ANNAPOLIS, Md. — The Maryland Department of Natural Resources has rebranded its Chesapeake and Coastal Service as Watershed and Climate Services (WCS), effective May 13, 2025, to reflect a broader mission addressing climate change and watershed restoration across all Maryland communities. The new name underscores the unit’s commitment to building resilient ecosystems, supporting vibrant economies, and enhancing the well-being of Marylanders through science-driven solutions.
“Climate change is one of the most pressing issues facing Maryland today, and the Department of Natural Resources is a leader in addressing and mitigating the effects of climate such as stronger storms, warmer temperatures, and rising sea levels in the state,” said DNR Secretary Josh Kurtz. “By rebranding our Watershed and Climate Services, we want to emphasize that we have a dedicated team working hard on these issues.”
Maryland is already experiencing climate change impacts, including increased flooding, intensified storms, and rising sea levels. WCS will continue its work to strengthen shorelines, fund stream restorations, advance environmental education, and coordinate large-scale projects like the five restoration efforts under the Whole Watershed Act. The rebranding aligns with the unit’s expanded focus on all Maryland watersheds, not just the Chesapeake Bay, to ensure comprehensive water management from mountains to coast.
“We are going to continue our focus on the coast and the Chesapeake Bay, but we’re also bringing our expertise and support to all watersheds in Maryland,” said Dr. Natalie Snider, director of Watershed and Climate Services. “Water does not know our jurisdictional boundaries and all of Maryland’s ecosystems and communities are interconnected by water.”
Watersheds, defined as areas where water drains into a common stream, river, or body like the Chesapeake Bay or Atlantic Ocean, vary across Maryland. While most of the state lies within the Chesapeake Bay watershed, parts drain to the Atlantic or the Youghiogheny River, part of the Mississippi River watershed. WCS’s holistic approach aims to manage these interconnected systems, addressing climate-driven challenges like flooding and erosion while preserving natural resources.
WCS collaborates with governmental and nongovernmental organizations to tackle watershed and coastal issues, offering resources, training, and expertise to students, teachers, decision-makers, and restoration workers. The unit leads regional planning projects, leveraging its expertise in watershed management to protect ecosystems. It also supports policies and funding for projects that enhance sustainability against climate change.
The rebranding builds on WCS’s legacy of Chesapeake Bay restoration while broadening its scope. For example, the unit’s work on the Whole Watershed Act involves coordinating restoration across multiple regions, ensuring benefits for both upstream and downstream communities. Environmental education programs will expand to include climate resilience, equipping communities with knowledge to adapt to changing conditions.
Maryland’s proactive stance on climate and watershed management positions WCS as a leader in regional conservation. By integrating the latest science, the unit aims to mitigate climate impacts while fostering resilient communities and economies. The rebranding signals a strategic shift to address interconnected environmental challenges, ensuring Maryland’s natural resources thrive for future generations.
