Chesapeake Bay NERR

 
The Sanctuary is an estuarine site within the Chesapeake Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, Maryland -- a research and education program administered by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Maryland's Department of Natural Resources, and Anne Arundel County. Estuaries are among the most productive of ecosystems on the planet. To learn more about our nation's estuaries, visit Estuaries Live.
 
Maryland’s Chesapeake Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve (CBNERR-MD) was established in 1985 with Monie Bay, a large wetland near Deal Island on the lower Eastern Shore, being the sole component. In 1990 Jug Bay and Otter Point Creek sites were added to the Reserve. Together, these three reserve components reflect the diversity of estuarine systems found within the Maryland portion of the Chesapeake Bay.  These sites provide essential habitat for commercially as well as recreationally important fish and crabs, they filter silt from the Bay's murky waters, and protect the shoreline from flooding. CBNERR-MD promotes educational opportunities and scientific study of these estuarine systems so that we can better manage and successfully restore these important habitats, as well as enjoy a healthy and productive Bay.

The goals of the CBNERR are to:

•    Strengthen the protection and management of the Reserve Components to advance Bay conservation, research and education.

•    Increase the use of science at Reserve sites to address coastal management issues.

•    Enhance society's ability and willingness to make informed decisions and take responsible actions that preserve Maryland’s coastal communities and ecosystems. 

 
To see the Reserve's recent accomplishments, click here.