February 2024
Greetings!
Because of your interest in the Chesapeake Bay and its watershed, we wanted to let you know about some new information available on MDE’s website.
Chesapeake Bay Restoration Spending Report
As part of Maryland’s annual budget process, the Departments of Agriculture, Budget and Management, Environment, and Natural Resources are required to report to the Maryland House and Senate Budget Committees on Chesapeake Bay restoration spending. From 2000-2023, Maryland spent about $15 billion on Bay Restoration activities. The 2023 report, as well as reports from previous years, can be found here. The Maryland Senate Public Safety, Transportation, and Environment Subcommittee held a Chesapeake Bay Overview budget hearing with the Secretaries of Environment, Natural Resources, Agriculture, and Planning on January 25, 2024. The recording of that hearing can be viewed here.
Improved Plans to Reduce Nutrients from Wastewater
MDE recently updated its core strategies to reduce nitrogen and phosphorus discharges from Maryland’s major wastewater treatment plants. These actions will ensure that Maryland continues to meet its clean water goals and Chesapeake Bay restoration commitments, while also stimulating a green economy and workforce development. A summary of the updated strategy, with a link to the full report, can be found here.
Wastewater Performance Tracking Results
Ensuring wastewater treatment plant compliance with Enhanced Nutrient Removal standards is one of Maryland’s priority Chesapeake Bay Watershed Implementation Plan (WIP) strategies for reducing nitrogen and phosphorus pollution. To achieve Maryland’s WIP and Chesapeake Bay climate change goals, MDE set concentration targets for Maryland’s major wastewater treatment plants. The most recent performance tracking results are available via a link on the right side of the wastewater strategy page.
Winter Salts
Although winter salts are effective deicing tools, they can impact human health, the environment, and stormwater infrastructure. The best solution is widespread decreased use of winter salts. Resources and tips for applicators, stormwater permit managers, business and property managers, and around your home can be found here.
Thank you for all you do to protect the Bay and its tributaries!
Questions, comments, and suggestions about any of the above can be directed to mde.chesapeakewip@maryland.gov.