Abstract |
The trend analysis presented in the document is based on data compiled through the Chesapeake Bay Water Quality Monitoring Program that was initiated in June 1984. In 1987, the Chesapeake Bay Agreement expanded and refined previous commitments of the signatories to reverse apparent declines in the quality and productivity of the Bay. The improvement and maintenance of water quality in the Bay were identified as the most critical elements in the goal to ensure the productivity of the Bay's living resources. To reach the goal, nitrogen and phosphorus loads entering the mainstem of the Bay were targeted to be reduced by 40% between the 1985 baseline year and the year 2000. Although most of the progress toward the targeted nutrient reduction goal has been achieved with respect to phosphorus, there have been some decreases in nitrogen inputs to the Bay from both point and nonpoint sources. |