Maryland 2022 Regular Session

Maryland House Bill HB1133

Introduced
2/11/22  

Caption

Oysters – Tributary–Scale Sanctuaries

Impact

The enactment of HB 1133 is likely to influence Maryland’s environmental laws significantly, particularly in relation to the management of natural resources and the protection of aquatic ecosystems. By shifting the focus from the Manokin River to the Severn River, the bill aims to prioritize effective restoration sites that can deliver measurable ecological benefits. This realignment could bolster freshwater and marine biodiversity, improve water quality, and sustain the local populations of oysters, which are essential for maintaining the balance of the bay's ecosystem.

Summary

House Bill 1133 focuses on the establishment and management of tributary-scale oyster sanctuaries within the Chesapeake Bay. The bill proposes repealing existing provisions that currently include the Manokin River in this network of sanctuaries while incorporating the Severn River into the network. The overall objective of the bill is to enhance the restoration efforts for oyster populations, which are crucial to the health of the Chesapeake Bay ecosystem. The legislation highlights the Department's responsibility in coordination with relevant stakeholders to develop restoration plans aimed at exceeding the 50% target of restorable oyster habitats in the designated sanctuaries.

Contention

One area of potential contention surrounding HB 1133 is the decision to remove the Manokin River from the sanctuary network, which may face opposition from local stakeholders who believe in the importance of including diverse ecosystems in conservation efforts. Concerns may also arise regarding the feasibility and effectiveness of managing restoration activities in the newly included Severn River. Opponents could argue that decisions made under this bill should consider broader ecological impacts, and effective stakeholder engagement will be crucial to mitigate any backlash from those who rely on these waterways for livelihood and sustenance.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MD SB837

Oyster Restoration - Use of Federal Funds - Prohibition

MD HB1022

Oyster Restoration - Use of Federal Funds - Prohibition

MD HB932

Oysters – Rotational Harvest – Pilot Program

MD SB492

Oysters – Rotational Harvest – Pilot Program

MD HB1218

Anne Arundel County - Natural Resources - Fishing With a Haul Seine

MD SB713

Anne Arundel County – Natural Resources – Fishing Gear

MD HB1215

Anne Arundel County - Natural Resources - Fishing Gear

MD HB1383

Menhaden reduction fishing; prohibition.

MD H0575

The Designation of the Gulf of Mexico

MD HB1411

Gaming; authorize a licensed gaming establishment in City of Jackson.

Similar Bills

MD SB837

Oyster Restoration - Use of Federal Funds - Prohibition

MD HB1022

Oyster Restoration - Use of Federal Funds - Prohibition

US SB4816

Alabama Underwater Forest National Marine Sanctuary and Protection Act

US HB897

Alabama Underwater Forest National Marine Sanctuary and Protection Act

VT H0506

An act relating to approval of amendments to the election boundary provisions of the charter of the City of Burlington

VT H0508

An act relating to approval of amendments to the charter of the City of Burlington

CA SB86

Department of Pesticide Regulation: chlorpyrifos: quarterly reports.

TX HB3402

Relating to the sale of certain state property in Brazoria County by the Texas Board of Criminal Justice.