Water Quality

We work to ensure the protection of clean water.  Land conservation and restoration are critical to protecting drinking water, natural habitat for fish and wildlife, and recreation areas for the public. Our precision conservation and environmental policy work deliver land management approaches that reduce runoff and toxins in our lakes, rivers and streams.

Land conservation and restoration have tangible and critical benefits for the Bay restoration and conservation movement — filtering water, recharging aquifers, sequestering carbon, absorbing nitrogen, stopping siltation – this is in addition to open space, wildlife habitat and access for recreation.

Research shows that protected forests and wetlands are the hardest working silent partners in the restoration effort that we have and that there is incredible benefit – and immense potential – to be gained from the water quality benefits conservation and restoration provides.

We are a member of the Choose Clean Water Coalition and Water Data Collaborative and work in partnership with our many partners to achieve our shared objective of a fully restore Chesapeake Bay watershed.

Chesapeake Bay Program

Since 1983, the Chesapeake Bay Program has led and directed the restoration of the Chesapeake Bay. Bay Program partners include federal and state agencies, local governments, non-profit organizations and academic institutions. Staff members work at our offices in Annapolis, Maryland, and at partner organizations throughout the watershed.

We are a proud partner in the Chesapeake Bay Program and advocate for the authorization and appropriations for this important program. Learn more about our partnership and the work that we do together.