Bay Goals, Stormwater Realities: What Counties Need to Know

Hear how the state and counties are partnering improve the health of the Chesapeake Bay. 

The health of the Chesapeake Bay is essential to Maryland’s environment, economy, and quality of life. Clean water supports wildlife, recreation, tourism, agriculture, and communities across the state. Preserving this natural resource requires continued investment in stormwater management, wastewater systems, and aging infrastructure. Counties will play a central role in continuing to advance this work, tailoring restoration efforts to meet local needs.

Title: Bay Goals, Stormwater Realities: What Counties Need to Know 

Description: Maryland’s approach to Bay restoration, stormwater management, and local infrastructure investment is entering a critical transition point, as counties work to meet Chesapeake Bay goals while responding to more intense storms, increased development, aging infrastructure, and evolving regulatory expectations. This panel will explore the future of the Bay Restoration Fund ahead of key 2030 sunsets, the growing need to address stormwater runoff as a major source of pollution, and MDE’s forthcoming stormwater regulation updates taking effect in 2027. Panelists will discuss how counties can align funding, permitting, resilience strategies, and on-the-ground practices to improve water quality and support responsible local growth. 

Speakers: 

  • Lee Currey, Director of the Water and Science Administration, Maryland Department of the Environment 
  • Lisa Ochsenhirt, Vice President, Aqua Law

Moderator: The Honorable Dana Stein, Maryland House of Delegates

Date/Time: Thursday, August 13, 2026; 3:30 pm – 4:30 pm 

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