Chesapeake Bay

The Chesapeake Bay is vital to the survival of many species of shorebirds and birds of prey, providing fish, mollusks, and crabs as well as a variety of nesting habitats along the Eastern Shore. Many of these birds can be seen gliding along the hulls of the concrete ships searching for food and a resting place. Poor water quality in the Chesapeake Bay, caused by pollutants in stormwater runoff, is causing problems for many species, particularly oysters. During his 1608 exploration of the bay, John Smith wrote, “Oyster lay thick as stones.” Oyster farming, protected areas, and conservation education are part of a multifaceted plan to restore the Chesapeake Bay to its pristine natural state.

Virginia · United States