Maryland’s Bay Grasses Increase in 2008 Susquehanna Flats
continued expansion drives 20% Increase Annapolis, MD (April 29,
2009) — Bay grasses, a favorite home to the blue crab, increased
20 percent in 2008 in Maryland’s portion of the Chesapeake Bay
and its tributaries. The majority of the 7,221-acre increase
resulted from a continued expansion on the Susquehanna Flats,
home of the largest bay grass beds in the Chesapeake Bay. While
the new number — 42,237 acres (up from 35,016 acres in 2007) —
marks a significant increase, Maryland bay grass acreage remains
far short of the 2010 restoration goal of 110,000 acres.
“Whether they fish, boat, swim in its waters, or simply enjoy
its world-class seafood, the waters of the Chesapeake Bay are a
vital resource for Maryland families… and bay grasses are vital
to a healthy Bay,” said Governor Martin O’Malley. “While this
increase is encouraging, we must continue to take aggressive
action, collectively and individually, to reduce nutrient and
sediment pollution from th