Scott Applauds Announcement of the Chesapeake Bay States’ Partnership Initiative

NEWPORT NEWS, VA – Earlier today, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced the establishment of the Chesapeake Bay States' Partnership Initiative and an investment of an additional $22.5 million in conservation assistance to support voluntary conservation efforts. Earlier this year, Congressman Bobby Scott (VA-03), co-chair of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed Taskforce, led a letter to U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack and President Biden urging the creation of such an initiative and underscoring the need for increased investment.

"I am grateful that the Biden Administration shares Virginia's commitment to restoring the Chesapeake Bay," said Congressman Scott. "The announcement of the Chesapeake Bay States' Partnership Initiative will help farmers in the region advance the restoration of the Bay. In addition to helping reduce nutrient pollution, this initiative and the funding it provides will help preserve agricultural lands and mitigate climate change. The unique partnership between the Chesapeake Bay states and the federal government will be critical to restoring this ecological treasure and important economic driver. I look forward to working with the Biden Administration and partners in the region to meet our shared and scientifically-determined goals."

Farms throughout the Chesapeake Bay's 64,000 square mile watershed are responsible for $10 billion in agricultural production each year. Much progress has been made in reducing pollution in the Chesapeake Bay, including reductions in agricultural pollution. To meet the 2025 deadline, however, additional pollution reductions are needed, approximately 85 percent of which must come from agriculture and forestry. This funding will help meet the demand for proven agricultural conservation practices that conserve natural resources and reduce nutrient pollution throughout the watershed.

Today's announcement builds on the Biden Administration's work to restore the Chesapeake Bay. The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, commonly referred to as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, provided $238 million in additional funding for the Bay'srestoration over the next five years. This funding comes at a critical time as the 2025 deadline for pollution reductions approaches.

To view a copy of the letter sent to President Biden, click here.

To view a copy of the letter sent to Secretary Vilsack, click here.

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