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A Closer Look at Our Water

October 2019 • Volume 18, Number 2

A lifeguard watches swimmers at Sandy Point State Park in Anne Arundel County, Md.

A Blooming Problem

Brennen Jensen

The Chesapeake contains some 700 species of algae. Most don’t cause problems. But when algae does bloom, and creates toxins, it can devastate water bodies as well as economies. With warmer waters coming, could the blooms that happened in Florida in the summer of 2018 happen here? more . . .

Algae: Small size, big impact

Algae blooms have impacted waters from Rhode Island to Florida, damaging ecosystems and affecting drinking water supplies. The Chesapeake Bay and Maryland’s Coastal Bays have not been immune. Take a look at the different tiny organisms that can pack a potent punch. more...

Don Baugh (left) and Erica Baugh paddle along the Severn River, near Don‘s home in Annapolis.

Paddling toward a Healthier Bay

Don Baugh spent his career showing students the wonders of the Chesapeake Bay. Now, he’s started a nonprofit, Upstream Alliance, to bring current and future adult leaders—politicians, school superintendents, and scientists—closer to the water they’re trying to protect and restore. more...

A sign posted at Lake Needwood in Rockville, Md. this summer warns visitors to avoid contact with the water because of a dangerous toxic bloom of blue-green algae.

To Swim or Not to Swim

Those who know the Chesapeake best face a conundrum: Encourage residents to dive in, knowing a personal connection to its waters help fuel a desire to keep them clean? Or warn recreational users away due to occasional dangers? Scientists and swimmers weigh in about how they stay on top of local water quality conditions. more...

Meet the Extension Specialist

Bill Hubbard takes the helm for Maryland Sea Grant Extension. more...

Maryland Sea Grant Welcomes New Communications Manager

Lisa Tossey joins the team. more...

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Wading into Complexities

Want to take a dip? There’s a lot to ponder before answering. Warming temperatures will bring new problems that further complicate the decision on whether we, and those we love, should enter the water.

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