Chesapeake Bay

At the heart of our Chesapeake Bay program is a mission to protect the iconic rivers that flow into the Bay—the Potomac, Rappahannock, York, and James. By conserving thousands of acres along these waterways, we’re not just preserving ecosystems; we’re opening up access to nature and strengthening the economic and climate resilience of communities that call this region home.

Our work, in partnership with federal, state, and local agencies, is about creating vibrant public spaces that bring people closer to the outdoors, whether it’s expanding beloved parks, protecting natural gems, or creating access to iconic waterways. We’re also standing alongside communities to preserve working landscapes and rural traditions, while partnering with native and Indigenous tribes to protect ancestral lands that carry deep cultural significance.

These efforts go beyond conservation—they’re about building climate resilience, safeguarding wildlife, and ensuring that everyone can enjoy the natural beauty of the Chesapeake Bay. Every project is part of our bigger vision: a future where the Bay’s watershed thrives and people continue to experience the benefits of nature.