Bill would codify MDOT—DNR funding for oyster restoration after years of program success
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Summary
SB 558 would codify an MDOT—DNR MOU that directs Port of Baltimore revenues to a Chesapeake Bay Enhancement Program funding oyster sanctuaries, aquaculture and natural reef restoration; watermen and conservation groups testified the program boosted oyster recruitment and harvests and recommended a favorable report.
Sen. Jack Bailey told the committee SB 558 codifies a program funded by Port of Baltimore revenue that has supported oyster sanctuaries, aquaculture and reef restoration since 1996. Bailey said the original MOU ranged from roughly $1 million to $3.5 million and that the current bill focuses on the amounts historically provided (about $2 million in recent years) to make the funding permanent and constitutionally defensible under the Transportation Trust Fund rules.
Multiple watermen and conservation groups offered testimony describing measurable gains. Robert T. Brown, representing Maryland watermen, said harvests rose from a low of 26,000 bushels in 2003 to more than 700,000 bushels in 2023, which he described as a success he credited to program funding and coordinated restoration work. Jeanne Hathaway Riccchio and other county oyster committees cited documented outcomes including "98,000,000 spat on shell planted" and "over 46,000 pounds of nitrogen removed in just 10 years" for Talbot County.
Witnesses also recounted an implementation problem from 2006—2009 when funds were misallocated and not dispersed by DNR, prompting renewed coordination with the port administration. Supporters urged the committee to make the program permanent to avoid future interruptions to restoration work and to preserve a partnership that includes watermen, aquaculture operators and conservation groups.
The hearing recorded broad support from the oyster industry, county committees and environmental organizations; the committee did not record an immediate floor vote on SB 558 during this session.
