Chesapeake Bay Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL)

Cleaner Air, Cleaner Bay

A new story map illustrates how Clean Air Act implementation by EPA and state partners has benefitted the Chesapeake Bay. 

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Chesapeake Bay Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL)

What is the Bay TMDL?

On December 29, 2010, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency established the Chesapeake Bay Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL). The TMDL is a historic and comprehensive "pollution diet" to restore clean water in the Chesapeake Bay and the region's streams, creeks, and rivers.

Implementing the TMDL

A number of elements are in place to ensure that all pollution control measures needed to fully restore the Bay and its tidal rivers are in place by 2025. Practices will also be in place by 2017 to meet 60 percent of the necessary pollution reductions.

Progress in the Watershed

Actions are being taken across six states and the District of Columbia to reduce nitrogen, phosphorus and sediment loads to meet the clean water goals of the Bay TMDL.

EPA Oversight
- WIPs and Milestones
- Sector-Specific
Key Developments
Tracking Tools
Watershed Happenings

Watershed Map

Map of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed. The Chesapeake Bay Watershed includes portions of Delaware, Maryland, New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia and the District of Columbia The Chesapeake Bay Watershed spans six states and the District of Columbia.

EPA