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 … Continued
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 … Continued
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 … Continued
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 … Continued
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 … Continued
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 … Continued