Press Releases

Washington, DC – Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-01) today released the following statement regarding the new federal strategy to restore and protect the Chesapeake Bay:

“The Chesapeake Bay is a national treasure; everyone across the watershed is committed to restoring and protecting this special estuary.  We all know the Bay is a resource rich in heritage, commerce, and recreation.  Taking steps to restore the Bay is a top priority of mine. 

“It’s critical for the Administration to focus on Chesapeake Bay restoration activities.  For the last year, the executive branch agencies have been developing this new strategy to clean up the Bay.  Today’s announcement lays out a comprehensive federal effort to restore water quality, fish and wildlife and protect habitat.  Coordination and execution is key to achieve meaningful progress in these efforts. While this is a significant milestone in clean-up efforts, much work remains for localities, states and the federal government to restore the Bay.  I will continue my work in Washington to ensure a healthy Bay.”

Background

With over 16 years of experience as a shellfish specialist monitoring water quality and environmental health issues in the Chesapeake Bay watershed, Congressman Wittman has championed efforts for Bay restoration and protection. Last year, the House of Representatives passed legislation authored by Wittman, the Chesapeake Bay Accountability and Recovery Act (H.R. 1053), to monitor and coordinate the Bay restoration efforts amongst 10 federal agencies, six states and the District of Columbia, and over one thousand localities and multiple non-governmental organizations. For more information on this legislation, click here.

Congressman Rob Wittman represents the First District of Virginia. He serves on the Natural Resources Committee and the Armed Services Committee where he is the Ranking Member of the Oversight and Investigations Subcommittee.