Bill > SB87

This bill requires the Maryland Department of Natural Resources to conduct an expanded annual scientific survey of young striped bass (also known as rockfish) in the Chesapeake Bay. Specifically, the department must now conduct the juvenile survey at between 12 and 20 sampling sites located in the central region of Maryland's Chesapeake Bay waters, in addition to existing sampling sites in the northern and southern regions. The central region sampling sites must be located in specific waterways, including the Magothy River, Severn River, Chester River, South River, West River, Eastern Bay, and Miles River. The previous law only specified conducting a scientific survey to determine the abundance of striped bass approximately 18 inches in length, without the detailed requirements for sampling sites. The bill will take effect on June 1, 2025, and aims to enhance the state's ability to monitor and understand the striped bass population in the Chesapeake Bay ecosystem.

Education

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0087?ys=2025RS