The largest estuary in North America, the Chesapeake Bay watershed encompasses 64,000 square miles including six states and the District of Columbia—it’s a thriving ecosystem that has sustained Native peoples for centuries and played a pivotal role in American history. With its ecological and cultural significance, the Chesapeake has become a symbol of the delicate balance between human activity and nature.
Support the Proposed Chesapeake National Recreation Area
The Chesapeake Bay is worth inclusion in the National Park System to enhance public access and protection.
See more ›There are many national park units in the watershed, but none are dedicated to solely telling the powerful and unique story of the Bay, which is why NPCA and the Chesapeake Conservancy are leading efforts to establish the Chesapeake National Recreation Area (CNRA). Passage of legislation to establish this new national park unit would be a culminating achievement for the Bay’s restoration efforts—a testament to the power of collaboration, innovation, and a shared commitment to safeguarding the Chesapeake Bay for generations to come.
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Press Release
NPCA response to announcement of Doug Burgum as nominee for Secretary of the Interior
"All our national parks are threatened by...climate change and funding that has not kept pace with rising visitation. We are prepared to face those challenges together, just as we have…
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Blog Post
Can a Lame Duck Congress Get Anything Done?
Yes, and here’s what Congress can do for national parks.
