This week on Delmarva, restoration efforts began at the Lewes Fourth Street Preserve, the Chesapeake Bay earned its highest report card grade in 40 years, Rep. Andy Harris went viral and more.
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Iowa is grappling with water quality and cancer rates, bringing these issues to the forefront of state politics. These topics have typically been politically sensitive due to Iowa's powerful agricultural industry. Chemical fertilizers and animal waste contain nitrates and phosphorus that can get washed with rain or snowmelt into the state’s rivers. That affects Iowa’s more liberal urban centers which rely on rivers and lakes for drinking water. Some studies suggest a link between nitrates in water and cancer, but this remains debated. The state has invested in water infrastructure, but criticism over slow progress continues. Candidates from both parties are addressing growing public concern, with events and advertisements focusing on water quality, conservation and cancer.
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources announced Chesapeake Bay underwater grasses expanded nearly 13 percent last year.
Maryland Gov. Wes Moore announced the state has successfully met or surpassed nearly all of its pollution reduction targets set under the 2014 Chesapeake Bay Watershed Agreement.
Chesapeake Bay watershed jurisdictions have fully achieved their sediment reduction target while continuing to make progress toward phosphorus and nitrogen reduction goals, according to new Chesapeake Bay Program modeling.
A major tree planting project in Sussex County is helping expand Delaware’s forest cover while improving water quality and wildlife habitat, according to the Delaware Forest Service.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced a $39.5 million funding award to jurisdictions within the Chesapeake Bay Watershed Agreement.
The EPA and Delaware Department of Agriculture renewed an agreement to promote sustainable farming, improve water quality, and expand support for conservation efforts statewide.
A new bill in Congress aims to support efforts to restore the Chesapeake Bay, improve water quality, and connect local students, businesses and communities to conservation projects.
Delaware DNREC is offering up to 20 paid summer internships, giving students hands-on experience in environmental and public service careers.