By Max Stumpf, SMRWA Summer Intern

From now until September 1, 2025, the Chesapeake Bay Program’s draft revised Chesapeake Bay Watershed Agreement is open to public feedback! This agreement updates the 2014 document signed by the Chesapeake Executive Council and outlines the Chesapeake Bay Program’s goals. It acts as a guide for states, local governments, and federal agencies involved in protecting the Chesapeake Bay.

The revised document updates the Chesapeake Bay Program’s goals based on recent policies, best available science, and emerging issues in watershed health. This draft is more streamlined than its predecessor, with the ten goals outlined in the original document being reduced to four, and the number of desired outcomes lowered from 31 to 21. The goals the agreement focuses on are Thriving Habitats and Wildlife, Clean Water, Healthy Landscapes, and Engaged Communities.

According to Lee McDonnell, acting director of the Chesapeake Bay Program Office, “These revisions are reflective of the years of dedicated work, [and] efforts already in place, and they deepen our commitment as a partnership to a clean and restored Bay and its watershed.”

A set of FAQs and information for The Chesapeake Bay Program’s webinar series on the draft revised agreement are also available online.

The ongoing feedback period is meant to ensure that these updates are in line with the interests of the public. The current goals and language outlined in the draft aren’t final and can still be revised in accordance with public comments. If there are changes you want to see made to Chesapeake Bay watershed restoration, make sure you take a moment to send in your comments to [email protected] before September 1!