Rural county leaders examine how PFAS contamination affects drinking water, agriculture, wastewater systems, and local communities. PFAS contamination presents distinct challenges for Maryland’s rural counties, where private wells, small water systems, agricultural operations, wastewater infrastructure, and biosolids management can all intersect with emerging state and federal requirements. At MACo’s 2026 Summer Conference, Queen Anne’s County Commissioner Jack Wilson moderated a discussion with Zach Schafer, Assistant Secretary of the Maryland Department of the Environment, on the…

State and county leaders examine stormwater, Bay restoration, infrastructure needs, and the evolving policies shaping local water quality efforts. The health of the Chesapeake Bay remains closely tied to county investments in stormwater management, wastewater systems, and other local infrastructure. At the 2026 MACo Summer Conference, Delegate Dana Stein moderated a discussion with state and water policy experts on the next phase of Maryland’s Bay restoration efforts, including the future of the Bay Restoration Fund,…

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…