H.R. 7788: Maryland Whole Watershed Program Federal Partnership Act

This bill, titled the Maryland Whole Watershed Program Federal Partnership Act, aims to enhance the role of the Chesapeake Bay Program Office in managing and improving the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Below are the primary provisions and objectives outlined in the bill:

Chesapeake Bay Program Office Involvement

The bill designates the Chesapeake Bay Program Office to serve as an advisory member of the Maryland Whole Watershed Program's State Management Team. This means that the Chesapeake Bay Program Office will play a consulting role in overseeing and guiding efforts related to watershed management in Maryland, as well as in other similar programs across different states.

Authorized Activities

To fulfill its advisory role, the Chesapeake Bay Program Office is granted specific authorities which include:

• Coordination: The office will be allowed to collaborate with state and local governments as well as federal agencies to ensure that watershed management efforts are aligned and effective.
• Technical Assistance: The office can provide support in the form of expertise and guidance on water management issues and projects within the Chesapeake Bay watershed.
• Financial Resources: The bill allows the Chesapeake Bay Program Office to offer financial support for projects aimed at conserving and improving the water quality and overall health of the Chesapeake Bay watershed.

Definition of Chesapeake Bay Program Office

The bill also clarifies what is meant by the Chesapeake Bay Program Office, referring to the office established under federal law aimed at addressing water pollution and watershed issues.

Overall Purpose

The overall purpose of this legislation is to strengthen partnerships and enhance the capabilities of the Chesapeake Bay Program Office as it works to implement effective strategies for managing and protecting the waters of the Chesapeake Bay region.

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