoration-funding/) - In August 2025, the Maryland Board of Public Works approved up to $11 million in funding for a major flood protection and habitat restoration project in South Baltimore, supporting local jobs, reducing flood risks, and restoring vital tidal wetlands. The project will restore aquatic habitat, reduce nutrient pollution to Baltimore Harbor, manage stormwater runoff, and
- [W-Sapphire Ship Explosion in Baltimore Harbor](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2025/08/19/w-sapphire-ship-explosion-in-baltimore-harbor/) - On Monday, August 18, 2025, the U.S. Coast Guard and local partners responded to reports of an explosion aboard the 751-foot merchant vessel W-Sapphire in Baltimore Harbor. At approximately 6:30 p.m., Sector Maryland - National Capital Region watchstanders received a call over VHF channel 16 from the W-Sapphire stating an explosion had occurred aboard the
- [2012 Maryland Snakehead Contest Results](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2013/03/08/2012-maryland-snakehead-contest-results/) - Three anglers won nearly $300 in prizes for catching and killing northern snakehead fish in the Maryland Department of Natural Resources’ (DNR) 2012 Snakehead Contest. During the contest, 256 anglers removed nearly 600 fish from the Potomac River system. To enter, participants shared their experiences on the Department’s Angler’s Log, reporting how they caught the
- [July 2025 Chesapeake Bay Hypoxia Data](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2025/08/19/july-2025-chesapeake-bay-hypoxia-data/) - Data collected by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and Old Dominion University (ODU) show an above average volume of hypoxia—waters with less than 2 mg/l of oxygen—in the Chesapeake Bay mainstem of Maryland and Virginia in early and late July 2025. Early July saw an increase in hypoxia from late June, with volumes
- [2024 Maryland Underwater Grasses Survey](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2025/08/06/2024-maryland-underwater-grasses-survey/) - Underwater grass abundance in Maryland’s portion of the Chesapeake Bay fell from 38,188 acres in 2023 to 36,794 acres in 2024, according to data reviewed by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. To total acreage of submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) remains short of the state’s 2025 restoration goal of 79,800 acres. The annual survey of
- [Chesapeake Shipbuilding Awarded Small Shipyard Grant Program](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2025/08/02/chesapeake-shipbuilding-awarded-small-shipyard-grant-program/) - The Maritime Administration (MARAD) recently announced that Chesapeake Shipbuilding Corp., of Salisbury MD, will receive an $817,150.00 grant to support the purchase of a 160-ton rough terrain mobile crane. MARAD awarded $8.75 million in grants 17 recipients in 12 states to revitalize U.S. shipyards. The funding is part of the Small Shipyard Grant program, which
- [Maryland Blue Catfish Tagged For Study](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2012/09/11/maryland-blue-catfish-tagged-for-study/) - A new Maryland state record blue catfish has been tagged and returned to the Potomac River as part of part of a cooperative study by Maryland and Virginia fisheries biologists. The record setting catfish was caught on August 13 in the Potomac River near Fort Washington. The fish weighed 84 pounds and measured 52 inches
- [FY 2026 Maryland Waterway Improvement Fund Grants](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2025/07/26/fy-2026-maryland-waterway-improvement-fund-grants/) - The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will provide $20 million in Waterway Improvement Fund allocations to communities and projects throughout Maryland in Fiscal Year 2026, which begins July 1. The funds will support new and improved public boating access facilities, dredging of navigable public waterways; emergency vessels and equipment for local first responders; and
- [Potomac River Angler Catches State Record Blue Catfish](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2008/03/26/potomac-river-angler-catches-state-record-blue-catfish/) - Ron Lewis of Point of Rocks, Md. was fishing in the tidal Potomac River near Fort Washington on Sunday March 23, 2008 when he hooked and landed a new state record blue catfish. Ron who is an accomplished fisherman was targeting blue catfish, but the size of this particular fish caught him and his partner
- [Potomac River Blue Catfish Tagging Program](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2012/08/13/potomac-river-blue-catfish-tagging-program/) - The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is asking anglers to help researchers learn more about blue catfish movement in the Potomac River. Beginning in 2012, blue catfish will be tagged with two tags—one white, one yellow. Anglers that catch a blue catfish with one or both tags are asked to remove the tag(s) and call
- [Baltimore Harbor Diesel Fuel Spill](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2025/06/09/baltimore-harbor-diesel-fuel-spill/) - A fuel spill in Baltimore Harbor impacted wildlife, boaters, local traffic in the area. On the morning on June 5, crews from U.S. Coast Guard Sector Maryland - National Capital Region responded to a diesel fuel spill near the East Harbor Marina in the Patapsco River. The State of Maryland, City of Baltimore, and United
- [2026 Chesapeake and Atlantic Coastal Bays Trust Fund Grants](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2025/07/09/2026-chesapeake-and-atlantic-coastal-bays-trust-fund-grants/) - The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is awarding $29 million from the Chesapeake and Atlantic Coastal Bays Trust Fund to 27 ecological restoration projects encompassing 160 sites throughout the state for Fiscal Year 2026. These projects were selected based on their ability to improve water quality and provide other benefits such as resilience to
- [2025 Maryland Blue Catfish Fishing Tournaments](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2025/05/10/2025-maryland-blue-catfish-fishing-tournaments/) - The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is encouraging anglers to do their part to help the Chesapeake Bay ecosystem by catching and removing blue catfish from the state’s waterways. Blue catfish are top predators that consume native species such as blue crabs, white perch, and menhaden. Avid anglers looking to put their skills to the
- [Chesapeake Bay Invasive Catfish Research](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2014/05/20/chesapeake-bay-invasive-catfish-research/) - Initially introduced for sportfishing in several Virginia tributaries, blue and flathead catfish are considered invasive in the Chesapeake Bay. Since their introduction, their range and population have increased dramatically. Blue catfish and flathead catfish are now top predators in several river systems of the Chesapeake Bay. In order to learn more about how these fish
- [Maryland Invasive State Record Northern Snakehead](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2025/06/17/maryland-invasive-state-record-northern-snakehead/) - In June 2025, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) recognized Matt Foreman of Crownsville as the new state record holder for northern snakehead (Channa argus) in the state’s Invasive Division. Foreman harvested the 21.8-pound fish on the evening of June 7 in the Susquehanna River below the Conowingo Dam. The fish was more than
- [2025 Chesapeake Bay Blue Crab Winter Dredge Survey](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2025/05/24/2025-chesapeake-bay-blue-crab-winter-dredge-survey/) - In May, results of the 2025 Chesapeake Bay Blue Crab Winter Dredge Survey were released by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS). The annual cooperative survey estimates the number of blue crabs in the Chesapeake Bay. 2025 Blue Crab Winter Dredge Survey Highlights The survey estimates
- [2025 Maryland Oyster Stock Assessment](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2025/05/23/2025-maryland-oyster-stock-assessment/) - The 2025 Maryland benchmark assessment indicates that oyster populations have grown significantly in Maryland's Chesapeake Bay waters over the past 20 years. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources and the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science released the summary results of the stock assessment on May 19. The stock assessment analyzed the status of
- [USACE Barren Island Construction Phase 2 Safety Announcement](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2025/05/05/usace-barren-island-construction-phase-2-safety-announcement/) - In May, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Baltimore District released a Barren Island Construction Phase 2 Safety Announcement. The announcement urges mariners to use extreme caution when accessing the water immediately west of Barren Island and avoid the construction safety zone and deploying fishing gear within the fishing gear exclusion zone. All recreational
- [Maryland Black Bass Annual Review 2024](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2025/05/05/maryland-black-bass-annual-review-2024/) - Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) recently released its 2024 Maryland Black Bass Annual Review. The review recaps DNR efforts related to black bass conservation, health, surveys, and other information. In 2024, DNR received close to $3,500 dollars in donations to the conservation fund. The first purchase using these funds was a bead filter for
- [Chesapeake Bay 2024-2025 Winter Conditions](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2025/04/22/chesapeake-bay-2024-2025-winter-conditions/) - Four times each year, NOAA Chesapeake Bay Office (NCBO) scientists scour data from Chesapeake Bay Interpretive Buoy System (CBIBS) buoys, satellites, and other sources to draft a summary of conditions in the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Findings from the Winter 2024–25 Seasonal Summary may provide clues about how winter conditions affected fish, shellfish, and other organisms
- [Tangier Island BEEN HERE STAY HERE Documentary](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2025/03/20/tangier-island-been-here-stay-here-documentary/) - Located in the Chesapeake Bay, approximately 90 miles southeast of Washington, D.C., Tangier island is slipping away. Since 1850, two-thirds of Tangier Island has disappeared, and what remains may be uninhabitable within the next two decades. For generations, the watermen of Tangier have worked these waters, their way of life deeply tied to the rhythms
- [2025 Keep Maryland Beautiful Grants](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2025/03/23/2025-keep-maryland-beautiful-grants/) - Maryland Environmental Trust has approved 20 grants totaling $238,751 to be awarded for environmental education, community cleanup, tree planting, and beautification projects through the Keep Maryland Beautiful program. Presented annually since 1986, the grant program is managed by the Maryland Environmental Trust (MET) and administered on the department’s behalf by the Chesapeake Bay Trust. Maryland
- [2024 Chesapeake Bay Fall Oyster Survey](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2025/03/19/2024-chesapeake-bay-fall-oyster-survey/) - Preliminary results of the Maryland Department of Natural Resources’ annual Fall Oyster Survey indicate that Chesapeake Bay oyster populations are healthy. After a remarkable year for oyster reproduction in 2023, the survey’s 2024 spatfall intensity index, a measure of reproductive success and potential population growth for oysters, was above the 39-year median for the fifth
- [2025 Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge Bird Walks](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2025/01/29/2025-blackwater-national-wildlife-refuge-bird-walks/) - For outdoor enthusiasts, winter is a good time to get into the field and see birds and other wildlife. At Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge, guided birding tours are held all winter. Tours on the refuge Wildlife Drive are led by experienced birders. Bild walks and other tours are held at various times throughout the year.
- [Maryland Watershed Act Grants](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2025/03/09/maryland-watershed-act-grants/) - Maryland recently selected five watersheds in the state that will receive initial state grant funding as part of the Whole Watershed Act. These watershed-scale restoration efforts will contribute to both short-term and lasting economic benefits in the state of Maryland. Maryland anticipates that restoration work in the selected watersheds will contribute to local economic development
- [Baltimore Oyster Restoration Update](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2025/03/08/baltimore-oyster-restoration-update/) - Baltimore Port Alliance members have joined a multi-organizational effort to support oyster restoration in Baltimore harbor and the Patapsco River. In October 2024, with support from the Chesapeake Bay Foundation (CBF), members of Vane Brothers' Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) team installed four oyster-growing cages along the Vane Brothers Company pier on the Patapsco River.
- [Crab Decks & Tiki Bars of the Chesapeake Bay-Maryland Edition](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2013/06/17/crab-decks-tiki-bars-of-the-chesapeake-bay-maryland-edition/) - A new Maryland Edition of Crab Decks & Tiki Bars of the Chesapeake Bay was released recently. One half of a two-state series, the unique travel guide lists waterfront restaurants with hot crabs and cool drinks. In 2012, the Virginia Edition of Crab Decks & Tiki Bars of the Chesapeake Bay was released. Now an
- [New Maryland Seafood Cookbook](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2010/03/16/new-cookbook-features-maryland-seafood-chefs-and-recipes/) - A first-of-its-kind cookbook featuring local Maryland products, the farmers and watermen that grow and harvest them, and the chefs who prepare the recipes is being released on March 24, 2010 in Annapolis. This new book captures the unique and delectable cuisine of Maryland with "150 recipes from the Alleghenies to the Chesapeake Bay.” Dishing Up Maryland
- [New Estuary Book "The Chesapeake Watershed:  A Sense of Place and a Call to Action"](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2009/10/19/the-chesapeake-watershed-book/) - The Chesapeake Book Company has just published a significant new book by local author and environmental scientist Ned Tillman. The Chesapeake Watershed: A Sense of Place and a Call to Action is a must read for anyone living in the 6 state region that drains into the Chesapeake Bay. The book illustrates how we all
- [Maryland State Record Longnose Gar - Chesapeake Division](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2025/02/23/maryland-state-record-longnose-gar-chesapeake-division/) - David Confair has been certified as a new Maryland state record holder for longnose gar in the Chesapeake division. Confair caught the 20.5-pound, 49.5-inch fish in February while fishing in Marshyhope Creek. He was fishing the bottom of the creek in about 15 feet of water with a two-hook sabiki rig with No. 4 hooks
- [2025 Virginia Birding Classic](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2025/02/23/2025-virginia-birding-classic/) - 2nd Annual Virginia Birding ClassicApril 15 – May 15, 2025Registration open February 12 – April 10, 2025 The 2nd Annual Virginia Birding Classic will be held April 15 – May 15, 2025. The Birding Classic is a statewide birding competition in which teams of birders search the public lands of Virginia every spring for as
- [Maryland State Record Yellow Perch - Chesapeake Division](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2025/02/15/maryland-state-record-yellow-perch-chesapeake-division/) - In February 2025, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) recognized Thomas Dembeck Jr. of Hydes as the new state record holder for yellow perch (Perca flavescens) in the Chesapeake division. Dembeck caught the 2.3-pound, 16-inch fish on February 7 while fishing in the tidal waters of the lower Susquehanna River. He was deep jigging
- [Maryland Commercial Blue Catfish Pilot Programs](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2025/02/15/maryland-commercial-blue-catfish-pilot-programs/) - The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is launching two pilot programs in coordination with its Invasive Catfish Advisory Committee aimed at curbing the spread of blue catfish in the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries. Applications are now open for the Blue Catfish For-Hire/Commercial and Mid- and Lower-Bay Finfish Trotline Pilot Programs. Commercial watermen and
- [Potomac River Bottom Mapping Project Phase 3](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2025/02/12/potomac-river-bottom-mapping-project-phase-3/) - In the fall of 2024, the Interstate Commission on the Potomac River Basin (ICPRB) and its partners at the USGS Eastern Ecological Science Center in West Virginia and the USGS Earth Resources Observation and Science (EROS) Center in South Dakota completed Phase 3 of a LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) remote sensing project to map
- [Maryland State Record Northern Snakehead](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2016/05/28/maryland-state-record-northern-snakehead/) - In 2016, a Maryland state record for northern snakehead was set with the take of an 18.42-pound specimen by bow from the Potomac River. On May 20, Emory (Dutch) Baldwin III from Indian Head, Md., and his regular bow-hunting partner Franklin Shotwell were about to end a night of stalking northern snakehead from Baldwin’s boat
- [MD State Record Largemouth Bass Caught](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2008/02/05/md-state-record-largemouth-bass-caught/) - On January 26, 2008, Justin Riley of Woodbine, Md. was fishing with his father, Ed, in the upper tidal waters of the Potomac River near Prince George’s County , when he hooked and landed the largest recorded largemouth bass ever caught in Maryland waters. After a ten minute fight with a fish that would just
- [2025 Maryland Midwinter Waterfowl Survey](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2025/02/04/2025-maryland-midwinter-waterfowl-survey/) - Aerial survey teams of pilots and biologists from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) have completed their annual population estimates of ducks, geese, and swans along the state’s Chesapeake Bay, tidal Potomac River and Atlantic coast shorelines. This year, the teams counted about 705,300 waterfowl, which was
- [Icons of the Chesapeake Bay](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2011/06/23/icons-of-the-chesapeake-bay/) - A variety of icons represent the Chesapeake Bay region. Instantly recognizable, these images have strong cultural ties with the people that live and work on the water and in nearby communities. Lighthouses and other aids to navigation are among the most recognized icons of the watershed. Near Annapolis, Thomas Point Lighthouse is a favorite of
- [Maryland Northern Snakehead Ecosystem Impact Study](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2025/02/01/maryland-northern-snakehead-ecosystem-impact-study/) - A new study by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) confirms the negative impact northern snakeheads have on other fish and the ecosystem. A comparison of fish communities in the Blackwater River drainage near Cambridge before and after the introduction of non-native northern snakehead, found lower relative abundances for 19 of 22 resident species
- [2023 Blackwater NWR Eagle Survey](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2024/02/06/2023-blackwater-nwr-eagle-survey/) - The 2024 Mid-winter Eagle Survey at Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge was completed recently, with promising results. Volunteers and staff counted 174 eagles during the 30-minute count period, including 114 adult bald eagles, 48 immature bald eagles, and 12 unknowns. No golden eagles were detected this year. More information about the 2024 Mid-winter Eagle Survey is available
- [2015 Oyster Reef Ecosystem Services Research Update](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2015/09/16/2015-oyster-reef-ecosystem-services-research-update/) - In order to quantify the ecosystem benefits provided by restored oyster reefs, the NOAA Chesapeake Bay Office (NCBO) initiated the Oyster Reef Ecosystem Services (ORES) project. In September 2015, the NOAA Chesapeake Bay Office released a document highlighting progress under way in research projects that focus on the ecosystem services provided by restored oyster reefs.
- [Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge Expansion](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2015/09/15/blackwater-national-wildlife-refuge-expansion/) - In September 2025, the U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) announced that Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) has received approval to acquire 758 acres for $2.235 million. The Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge project will conserve over 2,500 acres of priority habitat for migrating and wintering American black ducks, mallards, Canada geese and greater snow geese,
- [Chesapeake Conservancy Peregrine Falcon Webcam](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2015/03/13/baltimore-peregrine-falcon-webcam/) - In March, 2015, the Chesapeake Conservancy announced the launch of its latest wildlife webcam featuring downtown Baltimore’s famous peregrine falcons. Located on the 33rd-floor ledge of the Transamerica skyscraper at 100 Light Street in downtown Baltimore, the live stream will bring viewers up close and personal with these long-term Baltimore City residents that have been
- [New Maryland Oyster Restoration Sanctuaries](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2024/10/11/new-maryland-oyster-restoration-sanctuaries/) - The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has selected the next three sites for large-scale oyster restoration in Maryland waters of the Chesapeake Bay, marking the beginning of the state’s next phase of major oyster restoration. DNR will conduct oyster restoration and monitoring in sanctuaries in Herring Bay, the Nanticoke River, and Hoopers Strait. Planning
- [Maryland And Delaware Sign Nanticoke River Restoration Agreement](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2008/06/04/maryland-and-delaware-sign-nanticoke-river-restoration-agreement/) - In 2008, Maryland Department of Natural Resources Secretary John R. Griffin and Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control Secretary John A. Hughes met on the Delmarva Peninsula to sign an agreement supporting a bi-state effort to ensure long-term stewardship of the Nanticoke River. Local, state and regional land conservation leaders gathered to celebrate
- [Asquith Creek Reef Project](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2008/10/23/asquith-creek-reef-project/) - More than three million baby oysters took up residence in the Severn River on recycled concrete from a re-decking project on the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. "Today marks the fruition of a landmark partnership in sustainable transportation and environmental protection," said Transportation Secretary and Maryland Transportation Authority Chairman John D. Porcari. “It's quite exciting that in
- [Avian Influenza Outbreak Winter 2024-2025](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2025/01/19/avian-influenza-outbreak-winter-2024-2025/) - A winter outbreak of avian influenza in the Chesapeake Bay watershed has potential to harm wildlife, disrupt business, and limit outdoor activities in the region. On December 28, 2024, the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) and the Delaware Department of Agriculture (DDA) announced that laboratory testing returned presumptive positive findings of
- [Oyster Planting In Cooks Point Reef](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2011/08/22/oyster-planting-in-cooks-point-reef/) - The Maryland Department of Natural Resources’ (DNR) Artificial Reef Program joined the Chesapeake Bay Foundation (CBF) on August 11 to place 306 oyster spat-laden reef balls on a two-acre site near Cooks Point in the Choptank River using CBF’s oyster research vessel Patricia Campbell. Volunteers from CBF and the Dorchester County chapter of the Maryland
- [Beavers of the Chesapeake Watershed](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2011/02/06/beavers-of-the-chesapeake-watershed/) - Increasingly, outdoor enthusiasts are reporting beaver sightings in the Chesapeake Bay watershed. The beaver is the largest rodent in North America. It has webbed feet, brown fur and a wide, flat, dark tail. Adult beavers usually weigh around 40 pounds but can reach weights of 75 pounds or more. Beavers live around 20 years in
- [Bloede Dam Removal Project](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2016/04/06/bloede-dam-removal-project/) - Maryland's Board of Public Works has granted approval for the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to move forward with the Bloede Dam removal project. The department and its partners have been working for several years on a comprehensive, cost-effective plan to remove the public safety hazard and fish obstruction on the Patapsco River in
- [Patapsco River Bloede Dam Removal](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2012/06/27/patapsco-river-bloede-dam-removal/) - The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and partners have released an analysis evaluating the pros and cons of keeping, improving or removing Bloede Dam and are looking for citizens to share their input. The possible removal of Bloede Dam is part of a larger, more comprehensive effort to restore 43 miles of stream habitat
- [Maryland Investigates Chesapeake Bay Fish Kill](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2011/01/25/maryland-investigates-chesapeake-bay-fish-kill/) - In January 2011, The Maryland Department of the Environment began investigating a fish kill in the Chesapeake Bay in which an estimated two million fish have died. Natural causes appear to be the reason for the deaths of the fish. Cold water stress exacerbated by a large population of the affected species (juvenile spot fish)
- [New Chesapeake Bay Public Access Sites](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2015/07/13/new-chesapeake-bay-public-access-sites/) - In 2014, Chesapeake Bay Program partners opened 17 boat ramps, fishing piers, and other sites that allow the public to access rivers, streams, and the Chesapeake Bay. Virginia opened 14 sites, while Maryland, Pennsylvania, and New York each opened one. This brings the total number of access sites in the Chesapeake Bay watershed to 1,225.
- [Invasive Northern Snakehead Fish Found On Eastern Shore of Maryland](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2015/05/25/invasive-northern-snakehead-fish-found-on-eastern-shore-of-maryland/) - In April 2015, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) received reports of northern snakehead fish caught from private ponds in Wicomico and Queen Anne’s counties. While surveying the pond in Wicomico County, DNR biologists found three adult snakeheads. A similar survey of the Queen Anne’s County pond turned up seven snakeheads, including subadult fish,
- [2015 Chesapeake Bay Artificial Reef Construction](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2015/03/30/2015-chesapeake-bay-artificial-reef-construction/) - New artificial reef construction projects are underway in the Chesapeake Bay, according to the United States Coast Guard. Love Point Fish Haven Approximately 1350 tons of concrete columns and slab will be added in the Southeast Quadrant of the Love Point Fish Haven. Center Location: 39 04 05.42N—76 17 27.37W. For more information, visit the
- [Maryland Partnership Adds to Dominion Reef at the Gooses](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2010/11/17/maryland-partnership-adds-to-dominion-reef-at-the-gooses/) - In November 2010, the Maryland Artificial Reef Initiative (MARI) added additional concrete material to Dominion Reef at the Gooses, its second major construction operation at this site this year. In cooperation with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the Maryland Charterboat Association, Weeks Marine used crane barges to deploy the concrete, supplied from
- [James Island - Barren Island Ecosystem Restoration](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2022/08/25/james-island-barren-island-ecosystem-restoration/) - The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Baltimore District, and the Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) recently signed a Project Partnership Agreement (PPA) for the $4 billion Mid-Chesapeake Bay ecosystem restoration project. The PPA outlines the roles, responsibilities, and financial obligations for both partners for the restoration of both James and Barren islands in Dorchester
- [MD-USFWS Chesapeake Bay Northern Snakehead Tagging Program](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2022/08/02/md-usfws-chesapeake-bay-northern-snakehead-tagging-program/) - The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) recently announced a new northern snakehead tagging program, held in conjunction with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). The tagging program will help monitor invasive northern snakeheads in the Chesapeake Bay and Blackwater River. Both agencies are placing yellow or blue tags on up to 500 northern
- [Chesapeake Bay Invasive Catfish](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2012/03/17/chesapeake-bay-invasive-catfish/) - State and Federal fisheries managers recently identified blue and flathead catfish of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed as invasive, non-native species, and have begun developing strategies to mitigate their impact. Blue catfish are native to the Mississippi River Valley and were introduced to the James and Rappahannock Rivers in the 1970s. Since then, the fish have reproduced
- [James Island – Barren Island Ecosystem Restoration Phase II](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2025/01/17/james-island-barren-island-ecosystem-restoration-phase-ii/) - In October, 2024, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Baltimore District, awarded a $39.9 million contract to Seacoast Marine Construction Inc., for restoration work at Barren Island. The work is part of the Mid-Chesapeake Bay Island Ecosystem Restoration project in Dorchester County, Maryland. Approximately 335,000 cubic yards of material consisting of mud, sand, silt, shell,
- [Chesapeake Bay Shad Populations](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2015/07/16/chesapeake-bay-shad-populations/) - Shad abundance has surged in four Chesapeake Bay rivers, surpassing the restoration goals set by the Chesapeake Bay Program in the Potomac and Rappahannock. The Bay Program tracks the abundance of American shad in the James, Potomac, Rappahannock, Susquehanna and York rivers as an indicator of watershed health. Collectively, these five waterways account for about
- [Susquehanna River Migratory Fish Agreement](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2016/05/05/susquehanna-river-migratory-fish-agreement/) - Exelon Generation and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) recently announced an agreement to restore Susquehanna River shad and river herring. Exelon will improve fish passage facilities at Conowingo Dam and transport up to 100,000 American shad and 100,000 river herring annually to their spawning grounds above all four dams. Currently, shad and river
- [Baltimore Orioles Native Plants Garden](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2016/05/16/baltimore-orioles-native-plants-garden/) - The National Wildlife Federation (NWF) has partnered with the Baltimore Orioles and the Maryland Stadium Authority to plant a garden at Camden Yards. The project is part of NWF's Grow Together campaign. Showcasing over 12,000 native plants, the garden is expected to attract local birds and butterflies at this prominent Baltimore location. The garden will
- [Chesapeake Bay Bald Eagles](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2011/02/22/chesapeake-bay-bald-eagles/) - For Chesapeake Bay enthusiasts, spotting a bald eagle is usually a memorable experience. Bald eagles are found throughout the estuary. During the Summer, eagles nest, feed and raise their young. In Winter, greater numbers of bald eagles visit the Chesapeake, following seasonal prey that migrate seasonally. In Spring, spawning migrations of herring, shad, and other
- [Chesapeake Bay Native Plants](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2011/11/19/chesapeake-bay-native-plants/) - In the Chesapeake Bay watershed, a wide range of native plants are suitable for landscaping and shoreline restoration projects. Native plant species include grasses, wildflowers, ferns, herbaceous plants, shrubs, trees, and other plants. Native grasses are useful for constructing and maintaining shoreline habitat. Grasses help retain soil, prevent erosion, and provide feeding areas for birds
- [Chesapeake Bay Fall Striped Bass Fishing](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2012/10/22/chesapeake-bay-fall-striped-bass-fishing/) - Throughout much of the Chesapeake Bay, fishing for striped bass peaks during the fall season. From the northern bay to the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel, anglers catch striped bass (also known as rockfish) using a variety of baits, lures, and fishing techniques. The fall fishing season is influenced by a number of environmental factors. The combination
- [Maryland MD State Record Carp](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2022/06/09/maryland-md-state-record-carp/) - The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) recently confirmed Logan Kuhrmann of Essex is the new state record holder for common carp (Cyprinus carpio carpio) in the state’s Chesapeake Division. Kuhrmann, 24, caught the 49-pound carp June 4 while bass fishing in the Susquehanna Flats area of the Chesapeake Bay. The angler was using a
- [Maryland State Record Rock Bass - Chesapeake Division](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2024/01/17/maryland-state-record-rock-bass-chesapeake-division/) - A recent catch has tied the Maryland state record for rock bass (Ambloplites rupestris) in the Chesapeake Division, according to Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Thomas Over Jr. caught a 1.0-pound rock bass January 6 in the lower Susquehanna River. Over was fishing with a light spinning rod and jigging for yellow perch when
- [Tips for Buying and Cooking Maryland Rockfish](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2011/01/21/buying-cooking-maryland-rockfish/) - Winter is prime time for delicious Maryland rockfish. Known locally as rockfish, striped bass is the official state fish of Maryland. It is known for its firm texture and delectable flavor. According to Maryland Agriculture Secretary Buddy Hance. “Our commercial fishermen catch the Bay bounty for us to enjoy at home and in restaurants. It is
- [How To Catch Bait For Chesapeake Bay Fishing](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2016/09/03/how-to-catch-bait-for-chesapeake-bay-fishing/) - Fresh caught bait can make the difference between a slow day or a productive fishing trip. In the Chesapeake Bay, live baits are used for catching striped bass, flounder, speckled trout, sea trout, cobia, white perch, catfish, and other fish. Live bait is often found around launching areas, piers, boat slips, bulkheads, and other manmade
- [Mallows Bay-Potomac River National Marine Sanctuary](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2019/07/11/mallows-bay-potomac-river-national-marine-sanctuary/) - NOAA, the state of Maryland and Charles County recently announced the designation of Mallows Bay-Potomac River National Marine Sanctuary. The sanctuary will protect the remains of more than 100 abandoned steamships and vessels built as part of America’s engagement in World War I. Located about 40 miles south of Washington, D.C., the site will be
- [2024 Conowingo Dam Fish Lift Northern Snakehead Captures](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2024/07/25/2024-conowingo-dam-fish-lift-northern-snakehead-captures/) - During the 2024 spring spawning season, thousands of invasive fish were removed from the Chesapeake Bay watershed at the Conowingo Dam and donated to local food banks through a continuing partnership between Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Conowingo Dam owner Constellation Energy, environmental consulting firm Normandeau Associates Inc., and local seafood wholesaler J.J. McDonnell
- [2024 Maryland Midwinter Waterfowl Survey](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2024/02/11/2024-maryland-midwinter-waterfowl-survey/) - In early January, aerial survey teams of pilots and biologists from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) conducted their annual population estimates of ducks, geese, and swans along the state’s Chesapeake Bay, tidal Potomac River, and Atlantic coast shorelines. This year, the teams counted about 593,200 waterfowl
- [New Southern Maryland Woodlands National Wildlife Refuge](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2024/12/18/new-southern-maryland-woodlands-national-wildlife-refuge/) - In December 2024, U.S. Department of the Interior announced the establishment of Southern Maryland Woodlands National Wildlife Refuge as the 573rd and newest unit of the National Wildlife Refuge System. A newly acquired 31-acre parcel is the first of several donations that will become part of the new refuge and provide crucial protected habitat for
- [Virginia Blue Catfish Processing Grant Award](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2024/11/01/virginia-blue-catfish-processing-grant-award/) - Amory Seafood in Hampton recently received a state grant through Virginia's Blue Catfish Processing, Flash Freezing, and Infrastructure Grant Program. The $247,000 reimbursable grant will allow the company to increase its processing capacity and purchase more blue catfish from local watermen. The program supports the fishery industry around the state and helps to remove an
- [2024 MD-VA Chesapeake Bay Striped Bass Surveys](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2024/10/17/2024-md-va-chesapeake-bay-striped-bass-surveys/) - Surveys of juvenile striped bass in the Chesapeake Bay watershed found lower numbers of fish in 2024. Conducted by biologists in Maryland and Virginia, the surveys included counts of juvenile striped bass and other species in waters of the Chesapeake Bay. Maryland Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) announced the 2024 young-of-year striped bass index
- [2024 Chesapeake WILD Maryland Wildlife Habitat Restoration Grants](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2024/09/15/2024-chesapeake-wild-maryland-wildlife-habitat-restoration-grants/) - At total of $2,798,281.01 in federal funding was recently awarded through the Chesapeake Watershed Investments in Landscape Defense (Chesapeake WILD) Program for eight habitat and wetland restoration projects throughout the Chesapeake Bay watershed in Maryland. Administered by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) in partnership with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), the
- [2023-2024 Maryland Oyster Fishery Harvest](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2024/08/03/2023-2024-maryland-oyster-fishery-harvest/) - The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) estimates that over 430,000 bushels of oysters were harvested commercially in Maryland from October 1, 2023, through March 31, 2024. This was the fifth season in the past 30 years when the harvest surpassed 400,000 bushels. The preliminary harvest numbers are based on Maryland seafood dealer buy tickets.
- [2023 Maryland Underwater Grasses Survey](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2024/08/01/2023-maryland-underwater-grasses-survey/) - Abundance of submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) remained steady in 2023 in the state’s portion of Chesapeake Bay, reaching 37,770 acres, according to recently released data by the Chesapeake Bay Program and Maryland’s Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Surveys indicate a 7% increase over 2022 SAV acreage. Approximately 82,937 acres of SAV were distributed throughout Chesapeake
- [NOAA Chesapeake Bay Oyster Reef Construction Grant](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2024/07/22/noaa-chesapeake-bay-oyster-reef-construction-grant/) - The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has announced that it has recommended awarding $10 million to fund new reef construction for a Maryland Department of Natural Resources oyster sanctuary in the Chesapeake Bay. The four-year grant will provide infrastructure funding for building reef bases on about 50 to 75 acres within an existing oyster sanctuary,
- [Chesapeake Bay G3 Green Infrastructure Projects](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2024/06/29/chesapeake-bay-g3-green-infrastructure-projects/) - The Chesapeake Bay Trust, in partnership with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection and Prince George’s County Department of the Environment has announced over $1.3 million in funding for 33 projects across Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, Delaware, and the District of Columbia as part of the Chesapeake Bay
- [2023 Maryland Oyster Aquaculture Production](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2024/06/17/2023-maryland-oyster-aquaculture-production/) - In June, Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reported that the state’s shellfish aquaculture operations harvested a record 94,286 bushels of oysters in 2023. “Though the shellfish aquaculture harvest is small in comparison to the public fishery, it is growing steadily and the farmer’s product is available throughout the year,” said Brian R. Callam, Ph.D.,
- [2024 Chesapeake Bay Blue Crab Winter Dredge Survey](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2024/05/30/2024-chesapeake-bay-blue-crab-winter-dredge-survey/) - The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS) recently announced the results of the 2024 Blue Crab Winter Dredge Survey. The annual cooperative survey estimates the number of blue crabs in the Chesapeake Bay. 2024 Blue Crab Winter Dredge Survey Highlights The survey estimates that 317 million blue
- [Bridge Collision - Port of Baltimore Shut Down](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2024/03/27/bridge-collision-port-of-baltimore-shut-down/) - At 1:27 a.m. on March 26, 2024, Coast Guard watchstanders received a report into the Coast Guard Sector Maryland – National Capital Region command center reporting a 984-foot Singapore-flagged containership collided with the Francis Scott Key Bridge. Additionally, it was reported that the bridge collapsed and there were reports of persons in the water.
- [Severn River Oyster Restoration Research Project](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2024/01/28/severn-river-oyster-restoration-research-project/) - Aquaculture researchers with the NOAA National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) Cooperative Oxford Laboratory in Oxford, Maryland, are helping the Severn River Association test cost-saving oyster restoration techniques in the Severn River. The Severn River Association was awarded funds from the Chesapeake Bay Trust and the Chesapeake Oyster Alliance to deploy oyster larvae (Crassostrea
- [Ever Forward Grounding Mitigation Fund Oyster Plantings](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2024/01/12/ever-forward-grounding-mitigation-fund-oyster-plantings/) - The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will plant about 147 million oyster spat, or juvenile oysters, on 41 acres in Anne Arundel County waters with mitigation funds from the 2022 grounding of M/V Ever Forward on an upper Chesapeake Bay oyster bar. On March 13, 2022, the 1,095-foot Ever Forward container ship ran aground
- [2023 Chesapeake Bay Fall Oyster Survey](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2024/01/10/2023-chesapeake-bay-fall-oyster-survey/) - The Maryland Department of Natural Resources’ (DNR) Fall Oyster Survey recorded prolific numbers and widespread distribution of juvenile oysters in Maryland waters of the Chesapeake Bay. The survey’s spatfall intensity index, a measure of reproductive success and potential population growth for oysters, was 86.8 spat, or juvenile oysters, per bushel, nearly four times the 39-year median
- [NOAA Atlantic Sturgeon Research](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2023/12/23/noaa-atlantic-sturgeon-research/) - Sturgeon are ancient fish. Fossil records of sturgeon date back more than 260 million years ago to the Cretaceous period. Today, there are 25 different species of sturgeon worldwide. Many sturgeon species have declined due to overfishing, water pollution, vessel strikes, habitat loss, and other factors. Nine species of sturgeon are listed as either threatened
- [USFWS - NFWF Chesapeake WILD Grants](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2023/12/20/usfws-nfwf-chesapeake-wild-grants/) - In November 2023, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) announced 25 grants totaling $7.4 million for projects that support wildlife habitat, climate resilience, community conservation partnerships, and equitable access to nature in the Chesapeake Bay watershed. This year’s grants will advance the goals of the Chesapeake
- [Patapsco River Bloede Dam Removal Update: American Eel Restoration](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2023/12/08/patapsco-river-bloede-dam-removal-update-american-eel-restoration/) - American eels and other migratory fish are returning to the upper Patapsco River following a series of dam removals. Every year scientists from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) perform field work as part of the Maryland Biological Stream Survey (MBSS). Information from surveys is used to develop a Fish Index of Biotic Integrity
- [2023 MD-VA Chesapeake Bay Striped Bass Surveys](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2023/10/15/2023-md-va-chesapeake-bay-striped-bass-surveys/) - Surveys of juvenile striped bass in the Chesapeake Bay watershed found lower numbers of fish in 2023. Conducted by biologists in Maryland and Virginia, the surveys included counts of juvenile striped bass and other species in waters of the Chesapeake Bay. Maryland In Maryland, the 2023 young-of-year index is 1.0, well below the long-term average
- [2023 NOAA High Tide Flooding Outlooks](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2023/08/28/2023-noaa-high-tide-flooding-outlooks/) - In August, the NOAA Center for Operational Oceanographic Products and Services (CO–OPS) released its enhanced suite of high tide flooding products including the 2023 Annual High Tide Flooding Outlook and the new Monthly High Tide Flooding Outlook. Common in the Chesapeake Bay watershed, high tide flooding occurs when tides reach anywhere between 1 to 2
- [2022 MD-VA Chesapeake Bay Striped Bass Surveys](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2022/11/13/2022-md-va-chesapeake-bay-striped-bass-surveys/) - 2022 surveys of juvenile striped bass in the Chesapeake Bay watershed yielded mixed results. Conducted by biologists in Maryland and Virginia, the surveys included counts of juvenile striped bass and other species in waters of the Chesapeake Bay. Maryland Striped Bass Survey The 2022 Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) juvenile striped bass survey young-of-year index
- [USGS Coastal Estuaries Sea Level Rise Study](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2022/08/02/usgs-coastal-estuaries-sea-level-rise-study/) - A new study of 166 estuaries on all three U.S. continental coastlines, led by the U.S. Geological Survey, is the first to quantify and compare how rapid sea-level rise will drive landward migration of coastal wetlands on the Pacific, Atlantic, and Gulf coasts in the coming decades. The findings illustrate how the movement of coastal
- [AA County No Discharge Zones](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2022/07/04/aa-county-no-discharge-zones/) - The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE), along with the Severn River Association, Anne Arundel County, and the City of Annapolis, recently announced that a federally approved No Discharge Zone (NDZ) designation for 13 bodies of water in Anne Arundel County, including Annapolis Harbor, takes effect July 1,
- [Green Streets Green Jobs Green Towns (G3) Infrastructure Grants](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2022/06/28/green-streets-green-jobs-green-towns-g3-infrastructure-grants/) - The Chesapeake Bay Trust, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection (WV DEP) recently announced over $1 million in funding has been awarded to 13 projects that span Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia as part of the Chesapeake Bay Green Streets, Green Jobs, Green Towns Grant Program.
- [Annapolis - AA County Watershed Restoration Grants](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2022/06/17/annapolis-aa-county-watershed-restoration-grants/) - The Chesapeake Bay Trust, the Anne Arundel County Bureau of Watershed Protection and Restoration, and the City of Annapolis have awarded $1.28 million in funding to projects that focus on environmental restoration and protection. Ten projects to be implemented in Annapolis and other locations in Anne Arundel County will receive funding to improve water quality
- [2022 Chesapeake Bay Awareness Week](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2022/06/07/2022-chesapeake-bay-awareness-week/) - The seventh annual Chesapeake Bay Awareness Week will take place from June 4-12, 2022. While this week has been officially designated in Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Virginia, events will take place throughout the entire watershed to raise awareness about the Chesapeake Bay - a national treasure that directly connects over 18 million residents. In 2022, Chesapeake
- [Maryland - Virginia Free Fishing Days 2022](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2022/06/01/maryland-virginia-free-fishing-days-2022/) - Maryland and Virginia will offer free fishing days for 2022. Maryland's 2022 license-free fishing days will be held on Saturday, June 4, Saturday, June 11, and Monday, July 4. Maryland’s annual license-free fishing days offer anglers a unique opportunity to explore the state’s diverse fishing without needing a fishing license, trout stamp, or registration. On
- [2022 Blue Crab Winter Dredge Survey](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2022/05/20/2022-blue-crab-winter-dredge-survey/) - The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS) recently announced the results of the 2022 Blue Crab Winter Dredge Survey. The annual cooperative survey estimates the number of blue crabs in the Chesapeake Bay. Total abundance of blue crabs in the Chesapeake Bay in 2022 was 227 million
- [Ever Forward Container Ship Grounding](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2022/03/26/ever-forward-container-ship-grounding/) - In March 2022, a massive container ship ran aground near Gibson Island south of Baltimore Maryland. The incident quickly drew international attention to the Chesapeake Bay maritime industry. The Ever Forward, a 1,095-foot container ship, was headed from the Port of Baltimore to Norfolk, Virginia, when it ran aground on the night of Sunday, March
- [USACE Chesapeake Bay Infrastructure - Disaster Relief Funding](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2022/03/20/usace-chesapeake-bay-infrastructure-disaster-relief-funding/) - The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Baltimore District, will receive approximately $62 million in supplemental funding to support critical missions over several years across the Chesapeake Bay region. Funding is from two recently enacted laws - the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and the 2022 Disaster Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act. In January, the Assistant
- [2022 Chesapeake Bay NOAA Hydrographic Surveys](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2022/03/09/2022-chesapeake-bay-noaa-hydrographic-surveys/) - NOAA hydrographic survey ships and contractors are preparing for the 2022 hydrographic survey season in U.S. coastal waters and beyond. The agency's survey ships collect bathymetric data to support nautical charting, modeling, and research, but also collect other environmental data to support a variety of ecosystem sciences. During the 2022 season, two NOAA hydrographic surveys
- [2022 Maryland Midwinter Waterfowl Survey](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2022/03/04/2022-maryland-midwinter-waterfowl-survey/) - In early January 2022, aerial survey teams of pilots and biologists from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) made visual estimates of the ducks, geese, and swans along most of the state’s Chesapeake Bay, Potomac River, and Atlantic Ocean coastal areas. The annual Midwinter Waterfowl Survey covers tidal shorelines and near-shore waterfowl habitat in
- [2021 Conowingo Dam American Eel Passage](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2021/09/02/2021-conowingo-dam-american-eel-passage/) - The Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) and Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) recently announced that in 2021, more than half a million eels have been captured below the Conowingo Dam. The captured eels will be transported upstream and released in the Susquehanna River. American eels carry baby mussels that cleanse the water and
- [2022 Maryland Waterway Improvement Fund Grants](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2021/07/16/2022-maryland-waterway-improvement-fund-grants/) - The State of Maryland will award $13.5 million in Waterway Improvement Fund grants for Fiscal Year 2022 to enhance and improve public boating access, facilities, and navigation throughout the state. The funding will go toward 60 projects in 19 counties, including grants for statewide projects and emergency water rescue needs. Projects include new public boating
- [2021 Conowingo Dam Fish Lift Survey Results](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2021/07/16/2021-conowingo-dam-fish-lift-survey-results/) - The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) recently released survey information from the 2021 spring Conowingo Dam fish lift operations. A total of 6,354 adult American shad were successfully transported alive from the fish lift to Columbia, Pa. so they could spawn. During the spring 2021 shad season, 952 northern snakeheads and 1,098 flathead catfish
- [2021 Blue Crab Winter Dredge Survey](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2021/05/25/2021-blue-crab-winter-dredge-survey/) - The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS) recently announced the results of the 2021 Blue Crab Winter Dredge Survey. The annual cooperative survey estimates the number of blue crabs in the Chesapeake Bay. The 2021 results showed that the spawning age female abundance increased from 141 million
- [Chesapeake Bay Bird and Wildlife Cams](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2021/05/24/chesapeake-bay-bird-and-wildlife-cams/) - This article lists cameras that provide live video footage of birds and other wildlife in the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Masonville Cove Bald Eagle Cam At Masonville Cove Environmental Education Center in Baltimore, bald eagles can be viewed through a live streaming camera installed by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). The footage can be viewed
- [2019 - 2020 NOAA Biennial Report to Congress](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2021/05/05/2019-2020-noaa-biennial-report-to-congress/) - The NOAA Chesapeake Bay Office’s Biennial Report to Congress includes a snapshot of work completed during fiscal years 2019 and 2020. NOAA Chesapeake Bay Office Biennial Report to Congress Highlights: Completing the restoration of 350 acres of oyster reef in the Little Choptank River in Maryland, the largest oyster restoration project in the world to
- [Potomac River Cooperative Largemouth Bass Management](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2021/03/14/potomac-river-cooperative-largemouth-bass-management/) - Maryland, Virginia, and the District of Columbia recently agreed to a cooperative management plan for Potomac River largemouth bass. To help seek a unified assessment of the fishery, state agencies and the Potomac River Fisheries Commission (PRFC) are jointly collaborating on monitoring and assessing the fishery with an update produced every three years. Work begins
- [Poplar Island Restoration Project 2021 Update](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2021/02/03/poplar-island-restoration-project-2021-update/) - The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Baltimore District recently completed construction of the Poplar Island Ecosystem Restoration Project lateral expansion, providing 575 additional acres, including four new wetland cells and one large upland cell. The project is now able to accept dredged material associated with the approach channels to the Port of Baltimore until
- [Maryland State Record Flathead Catfish](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2021/01/06/maryland-state-record-flathead-catfish/) - A Cecil County resident has officially been recognized by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) as the first-ever state record holder for the invasive flathead catfish. Joshua Dixon caught the 57-pound, 50-inch long flathead catfish (Pylodictis olivaris) on Dec. 27, 2020 fishing near the Lapidum Boat Ramp on the Susquehanna River. The 34-year-old angler
- [Port of Baltimore Receives Environmental Award](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2020/11/25/port-of-baltimore-receives-environmental-award/) - The Maryland Department of Transportation Maryland Port Administration (MDOT MPA) was recently awarded an American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA) Award of Excellence for Environmental Mitigation for a demonstration project that removes excess nutrient pollution and increases oxygen content in Baltimore Harbor. The AAPA’s Environmental Improvement Awards program has recognized U.S. port environmental activities since
- [Annapolis - Anne Arundel County Watershed Protection and Restoration Grants](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2020/10/31/annapolis-anne-arundel-county-watershed-protection-and-restoration-grants/) - The Anne Arundel County Bureau of Watershed Protection and Restoration (BWPR), a division of the Department of Public Works; the City of Annapolis; and the Chesapeake Bay Trust (funded in part by the Maryland Chesapeake Bay license plate program) recently announced a grant opportunity to support watershed restoration and protection projects in Anne Arundel County
- [2020 ASMFC American Shad Benchmark Stock Assessment](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2020/08/06/2020-asmfc-american-shad-benchmark-stock-assessment/) - The 2020 American Shad Benchmark Stock Assessment and Peer Review Report indicate American shad remain depleted on a coastwide basis, according to the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC). The assessment provides insights into American shad stocks in the Chesapeake Bay and other watersheds along the Atlantic Coast. Multiple factors, such as overfishing, inadequate fish
- [2019 Chesapeake Bay Program SAV Report](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2020/07/18/2019-chesapeake-bay-program-sav-report/) - Updated research from the Chesapeake Bay Program reveals a 38% decline in underwater grasses from the previous year, when the Bay may have supported up to 108,078 acres. Submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) is critical to the Chesapeake Bay, providing food and habitat to wildlife and improving water quality by absorbing excess nutrients and trapping sediment.
- [2020 Free Fishing Days - Chesapeake Bay](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2020/06/04/2020-free-fishing-days-chesapeake-bay/) - In June and again on July 4, anglers can take advantage of free fishing days on the Chesapeake Bay in 2020. Each year, Maryland and Virginia offer free fishing days during the summer season. Maryland Free Fishing Days The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will hold license-free fishing days on June 6, June 13,
- [2020 Blue Crab Winter Dredge Survey](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2020/05/27/2020-blue-crab-winter-dredge-survey/) - Results from the 2020 Blue Crab Winter Dredge Survey show the Chesapeake Bay’s blue crab stock remains within healthy ranges. The 2020 results showed that the Chesapeake Bay blue crab population maintains a healthy number of spawning-age female crabs. This year’s survey estimates 141 million adult female crabs were conserved, which is above the long-term
- [2020 Blackwater NWR Eagle Survey](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2020/03/11/2020-blackwater-nwr-eagle-survey/) - The 40th annual Mid-Winter Eagle Survey took place in January, 2020, at Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge. A total of 176 eagles were counted during the 30-minute count period at 14 survey points on and around the Refuge. The total included: 159 bald eagles (108 adults and 51 immatures) 4 golden eagles (2 adults and 2
- [Cambridge Maryland Snakehead Festival 2020](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2020/03/11/cambridge-maryland-snakehead-festival-2020/) - 1st Annual Snakehead FestivalApril 4, 2020Sailwinds ParkCambridge, Maryland The 1st Annual Maryland Snakehead Festival will be on Saturday, April 4, 2020. The event will be held at Governor's Hall at Sailwinds Park in Cambridge, Maryland (200 Byrn St). Doors open at 10AM with a $5 admission fee per person (kids 12 and under free). Admission
- [2020 Maryland Midwinter Waterfowl Survey](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2020/02/07/2020-maryland-midwinter-waterfowl-survey/) - In early January 2020, aerial survey teams of pilots and biologists from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) made visual estimates of the ducks, geese, and swans along most of the state’s Chesapeake Bay, Potomac River, and Atlantic coast shorelines. This year, the teams counted about 627,000 waterfowl, which was higher than the 566,300
- [Baltimore County Stream Restoration Projects](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2020/01/12/baltimore-county-stream-restoration-projects/) - Baltimore County recently completed six large-scale stream restoration projects in four severely compromised waterways in order to address erosion, reduce pollutant and sediment loads, and improve water quality and aquatic habitat locally, and in the Chesapeake Bay. “We have significantly increased funding to our Capital Waterway Improvement Program to address issues like streambank erosion and
- [EPA Reviews Phase III Watershed Implementation Plans](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2019/12/30/epa-reviews-phase-iii-watershed-implementation-plans/) - The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently released its evaluations of plans by the six Chesapeake Bay watershed states (Maryland, Virginia, Pennsylvania, Delaware, West Virginia, and New York) and the District of Columbia to have all programs and practices in place by 2025 to restore the Bay and its tidal waters. The comprehensive EPA reviews
- [City of Annapolis to Take Possession of Burtis House](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2019/11/27/city-of-annapolis-to-take-possession-of-burtis-house/) - After more than nine months of negotiations with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR), the Burtis House and adjacent property, the “Frank” parcel, have been offered as surplus property to the City of Annapolis. In a letter dated November 7, 2019, DNR Land Acquisition and Planning Director Heidi Dudderar asked the Department of General
- [NOAA Recreational Fishing Habitat Workshops](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2019/11/08/noaa-recreational-fishing-habitat-workshops/) - NOAA recently hosted two habitat workshops in the Chesapeake Bay region. They discussed fish habitat issues and priorities with representatives from recreational angling organizations. This was a prime opportunity for the recreational community to provide their input into current and future habitat work in the Chesapeake Bay. These workshops were a direct outcome of the
- [Maryland BUILD Tool for Dredged Materials Use](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2019/11/08/maryland-build-tool-for-dredged-materials-use/) - The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has developed a new conservation tool to identify opportunities for the beneficial use of clean dredged sediments. Beneficial Use – Identifying Locations for Dredge (BUILD) is a mapping tool that will support the state’s Chesapeake Bay restoration efforts, protect infrastructure and investment, and enhance coastal resiliency. The tool
- [2019 MD-VA Chesapeake Bay Striped Bass Surveys](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2019/10/23/2019-md-va-chesapeake-bay-striped-bass-surveys/) - Two recent surveys of juvenile striped bass in waters of the Chesapeake Bay indicated mixed results for the bay wide stock. Conducted by biologists in Maryland and Virginia the surveys included counts of juvenile striped bass and other species in waters of the Chesapeake Bay. Maryland The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) recently announced
- [2019-2020 Maryland Oyster Season](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2019/09/19/2019-2020-maryland-oyster-season/) - The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has issued season limits for the 2019-2020 oyster harvesting season. Effective immediately, the 2019-20 season will begin October 1, 2019 with no commercial harvesting on Wednesdays, and temporary closures to wild harvesting in certain areas where there is a low abundance of oysters, low natural spat set or
- [Manokin River Oyster Restoration](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2019/08/19/manokin-river-oyster-restoration/) - The Manokin River has been approved as the 10th Chesapeake Bay tributary for large-scale oyster reef restoration, according to the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR). The Chesapeake Bay Watershed Agreement calls for the restoration of the native oyster population in 10 tributaries by 2025. The Manokin River is the final tributary to be selected
- [Bloede Dam Removal - Patapsco River](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2019/08/19/bloede-dam-removal-patapsco-river/) - The Bloede Dam Removal, one of the most important dam removal projects in the Mid-Atlantic is officially complete. In July 2019, project partners announced that the Bloede Dam removal and river restoration is finished. A significant portion of the Patapsco River now flows freely through Patapsco Valley State Park. The former Bloede Dam was breached
- [2018 Chesapeake Bay Report Card](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2019/05/29/2018-chesapeake-bay-report-card/) - The Chesapeake Bay score decreased in 2018, but maintained a C grade, according to the 2018 Chesapeake Bay Report Card issued by the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science (UMCES). The decrease was due to extremely high precipitation last year, according to UMCES. The report indicates that, overall, Chesapeake Bay health is improving over
- [2017-2018 NOAA Chesapeake Bay Office Biennial Report to Congress](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2019/05/25/2017-2018-noaa-chesapeake-bay-office-biennial-report-to-congress/) - The NOAA Chesapeake Bay Office (NCBO) recently released its Biennial Report to Congress and is available to the public. The report describes how the NOAA Chesapeake Bay Office, a division within the Office of Habitat Conservation at NOAA Fisheries, leads efforts in habitat restoration, fisheries research, Bay watershed education, and oceanographic observations that impact Chesapeake
- [2019 Blue Crab Winter Dredge Survey](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2019/05/09/2019-blue-crab-winter-dredge-survey/) - Results of the 2019 Blue Crab Winter Dredge Survey indicate that the Bay-wide blue crab population increased 60 percent from last year, to an estimated total population of 594 million crabs. The rise in adult abundance of blue crabs was higher than anticipated given a poor influx of juveniles in 2017 and 2018. The adult
- [FishMaryland Angler Award Program](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2019/02/16/fishmaryland-angler-award-program/) - The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has launched a new award program to celebrate the state’s anglers and the diverse species of fish they catch. FishMaryland is a multifaceted award program designed to encourage anglers to take advantage of Maryland’s year-round recreational fishing and enjoy the state’s accessible, affordable, and high-quality fishing opportunities. Anglers
- [Chesapeake Monitoring Cooperative Website Upgrade](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2019/01/17/chesapeake-monitoring-cooperative-website-upgrade/) - The Chesapeake Monitoring Cooperative (CMC) recently unveiled a new website (chesapeakemonitoringcoop.org). The online cooperative provides a platform to share CMC services and resources that have been developed over the past three years and are freely available. The CMC brings together a diverse group of people who monitor water quality to provide a greater understanding of
- [Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge - Nanticoke Unit Easements](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2018/12/23/blackwater-national-wildlife-refuge-nanticoke-unit-easements/) - A partnership between the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and Chesapeake Conservancy has led to the permanent protection of 155 acres of land as part of the Nanticoke Unit of Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge. Funding was made possible through the federal Land and Water Conservation Fund and through private funds from the Chesapeake
- [Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge Waterfowl Cam](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2018/12/14/blackwater-national-wildlife-refuge-waterfowl-cam/) - The Friends of Blackwater have launched a new Waterfowl Cam located at Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge (BNWR). The camera is a pan-tilt-zoom streaming video cam with a microphone and is installed on a dike within man-made freshwater ponds at the Refuge. The cam pans between a variety of different vantage points every couple minutes. Friends
- [Chesapeake Logperch Restoration](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2018/11/29/chesapeake-logperch-restoration/) - The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is part of a team of conservation agencies that was awarded a federal competitive State Wildlife Grant to work toward the recovery of Chesapeake logperch in the Susquehanna River basin. DNR will receive nearly $40,000 over two years for the project. The Chesapeake logperch, a relative of
- [New Potomac River Paddle-In Camp Sites](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2018/10/12/new-potomac-river-paddle-in-camp-sites/) - The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and National Park Service (NPS) recently announced the completion of a project to expand and enhance paddle-in camping opportunities in Southern Maryland. The improved access allows longer overnight paddling excursions along the Potomac River with beautiful landing spots at Point Lookout State Park and Newtowne Neck State Park,
- [Maryland Bowfishing State Record Snakehead](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2018/06/02/maryland-bowfishing-state-record-snakehead/) - A Maryland bowfisherman recently set a state record for northern snakehead. On May 24, Andrew “Andy” Fox of Mechanicsville took the record setting snakehead from Mattawoman Creek in Charles County. Fox and two friends where on an overnight bow fishing trip when the northern snakehead was encountered. Fox caught a glimpse of a fish illuminated
- [Maryland State Record Sheepshead (Chesapeake Bay)](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2017/09/19/maryland-state-record-sheepshead-chesapeake-bay/) - The Maryland state fishing record for sheepshead (Chesapeake Division) was broken recently, according to the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Dave Alveberg caught the 13.73-pound record breaking fish Aug. 17, in roughly 4 feet of water off South Marsh Island near Tangier Sound. Alveberg was using soft crab as bait when he caught the
- [Maryland State Record White Catfish (Chesapeake)](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2017/06/22/maryland-state-record-white-catfish-chesapeake/) - The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) recently confirmed that a new state fishing record has been for white catfish. The species was recognized as a game fish a few years ago, but until now nobody had broken the seven-pound minimum weight to be eligible for state records. Jacob Vosburgh, 20, of Lexington Park, caught
- [Chesapeake Conservancy Bird Cams](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2017/04/24/chesapeake-conservancy-bird-cams/) - Spring in the Chesapeake means the return of iconic bird species and with that return, millions of viewers will tune in to watch the Chesapeake Conservancy’s wildlife webcams. Chesapeake Conservancy is pleased to begin a new season with explore.org and three live-streaming webcams that take viewers inside the nests of osprey, peregrine falcons, and great
- [Smoots Bay Bass Reefs (Potomac River)](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2016/12/02/smoots-bay-bass-reefs-potomac-river/) - In late 2016, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will be establishing two reef ball artificial reefs in Smoots Bay (Potomac River) to support bass fish habitat. The reefs will be placed immediately south of the Hwy 495/295, Exit 2A-B interchange where the Woodrow Wilson Bridge meets the Maryland shoreline and 650 yards NNW
- [Manatee Found Deceased Near Baltimore](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2016/11/30/manatee-found-deceased-near-baltimore/) - The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) recently confirmed that a deceased manatee was found near Baltimore Maryland. DNR located the manatee in Dundalk after receiving a call from a citizen who reported the apparent death of the animal. The deceased manatee was subsequently recovered and examined by an interagency team of biologists and veterinarians
- [Love Point Artificial Reef Rubble Deployment](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2016/11/16/love-point-artificial-reef-rubble-deployment/) - Love Point artificial reef will receive approximately 1000 tons of concrete slabs and beams from a pier renovation project at Dundalk Marine Terminal. The additional concrete rubble will be placed in the southeast quadrant of the site at a depth of 25-30 feet MLW, according to U.S. Coast Guard 5th District. Marine Technologies is scheduled
- [Tred Avon River Oyster Reef Construction](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2016/09/27/tred-avon-river-oyster-reef-construction/) - The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Baltimore District, awarded an approximately $1-million contract Sept. 26, 2016, to Blue Forge LLC to construct oyster reefs in the Tred Avon River Oyster Sanctuary in Talbot County. Blue Forge LLC is a Service-Disabled, Veteran-Owned Small Business. Eight acres of reef are planned for construction using mixed shell in
- [Chesapeake Bay Bridge - Tunnel Construction](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2016/08/01/chesapeake-bay-bridge-tunnel-construction/) - The Chesapeake Bay Bridge and Tunnel Commission has awarded the Dragados Team a contract to construct a new parallel tunnel at the Thimble Shoal Channel. The Dragados Team, a joint venture composed of Dragados USA, Inc. and Schiavone Construction Company LLC, submitted the lowest price proposal at $755,987,318. The Dragados Team’s proposal included a bored
- [James River Fishing Pier Extension](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2016/07/01/james-river-fishing-pier-extension/) - The long-awaited extension of the James River Fishing Pier is now complete and open to the public. Phase II adds 1,112 linear feet to the existing structure, extending the pier's total recreational length to 2,364 feet. The new extension includes a wider T-shaped portion at the end of the pier. The pier is also equipped
- [Memorial Stadium Reef Ball Deployment](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2016/05/11/memorial-stadium-reef-ball-deployment/) - In May, the Chesapeake Bay Foundation (CBF) vessel Patricia Campbell is scheduled to deploy approximately 100 low profile reef balls in the Memorial Stadium Reef section within the Gales Lumps Oyster Sanctuary. The reef balls will be deployed with a crane to allow precise placement to ensure compliance with minimum depth requirements and stay within
- [Chesapeake Bay Osprey-Falcon Cams](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2016/03/17/chesapeake-bay-osprey-falcon-web-cams/) - Viewers from around the world are watching Chesapeake Bay birds of prey on the Chesapeake Conservancy’s webcams. The organization currently hosts wildlife webcams featuring peregrine falcons, osprey, and a great blue heron rookery on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. Falcon Cam “Boh” & “Barb,” the peregrine falcons that make their home on the 33rd-floor ledge of the
- [Conowingo Dam Nears Maximum Sediment Storage Capacity](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2015/02/26/conowingo-dam-nears-maximum-sediment-storage-capacity/) - The Conowingo Dam on the Susquehanna River is at about 92 percent capacity for sediment storage according to new U.S. Geological Survey research. Since the dam’s construction in 1929, sediment and nutrients have been building up behind it, being released periodically downriver and into the Chesapeake Bay, especially during high flow events. “Storage capacity
- [Chesapeake Catch Smartphone App](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2014/11/27/chesapeake-catch-smartphone-app/) - A new website and smartphone app will help Maryland-area anglers collect and share data about Chesapeake Bay sport fish. Chesapeake Catch is a project led by Maryland-area anglers to gather voluntary information from all anglers to better inform themselves and the Maryland Department of Natural Resources in fisheries management decisions and policies. Chesapeake Catch will
- [Lower Susquehanna River Watershed Assessment](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2014/11/21/lower-susquehanna-river-watershed-assessment/) - The reservoir behind the Conowingo Dam is trapping smaller amounts of sediment and has essentially reached its limit to trap in the long term, according to a Lower Susquehanna River Watershed Assessment. However, a large majority of the pollution to the Chesapeake Bay from the Susquehanna River comes from runoff from pollution sources from the
- [Southern Chesapeake Bay Experiencing Land Subsidence (Sinking Land)](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2013/12/31/southern-chesapeake-bay-experiencing-land-subsidence-sinking-land/) - Communities and coastal habitats in the southern Chesapeake Bay region could face increased flooding because, as seawater levels are rising in the bay, the land surface is also sinking, according to a new USGS report. The report cites intensive groundwater withdrawals as a major cause of the sinking land, or 'land subsidence', that contributes to
- [Ancient Seawater Found under Chesapeake Bay](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2013/11/20/ancient-seawater-found-under-chesapeake-bay/) - A reservior of high-salinity groundwater found more than 1,000 meters (0.6 mi.) deep under the Chesapeake Bay is actually remnant water from the Early Cretaceous North Atlantic Sea and is probably 100-145 million years old, according to U.S. Geological Survey scientists. USGS scientists believe the find is the oldest sizeable body of seawater to be
- [Bill Burton Fishing Pier Artificial Reef](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2013/10/08/bill-burton-fishing-pier-artificial-reef/) - On October 5th, the Chesapeake Bay Foundation (CBF), the Maryland Artificial Reef Initiative (MARI) and the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) finished construction of an artificial oyster reef alongside the Bill Burton Fishing Pier adjacent to the Fredrick C. Malkus Bridge. Funding for the reef was provided by NOAA through its partnership with Restore
- [Maryland State Record Sheepshead](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2012/10/23/maryland-state-record-sheepshead/) - Dan Thomas of Delmar caught a new Maryland record 13 pound, five ounce sheepshead fish on September 16 in Hoopers Straight, north of Bloodsworth Island. He hooked the record catch while competing in the Westside Outcaster’s Open, a tournament to benefit the Bivalve Volunteer Fire Company. The sheepshead was officially weighed on a Maryland Department
- [USGS Susquehanna River Sediment Report](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2012/09/24/usgs-susquehanna-river-sediment-report/) - According to a new USGS report, the Susquehanna River delivered more phosphorus and sediment to the Bay during 2011 than from than any other year since monitoring began in 1978. Flooding from Tropical Storm Lee made up a large fraction of the Susquehanna River's inputs to the Bay for both 2011 and over the last
- [Fishing for Tidal Chain Pickerel](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2012/06/30/fishing-for-tidal-chain-pickerel/) - Chain pickerel are common in tidal rivers and creeks of the Chesapeake Bay region. Although fishing techniques can vary considerably between seasons, chain pickerel can be caught year-round. During cold winter weather, pickerel catches can be good, especially along channel edges or other areas where baitfish congregate. During spring, fishing for chain pickerel can be
- [Maryland 2012 Yellow Perch Season](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2012/02/27/maryland-2012-yellow-perch-season/) - According to Maryland Department of Natural Resources, the 2012 recreational yellow perch fishing season is underway thanks to the mild winter weather and an increased fish population. Anglers will find yellow perch schooled in depths of 10-30 feet before making their annual spawning run. Maryland yellow perch fishing spots include the Susquehanna River, Northeast River,
- [Boater’s Guide to the Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2011/08/26/boaters-guide-to-captain-john-smith-trail/) - A Boater’s Guide to the Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail, a new free resource, introduces boaters as well as armchair travelers to the Chesapeake Bay and its tributary rivers. Author John Page Williams expertly weaves practical information for today’s boaters with the historical context of the Chesapeake’s waters, allowing readers to envision the
- [Baits and Rigs for Catching Croaker](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2011/03/11/baits-and-rigs-for-catching-croaker/) - Croaker, sometimes known as hardhead, enter the Chesapeake Bay in early spring and are caught in most locations thru mid-fall. These popular bottom fish are sometimes found in large schools and can be caught with basic equipment. Peeler crabs or soft shelled crabs the most popular croaker bait in the Chesapeake Bay. During peak periods
- [Chesapeake Bay Region Yellow Perch Fishing to Peak](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2011/02/25/chesapeake-bay-yellow-perch-fishing-run/) - The recreational yellow perch fishing season is expected to peak in Maryland as water temperatures in the tidal tributaries of the Chesapeake begin to warm. Yellow perch are found in 10- to 30-foot depths in many rivers of the bay in preparation for their spawning run. Water temperatures in the tributaries are now in the
- [Virginia Launches State Angler Registry](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2011/01/03/virginia-launches-state-angler-registry/) - The Virginia Marine Resources Commission has launched the new Fisherman Identification Program to register saltwater anglers who fish legally without a saltwater fishing license. Anglers who do not need to buy a license under state law must register with the new Virginia Fisherman Identification Program for free and supply their contact information before they fish
- [Simkins Dam Breached on Patapsco River](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2010/10/29/simkins-dam-breached-on-patapsco-river/) - On October 22, 2010, NOAA and local partners celebrated the opening of 20 miles of stream habitat along the Patapsco River in Maryland and its tributaries. According to NOAA the action is a critical step towards restoring the Patapsco River. The breaching of the Simkins Dam was funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.
- [How to Hold a Chesapeake Bay Crab Feast](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2010/08/09/how-to-steam-chesapeake-bay-crabs/) - Around the Chesapeake Bay, crab feasts are a summer tradition. A crab feast starts with a basket of blue crabs, a steamer and a group of friends. Preparations for a crab feast usually start several hours in advance. Crabs must be obtained, either by catching them in the wild or from a local supplier. Most
- [Zebra Mussels Now Established In Susquehanna River Below Conowingo Dam](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2010/07/19/zebra-mussels-now-established-in-susquehanna-river-below-conowingo-dam/) - On July 6th, a team of biologists from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources’ (DNR) Monitoring and Non-tidal Assessment Division spotted several suspected zebra mussel adults for the first time in the lower Susquehanna River below the Conowingo Dam. These recent findings indicate that a population of this non-native, invasive mussel is established in this
- [Book Released - A Sustainable Chesapeake: Better Models for Conservation](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2010/05/10/book-released-a-sustainable-chesapeake-better-models-for-conservation/) - The Conservation Fund has released A Sustainable Chesapeake: Better Models for Conservation, a new book that provides a conservation resource for government agencies, community groups, businesses and others involved in the restoration of the Chesapeake Bay. A Sustainable Chesapeake profiles promising conservation practices and technologies and describes the protection of critical land and water resources
- [DNR Launches Largemouth Bass Choptank River Initiative](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2010/03/04/dnr-launches-largemouth-bass-choptank-river-initiative/) - The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Inland Fisheries Division has assembled a team of engineers, biologists and anglers to develop a largemouth bass improvement strategy for the Choptank River, which has seen a decline in black bass reproduction in recent years. “There are far fewer adults and juveniles in the Choptank River than there
- [Chesapeake Bay Anglers Prepare for Spot and Croaker Runs](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2009/07/20/chesapeake-bay-spot-and-croaker-runs/) - Late summer and early fall is prime time for catching big spot and croakers in the middle and lower Chesapeake Bay. As summer heats up, spot and croaker begin to school up and are caught in ever increasing numbers in many Chesapeake hotspots. This fishing is easy and newcomers will find spot and croaker to
- [Unified Command Continues Recovery Efforts in Salisbury, MD](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/2009/03/12/unified-command-continues-recovery-efforts-in-salisbury-md/) - A unified command is continuing clean up and recovery efforts to a pollution spill in Tony Tank Creek in Salisbury Maryland. Salisbury University reported a mechanical failure in their generator system causing a loss of approximately 3,000 gallons of diesel fuel from a fuel tank. Between 500 and 600 gallons of diesel fuel have been

## Pages

- [Home](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/) - Chesapeake Bay News provides news, events, articles, photos, and other information. Visit our information section to find articles on wildlife, aquatic birds, waterfowl, fish, seafood, native plants, beaches, lighthouses, ports, and other topics. To view images of the Chesapeake Bay, visit our photo galleries, including lighthouses, boats, fish, seafood, waterfowl, wild berries, and other subjects.
- [Chesapeake Bay Bridge](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/chesapeake-bay-bridge/) - One of the region's most familiar landmarks, the Chesapeake Bay Bridge spans the estuary from Annapolis to Kent Island Maryland. In 1947, the Maryland General Assembly directed the State Roads Commission to build the bridge's two-lane original span. The Chesapeake Bay Bridge opened to traffic at 6 p.m. on July 30, 1952. The second span
- [Chesapeake Bay Fishing Piers](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/chesapeake-bay-fishing-piers/) - The Chesapeake Bay is home to a wide variety of piers suitable for saltwater fishing, crabbing, and other activities. Pier fishing is easy to do, often requires no licenses or permits and allows anglers of all ages, sexes, and skill levels to enjoy saltwater fishing. Depending on the season and location, fishermen may catch trout,
- [Bloody Point Bar Light](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/chesapeake-bay-lighthouses/bloody-point-bar-light/) - Bloody Point Bar Light is located southwest of Kent Island, Maryland. This brown caisson tower (sparkplug lighthouse) is privately owned. The light is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Related Information Chesapeake Bay Lighthouses Ports
- [Potomac River](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/chesapeake-bay-watershed/potomac-river/) - The Potomac River is one of the largest Atlantic Coast rivers and a major tributary of the Chesapeake Bay. The Potomac River watershed covers four states and the District of Columbia. The river originates from two sources. The source of the North Branch begins at the junction of Grant, Tucker, Preston counties in West Virginia
- [Chesapeake Bay Watershed](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/chesapeake-bay-watershed/) - The Chesapeake Bay Watershed is the largest estuary in North America, covering more than 400,000 acres of land and an incredible diversity of streams, creeks, rivers, swamps, tidal marshes, mud flats, and beaches. The watershed provides important habitats for fish, shellfish, reptiles, birds, mammals, and other wildlife. Throughout the Chesapeake Bay watershed, small streams provide
- [Patapsco River](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/chesapeake-bay-watershed/patapsco-river/) - The Patapsco River is one of the most important rivers in Maryland. The river flows from Western Maryland thru Liberty Reservoir, Patapsco Valley State Park, and Baltimore Harbor before emptying into the Chesapeake Bay. The Upper Patapsco River consists of numerous small woodland streams that converge to become the north and south branches of the
- [Baltimore](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/baltimore-md/) - Baltimore is Maryland's largest and most important port city. Rich in history, Baltimore is home to dozens of historic sites and other landmarks. Baltimore's Inner Harbor is famous for its National Aquarium, tall ships, architecture, landmarks, museums, historical buildings, public parks, food, art, and other attractions. The port of Baltimore includes the lower Patapsco River,
- [Nanticoke River](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/chesapeake-bay-watershed/nanticoke-river/) - The Nanticoke River is one of the largest Chesapeake Bay tributaries that flow through the Eastern Shore of Maryland. Known for its wildlife, Nanticoke is a favorite destination of fishermen, hunters, and nature lovers. The Nanticoke River begins as a drainage of small streams in Delaware. Along its path are the communities of Seaford, Blades,
- [Aquatic Birds](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/aquatic-birds/) - A complex network of open water, rivers, creeks, streams, swamps, tidal marshes, mud flats, and small islands, the Chesapeake Bay Watershed is an important area for aquatic birds, including herons, egrets, ibises, gulls, terns, oystercatchers, sandpipers, plovers, rails, fishing birds, and others. The Chesapeake Bay watershed supports year-round residents as well as providing important
- [Ring-billed Gull](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/aquatic-birds/ring-billed-gull/) - The ring-billed gull is one of several white-headed gulls that are found in the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Adult birds have a white head (in summer), yellow, black-ringed bill, light gray back, and yellow legs. The ring-billed gull is smaller than the American herring gull. Related Information Gulls and Terns Aquatic Birds Birdwatching
- [Northern Snakehead Fish](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/fish-fishing/northern-snakehead-fish/) - The northern snakehead is an invasive species of fish that has become established in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed. Northern snakehead can be identified by noting their slender body shape, rounded tail, snake-shaped head, brown coloration, mottled sides, and other features. Snakeheads were first discovered in a Maryland pond in 2002. Over time, the range of
- [Choptank River](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/chesapeake-bay-watershed/choptank-river/) - Located on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, the Choptank River is the longest river on the Delmarva Peninsula. Along its path are several historic communities including Goldsboro, Denton, Secretary, Cambridge, and others. The river provides critical habitat for striped bass, river herring, oysters, blue crabs, and other marine life. The lower Choptank River is famous for its
- [James Island](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/chesapeake-bay-watershed/james-island/) - James Island is located in the middle Chesapeake Bay near the mouth of the Choptank River. Once nearly gone, efforts are underway to restore the island. Work at James Island is part of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Mid-Chesapeake Bay Island Ecosystem Restoration project. The project is focused on restoring and expanding island habitats
- [Choptank River Lighthouse](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/choptank-river-lighthouse/) - Located on the waterfront in Cambridge, Maryland, Choptank River Lighthouse is an iconic landmark. The screwpile style replica Lighthouse offers visitors unique views of the Choptank River and the town’s waterfront district. The lighthouse contains a small museum with maritime artifacts from Dorchester County and the Eastern Shore. Related InformationCambridgeChoptank RiverChesapeake Bay Lighthouses
- [Cambridge Maryland](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/ports/cambridge-maryland/) - Cambridge, Maryland is one of the most popular stops along the Chesapeake Bay. This historic community is located along the Choptank River on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. Located on the waterfront in Cambridge, Choptank River Lighthouse is an iconic landmark. The screwpile style replica Lighthouse offers visitors unique views of the Choptank River and
- [Fish of the Creeks and Rivers of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/fish-of-the-chesapeake-watershed/) - The upper reaches of the Chesapeake Bay watershed contain an array of freshwater species. Many of these fish are tolerant to some saltwater and thrive in tidal rivers, creeks, and streams that empty into the Chesapeake. The sunfish family (Centrarchidae) includes the several species of sunfish and bass that can be found in local waterways.
- [Chesapeake Bay Fish](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/fish-fishing/) - The Chesapeake Bay watershed provides important habitat for hundreds of species of fish including sport and food fish, forage species, and many others. Sport Fish Members of the drum and croaker family are among the most common saltwater fish of the Chesapeake Bay. This group of fish includes red drum, black drum, croaker, spot, kingfish,
- [Gizzard Shad](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/fish-fishing/gizzard-shad/) - Gizzard shad are common throughout rivers and brackish areas of the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Although they have little or no commercial value, gizzard shad are an important forage species for fish, birds, and other wildlife. Gizzard shad fry and juvenile fish are consumed by several species of native fish. As they grow larger, they are
- [Severn River](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/severn-river/) - The Severn River begins as Severn Run and flows southeast for about 10 miles before converging with the Chesapeake Bay near Annapolis Maryland. Much of the Severn Run watershed is protected by Severn Run Natural Environment Area. The waterway converges with Jabez Branch before passing under Route 97. East of Route 97, the river gains
- [Susquehanna River](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/susquehanna-river/) - At the head of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed is the Susquehanna River. Flowing more than 400 miles, it is the longest Atlantic U.S. river and one of North America’s largest rivers. The river drains 27,500 square miles, including parts of Pennsylvania, New York, and Maryland. The Susquehanna originates in upstate New York as the North
- [Osprey](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/birds-of-prey/osprey/) - The Osprey (Pandion haliaetus) is a bird of prey that specializes in catching fish. In the Chesapeake Bay watershed, important prey species include Atlantic menhaden, gizzard shad, catfish, Atlantic croaker, spot, seatrout, juvenile striped bass, white perch, and other fish. Adults reach 24 inches in length with wingspans up to 6 feet. Ospreys have
- [Shrubs](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/native-plants/shrubs/) - Throughout the Chesapeake Bay Watershed, shrubs are important native plants. Shrubs occupy woodlands, meadows, swamps, marshes, beaches, and other habitats. Their foliage, flowers, berries, fruits, seed pods, and other parts attract pollinators, birds, mammals, and other wildlife. In recent decades, the use of native shrubs for landscaping has skyrocketed in the region. Native plants have
- [Chain Pickerel](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/fish-fishing/chain-pickerel/) - The chain pickerel is a member of the pike family which includes muskellunge and northern pike. The fish is named for its pattern of chain-like markings along the flanks of the fish. Other distinctive markings include a black bar beneath its eye. The species can be distinguished from grass pickerel by its chain-like markings while
- [Chesapeake Bay Acronyms](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/chesapeake-bay-acronyms/) - The following is a list of acronyms that are commonly used in the Chesapeake Bay region: Locations ANP - Annapolis BB - Bay Bridge CBBT - Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel EBAY - Eastern Bay HMI - Hart-Miller Island HRBT - Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel JRB - James River Bridge KI - Kent Island PAX - Patuxent River
- [Havre de Grace Maryland](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/ports/havre-de-grace-maryland/) - Havre de Grace is one of Maryland's oldest port cities. Its name is French for "Harbor of Grace." Havre de Grace is located on the Susquehanna River. Just across the river is the community of Perryville. Located on the Havre de Grace shoreline, Concord Point Lighthouse marks the junction of the Susquehanna River and the
- [Birdwatching](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/birdwatching/) - One of North America's most important bird areas, the Chesapeake Bay is a popular destination for birdwatching. The many habitats of the watershed attract waterfowl, aquatic birds, raptors, songbirds, and others. Birds and other wildlife can be viewed at national wildlife refuges, state parks, county parks, and private facilities which are located throughout the Chesapeake
- [Tundra Swan](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/waterfowl/tundra-swan/) - The tundra swan is the most common large white swan that visits the Chesapeake Bay. Tundra swans prefer open water with an abundant supply of submerged aquaticvegetation. During winter, the calls of tundra swans in flight can be heard over considerable distances. Related Information Chesapeake Bay Waterfowl
- [Snow Geese](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/waterfowl/snow-geese/) - The snow goose (Anser caerulescens) is one of North America's most familiar migratory waterfowl. These attractive geese breed in the Arctic Tundra and winter in farmlands, lakes and coastal areas of the USA. Snow geese are seasonal visitors to the Chesapeake Bay region, arriving in early winter and remaining until late winter or early spring.
- [Atlantic Brant](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/waterfowl/atlantic-brant/) - The Atlantic brant is a small goose that is often found in the ChesapeakeBay. Brant usually arrive in the fall and remain until early spring. Brantprefer shallow saltwater coves and bays with submerged aquatic vegetation. Similar in appearance to Canada geese, brant can be identified by their blackhead, neck, and fronts. Another identifying feature is
- [Canada Geese](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/waterfowl/canada-geese/) - The Chesapeake Bay is home to resident and migratory Canada geese. Migratory Canada geese begin arriving in the fall and remain until late winter. Chesapeake Bay Canada Goose Populations Maryland biologists counted 414,200 Canada geese during the 2025 Midwinter Waterfowl Survey, which was higher than both the 350,500 geese counted in 2024 and the 5-year
- [Hooded Merganser](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/waterfowl/hooded-merganser/) - The hooded merganser is one of the most beautiful ducks that visit the Chesapeake Bay.Like other mergansers, this species has a serrated bill for catching fish. Males are recognized by their bright white hood, yellow eyes, and chestnut colored flanks. Hooded merganser females can be identified by their brown heads and backs, and uniquely-shaped head
- [Red-Breasted Merganser](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/waterfowl/red-breasted-mergansers/) - The red-breasted merganser occurs seasonally throughout the Chesapeake Bay watershed. This brightly-colored duck is often found together with hooded mergansers, buffleheads, goldeneyes, surf scoters, long-tailed ducks, cormorants, grebes, loons, and other fish-eating birds. Red-breasted mergansers are classified as sea ducks. The red-breasted merganser female can be recognized by her brown head and uniquely-shaped head feathers.
- [Common Merganser](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/waterfowl/common-merganser/) - The common merganser winters in the Chesapeake Bay watershed, on inland water bodies as well as saltwater creeks and bays. Common mergansers sometimes feed together with hooded and red-breasted mergansers, diving ducks, sea ducks, cormorants, grebes, and loons. Like other mergansers, this species is equipped with a serrated bill for catching fish. Females of the
- [Long-tailed Duck](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/waterfowl/long-tailed-duck/) - The long-tailed duck is a species of sea duck that winters on the Chesapeake Bay. Named for their arrow-like tail feathers, long-tailed ducks are fast and agile on the wing. Long-tailed ducks often gather with scoters in open water to rest and feed. Related Information Chesapeake Bay Waterfowl
- [Surf Scoter](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/waterfowl/surf-scoter/) - The surf scoter is the most abundant sea duck that winters on the Chesapeake Bay. From November to March, large flocks of surf scoters congregate on the open waters of the Chesapeake Bay. Surf scoters are skilled divers, able to reach considerable depths where they feed on mollusks, and other marine life. Related Information Chesapeake
- [Bufflehead](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/waterfowl/bufflehead/) - The bufflehead is one of several diving ducks that winter in the Chesapeake Bay watershed. This small, stout duck is often seen together with goldeneyes, hooded mergansers, red-breasted mergansers, surf scoters, long-tailed ducks, and other diving birds. Male buffleheads have a purplish-black head with prominent white patch. In the water, Males are identified by their
- [Goldeneye](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/waterfowl/goldeneye/) - The goldeneye is one of several diving ducks that winter in the Chesapeake Bay watershed. This duck is often observed feeding on small fish and other prey with its smaller relative, the bufflehead. Goldeneyes also associate with hooded mergansers, red-breasted mergansers, surf scoters, long-tailed ducks, and other fish-eating birds. Male buffleheads have a dark green
- [Ring-necked Duck](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/waterfowl/ring-necked-duck/) - The ring-necked duck is one of several ducks which are known collectively as scaup. The ring-necked duck often mistaken for the greater scaup, which is quite similar in appearance. The ring-necked duck drake can be distinguished from other scaup by the presence of a faint ring around its neck and black and white bands on
- [Greater Scaup](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/waterfowl/greater-scaup/) - The greater scaup is one of several diving ducks that winter in the Chesapeake Bay. This species is often confused with its close relative, the lesser scaup. Related Information Chesapeake Bay Waterfowl
- [Redhead](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/waterfowl/redhead/) - The redhead is one of several diving ducks that winter in the Chesapeake Bay. Redheads resemble other diving ducks, especially canvasbacks and scaup. Redhead drakes are recognized by their reddish-brown head, distinctive bill coloration, black front, silver mid-section, gray wings, and dark rump. Redhead hens are chestnut brown with dark backs. Their three-colored bill
- [Northern Shoveler](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/waterfowl/northern-shoveler/) - The northern shoveler is common on the Chesapeake Bay, especially during the winter season. Shoveler ducks prefer shallow lagoons, coves, and tide pools, where they are often seen together with other dabbling ducks. The northern shoveler is named for its specialized bill, which is adapted for feeding on aquatic vegetation. Related Information Chesapeake Bay Waterfowl
- [Wood Duck](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/waterfowl/wood-duck/) - The wood-duck is arguably the most beautiful duck that is found in the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Containing thousands of acres of cypress swamps, flooded pine forests, and wooded streams, the estuary is an important breeding ground and wintering area for wood ducks. During the breeding season, wood ducks move up rivers and creeks into remote
- [Gadwall](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/waterfowl/gadwall/) - The gadwall is one of several dabbling ducks that winter in the Chesapeake Bay. Gadwalls are often found together with teal, mallards, black ducks, pintails, and American widgeon. Drakes can be identified by their black bill, steel-gray sides, and two-tone head plumage (during breeding phase). Females are similar in appearance to mallards, teal, and
- [Blue-winged Teal](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/waterfowl/blue-winged-teal/) - The blue-winged teal is one of several dabbling ducks that winter in the Chesapeake Bay watershed.Blue-winged teal prefer small bodies of water, especially ponds, coves, and secluded creeks. Like other dabblers, this duck is sometimes found together with its relatives, including the similar sized green-winged teal. Related Information Chesapeake Bay Waterfowl
- [Green-winged Teal](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/waterfowl/green-winged-teal/) - The green-winged teal is one of the few ducks that reside year-round on the Chesapeake Bay. In Autumn, resident green-wings are joined by migrating birds, which usually arrive earlier in the season than other migratory waterfowl. The male green-winged teal is identified by its small size, chestnut head, green eye mask, and green wing-patch. Female
- [Northern Pintail](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/waterfowl/northern-pintail/) - The northern pintail is one of several dabbling ducks that winter in the Chesapeake Bay. Pintails often rest and feed together with other dabbling ducks, especially mallards, black ducks, and teal. Pintail drakes are easily recognized by their slender necks, chestnut heads, and long tail feathers. Female pintails are duller in color than males, but
- [Mallard Duck](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/waterfowl/mallard-duck/) - The mallard is one of the most familiar ducks of the Chesapeake Bay. This iconic species can be found in nearly every type of aquatic habitat in the estuary. Mallards are opportunistic feeders, foraging on grains, grasses, and submerged aquatic vegetation. Related Information Chesapeake Bay Waterfowl
- [Black Duck](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/waterfowl/black-duck/) - The American black duck is one of the few ducks that reside in the Chesapeake Bay all year. During the cold season, migratory black ducks join resident birds on the estuary. Black ducks prefer salt marshes, brackish rivers and creeks, and shallow lagoons. They are often found together with mallards, pintails, and other dabbling ducks,
- [Common Carp](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/fish-fishing/common-carp/) - Common carp are found in low salinity areas of the Chesapeake Bay watershed, especially in tidal rivers, coves, and creeks. Carp are often found in shallow, slow moving water with muddy bottoms. They also feed in areas where aquatic vegetation is plentiful. Carp sometimes appear in schools, moving slowly with their backs or tails out
- [Bay Anchovy](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/fish-fishing/bay-anchovy/) - Although it seldom exceeds 4 inches in length, the Bay Anchovy is the most abundant and fish in the Chesapeake Bay. Bay anchovies prefer small creeks, coves, and areas of aquatic vegetation where they can feed on zooplankton and hide from predators. Throughout much of the watershed, Bay anchovies are an important food sources for
- [Birds of Prey](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/birds-of-prey/) - The Chesapeake Bay is home to several of North America's most familiar birds of prey, including the bald eagle, osprey, cooper's hawk, sharp-shinned hawk, northern harrier (marsh hawk), red-tailed hawk, red-shouldered hawk, rough-legged hawk, American kestrel (sparrow hawk), peregrine falcon, merlin, great horned owl, and others. Related Information Bald Eagle Osprey Birdwatching
- [Bald Eagle](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/birds-of-prey/bald-eagle/) - The bald eagle is the largest resident bird of prey that occurs in the Chesapeake Bay watershed. These iconic birds are found throughout the estuary. During the winter months, resident bald eagles compete with migrating bald eagles for fish, waterfowl, and carrion. In some areas, bald eagles share habitats with the osprey. Related Information Birdwatching
- [Atlantic Menhaden](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/fish-fishing/atlantic-menhaden/) - The Atlantic menhaden is one of the most important fish species that inhabit the Chesapeake Bay. Menhaden, also known as bunker, are consumed by striped bass, bluefish, seatrout, osprey, bald eagles, herons, pelicans, gannets, and other wildlife. In his book, The Most Important Fish in the Sea, Rutgers University Professor, Dr. H. Bruce Franklin chronicles the
- [Atlantic Sturgeon](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/fish-fishing/atlantic-sturgeon/) - The Atlantic sturgeon is the largest fish native to the Chesapeake Bay. Adult sturgeon can reach lengths of six to eight feet and weigh 200 pounds or more. In Canada, individuals up to 14 feet long and 800 pounds have been recorded. Atlantic sturgeon can live 60 years or more. The Atlantic sturgeon can be
- [Batteaux](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/boats/batteaux/) - The term "batteau" (batteaux in plural form) refers to a number of small vessels that once dominated the Chesapeake Bay region. The name is derived from the French word, bateau, meaning "boat". Both spellings have been applied to American vessels. Batteau Sailboats The batteau sailboat was common in the Chesapeake Bay during the colonial period.
- [Chesapeake Bay Log Canoes](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/boats/chesapeake-bay-log-canoes/) - The log canoe is one of several wooden boats that were designed for use in the Chesapeake Bay and nearby estuaries. These small, shallow-draft sailing vessels were built for fishing and moving cargo between local ports. As the Chesapeake Bay oyster industry grew, the need for larger and more seaworthy workboats increased. In response, boat
- [Shad and River Herring](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/fish-fishing/shad-and-river-herring/) - American shad, hickory shad, blueback herring, and alewives were once incredibly abundant in rivers, creeks, and streams of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed. Although stocks have declined in the estuary, some species have begun to increase as a result of restoration efforts. Adult fish reside in marine environments until they reach maturity. To complete their
- [Chesapeake Bay Yellow Perch](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/chesapeake-bay-yellow-perch/) - The yellow perch is found throughout much of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed. Although smaller in size than some species, the yellow perch is one of the most important species in the region. Yellow perch are found in rivers and creeks throughout Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Virginia. The yellow perch is one of several Chesapeake Bay fish
- [White Perch](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/fish-fishing/white-perch/) - Overview The white perch is one of the most common fish found in the Chesapeake Bay. Although smaller in size than striped bass, these pan-sized fish share a number of traits with their larger cousins. In the Chesapeake Bay watershed, white perch migrate seasonally. From late fall thru early winter, tidal white perch move into
- [Striped Bass](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/fish-fishing/striped-bass/) - The Chesapeake Bay is a major nursery for Atlantic striped bass. The striped bass, also known as “rockfish” is one of several anadromous fish that pass through the Chesapeake Bay Watershed. In early spring, adults move up the bay into spawning areas. After spawning, most adults exit the bay and return to coastal areas
- [Chesapeake Bay Speckled Trout Fishing](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/fish-fishing/chesapeake-bay-speckled-trout-fishing/) - It can be argued that the speckled trout is the most beautiful fish that occurs in the Chesapeake Bay. Except for its prominent black spots, this member of the croaker family is similar in appearance to the gray trout (weakfish). In the Chesapeake Bay, speckled trout orient to very specific habitats and are rarely caught
- [Gray Trout](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/fish-fishing/gray-trout/) - The gray trout or weakfish is another iconic fish of the Chesapeake Bay. This species has a long history of population fluctuations. Gray trout are found along channel edges, drop offs, oyster reefs, and other underwater structure. In shallow grassy areas, gray trout are sometimes found with speckled trout. Occasionally, gray trout are found together
- [Deal Island Md Skipjack Races](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/deal-island-md-skipjack-races/) - In Deal Island, Md skipjack sailboat races are a local tradition. The race is held annually over Labor Day weekend. Each year these beautiful wooden boats travel from around the Chesapeake Bay to compete, share stories, network, and celebrate these historic working vessels. A local Captain explained how difficult it is to maintain and operate
- [Solomons Lump Light](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/chesapeake-bay-lighthouses/solomons-lump-light/) - Solomons Lump Light is located in Kedges Straits, near Smith Island, MD. The light marks the east-west passage between Tangier Sound and the main shipping channel. The original layout included a square, brick, light tower to one side and a wooden keepers dwelling. The light was automated in 1950 and the keepers dwelling removed, giving
- [Oxford - Bellevue](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/oxford-bellevue/) - Located along the Tred Avon River, the communities of Oxford and Bellevue are linked by the nation's oldest privately owned ferry service. These quiet communities have a long maritime history. The local ferry provides an important service for local residents. It also attracts a steady flow of tourists, eager to explore the area's many hidden
- [Drum Point Lighthouse](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/chesapeake-bay-lighthouses/drum-point-lighthouse/) - Drum Point Lighthouse is one of the few remaining hexagonal screw pile structures of the Chesapeake Bay. Originally located at the entrance to the Patuxent River, Drum Point Lighthouse was decommissioned in 1962. After years of neglect, ownership of the structure was transferred to Calvert Historical Society. In 1975, Drum Point Lighthouse was relocated to
- [Solomons Island](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/ports/solomons-island/) - Solomons Island is located at the mouth of the Patuxent River, in southern Calvert County, Maryland. One of the most popular communities in Southern Maryland, Solomons Island is a popular destination for vacationers, day trippers, fishermen, sailboaters, and nature enthusiasts. Located along the Solomons waterfront are full service marinas, shops, restaurants, museums, Drum Point Lighthouse,
- [Hampton Roads Virginia](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/ports/hampton-roads-virginia/) - Hampton Roads is both a waterway and region in Virginia. Located along the western shore of the lower Chesapeake Bay, Hampton Roads is home to one of the nation's most important ports. The port of Hampton Roads is an important asset for the U.S. Navy and other military branches. The port is also important
- [Chestertown Maryland](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/chestertown-maryland/) - Chestertown is a historically important port town on the Chester River in Maryland. Originally one of the English colony of Maryland's six Royal Ports of Entry, Chestertown is home to historical buildings, nautical artifacts, and other points of interest. Each fall, Chestertown hosts the annual Downrigging Weekend along the Chester River waterfront. Within walking distance
- [Chester River](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/chester-river/) - The Chester River is one of the largest rivers on the eastern side of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed. The Chester River begins near Millington, Maryland, at the convergence of Cypress Branch and Andover Branch. Along its length the river is joined by Langford Creek, Morgan Creek, the Corsica River, Southeast Creek, and numerous small tributaries. The
- [Boats of the Chesapeake Bay](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/photo-galleries/chesapeake-bay-boats/) - This gallery includes photos of Chesapeake Bay skipjacks, deadrise workboats, oyster boats, crabbing boats, dredge boats, charter boats, and other vessels. The Bow of a Chesapeake Bay Deadrise Work Boat A Chesapeake Bay Deadrise Oyster Boat An Oyster Boat in Tangier Sound A Chesapeake Bay Skipjack A Skipjack Dredging Chesapeake Bay Oysters A Skipjack under
- [Boats](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/boats/) - The following pages provide overviews of boats that are used on the Chesapeake Bay, including designs that are unique to the Chesapeake Bay region. Chesapeake Bay Skipjacks Chesapeake Bay Log Canoes Batteaux Tugboats Chesapeake Bay Paddlesports Boats Photo Gallery
- [Tugboats](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/boats/tugboats/) - Tugboats are a common sight on the Chesapeake Bay. They transport freight and equipment throughout the watershed from the C and D Canal to Hampton Roads. Tugboats began appearing on the Chesapeake Bay during of the age of sail. Early steam-powered tugs were used primarily to assist schooners, barges, and other commercial vessels. Modern tugs
- [Crisfield Maryland](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/ports/crisfield-md/) - Crisfield is one of Maryland's most historically significant port towns. Much of the town is built on oyster shells, a result of centuries of oystering. This small, friendly community is famous for its seafood, especially crabs and oysters. Crisfield is home to Somers Cover Marina and other harbors. Located nearby is Smith Island. Related
- [American Oystercatcher](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/aquatic-birds/american-oystercatcher/) - The American oystercatcher is found along exposed shellfish beds, salt marshes, shorelines, and other estuarine habitats. Related Information Birdwatching Aquatic Birds
- [Willet](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/aquatic-birds/willet/) - The willet is one of several long-legged waders that is common in the Chesapeake Bay. Willets feed along mud flats, shellfish beds, shallow lagoons, and sandy shorelines. Related Information Birdwatching Aquatic Birds
- [Lesser Yellowlegs](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/aquatic-birds/lesser-yellowlegs/) - The lesser yellowlegs is a long-legged wader that is found along salt marshes, beaches, and shorelines of the Chesapeake Bay. Related Information Birdwatching Aquatic Birds
- [Ruddy Turnstone](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/aquatic-birds/ruddy-turnstone/) - The ruddy turnstone is a small sandpiper that is often seen along sandy beaches and other shorelines. This species is one of the more colorful sandpipers, especially during breeding season. Identifying features of the ruddy turnstone include contrasting black and white markings on the face and breast, orange legs, and short bill. Ruddy turnstones are
- [Killdeer](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/aquatic-birds/killdeer/) - The killdeer is common in meadows, pastures, marshes, parks, and other open areas of the Chesapeake Bay region. Killdeer are recognizable by a pattern of black bands on their heads, neck, and breast. During nesting season, males often make shrill calls and pretend to be injured in order to draw attention away from the nest.
- [Sanderling](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/aquatic-birds/sanderling/) - The sanderling is a small, relatively tame sandpiper that is found along sandy beaches and open shorelines of the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Sanderlings sometimes flock together with dunlins and other shorebirds. Related Information Birdwatching Aquatic Birds
- [Dunlin](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/aquatic-birds/dunlin/) - The dunlin is one of several small sandpipers that visit the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Dunlin are sometimes found among flocks of mixed shorebirds. Related Information Birdwatching Aquatic Birds
- [Sandhill Crane](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/aquatic-birds/sandhill-crane/) - The sandhill crane is an occasional visitor to the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Although striking in appearance, this large shorebird is sometimes mistaken for the great blue heron, especially at a distance. Related Information Birdwatching Aquatic Birds
- [White Ibis](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/aquatic-birds/white-ibis/) - immature white ibis The white ibis is a wading bird that frequents salt marshes, beaches, and shorelines of the southern Chesapeake Bay. Once rare in the estuary, white ibis sightings have increased in recent decades. White ibises are sometimes found together with herons, egrets, and other shorebirds. Related Information Birdwatching Aquatic Birds Herons and Egrets
- [American Bittern](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/aquatic-birds/american-bittern/) - The American Bittern is a small, solitary relative of the herons. These stout birds prefer dense marshes, bogs, and other habitats where brush and other cover exists. Related Information Aquatic Birds Herons and Egrets Waterfowl Birds of Prey
- [Snowy Egret](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/aquatic-birds/snowy-egret/) - The snowy egret is one of several mid-sized white waders. These graceful egrets are found throughout the Chesapeake Bay Watershed. Snowy egrets nest together in rookeries alongside other egrets, herons, and other species. Related Information Birdwatching Aquatic Birds Herons and Egrets Waterfowl Birds of Prey
- [Great Egret](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/aquatic-birds/great-egret/) - The great egret is a large relative of the herons. These graceful hunters are found throughout the Chesapeake Bay Watershed. Great egrets nest together with herons, egrets, and other birds, often on uninhabited islands or other isolated habitats. Related Information Aquatic Birds Herons and Egrets Waterfowl Birds of Prey
- [Little Blue Heron](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/aquatic-birds/little-blue-heron/) - The little blue heron is one of several small, bluish members of the heron family. In the Chesapeake Bay Watershed, little blue herons are seen most often during the summer. They nest together with other herons, typically on uninhabited islands or other isolated habitats. Related Information Aquatic Birds Herons and Egrets Waterfowl Birds of Prey
- [Herons and Egrets](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/aquatic-birds/herons-and-egrets/) - Herons, egrets, bitterns, and their allies are found throughout the Chesapeake Bay Watershed. The watershed provides important feeding and nursery for members of this group of aquatic birds. Species Overviews Great Blue Heron Little Blue Heron Great Egret Snowy Egret American Bittern Related Information Birdwatching Aquatic Birds Waterfowl Birds of Prey
- [Great Blue Heron](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/aquatic-birds/great-blue-heron/) - The great blue heron is perhaps the most iconic and widespread aquatic bird species of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed. Great blue herons are year-round residents throughout the estuary. Related Information Aquatic Birds Herons and Egrets Waterfowl Birds of Prey
- [Chesapeake Bay Gifts](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/store/chesapeake-bay-gifts/) - Chesapeake Bay Gifts The following pages showcases Chesapeake Bay gift ideas, including seafood, clothing, books, magazines, vintage nautical charts, lighthouse collectibles, and other products. T-Shirts Posters Lighthouse Collectibles
- [Chesapeake Bay Store](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/store/) - Chesapeake Bay Online Store Visit our store pages to shop for seafood, Chesapeake Bay themed apparel, books, posters, lighthouse collectibles, gifts, and other items. T-Shirts - Apparel Lighthouse Collectibles Posters This site contains affiliate links to products. We may receive a commission for purchases made through these links.
- [Posters](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/store/posters/) - This page showcases a variety of posters and prints related to the Chesapeake Bay. Choose from vintage charts, waterfowl, raptors, backyard birds, sea shells, saltwater gamefish, trout, and sunfish. The Original Chesapeake Bay Chart: Harve De Grace to Norfolk (Laminated) MAP ANTIQUE 1857 USCS CHESAPEAKE BAY VIRGINIA LARGE REPLICA POSTER PRINT Sibley's Waterfowl of North
- [Lighthouse Collectibles](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/store/lighthouse-collectibles/) - This page showcases Chesapeake Bay lighthouse collectibles. Featured Collectibles Sharps Island Lighthouse (Chesapeake Bay) Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse Chesapeake Bay Gifts Boats of the Chesapeake Bay
- [Chesapeake Bay T-Shirts](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/store/chesapeake-bay-t-shirts/) - The following Chesapeake Bay t-shirts are available at north_america online store. These designs are also available on sweatshirts, hats, stickers, notecards, coffee mugs, and other items. Chesapeake Bay Deadrise Boat (titled) T-Shirt Chesapeake Bay Deadrise Workboat T-Shirt Chesapeake Bay Skipjacks T-Shirt Chesapeake Bay Striped Bass T-Shirt Redhead Duck T-Shirt Chesapeake Bay Blue Crab T-Shirt Related Information Chesapeake
- [Contact Us](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/about/contact-us/)
- [Chesapeake Bay Waterfowl](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/waterfowl/) - Many of North America's most iconic waterfowl are found in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed. Located near the mid-point of the Atlantic Flyway, the Chesapeake Bay is an important stopover for migrating waterfowl and other birds. During the breeding season, the watershed is home to a variety of resident waterfowl. Waterfowl are found in a diverse
- [Chesapeake Bay Information](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/) - The following pages provide information about Chesapeake Bay birds, mammals, fish, shellfish, seafood, boats, culture, cuisine, destinations, and other topics. The Chesapeake Bay Watershed Birdwatching Waterfowl Aquatic Birds Herons and Egrets Gulls and Terns Birds of Prey Wildlife Chesapeake Bay Seafood Chesapeake Bay Seafood Recipes Blue Crabs How To Catch Chesapeake Bay Blue Crabs Oysters
- [Artificial Reefs and Oyster Reefs](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/artificial-reefs-and-oyster-reefs/) - The following articles have information about artificial reefs, oyster reefs, and other structures in the Chesapeake Bay watershed. New Maryland Oyster Restoration Sanctuaries NOAA Chesapeake Bay Oyster Reef Construction Grant Severn River Oyster Restoration Research Project Ever Forward Grounding Mitigation Fund Oyster Plantings Love Point Artificial Reef Rubble Deployment Tred Avon River Oyster Reef Construction
- [Ruddy Duck](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/waterfowl/ruddy-duck/) - The ruddy duck is one of several small diving ducks that winter in the Chesapeake Bay.Ruddy ducks are often seen feeding and socializing in small groups.They prefer sheltered coves, lagoons, small creeks, rivers, and ponds. Female ruddy ducks can be identified by an irregular line along their cheeks. Male ruddy ducks have deep red plumage
- [Concord Point Lighthouse](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/chesapeake-bay-lighthouses/concord-point-lighthouse/) - Concord Point Lighthouse is located in Havre de Grace, MD. The structure marks the junction of the Susquehanna River and the northern tip of the Chesapeake Bay. The light was decommissioned by the Coast Guard in 1975 and in the same year the Fresnel lens was stolen. In 1979, local citizens formed the Friends of
- [Ports](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/ports/) - The Chesapeake Bay is home to some of the nation's most important ports, such as Baltimore, Annapolis, and Hampton Roads. The estuary is also home to hundreds of smaller ports, each offering their own unique culture and attractions. The following pages include overviews of Chesapeake Bay port cities, towns, and small communities: Maryland Annapolis Baltimore
- [Salisbury Maryland](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/ports/salisbury-maryland/) - The Port of Salisbury is Maryland's second-largest port. A variety of commodities and other products are processed at the port. Barges bring petroleum, aggregates, grain, and other loads into the city destined for offloading, storage, and distribution. Located along the Wicomico River waterfront in downtown are commercial shipyards, marinas, and other marine service facilities.
- [Chesapeake Bay Marine Life](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/photo-galleries/marine-life/) - This gallery has images of marine life of the Chesapeake Bay life including crabs, oysters, and others. Related Information Chesapeake Bay Photo Galleries
- [Spot](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/fish-fishing/spot/) - The Norfolk spot is one of the most common fish of the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Spot are similar in appearance to croaker and white perch. Diagonal stripes and a prominent spot behind the gill distinguishes this species from other small fish. Spot are fun to catch and a great fish for anglers of all
- [James River](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/chesapeake-bay-watershed/james-river/) - Virginia's largest river, the James River is one of the Chesapeake Bay region's most historically significant waterways. The river begins at the convergence of the Cowpasture and Jackson Rivers. The upper river runs to Lynchburg. The James River's middle section runs from Lynchburg to Richmond. The tidal portion of the James River extends from the
- [How To Catch Chesapeake Bay Blue Crabs](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/how-to-catch-chesapeake-bay-blue-crabs/) - Chesapeake Bay blue crabs can be caught recreationally by a number of methods. Some techniques for catching blue crabs are effective only in specific habitats while other techniques are related to seasonal events. Although recreational crabbing is done throughout the day, crabbing is usually most effective in the early morning or evening. Throughout the Chesapeake
- [Lesser Scaup](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/waterfowl/lesser-scaup/) - The lesser scaup is one of several diving ducks that winter in the Chesapeake Bay. As its name implies, this species is slightly smaller in size than its close relative, the greater scaup. These distinctive birds are often found together with canvasbacks, redheads, and other diving ducks. Breeding phase (winter) drakes are recognized by
- [Horned Grebe](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/aquatic-birds/horned-grebe/) - The horned grebe is one of several small, ducklike birds that are found in throughout the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Horned grebes are often seen alongside diving ducks and other fish-eating birds. Grebes can be distinguished from other small diving birds by their blood-red eyes and short, slender beaks. Related Information Aquatic Birds Waterfowl Birdwatching
- [Canvasback](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/waterfowl/canvasback/) - The canvasback is often regarded as the vanguard diving duck that winters on the Chesapeake Bay. Canvasbacks are easily recognized by their arched necks, sloped heads, and slender black bills. Canvasbacks are similar in appearance and closely related to redheads and scaup. Male canvasbacks have brilliant red eyes, red-brown head, black front, and
- [Chesapeake Bay Clams](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/clams/) - Chesapeake Bay clams include quahogs, soft-shelled clams, and stout razor clams. Quahogs Quahog clams are found in the lower Chesapeake Bay, where salinity levels are high enough to support them. In addition to wild clams, a multi-million dollar clam aquaculture industry exists in Virginia's portion of the Chesapeake Bay. Other Clams Although populations of
- [Blue Catfish](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/fish-fishing/blue-catfish/) - The blue catfish is a large, invasive catfish species that has become established in the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Adults have stout bodies with prominently humped back in front of the dorsal fin. The back and upper sides are blue to slate gray, and the lower sides and belly are white. Young blue catfish have deeply
- [Chesapeake Bay Wildlife](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/wildlife/) - The Chesapeake Bay watershed is home to a variety of wildlife including mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, crustaceans, mullosks, and other creatures. Marine organisms occupy much of the estuary. Common species include blue crabs, horseshoe crabs, grass shrimp, mussels, oysters, and others. Despite an abundance of marshy, often inaccessible areas, the Chesapeake Bay region supports
- [Horseshoe Crabs](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/wildlife/horseshoe-crabs/) - The North American horseshoe crab (Limulus polyphemus) is common throughout the Chesapeake Bay. Adults are greenish tan to brown in color, roughly two feet long and one foot wide. From late spring through early summer, horseshoe crabs converge on beaches during high tide to deposit their eggs. A single female can lay up to
- [Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/chesapeake-bay-lighthouses/thomas-point-shoal-lighthouse/) - Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse is located near Annapolis, Maryland. Originally built in 1875, this iconic lighthouse has been designated as a National Historic Landmark, the highest recognition that a historic structure can receive. Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse is the only screw-pile light on the Chesapeake Bay still in its original position.
- [Sharps Island Light](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/chesapeake-bay-lighthouses/sharps-island-light/) - Sharps Island Light is located west of Black Walnut Point, near Tilghman Island, MD. The light marks the entrance to the Choptank River and the main shipping channel of the Chesapeake Bay. Sharps Island Light consists of a caisson with cylindrical iron tower, a design that is sometimes called "sparkplug lighthouse." Mariners recognize this
- [Tilghman Island](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/ports/tilghman-island/) - Tilghman Island is located on the Eastern Shore of Maryland, west of Easton and St. Michaels. The island is separated from the mainland by the Miles River, Choptank River, Knapps Narrows, and the Chesapeake Bay. The island is home to a number of restaurants, bed and breakfasts, charter boat operators, and tourism-related businesses. Many of
- [Chesapeake Bay Paddlesports](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/paddlesports-kayaking-canoeing-sup/) - Paddlesports are extremely popular in the Chesapeake Bay, including kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding (SUP), and other activities. Paddlecraft have probably been used on the Chesapeake since the earliest inhabitants discovered the region. Although many centuries have passed, modern craft can trace their roots back to ancient designs. Although the distinction between classes is not
- [Intertidal Aquatic Vegetation](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/intertidal-aquatic-vegetation/) - Aquatic vegetation is vital to the Chesapeake Bay estuary. Along shorelines, in tidal creeks, and along rivers, a variety of vegetation grows in tidal areas. In shallow waters of the Chesapeake Bay, submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) beds remove nutrients and sediment from the water column, reduce shoreline erosion, and stabilize estuary substates. SAV beds also
- [Tangier Island](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/ports/tangier-island-va/) - Tangier Island is a small island in the Virginia portion of the Chesapeake Bay. Shallows, aquatic vegetation and salt marshes surround the island. The countless acres of aquatic grasses provide a nursery environment for young blue crabs and other marine life. The local fishery for soft shelled crabs provides an important source of income for
- [Smith Island Md](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/ports/smith-island-md/) - Smith Island is a small island in the Chesapeake Bay. The eastern side of the island is bordered by the Tangier Sound while the western side faces the main shipping channel. Just north of the island, Solomon's Lump Lighthouse guides mariners navigating Kedges Straits. Smith island is home to three small communities, Ewell, Tylerton, and
- [Annapolis Maryland](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/ports/annapolis/) - Annapolis is the capital of Maryland and an important port city of the Chesapeake Bay. The city is rich in history and known for its beauty, architecture, schools, art community, shops, and harbor. Annapolis was once a vital port for shipping and commercial fishing operations. Today the city and port is a top vacation and
- [Cove Point Lighthouse](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/chesapeake-bay-lighthouses/cove-point-lighthouse/) - Cove Point Lighthouse is located on the western shore of the Chesapeake Bay, 4 miles north of the entrance to the Patuxent River. The light station includes a conical brick tower lighthouse with detached keeper’s dwelling and fog bell building. Active since 1828, Cove Point is the oldest continuously operating lighthouse on the Chesapeake Bay.
- [Point No Point Light](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/chesapeake-bay-lighthouses/point-no-point-light/) - Point No Point Light is located along the Chesapeake Bay’s main shipping channel between the Smith Point and Cove Point lights. Related Information Chesapeake Bay Lighthouses Ports
- [Reedville Virginia](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/ports/reedville-virginia/) - Reedville is located on Virginia's Northern Neck. The Northern Neck is the northernmost of peninsula or "neck" on the western shore of the Chesapeake Bay in Virginia. The Northern Neck is separated by the Potomac River on the north and the Rappahannock River on the south. Captain John Smith referred to the Northern Neck area
- [Deltaville Virginia](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/deltaville-virginia/) - Deltaville, Virginia is a quiet port town near the mouth of the Rappahannock River. Boat building was once an important industry in the area. Local craftsmen built Chesapeake Bay skipjacks, deadrise boats, and other commercial craft. Contemporary Deltaville is home to commercial fishermen, a fishing charter industry, and tourism-related businesses. Related Information Chesapeake Bay Ports
- [Book Review: Bridges Under Troubled Waters: Upper Chesapeake and Tidal Potomac Fishing Reefs](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/book-review-bridges-under-troubled-waters-upper-chesapeake-and-tidal-potomac-fishing-reefs/) - Bridges Under Troubled Waters: Upper Chesapeake and Tidal Potomac Fishing ReefsBy Wayne YoungPaperback: 178 pagesPublisher: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform; 1 edition (October 4, 2018)ISBN-10: 171871694XISBN-13: 978-1718716940 Bridges Under Troubled Waters: Upper Chesapeake and Tidal Potomac Fishing Reefs is a self published work on artificial reefs and other fish attracting structures of the upper and middle
- [Onancock](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/ports/onancock-va/) - Onancock is a small and beautiful town on the Eastern Shore of Virginia. The town is one of the oldest Eastern Shore communities. The main street leads to a town dock where boaters can launch into Onancock Creek. Onancock Creek extends roughly 10 miles and merges in the Chesapeake Bay. Along the creek are sandy
- [Seafood](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/store/seafood/) - Our seafood store page is undergoing seasonal maintenance. Related Information Online Store
- [Chesapeake Bay Books](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/store/online-books/) - Our books page is undergoing seasonal maintenance. Calendars Boats of the Chesapeake Bay Chesapeake Bay Store
- [Croaker](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/croaker/) - The Atlantic croaker is one of the Chesapeake Bay’s most popular saltwater fish. Croaker get their names because of the “croaking” noise the make when removed from the water. This iconic species is also known as hardhead or croaker fish. Croakers are targeted by fishermen throughout the watershed. They are caught along shorelines, from fishing
- [Traditional Chesapeake Bay Seafood Recipes](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/seafood-recipes/) - This page includes a selection of traditional Chesapeake Bay seafood recipes including oyster dressing, single fried oysters, steamed clams, clam fritters, and fish chowder. Oyster Dressing Ingredients: 1 pint shucked oysters1/2 cup chopped celery1/2 cup chopped onion1/4 cup butter4 cups bread crumbs1 tbsp. chopped parsley1 tsp. sage1/2 tsp. salt1/8 tsp. poultry seasoning1/8 tsp pepper
- [Summer Flounder](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/summer-flounder/) - The summer flounder is one of the bay's most sought after saltwater fish species. Summer flounder are primarily found around channel edges, drop offs, oyster reefs, and other underwater structure where they feed on small fish, crabs, shrimp, and other crustaceans. Related Information Chesapeake Bay Saltwater Fish
- [St. Michaels Maryland](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/ports/saint-michaels-md/) - The port of Saint Michaels Maryland is located along the banks of the Miles River. This famous Chesapeake Bay town is known as the "Town that fooled the British." According to legend, residents who had been warned of an impending British attack hung lanterns in ship masts and tree-tops. The tactic worked and British cannons
- [Hooper Strait Light](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/chesapeake-bay-lighthouses/hooper-strait-light/) - Hooper Strait Light is one of four remaining Chesapeake Bay screw-pile lighthouses. The structure was originally located between Bloodsworth Island and the eastern shore mainland in the Chesapeake Bay. In 1966, the lighthouse was relocated to the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum in St. Michaels, MD. Related Information Chesapeake Bay Lighthouses Ports
- [How to Shuck Oysters](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/how-to-shuck-oysters/) - Chesapeake Bay oysters are fairly easy to shuck but it is important to have the right equipment which includes heavy gloves, the correct oyster knife, a bowl to catch the oysters and their liquor and a sturdy outside table if possible. Step 1. Hold the oyster firmly in one hand, knife in the other. Begin
- [Regional Links](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/chesapeake-bay-links/regional-links/) - Chesapeake Bay Regional Links Mid Atlantic Saltwater Fishing Hampton Roads - Tidewater Virginia Virginia Saltwater Fishing
- [The Chesapeake Bay Bridge - Tunnel](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/chesapeake-bay-bridge-tunnel/) - The Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel connects Delmarva to the Hampton Roads area of Virginia. The structure is sometimes referred to as the 8th wonder of the world. This 13 mile bridge is the largest bridge-tunnel complex in the world. The structure is 23 miles long, with 2 spans, 2 mile long tunnels, 2 bridges, and
- [Chesapeake Bay Birds](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/photo-galleries/chesapeake-bay-birds/) - Chesapeake Bay bird photos and species overviews can be found on the following pages: Waterfowl Aquatic Birds Herons and Egrets Gulls and Terns Birds of Prey Related Information Birdwatching Chesapeake Bay Photo Galleries
- [Chesapeake Bay Photo Galleries](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/photo-galleries/) - This collection of photo galleries showcase the Chesapeake Bay, its inhabitants, landmarks, and more. Chesapeake Bay Lighthouses Chesapeake Bay Birds Chesapeake Bay Marine Life Chesapeake Bay Oysters Chesapeake Bay Seafood Chesapeake Bay Waterfowl Fish of the Chesapeake Bay Boats of the Chesapeake Bay Oyster Buyboats Sunrises-Sunsets
- [Fish of the Chesapeake Bay](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/photo-galleries/chesapeake-bay-fish/) - This page includes images of fish found in the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries. Striped Bass (rockfish) White Perch Oyster Toad Pigfish Sheepshead Triggerfish Related Information Chesapeake Bay Saltwater Fish Chesapeake Bay Seafood
- [Craighill Channel Lower Range Lights](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/chesapeake-bay-lighthouses/craighill-channel-lower-range-lights/) - The Craighill Channel Lower Range front and rear lights mark Craighill Channel, an important route for commercial vessels headed into the Patapsco River, near Baltimore, MD. Range lights are used in pairs to mark a channel. When the front and rear range lights are aligned, a vessel is assumed to be in the channel. The
- [Chesapeake Bay Lighthouses Photo Gallery](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/photo-galleries/lighthouses-photo-gallery/) - This photo gallery includes lighthouses, range lights, towers, and other navigational aids of the Chesapeake Bay. For lighthouse overviews, visit our Chesapeake Bay Lighthouses page. Concord Point Lighthouse Sandy Point Shoal Light Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse Seven Foot Knoll Lighthouse Drum Point Lighthouse Solomon's Lump Lighthouse Janes Island Light near Crisfield, Maryland Plantation Light near
- [Sandy Point Shoal Light](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/chesapeake-bay-lighthouses/sandy-point-shoal-light/) - Sandy Point Shoal Light Sandy Point Shoal Light is located off Sandy Point, near Annapolis, Maryland. One of the area's best known landmarks, the 3 story caisson type lighthouse is visible from the westbound span of Chesapeake Bay Bridge and the beach at Sandy Point State Park. Sandy Point Shoal Light is listed on the
- [Chesapeake Bay and Related Organizations](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/chesapeake-bay-links/chesapeake-bay-organizations/) - The following list includes Chesapeake Bay and related organizations. Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay Chesapeake Bay Foundation The Chesapeake Bay Trust Magothy River Association James River Association Oyster Recovery Partnership Tidewater Oyster Gardeners Association Environmental Concern Maryland Association for Environmental and Outdoor Education
- [Outdoor Links](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/chesapeake-bay-links/outdoor-links/) - In addition to Chesapeake Bay News we also publish a variety of outdoor websites including Great Lakes- North America, Tidewater Virginia, and Mid Atlantic Fishing.
- [Chesapeake Bay Links](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/chesapeake-bay-links/) - Non Profit Organizations Fishing And Boating Clubs Government Organizations Outdoor Sites Regional Links
- [Poplar Island](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/poplar-island/) - Poplar Island is located in the middle bay. Nearly destroyed by erosion by the 1990's, Poplar Island has been partially restored to its 1847 outline. The Poplar Island Paul S. Sarbanes Environmental Restoration Site, formerly known as the Poplar Island Environmental Restoration Project (PIERP) is the largest island habitat restoration project on the Atlantic coast.
- [Largemouth Bass](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/largemouth-bass/) - The largemouth bass is one of the most familiar freshwater fish in North America. Largemouth are easily identified by their mottled green sides, enormous mouth, and heavy bodies. Largemouth bass are common in rivers, creeks, and swamps of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed. They occur in freshwater areas but also thrive in tidal, brackish habitats. In
- [Chesapeake Bay Seafood](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/chesapeake-bay-seafood/) - The following pages provide overviews and other information on Chesapeake Bay seafood. Fish Blue Crabs Oysters How to Shuck Oysters Clams Traditional Chesapeake Bay Seafood Recipes Shellfish Aquaculture
- [Cypress Swamps](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/cypress-swamps/) - In many areas of the Chesapeake Bay watershed, cypress swamps are important habitats. These unique areas are dominated by bald cypress trees, which provide vital structure, retail soil and provide shelter for hundreds of plants and animals. These dense swamps also contain cedars, red maples, oaks, hickories, ashes, river birch, gums, and other trees. Beneath
- [Native Plants](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/native-plants/) - The Chesapeake Bay Watershed is home to an array of native plants, ranging from tiny herbaceous plants to large trees. Native plants provide numerous benefits to the habitats they occupy. Some species are important for their ability to stabilize soil and absorb nutrients. Others provide food and cover for wildlife. In addition to their ecological
- [Chesapeake Bay Beaches](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/chesapeake-bay-beaches/) - The Chesapeake Bay is home to a wide range of beaches where visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, walking, boating, fishing, wildlife watching, photography, beachcombing, and other pastimes. Many beaches offer scenic views of historic sites, bridges, lighthouses, and other landmarks. At some locations, visitors may encounter driftwood, coins, sea shells, fossils, sea glass, historical artifacts,
- [Cape Charles](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/ports/cape-charles-va/) - Cape Charles Virginia is famous for its beaches, watersports, saltwater fishing, railroad hub, and historical homes. The marina offers guest slips, fuel, and other services. Nearby are restaurants, shops, and other businesses. The town is nationally recognized for the outstanding black drum fishing that occurs nearby. Each year, anglers come from all over the USA
- [About](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/about/) - Chesapeake Bay News provides Chesapeake Bay and regional news, events, articles, and other information. We actively seek submissions of news, events, press releases, or other information. We urge non-profit organizations, businesses, artists, writers, and others to submit information for inclusion via our contact page. For more information, visit our Privacy Policy and disclosure page. Feel free
- [American Widgeon](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/waterfowl/american-widgeon/) - The American widgeon is one of several dabbling ducks that winter in the Chesapeake Bay. Widgeons are among the first ducks to leave the estuary as they migrate back to Canada to breed. They are often seen together with mallards, black ducks, teal, pintails, and other dabbling ducks, foraging on submerged aquatic vegetation. American widgeon
- [Privacy Policy](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/privacy-policy/) - Who we are Our website address is: https://www.chesapeake-bay.org. What personal data we collect and why we collect it Comments When visitors leave comments on the site we collect the data shown in the comments form, and also the visitor’s IP address and browser user agent string to help spam detection. An anonymized string created from
- [Brown Pelican](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/brown-pelican/) - The brown pelican is a common aquatic bird in the Chesapeake Bay. They migrate up the Atlantic coast in summer to feed and raise young. Brown pelicans have extended their range northward and now inhabit the entire Chesapeake Bay during the summer season. Adults are brown with white heads and necks. Their long bills are
- [Trees](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/native-plants/trees/) - The Chesapeake Bay watershed is home to many of North America's most iconic trees. Native conifers and deciduous trees are found throughout the estuary from its headwaters in New York to the edges of the bay along its entire shoreline. Native tree species include Atlantic white cedar, eastern red cedar, loblolly pine, bald cypress, American
- [Winterberry](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/native-plants/winterberry/) - The common winterberry is a mid-sized shrub that is found throughout the Eastern U.S., usually along riverbanks and other wet locations. This colorful species is often planted in rain gardens, native plant displays, and other projects. This species is named for its bright red berries, which are eaten by birds and small
- [Red Chokeberry](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/native-plants/red-chokeberry/) - The red chokeberry (Aronia arbutifolia) is one of the Chesapeake Bay region's most colorful native plants. This familiar shrub is often found along creeks, streams, and swamps. Chokeberry blooms are a common sight in spring. Red Chokeberry flowers help identify this species in the wild. The red berries
- [Wild Berries](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/native-plants/wild-berries/) - The Chesapeake Bay watershed is home to a variety of berry-producing wild plants, including trees, shrubs, herbaceous plants, and vines. The photo gallery below includes several of the region's most familiar berries. Related Information Native Plants Shrubs Red Chokeberry Common Winterberry
- [Reptiles](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/reptiles/) - Reptiles of the Chesapeake Bay include diamondback terrapins, painted turtles, snapping turtles, and dozens of species of snakes and lizards.
- [Black Drum](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/black-drum/) - The black drum is the largest sport fish of the Chesapeake Bay. Adults can weight 100 pounds or more. The black drum is similar in appearance to red drum, but has a deeper body and darker coloration. Like their relatives, black drum produce a deep "drumming" sound. In spring, black drum enter the bay
- [Red Drum](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/red-drum/) - The red drum is one of the largest members of the drum family. In the Chesapeake Bay, red drum range from juveniles, known as "puppy drum", to large adults that can weight 50 pounds or more. The red drum is similar in appearance to croaker and black drum. In addition to their copper coloration,
- [Point Lookout Lighthouse](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/chesapeake-bay-lighthouses/point-lookout-lighthouse/) - Point Lookout Lighthouse is a wooden dwelling with lantern on top. The light marks the entrance to the Potomac River at the southernmost tip of Maryland's western shore. The lighthouse is owned by Maryland and is accessible periodically by volunteers of the Point Lookout Lighthouse Preservation Society. Prior to construction of the light station, Point
- [Hooper Island Light](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/chesapeake-bay-lighthouses/hooper-island-light/) - Hooper Island Light is located on the eastern side of the Chesapeake Bay off Hooper Island. The light marks the main Chesapeake Bay channel between Cove Point and Smith Point lights. Related Information Chesapeake Bay Lighthouses Ports
- [Turkey Point Lighthouse](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/chesapeake-bay-lighthouses/turkey-point-lighthouse/) - Turkey Point Lighthouse is located in the Elk Neck State Park in the upper Chesapeake Bay. The historic lighthouse is situated atop a 100 foot bluff that overlooks the Elk and North East rivers. With a total elevation of 129 feet, Turkey Point Lighthouse is the highest lighthouse in Maryland. Turkey Point Lighthouse is a
- [Wolf Trap Light](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/chesapeake-bay-lighthouses/wolf-trap-light/) - Wolf Trap Light is located along the western shore of the Chesapeake Bay, northwest of the mouth of the York River. The light consists of a caisson foundation with square tower atop an octagonal building. After 120 years of service, Wolf Trap Light was decommissioned in 2015. The light is listed on the National Register
- [Baltimore Harbor Light](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/chesapeake-bay-lighthouses/baltimore-harbor-light/) - Baltimore Harbor Light is located just north of the Magothy River, roughly 1.5 nautical miles off Gibson Island. The white two-story brick lighthouse marks the southern entrance to the Craighill Channel. After passing Baltimore Harbor Light, northbound vessels are guided by the Craighill Channel Lower Range Lights. In 1964, Baltimore Harbor Light became the first
- [Seven Foot Knoll Lighthouse](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/chesapeake-bay-lighthouses/seven-foot-knoll-lighthouse/) - Seven Foot Knoll Lighthouse is one of the last remaining screw-pile lighthouses. Originally located at the entrance to the Patapsco River, the structure now stands watch over the Inner Harbor in Baltimore, MD. Seven Foot Knoll Lighthouse is the oldest screw-pile lighthouse in Maryland and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Related
- [Chesapeake Bay Lighthouses](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/chesapeake-bay-lighthouses/) - Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse Since the colonial era, lighthouses have guided mariners on the Chesapeake Bay. Although many structures have been destroyed or dismantled over time, scores of lighthouses, range lights, towers, buoys, and other navigational aids remain. Chesapeake Bay lighthouses include integral, caisson, screw-pile, and skeletal tower designs. A few structures have been relocated,
- [Northern Gannet](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/aquatic-birds/northern-gannet/) - The northern gannet is a large, marine bird that occurs seasonally in open water areas of the Chesapeake Bay. During the late fall and winter, flocks of northern gannets move into the Chesapeake Bay to feed on Atlantic menhaden. One of nature's most spectacular sights occurs when hungry striped bass drive schools of menhaden
- [Common Loon](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/aquatic-birds/common-loon/) - The common loon is found throughout the Chesapeake Bay watershed during the late fall, winter, and early spring. These large, attractive diving birds prefer sheltered bays, coves, and lagoons. Common loons are often found together with diving ducks, and other fish-eating birds. Related Information Aquatic Birds Waterfowl Birdwatching
- [Least Tern](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/aquatic-birds/least-tern/) - At approximately 9 inches, the least tern is the smallest tern that is found in the Chesapeake Bay. Identifying features of this species include its small size, yellow bill, and black and white head. One of the few breeding areas in the Chesapeake Bay is on Popular Island, where least terns are found among
- [Great Black-backed Gull](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/aquatic-birds/great-black-backed-gull/) - The great black-backed gull is the largest gull that is found in the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Adult birds have a white head (in summer), dark back, and red spot on the bill. Great black-backed gulls tend to stand out whenever they flock together with other aquatic birds. The species is easily distinguishable not only
- [Laughing Gull](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/aquatic-birds/laughing-gull/) - The laughing gull is one of the smaller gulls that visit the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Identifying features of adult laughing gulls include black head (in summer), black-tipped wings, and dark legs and bill. Laughing gulls are often seen together with terns, feeding on schools of baitfish near the surface of the bay.
- [Herring Gull](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/aquatic-birds/herring-gull/) - The American herring gull is common throughout the Chesapeake Bay. This species is recognized by its white head (summer phase), gray back, pink legs, and red spot on bill. Related Information Gulls and Terns Aquatic Birds Birdwatching
- [Gulls and Terns](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/gulls-and-terns/) - Found throughout the Chesapeake Bay watershed, gulls and terns are often found together with other aquatic birds. Some species are specialized feeders, while others are omnivorous. On the Chesapeake Bay, gulls and terns are often seen feeding on baitfish which have been driven to the surface by striped bass or other gamefish. Several species of
- [Royal Tern](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/aquatic-birds/royal-tern/) - The royal tern is recognized by its black crest (summer phase), gray and white body, and orange bill. From fall thru early spring, the can be recognized by their mostly white head, tipped with black feathers. Related Information Gulls and Terns Aquatic Birds Herons and Egrets Waterfowl Birds of Prey
- [Black Skimmer](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/aquatic-birds/black-skimmer/) - The black skimmer is a tern-like bird that is often seen along beaches and shorelines of the Chesapeake Bay. Black skimmers feed by skimming the water and grabbing prey with their specialized bills. These attractive birds nest in large colonies with other terns. Related Information Aquatic Birds Herons and Egrets Waterfowl Birds of Prey
- [Common Tern](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/aquatic-birds/common-tern/) - The common tern is recognized by its contrasting black and white plumage, red bill, and sharp call. On the Chesapeake Bay, flocks of terns are often seen diving to catch baitfish which have been driven to the surface by striped bass or other gamefish. In the Chesapeake Bay watershed, the common tern is known
- [Belted Kingfisher](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/aquatic-birds/belted-kingfisher/) - The belted kingfisher is a medium sized bird that is often seen along shorelines, salt marshes, and other habitats of the Chesapeake Bay. Belted kingfishers are expert hunters, feeding mainly on forage fish. Related Information Birdwatching Aquatic Birds Herons and Egrets Waterfowl Birds of Prey
- [Muskrats](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/wildlife/muskrats/) - The muskrat (Ondatra zibethicus), is one the most recognizable aquatic mammals that inhabit the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Muskrats have webbed rear feet, thick fur and a long, scaly tail. They grow to approximately two feet long from nose to tail. Their fur coloration varies from nearly black to reddish, with most individuals having chestnut brown
- [Channel Catfish](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/fish-fishing/channel-catfish/) - Channel catfish are common in tidal rivers and creeks of the Chesapeake Bay watershed. In the Susquehanna, Nanticoke, Patuxent, Potomac, Rappahannock, James, and other waterways they are often found from a river's mouth upstream to the fall line and beyond. As water temperatures rise in spring, some channel catfish move upstream into warmwater streams, and
- [Beavers](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/wildlife/beavers/) - After facing near extermination during the colonial era, beavers have made a comeback in the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Although they avoid saltwater, beavers are common in streams, swamps, and tidal creeks that drain into the Chesapeake. Beavers inhabit parts of Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia. Although most people associate beavers with dam building, the behavior
- [Chesapeake Bay Skipjacks](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/boats/chesapeake-bay-skipjacks/) - Chesapeake Bay skipjacks are among the last working sailing vessels. These rugged wooden sailboats were conceived and built by local watermen for use in harvesting oysters. They are defined by a single mast, mainsail-jib sail configuration, shallow draft hull, and low deck. A few of the last surviving skipjacks have been restored and remain in
- [Shellfish Aquaculture](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/shellfish-aquaculture/) - Shellfish aquaculture has become an important industry for the Chesapeake Bay region. The majority of shellfish farming occurs in Virginia waters, with clams and oysters being the principal products. Maryland's shellfish aquaculture industry has traditionally lagged behind Virginia, although recent changes have helped streamline the permit process, allowing Maryland shellfish farmers a better chance at
- [Tides and Currents](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/tides-and-currents/) - Tides and currents are vital components of the Chesapeake Bay ecosystem. These movements of the water have considerable impacts on fish, aquatic plants, and other bay life. Although tides and currents are most often associated with oceans, and bays, their effects can be detected throughout the rivers and creeks that empty into the Chesapeake. In
- [Chesapeake Bay Blue Crabs](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/chesapeake-bay-blue-crabs/) - This page has information about Chesapeake Bay blue crabs, sometimes called hard crabs or simply crabs. Blue crabs are an important link in the food chain, feeding on fish, aquatic vegetation, mollusks, crustaceans, and annelids while they serve as prey to mammals, birds, and fishes. Blue crabs are prized by seafood lovers, usually served steamed
- [Disclosure](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/disclosure/) - This policy is valid from December 31 2009. This blog is a sponsored blog created or supported by a company, organization or group of organizations. This blog accepts forms of cash advertising, sponsorship, paid insertions or other forms of compensation. The compensation received may influence the advertising content, topics or posts made in this blog.
- [Chesapeake Bay Retrievers](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/chesapeake-bay-retrievers/) - The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is a powerful, muscular retriever. Their coat is short, dense and wavy, usually brown, red or tan. The head of the Chesapeake Bay Retriever is broad and wide with a powerful and yet gentle looking slightly tapered muzzle. Chesapeake Bay Retrievers have a softer profile to the head than some breeds
- [Chesapeake Bay Buyboats](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/photo-galleries/chesapeake-bay-buyboats/) - This gallery has images of Chesapeake Bay Buyboats. Chesapeake Bay buyboats in port. Chesapeake Bay buyboats in the bay. Chesapeake Bay Buyboats cruising. A gathering of Chesapeake Bay buyboats. buyboat photo credits Chesapeake Bay Buyboat Association photos courtesy of Buyboat Propwash
- [Book Review - Meet Chadwick and His Chesapeake Bay Friends](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/book-reviews/meet-chadwick/) - Meet Chadwick and His Chesapeake Bay Friends Preschoolers and early readers will enjoy the rhyming story and colorful pictures in this introduction to Chadwick the Chesapeake Bay blue crab and his many friends: Bernie the Sea Gull, Toulouse the Canada Goose, Matilda Egret, Hector Spector the Jellyfish, Orville Oyster, and others. A former newspaper reporter
- [Book Review - Osprey Adventure](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/book-reviews/osprey-adventure/) - Osprey Adventure By Jennifer Keats Curtis Illustrated by Marcy Dunn Ramsey This children's book tells the story of a father, son and an osprey family that live on the Chesapeake Bay. The story is based on the work of a real hero, Pete McGowan, a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Chesapeake Bay Field Office biologist, who
- [Chesapeake Bay Book Reviews](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/book-reviews/) - The following are reviews of books related to the Chesapeake Bay. Bridges Under Troubled Waters: Upper Chesapeake and Tidal Potomac Fishing Reefs Meet Chadwick and His Chesapeake Bay Friends Osprey Adventure Related Information Visit our Chesapeake Bay online store pages to shop for Chesapeake Bay books, posters, collectibles, and other items. Books Posters
- [Chesapeake Bay Oysters](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/photo-galleries/chesapeake-bay-oysters/) - This gallery has images of live Chesapeake Bay oysters in their natural environment as well as oysters to be consumed in the shell, raw on the half shell and steamed. Chesapeake Bay Oysters On Halfshell Oysters In The Shell Shucked Oysters Steamed Oysters Tangier Sound Oyster
- [Chesapeake Bay Seafood](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/photo-galleries/chesapeake-bay-seafood/) - This gallery has images of Chesapeake Bay seafood including crabs, oysters, clams, rockfish, flounder, spot, croakers, drum and other finfish, shellfish and seafood. Blue Crabs Chesapeake Bay Oysters On Halfshell Flounder Hard Clams Hard Crabs A Jimmy Crab Jimmy Crabs Oysters In The Shell
- [Chesapeake Bay Waterfowl](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/photo-galleries/chesapeake-bay-waterfowl/) - This page showcases waterfowl of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed. Click on individual species links for photos and information. Ducks Ducks are common throughout the Chesapeake Bay including dabbling ducks, diving ducks, sea ducks, and others. The estuary provides for both resident and migratory birds. Tree Ducks wood duck Dabbling Ducks mallard American black duck northern
- [Sunrises and Sunsets](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/photo-galleries/chesapeake-bay-sunrises-sunsets/) - Sunrise and sunset are special times on the Chesapeake Bay. Each morning at sunrise, fish, crabs, birds, and other aquatic creatures become active. Again at sunset, the bay's inhabitants are on the move. Sunrise on the Chesapeake Bay Sunrise on Monie Bay Sunrise On Onancock Creek Tangier Sound Sunrise Waterfowl at Sunset
- [Chesapeake Bay Oysters](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/information/oysters/) - Introduction A vital inhabitant of the Chesapeake Bay is the Virginia oyster (Crassostrea Virginica), also known as Eastern or Atlantic oysters. The oyster is designated as the state shell of Virginia. The decline of oysters in the bay is an issue that has generated an enormous interest from a variety of groups. Commercial harvests of
- [Government Organizations](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/chesapeake-bay-links/government-organizations/) - Government Websites Maryland Department of Environment Maryland DNR Maryland Sea Grant NOAA Chesapeake Bay Office www.chesapeakebay.net United States Coast Guard Virginia Marine Resources Commission(VMRC) Virginia Sea Grant
- [Fishing and Boating Clubs](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/chesapeake-bay-links/fishing-boating-clubs/) - Fishing and Boating Clubs Eastern Shore Anglers Club Virginia Beach Anglers Club Norfolk Anglers Club Peninsula Salt Water Sport Fisherman's Association Great Bridge Fisherman's Association Virginia Coastal Fly Anglers Virginia Charter Boat Association Virginia Council of Angling Clubs Ocean City Reef Foundation MSSA - Maryland Saltwater Sportfisherman's Association Recreational Fishing Alliance Stripers Forever American Striper

## Categories

- [News Archive](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/category/news-archive/)
- [Books - Book Reviews](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/category/books-book-reviews/)
- [Aquaculture](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/category/aquaculture-2/)
- [Commercial Fishing](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/category/commercial-fishing/) - This category has news about Chesapeake Bay commercial fishing, crabbing, oystering, clamming and other commercial harvests of seafood.
- [Environmental Issues](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/category/environmental-issues/) - This category has news about environmental issues that affect the Chesapeake Bay.
- [Events](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/category/events/) - Events taking place in the Chesapeake Bay area.
- [Recreational Fishing](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/category/recreational-fishing/) - This category has news about recreational fishing on the Chesapeake Bay, its rivers, tributaries and the surrounding areas including Delaware, Maryland and Virginia.
- [Seafood Recipes](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/category/recipes/) - Chesapeake Bay seafood recipes
- [Science-Research](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/category/science-research/)
- [Wildlife](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/category/wildlife/)
- [Chesapeake Bay News](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/category/chesapeake-bay-news/)

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- [sustainability](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/sustainability/)
- [Captain John Smith Trail](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/captain-john-smith-trail/)
- [blue crabs](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/blue-crabs/)
- [chesapeake bay seafood](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/chesapeake-bay-seafood/)
- [crabs](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/crabs/)
- [things to do](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/things-to-do/)
- [aquaculture](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/aquaculture/)
- [business](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/business/)
- [DNR](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/dnr/)
- [Maryland Department of Natural Resources](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/maryland-department-of-natural-resources/)
- [oysters](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/oysters/)
- [reports](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/reports/)
- [shellfish](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/shellfish/)
- [shellfish farming](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/shellfish-farming/)
- [Commercial Fishing](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/commercial-fishing/)
- [commercial fishing regulations](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/commercial-fishing-regulations/)
- [oyster restoration](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/oyster-restoration/)
- [regulations](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/regulations/)
- [blue catfish](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/blue-catfish/)
- [grants](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/grants/)
- [hampton](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/hampton/)
- [invasive species](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/invasive-species/)
- [virginia](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/virginia/)
- [environment](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/environment/)
- [oil spills](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/oil-spills/)
- [salisbury](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/salisbury/)
- [wicomico river](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/wicomico-river/)
- [susquehanna river](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/susquehanna-river/)
- [zebra mussels](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/zebra-mussels/)
- [NOAA](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/noaa/)
- [patapsco river](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/patapsco-river/)
- [rivers](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/rivers/)
- [fish kills](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/fish-kills/)
- [mde](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/mde/)
- [spot](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/spot/)
- [aquatic plants](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/aquatic-plants/)
- [flora](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/flora/)
- [living shorelines](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/living-shorelines/)
- [native plants](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/native-plants/)
- [nature](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/nature/)
- [plants](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/plants/)
- [shrubs](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/shrubs/)
- [Trees](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/trees/)
- [wildlife](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/wildlife-2/)
- [catfish](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/catfish/)
- [fish](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/fish/)
- [fishing](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/fishing/)
- [james river](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/james-river/)
- [Potomac River](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/potomac-river/)
- [rappahannock river](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/rappahannock-river/)
- [chesapeake bay restoration](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/chesapeake-bay-restoration/)
- [Environmental Issues](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/environmental-issues/)
- [pollution](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/pollution/)
- [research](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/research/)
- [science](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/science/)
- [sediment](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/sediment/)
- [watersheds](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/watersheds/)
- [conowingo dam](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/conowingo-dam/)
- [conowingo reservoir](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/conowingo-reservoir/)
- [usgs](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/usgs/)
- [water quality](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/water-quality/)
- [baltimore](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/baltimore/)
- [chesapeake bay](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/chesapeake-bay/)
- [colleges and universities](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/colleges-and-universities/)
- [runoff](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/runoff/)
- [UMCES](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/umces/)
- [weather](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/weather/)
- [dc](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/dc/)
- [delaware](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/delaware/)
- [District of Columbia](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/district-of-columbia/)
- [Environmental Protection Agency](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/environmental-protection-agency/)
- [EPA](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/epa/)
- [new york](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/new-york/)
- [pennsylvania](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/pennsylvania/)
- [states](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/states/)
- [tmdl](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/tmdl/)
- [west virginia](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/west-virginia/)
- [annapolis](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/annapolis/)
- [anne arundel county](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/anne-arundel-county/)
- [associations](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/associations/)
- [communities](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/communities/)
- [organizations](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/organizations/)
- [severn river](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/severn-river/)
- [Severn River Association](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/severn-river-association/)
- [shorelines](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/shorelines/)
- [stormwater](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/stormwater/)
- [2022](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/2022/)
- [g3](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/g3/)
- [green](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/green/)
- [green jobs](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/green-jobs/)
- [green streets](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/green-streets/)
- [green towns](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/green-towns/)
- [boating](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/boating/)
- [ndz](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/ndz/)
- [2024](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/2024/)
- [Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/alliance-for-the-chesapeake-bay/)
- [baltimore county](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/baltimore-county/)
- [Chesapeake Bay Trust](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/chesapeake-bay-trust/)
- [infrastructure](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/infrastructure/)
- [trails](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/trails/)
- [washington DC](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/washington-dc/)
- [Chesapeake Bay Program](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/chesapeake-bay-program/)
- [Events](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/events/)
- [Patuxent River](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/patuxent-river/)
- [bass](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/bass/)
- [freshwater fishing](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/freshwater-fishing/)
- [largemouth bass](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/largemouth-bass/)
- [Recreational Fishing](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/recreational-fishing/)
- [state records](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/state-records/)
- [croaker](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/croaker/)
- [choptank river](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/choptank-river/)
- [fishing regulations](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/fishing-regulations/)
- [creeks](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/creeks/)
- [fish migrations](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/fish-migrations/)
- [fish runs](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/fish-runs/)
- [fish spawning](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/fish-spawning/)
- [yellow perch](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/yellow-perch/)
- [fishing techniques](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/fishing-techniques/)
- [chain pickerel](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/chain-pickerel/)
- [fish tagging programs](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/fish-tagging-programs/)
- [rockfish](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/rockfish/)
- [striped bass](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/striped-bass/)
- [saltwater fishing](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/saltwater-fishing/)
- [sheepshead](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/sheepshead/)
- [snakehead](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/snakehead/)
- [artificial reefs](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/artificial-reefs/)
- [cambridge](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/cambridge/)
- [dorchester county](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/dorchester-county/)
- [fishing piers](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/fishing-piers/)
- [oyster reefs](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/oyster-reefs/)
- [apps](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/apps/)
- [smartphone apps](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/smartphone-apps/)
- [alternative fishing](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/alternative-fishing/)
- [bow fishing](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/bow-fishing/)
- [northern snakehead](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/northern-snakehead/)
- [hampton roads](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/hampton-roads/)
- [james river fishing pier](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/james-river-fishing-pier/)
- [newport news](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/newport-news/)
- [pier fishing](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/pier-fishing/)
- [bait](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/bait/)
- [equipment](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/equipment/)
- [gear](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/gear/)
- [grass shrimp](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/grass-shrimp/)
- [minnows](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/minnows/)
- [nets](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/nets/)
- [traps](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/traps/)
- [habitats](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/habitats/)
- [white catfish](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/white-catfish/)
- [mattawoman creek](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/mattawoman-creek/)
- [outdoors](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/outdoors/)
- [free fishing days](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/free-fishing-days/)
- [recreation](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/recreation/)
- [flathead catfish](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/flathead-catfish/)
- [carp](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/carp/)
- [common carp](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/common-carp/)
- [susquehanna flats](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/susquehanna-flats/)
- [rock bass](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/rock-bass/)
- [sunfish](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/sunfish/)
- [crab meat](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/crab-meat/)
- [seafood recipes](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/seafood-recipes/)
- [chesapeake bay crabs](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/chesapeake-bay-crabs/)
- [cooking](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/cooking/)
- [steamed crabs](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/steamed-crabs/)
- [groundwater](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/groundwater/)
- [climate change](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/climate-change/)
- [norfolk](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/norfolk/)
- [sea level rise](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/sea-level-rise/)
- [vims](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/vims/)
- [Virginia Institute of Marine Science](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/virginia-institute-of-marine-science/)
- [american shad](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/american-shad/)
- [shad](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/shad/)
- [surveys](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/surveys/)
- [anadromous fish](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/anadromous-fish/)
- [fisheries](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/fisheries/)
- [yoy](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/yoy/)
- [crabbing](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/crabbing/)
- [Potomac River Fisheries Commission](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/potomac-river-fisheries-commission/)
- [prfc](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/prfc/)
- [ASMFC](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/asmfc/)
- [american eel](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/american-eel/)
- [eels](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/eels/)
- [fish passage](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/fish-passage/)
- [mussels](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/mussels/)
- [atlantic ocean](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/atlantic-ocean/)
- [maps](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/maps/)
- [research vessels](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/research-vessels/)
- [usfws](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/usfws/)
- [estuaries](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/estuaries/)
- [marshes](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/marshes/)
- [studies](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/studies/)
- [wetlands](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/wetlands/)
- [flooding](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/flooding/)
- [natural disasters](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/natural-disasters/)
- [tides](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/tides/)
- [dams](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/dams/)
- [atlantic sturgeon](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/atlantic-sturgeon/)
- [endangered species](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/endangered-species/)
- [sturgeon](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/sturgeon/)
- [aquatic vegetation](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/aquatic-vegetation/)
- [chester River](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/chester-river/)
- [eelgrass](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/eelgrass/)
- [honga river](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/honga-river/)
- [northeast river](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/northeast-river/)
- [SAV](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/sav/)
- [submerged aquatic vegetation](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/submerged-aquatic-vegetation/)
- [widgeon grass](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/widgeon-grass/)
- [bald eagles](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/bald-eagles/)
- [birds of prey](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/birds-of-prey/)
- [birdwatching](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/birdwatching/)
- [aquatic birds](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/aquatic-birds/)
- [bird cams](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/bird-cams/)
- [birding](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/birding/)
- [birds](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/birds/)
- [blue herons](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/blue-herons/)
- [chesapeake conservancy](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/chesapeake-conservancy/)
- [herons](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/herons/)
- [ospreys](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/ospreys/)
- [peregrine falcons](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/peregrine-falcons/)
- [raptors](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/raptors/)
- [things](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/things/)
- [freshwater fish](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/freshwater-fish/)
- [habitat restoration](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/habitat-restoration/)
- [perch](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/perch/)
- [restoration](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/restoration/)
- [blackwater national wildlife refuge](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/blackwater-national-wildlife-refuge/)
- [ducks](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/ducks/)
- [geese](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/geese/)
- [national wildlife refuges](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/national-wildlife-refuges/)
- [waterfowl](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/waterfowl/)
- [atlantic flyway](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/atlantic-flyway/)
- [swans](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/swans/)
- [winter](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/winter/)
- [nfwf](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/nfwf/)
- [ever forward](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/ever-forward/)
- [shipping](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/shipping/)
- [ships](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/ships/)
- [blackwater](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/blackwater/)
- [blackwater river](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/blackwater-river/)
- [eagles](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/eagles/)
- [accidents](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/accidents/)
- [bridges](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/bridges/)
- [harbors](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/harbors/)
- [maritime](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/maritime/)
- [navigation](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/navigation/)
- [usace](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/usace/)
- [uscg](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/uscg/)
- [oyster sanctuaries](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/oyster-sanctuaries/)
- [Chesapeake WILD](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/chesapeake-wild/)
- [U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/u-s-fish-and-wildlife-service/)
- [nanticoke river](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/nanticoke-river/)
- [forests](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/forests/)
- [southern maryland](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/southern-maryland/)
- [Southern Maryland Woodlands National Wildlife Refuge](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/southern-maryland-woodlands-national-wildlife-refuge/)
- [camping](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/camping/)
- [national parks](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/national-parks/)
- [paddlesports](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/paddlesports/)
- [st. mary's county](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/st-marys-county/)
- [easements](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/easements/)
- [iba](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/iba/)
- [salt marshes](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/salt-marshes/)
- [government](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/government/)
- [history](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/history/)
- [mallows bay](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/mallows-bay/)
- [parks](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/parks/)
- [sanctuaries](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/sanctuaries/)
- [shipwrecks](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/shipwrecks/)
- [state parks](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/state-parks/)
- [dredging](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/dredging/)
- [technology](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/technology/)
- [waterways](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/waterways/)
- [workshops](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/workshops/)
- [cities](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/cities/)
- [ports](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/ports/)
- [waterfront property](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/waterfront-property/)
- [stream restoration](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/stream-restoration/)
- [streams](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/streams/)
- [2020](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/2020/)
- [festivals](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/festivals/)
- [towns](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/towns/)
- [baltimore harbor](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/baltimore-harbor/)
- [islands](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/islands/)
- [mdot mpa](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/mdot-mpa/)
- [mpa](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/mpa/)
- [poplar island](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/poplar-island/)
- [seasons](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/seasons/)
- [spring](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/spring/)
- [marinas](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/marinas/)
- [public access](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/public-access/)
- [army corps of engineers](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/army-corps-of-engineers/)
- [funding](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/funding/)
- [lakes](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/lakes/)
- [container ships](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/container-ships/)
- [disasters](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/disasters/)
- [barren island](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/barren-island/)
- [channels](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/channels/)
- [james island](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/james-island/)
- [mdot](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/mdot/)
- [middle chesapeake bay](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/middle-chesapeake-bay/)
- [birdcams](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/birdcams/)
- [kent island](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/kent-island/)
- [river herring](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/river-herring/)
- [cbf](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/cbf/)
- [Chesapeake Bay Foundation](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/chesapeake-bay-foundation/)
- [gales point](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/gales-point/)
- [MARI](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/mari/)
- [reef balls](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/reef-balls/)
- [gardens](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/gardens/)
- [cbbt](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/cbbt/)
- [chesapeake bay bridge tunnel](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/chesapeake-bay-bridge-tunnel/)
- [landmarks](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/landmarks/)
- [roads](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/roads/)
- [transportation](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/transportation/)
- [Tred Avon River](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/tred-avon-river/)
- [manatee](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/manatee/)
- [marine mammals](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/marine-mammals/)
- [strandings](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/strandings/)
- [health](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/health/)
- [diseases](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/diseases/)
- [avian influenza](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/avian-influenza/)
- [hpai](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/hpai/)
- [snow geese](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/snow-geese/)
- [2025](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/2025/)
- [usda](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/usda/)
- [hunting](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/hunting/)
- [waterfowl hunting](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/waterfowl-hunting/)
- [mda](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/mda/)
- [Maryland Department of Agriculture](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/maryland-department-of-agriculture/)
- [dominion reef](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/dominion-reef/)
- [reefs](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/reefs/)
- [fish habitats](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/fish-habitats/)
- [love point](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/love-point/)
- [cove point](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/cove-point/)
- [masonville cove](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/masonville-cove/)
- [eastern shore](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/eastern-shore/)
- [Chesapeake Bay Bridge](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/chesapeake-bay-bridge/)
- [Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/captain-john-smith-chesapeake-national-historic-trail/)
- [marine life](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/marine-life/)
- [northern snakeheads](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/northern-snakeheads/)
- [reservoirs](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/reservoirs/)
- [Virginia Birding Classic](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/virginia-birding-classic/)
- [gar](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/gar/)
- [longnose gar](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/longnose-gar/)
- [marshyhope creek](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/marshyhope-creek/)
- [tugboats](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/tugboats/)
- [Antietam Creek](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/antietam-creek/)
- [tangier island](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/tangier-island/)
- [documentaries](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/documentaries/)
- [keep maryland beautiful](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/keep-maryland-beautiful/)
- [Maryland Environmental Trust](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/maryland-environmental-trust/)
- [black bass](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/black-bass/)
- [fish species](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/fish-species/)
- [safety](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/safety/)
- [tournaments](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/tournaments/)
- [stock assessments](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/stock-assessments/)
- [inner harbor](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/inner-harbor/)
- [2026](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/2026/)
- [anacostia river](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/anacostia-river/)
- [hypoxia](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/hypoxia/)
- [summer](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/summer/)
- [Virginia Department of Environmental Quality](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/virginia-department-of-environmental-quality/)
- [francis scott key bridge](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/francis-scott-key-bridge/)
- [key bridge](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/key-bridge/)
- [Maryland Port Administration](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/maryland-port-administration/)
- [news](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/news/)
- [nps](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/nps/)
- [lwcf](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/lwcf/)
- [Chesapeake Bay Watershed Agreement](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/chesapeake-bay-watershed-agreement/)
- [meetings](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/meetings/)
- [mdta](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/mdta/)
- [sewage](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/sewage/)
- [spills](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/spills/)
- [wastewater](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/wastewater/)
- [back river](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/back-river/)
- [bird counts](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/bird-counts/)
- [vdeq](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/vdeq/)
- [coast guard](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/coast-guard/)
- [oystering](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/oystering/)
- [vmrc](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/vmrc/)
- [bird banding](https://www.chesapeake-bay.org/tag/bird-banding/)