Henrico Times

Feb 27, 2025

Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-01) has announced the relaunch of the Congressional Chesapeake Bay Watershed Task Force. Joining him as co-chairs are Congressman Bobby Scott (VA-03), Congresswoman Sarah Elfreth (MD-03), and Congressman Andy Harris (MD-01).

“As a former marine scientist who studied water quality in the Chesapeake Bay, I know firsthand how important it is that we protect this national treasure,” said Congressman Wittman. “The Bay is an economic engine for coastal Virginia, and it’s integral to our way of life in the Commonwealth. As co-chair of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed Task Force, I will continue to work to conserve our natural resources and encourage responsible stewardship of our land, water, and wildlife.”

Congressman Scott emphasized bipartisan cooperation within the task force: “The Chesapeake Bay Watershed Task Force brings together members from both sides of the aisle focused on preserving the Chesapeake Bay. Together, the Task Force has secured critically needed funding for conservation efforts throughout the watershed and we have advanced policies to enable the Bay community to make progress towards its goals. I look forward to working with my fellow co-chairs to continue uniting the region in support of the Chesapeake Bay, one of our greatest national treasures.”

Congresswoman Elfreth expressed her dedication to maintaining both ecological and economic aspects: “My leadership on the Chesapeake Bay Watershed Task Force reflects my commitment to maintaining the ecological and economic value of one of our region’s greatest resources. I’m proud to bring my experience from the National Aquarium, Maryland State Senate, and Chesapeake Bay Commission to the Task Force. I’m ready to get to work with my wonderful co-chairs to preserve this resource for all Marylanders.”

Congressman Harris highlighted a multi-state approach: “The Chesapeake Bay is a national treasure that must be preserved for future generations to enjoy. For several years, the Chesapeake Bay Watershed Task Force has brought together Members of Congress on a bipartisan basis with a goal of preserving the Bay. I am committed to commonsense, multi-state solutions that protect the Bay and look forward to the work the Chesapeake Bay Watershed Task Force will do this year.”

The task force aims at preserving and protecting a vital resource for several Mid-Atlantic states by educating members of Congress on related issues while providing a platform for bipartisan policy discussions.

Congressman Wittman's background includes serving as a marine scientist and director at Virginia's Department of Health before his congressional career.

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