We recognize the Chesapeake Bay as a valuable natural resource.  We support efforts to restore the health of the Bay and we encourage farmers to utilize Best Management Practices in their agricultural operations. ‘07
     We urge continued and increased funding for research and implementation of BMPs on farms, including nutrient management plans and the construction of ponds, waterways and buffer strips to reduce run-off and ground water contamination. ‘07
     We recommend that cost share programs be evaluated and revised as necessary to ensure equity for participants. ‘07
     We urge Maryland’s legislators to consider the financial and practical impact on the state’s diverse agriculture when imposing new laws and regulations. ‘07
     We urge MDE to gather accurate, scientific data to determine where pollution problems exist. ‘07
     We recommend that industry, urban run-off, wastewater treatment plants, etc. be given the same time limit as agriculture to reduce the impact of pollution on the Chesapeake Bay.  Emphasis should be placed on municipal, urban and industrial areas regarding water quality, nutrient management and solid waste disposal. ‘07
     We recommend that greater attention and research be given to what is happening in the water column of the Bay itself.  The filter feeders and small aquatic life will have to be a part of the long term solution for the Bay cleanup.  Harvesting moratoriums, restrictions on harvesting methods, Asian oyster introduction with proper safeguards and other measures should be considered. ‘07
     State funding should be dramatically increased for revival of oysters, targeting surface raised oysters and other filter feeders. ’05

Dedicated Funds for Bay Clean-Up
     We support a dedicated fund for conservation programs that financially assists farmers and other non-point source contributors who implement practices to improve the water quality of the Chesapeake Bay. ‘07