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I was glad to see that in the $1.4 trillion budget deal that became law, the Chesapeake Bay Program will receive a $12 million increase in funding, to a new total of $85 million. Our local elected officials, including U.S. Sens. Ben Cardin and Chris Van Hollen and Rep. Anthony Brown, helped lead the way on this increase.

I’ve grown up in the Chesapeake Bay watershed, so the bill procuring increased resources for the restoration of this region is very important to me. My childhood has been spent swimming, kayaking and paddleboarding in the bay and its tributaries. I have seen ospreys, eagles and herons fishing in the Severn and Magothy rivers and I have also enjoyed eating local crab, rockfish and oysters.

This budget deal will help the Chesapeake Bay Program support states and localities in reducing pollution, providing important resources to help clean and protect the bay.

Over the years I have noticed a decline in water quality as pollution levels rise. I was taught to take care of my environment. Cardin and Van Hollen and Brown have demonstrated their commitment to caring for the Bay which is both influential and inspirational. Their role in supporting the restoration of the Chesapeake Bay does not go unnoticed, and their bipartisan efforts are commendable and deeply appreciated by those who regularly spend time in and around the Bay.

This additional funding will further restoration efforts supported by the Chesapeake Bay Program. It will also expand the Bay’s Program capacity to be successful in improving the water quality of rivers, streams, and the Chesapeake Bay which will, in turn, improve the quality of life for people and animals who are dependent upon the bay. It brings me great pride and hopes for our future to see my local officials lead the fight in restoring the Chesapeake Bay.

Thank you Sens. Cardin, Van Hollen and Rep. Brown!

ELLA FINGADO

Severna Park