WHEREAS, the Chesapeake Bay is the largest and most productive estuary in the United
States, with its watershed spanning six states and the District of Columbia; and
WHEREAS, the Chesapeake Bay watershed, covering 64,000 square miles, is an extraordinary
and vital natural resource, with some of the nation’s most productive farm and
forest lands; and
WHEREAS, the Chesapeake Bay is fed by 50 major tributaries, including the Susquehanna,
Potomac, Rappahannock, York, and James Rivers, and stretches 200 miles from
Havre de Grace, Maryland, to Norfolk, Virginia; andWHEREAS, the Chesapeake Bay watershed is home to more than 18 million people, many of
whom rely upon the watershed’s natural resources for their livelihood, food,
drinking water and recreational activities; and
WHEREAS, the Chesapeake Bay produces more than 500 million pounds of seafood harvest
each year, and the more than 83,000 farms in the Chesapeake Bay watershed
contribute more than $10 billion to the regional economy and provide food for
millions of Americans; and
WHEREAS, the Chesapeake Bay’s Maryland tributaries are an important source of drinking
water, which is essential for public health, and economic growth and a vital
resource for future generations; and
WHEREAS, the rich history, pivotal economic importance, and astounding beauty of the
Chesapeake Bay watershed never cease to amaze residents and visitors alike.
NOW, THEREFORE, the Mayor and Council of the City of College Park, do hereby proclaim June
4 – 12, 2022 as CHESAPEAKE BAY AWARENESS WEEK in the City of College Park, and urge
residents to recognize the importance of this valuable resource, to protect and enjoy its natural
beauty and bounty, and to increase awareness of the importance of the Chesapeake Bay
watershed to our community.
SO PROCLAIMED THIS 24TH DAY OF MAY, 2022.

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Patrick L. Wojahn, Mayor