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    state conservation commission

    Chesapeake Bay Strategy

    Learn more about Pennsylvania farmers' strides in reducing nutrient and sediment discharge into the Chesapeake Bay, improving not just water quality but also soil health and more sustainable farming operations. 

    Pennsylvania comprises 35 percent of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed. The Susquehanna River is the largest tributary to the bay. It provides 90 percent of the freshwater flow to the upper bay and half of the total freshwater flow to the bay.

    So the actions of the 33,000 farms in the Bay Watershed play a critical role in the health of its waters. Farmers have significantly reduced nutrient and sediment discharge into the bay. After all, their efforts improve more than just water quality. The same best practices also improve soil health and the sustainability of operations. Still, their efforts aren’t yet enough.

    The agriculture industry will contribute three-quarters of the nutrient reductions expected by 2025. This is part of Pennsylvania’s strategy to recharge our efforts to improve water quality. The plan includes Pennsylvania’s Chesapeake Bay Office.

    The plan relies on a mix of technical and financial assistance for farmers. The plan includes technology, expanded data gathering, and improved program coordination and capacity. The state will only use stronger enforcement and compliance measures when necessary. The effort is to help Pennsylvania meet its obligations to the bay. The co-equal goals of clean water and viable farms are also in sight.

    We also want to keep track of the good work we’re already doing to improve water quality. We ask that every farm respond to a BMP survey to get the credit you deserve for your efforts. Participation in this survey is completely voluntary.

    All names and locational information will be kept completely confidential. The data provided will not include the name or location of inventory participants. Names and addresses will be removed from all inventory and farm visit results. You can also call the Penn State Survey Research Center at 800-648-3617 and request a hard copy by mail.