Washington, DC – Today, the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources unanimously voted the Chesapeake National Recreation Area Act (S.2620) out of committee. Introduced in July 2023 by Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), the legislation would create a Chesapeake National Recreation Area (CNRA). The CNRA would designate a collection of new and existing parks and protected lands along the Chesapeake Bay and its tidal waters in Maryland and Virginia as part of the National Park System.

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For decades, legislators and advocates have discussed efforts to recognize America’s largest estuary with a national designation. The creation of the CNRA would be a historic step to celebrate and protect this national treasure. It also would help introduce future generations to the Chesapeake Bay by increasing public access and strengthening the culture of stewardship across the region.

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In response, leaders from Chesapeake Conservancy, Choose Clean Water Coalition, National Parks Conservation Association, and Chesapeake Bay Foundation issued the following statements:

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Chesapeake Conservancy President & CEO Joel Dunn said:

“Thanks to Senator Van Hollen’s leadership, this is a great day for the Chesapeake Bay, with another step forward in the four-decade effort to establish National Park Service recognition for the nation’s largest estuary. The Chesapeake Bay is as spectacular as Yellowstone or Yosemite, as great as the Great Smokies and as grand as the Grand Tetons. Establishing the Chesapeake National Recreation Area expands resources for environmental protection and makes it clear that the United States cherishes the Chesapeake, the birthplace of American identity. As a great gift to future generations, this legislation ensures public access to our nation’s largest estuary while providing for the needs of those who live here and depend on the bay for their livelihood.”

Choose Clean Water Coalition Director Kristin Reilly said:

“Our National Park System plays an invaluable role in helping the public access and enjoy our most precious natural resources. As the epicenter of so much history, culture, and economic growth, it’s high time for the Chesapeake Bay to receive a national designation.

“This recognition will enhance and expand public access to the Bay, helping introduce this national treasure to future generations. We’re grateful for Senator Chris Van Hollen’s leadership on the creation of a Chesapeake National Recreation Area and look forward to working with all members of the Chesapeake Bay watershed's congressional delegation to pass this legislation."

National Parks Conservation Association President and CEO Theresa Pierno said:

“The natural beauty and significant history of the Chesapeake Bay should be protected for all to know, and for many more visitors to explore. The watershed has sustained Tribal nations for centuries, is home to thousands of plant and animal species, and is rooted in some of our most consequential American history.

“The Chesapeake National Recreation Area will better connect green spaces and waterways, improve access and help build a more sustainable future for those that live, work and adventure in the Bay. We are grateful to Senator Van Hollen for his leadership in spearheading this legislation, which is now moving us one step closer to becoming our next national park site.”

Chesapeake Bay Foundation Federal Policy Coordinator Annabelle Harvey said:

“The Chesapeake Bay is a national treasure worthy of national recognition. Its natural wonders, unique maritime culture and thousands of years of fascinating history deserve the additional resources, attention, and access a national recreation area designation would bring.  

“The Chesapeake Bay Foundation is pleased to see the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee acknowledge that by approving Sen. Van Hollen’s Chesapeake National Recreation Area Act. We thank the committee for moving this important bill forward and urge congressional leaders to act quickly to complete work on it.”

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