U.S. Geological Survey Science—Improving the value of the Chesapeake Bay watershed

Introduction

Congress directed the Federal Government to work with States to restore the Nation’s largest estuary.

Chesapeake Bay restoration provides important economic and ecological benefits:

• 18 million people live and work in the Bay watershed and enjoy its benefits.
• 3,600 types of fish, wildlife, and plants underpin the economic value of the Bay ecosystem.
• Poor water quality and habitat loss threaten restoration and negatively impact the economy.
• 10 Goals to meet by 2025 through the Chesapeake Bay Program, a voluntary partnership.