In a landmark decision, Maryland legislators have unanimously passed the Whole Watershed Act (SB 969/HB 1165), marking a significant step forward in the state’s environmental conservation efforts. Spearheaded by Senator Sarah Elfreth of Anne Arundel and Delegate Sara Love of Montgomery, this legislation aims to pioneer a collaborative and science-based framework for the restoration of Maryland’s waterways. The Act is set to launch a five-year pilot program targeting various watersheds across the state, with the goal of enhancing water quality and promoting ecological resilience.
Governor Wes Moore, whose endorsement was pivotal to the bill’s success, is now urged by environmental groups and state agencies to sign the Act into law. This legislative victory was achieved through the collective efforts of the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, Chesapeake Bay Commission, Chesapeake Conservancy, Maryland League of Conservation Voters, and other key stakeholders.
The Whole Watershed Act emerges in response to the 2023 Comprehensive Evaluation of System Response (CESR) report, which highlighted the need for innovative approaches to waterway restoration in the Chesapeake Bay area. By leveraging existing state funds, the Act will focus on five Maryland watersheds that represent the state’s varied land uses and ecological challenges. These pilot projects are designed to yield not only improvements in water quality but also enhance public access to waterways, wildlife habitats, fisheries, and climate resilience.
Selection of target watersheds will involve close collaboration with local stakeholders and officials to ensure projects are tailored to the unique needs and opportunities of each area. A State Management Team comprising agency experts will oversee the implementation and monitoring of these projects, aiming to streamline permitting processes and optimize funding.
Senator Elfreth hailed the Whole Watershed Act as a model of governmental cooperation and innovation. “This legislation is a testament to what can be achieved when we unite across all levels of government to fund and fast-track holistic environmental projects,” Elfreth stated. Delegate Love echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the legislation’s role in promoting collaborative and comprehensive watershed restoration efforts.
This groundbreaking initiative was designated a 2024 legislative priority by the Citizens’ Campaign for the Environment, reflecting its significance to Maryland’s environmental and conservation agenda.
Environmental leaders have lauded the Whole Watershed Act for its potential to expedite progress toward the restoration of the Chesapeake Bay and other waterways. Allison Colden, Maryland Executive Director at the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, underscored the Act’s science-based approach and its alignment with the objectives of the CESR report. Similarly, Kim Coble of the Maryland League of Conservation Voters highlighted the legislation’s commitment to environmental justice and equitable stewardship, projecting it as a pivotal step towards sustainable waterway health.
As Maryland prepares to embark on this ambitious restoration journey, the Whole Watershed Act stands as a beacon of innovative environmental policy, promising a healthier future for the state’s waterways and communities.