Save the Bay - Winter 2015

CBF Attorneys on the Road

On November 10, CBF Staff Attorney Ariel Solaski and Litigation Fellow Gabrielle Gilbeau presented a lecture to James Madison University’s Natural Resource Management class, taught by Bobby Whitescarver. The class comprises 23 seniors all in the Integrated Science and Technology major with a concentration in the environment. Students learned all about CBF and were updated on the American Farm Bureau v. EPA case, in which CBF is working on EPA’s side to defend the Chesapeake Clean Water Blueprint. Student Carli Kohler (seen above) commented, “It is very reassuring and motivating to hear them talk about something they are so passionate about and it was a truly captivating experience.” After visiting with the students, Solaski and Gibeau traveled to Cave View Farm, a concentrated animal feeding operation (or CAFO) that has installed conservation practices. One practice used on the farm is planting radishes and crimson clover as cover crops and biotillers. These conservation practices return nutrients to the soil, prevent erosion, and reduce the need for machine tilling.

Grasses for the Masses
Workshops (Virginia)
Late January/Early February

Grasses for the Masses is an underwater grasses restoration program. CBF provides volunteers with grow kits and wild celery seeds (Vallisneria americana). After attending a workshop, participants will grow grasses through May, and, with CBF’s help, will plant the new grasses at restoration sites on the James and Potomac Rivers. Maintenance for the kit and grasses is minimal. Registration will open in early December. Please contact Blair Blanchette, Grassroots Coordinator, for more information at bblanchette@cbf.org or 804/780-1392.

Activate Eastern Shore
(Virginia)
First Wednesday of the month
6:00–8:00 p.m.

Activate ES is a once-monthly Virginia Eastern Shore citizen advocacy meetup where attendees learn more about Bay legislative priorities, how they affect the Shore, and how we can become more involved to help make a difference! Location is flexible based on interest. For more information or to join, please contact Tatum Ford at 757/971-0366 or tford@cbf.org

Pennsylvania Farm Show
January 9–16
Farm Show Complex, Harrisburg

The 100th Pennsylvania Farm Show—an extravaganza of all things agriculture—features 6,000 animals; 10,000 competitive exhibits; 300 commercial exhibits; and some terrific food. CBF’s Restoration and Agriculture Policy staff members will be there, promoting farm conservation. To learn more, visit www.farmshow.state.pa.us.

Maryland Environmental
Summit
February 3, 4:00–6:00 p.m.
Miller Senate Office Building, Annapolis

Hear from top legislative leaders and advocates about the environmental priorities for the 2106 General Assembly. Join us to support strong environmental policy.

DC on the Half Shell
Monday, February 29
Union Market, Washington, D.C.

An evening celebrating Chesapeake oysters and honoring Michael Hankin, CEO Brown Advisory. Sponsorships are available. Please contact Heather McMunigal at 410/268-8816.