What does restoring the Chesapeake Bay mean? The conversation lately has recognized that turning back time is impossible – we can restore the Bay to a better-functioning version of itself, but it will never be the same as it was in the 1800s with imposing pressure from climate change, population growth, land use changes, and more. So, with the 2025 deadline for the Chesapeake Bay Watershed Agreement goals widely acknowledged to be a miss, we must start envisioning what a restored Bay might realistically look like. Although their input is valuable, several voices are left out of the conversation when only experts weigh in on these questions – especially those who are just starting their careers and will be enacting the communication, research, and management to see a better Bay achieved. What do they envision, in terms of the Bay, the scientific community, diversity, and inclusion?

Moderator:

• Randy K. Rowel Jr, Chesapeake Student Recruitment, Early Advisement, and Mentoring Program Coordinator

Speakers:

• Erik Michelsen, Deputy Director, Anne Arundel County Department of Public Works
• Alexus Stelfox, 2023 C-StREAM Fellow, University of Maryland, Baltimore County
• Anoosh Tauqir, 2023 C-StREAM Fellow, George Washington University