The Maryland Department of the Environment briefed a legislative committee regarding the Conowingo Dam, its path toward a full license renewal, and related matters affecting Chesapeake Bay water quality.
On January 30, 2024, the House Environment and Transportation Committee received a briefing on the Conowingo Dam from the Maryland Department of the Environment's (MDE) Deputy Secretary Suzanne Dorsey and the Director of the Water and Science Administration Lee Curry.
The briefing covered updates on the Conowingo Dam, highlighting actions that have been taken following the December 2022 ruling by the DC Circuit Court for the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to vacate the Conowingo Dam's License to operate. Since this ruling, the MDE has reinstated the water quality certification process. Along with collecting information from scientific experts to assist in the certification process, the MDE has implemented a new public information process that has gathered information from both NGOs and the Maryland Public. MDE is using this new information to implement a mediation process in the hopes of fostering water quality and ecological improvements.
Along with the renewed water quality certification process, MDE highlighted other paths they are taking to achieve improved water quality and a revitalized Chesapeake Bay. MDE worked with the Susquehanna River Basin Commission to implement a Pay for Success Program. This program is designed to increase nutrient reductions. Dredging was also highlighted as a key component in the Chesapeake Bay revitalization efforts and nutrient reduction. The MDE continues to work with federal partners and Maryland to develop clear policies, guidance, and funding regarding dredging and Chesapeake Bay restoration.
Watch the Video of the Environment and Transportation Briefing
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