Bay Barometer

A science-based snapshot of watershed health

While the Bay Program’s latest look at watershed health reflects the reality of an impaired Bay, signs of the ecosystem’s resilience abound and continued restoration efforts give officials cause for hope.

Bay Barometer
Bay Barometer

Bay 101: Striped Bass

The iconic fish is a critical part of the Chesapeake

Striped bass, or "rockfish," are a sought-after commercial and recreational catch and a key predator in the Chesapeake Bay food web. Watch our latest Bay 101 video to learn more about the unique species.

Bay 101: Striped Bass
Bay 101: Striped Bass

Zebra Mussels in the Chesapeake

The invasive bivalves are trouble for the Bay

Zebra mussels have been found in the Susquehanna River and the Upper Bay. Visit our Field Guide to learn more about this non-native bivalve.

Zebra Mussels in the Chesapeake
Zebra Mussels in the Chesapeake
Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources/Flickr

How to Deice the Bay-Friendly Way

Keep stairs, sidewalks and waterways safe

Some snow- and ice-removal methods can send polluted runoff into streams and rivers, harming the Chesapeake Bay. Read this wintertime how-to for tips on deicing stairs and sidewalks the Bay-friendly way.

How to Deice the Bay-Friendly Way
How to Deice the Bay-Friendly Way
Greg Raisman/Flickr

Wastewater Overhaul in W.Va.

Restoration Spotlight highlights work in Hardy County

Expected to go into operation this fall, the Moorefield Wastewater Treatment Plant will curb nutrient pollution and improve water quality in West Virginia and the Chesapeake Bay.

Wastewater Overhaul in W.Va.
Wastewater Overhaul in W.Va.

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    Critter of the Month

    Common Spider Crab

    February's Critter - The common spider crab is a long-legged crustacean that covers itself in algae and small debris as a defense against predators.

    Featured Chesapeake Bay Websites

    • Chesapeake Bay TMDL

      Chesapeake Bay TMDL

      The EPA established a "pollution diet" to reduce nutrients and sediment in the Bay.

    • Bay Executive Order

      Bay Executive Order

      Calls on the federal government to lead a renewed effort to restore the Bay.

    • ChesapeakeStat

      ChesapeakeStat

      A tool to assess progress and enhance accountability and transparency.

    • Maryland BayStat

      Maryland BayStat

      A powerful statewide tool designed to assess, coordinate and Bay restoration.

    Underwater Bay Grass (SAV) Abundance

    Underwater Bay Grass (SAV) Abundance

    In 2011, there were an estimated 63,074 acres of underwater grasses in the Chesapeake Bay, a decrease of 16,590 acres from 2010.


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    Prevent Fuel Spills

    Prevent fuel spills by using a funnel and not "topping off" when you fill your boat's fuel tank.

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