Seven land conservation success stories from around the Chesapeake region
April 12, 2024Each watershed jurisdiction has a hand in helping to meet our two million acre protected lands goal
Chesapeake Bay
Our History
Our regional partnership guides the restoration and protection of the nation’s largest estuary.
Learn more about usFeatured Stories
The eastern painted turtle: A natural work of art
April 5, 2024A reptile famous for its colorful shell
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Sustainable harvests play a role in growing forests
April 1, 2024By managing forests, Maryland is working toward a future with more trees
Restoring a National Treasure
Our partnership is governed by the Chesapeake Bay Watershed Agreement, which established 10 goals and 31 outcomes that guide the restoration of the Bay, its tributaries and the lands that surround them.
Learn more about the latest agreementLearn More About the Chesapeake Bay
The Issues
An array of complex problems threaten the health of the Bay and its wildlife.
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What is a Watershed?
Over 100,000 streams, creeks and rivers drain to the Bay, making up a 64,000 square mile watershed.
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Bay Facts
The Bay is full of interesting facts and trivia related to its history, wildlife, geography and more.
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Field Guide to the Chesapeake
Explore the Field Guide to learn about more than 300 species of birds, fish, insects, invertebrates, mammals, plants, reptiles and amphibians that live in the Chesapeake Bay region.
Eastern Painted Turtle
Chrysemys picta picta
Critter of the month
The eastern painted turtle, easily identifiable by red markings on its side, can be found in slow moving water habitats throughout the Chesapeake watershed.
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