Foundations of Clean Water: A Local Government Guide to the Chesapeake Bay

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Clean water is critical to the health of people, the environment, and the economy.

[Shot of a person pouring a glass of tap water; shot of someone paddling a canoe; shot of a waterman sorting fresh-caught oysters.]

Bipartisan environmental protections for our water originated decades ago.

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Outcry over polluted water led to the Clean Water Act in 1972 which aimed for fishable, swimmable, drinkable water for all.

[Black and white photo of firemen working to extinguish the flames of the 1969 Cuyahoga River fire.]

40 years ago the Bay was showing sharp declines due to nutrient pollution.

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The signatories of the Chesapeake Bay Agreement committed to collaboratively working to restore and protect the Bay.

[Photo of the six signatories of the Chesapeake Bay Agreement, proudly holding their pens aloft.]

The 2014 Chesapeake Watershed Agreement targets outcomes for restoration in 10 areas:

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sustainable fisheries

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toxic contaminants

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land conservation

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vital habitats

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healthy watersheds

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public access

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environmental literacy

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water quality

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stewardship

[Shot of a person picking up plastic litter along a shoreline.]

climate resiliency

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Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs) and Watershed Implementation Plans (WIPs) have been established to limit nutrient pollution.

[Aerial shot of a waterfront town at sunset, showing boats and buildings at the water’s edge.]

We have the tools and policies in place to achieve a cleaner Bay and healthier environment for all.

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As a local leader, you can help ensure that your community enjoys the benefits of clean water. Visit ProtectLocalWaterways.org to learn more.