Stream Health Outcome:Logic & Action Plan

Chesapeake Bay Program partners have committed to taking a series of specific actions to support the management approaches guiding this outcome. These actions directly address the factors that could impact our progress. More information about performance targets and participating partners can be found in the complete Logic & Action Plan.

Download Logic & Action Plan (.pdf)

Watershed-Wide Actions

Ongoing

  • Determine and report progress toward this outcome.
  • Identify practicable metrics for use in assessing overall improvements in stream health. These metrics should be consistent with existing guidance for crediting both pollution reductions and improvements in the function of streams and should be incorporated into BMP Verification Plans.
  • Implement a pooled stream monitoring approach throughout the watershed.
  • Train and educate stakeholders on stream restoration and health.

2018

  • Update and refine the Chesapeake Bay Basin-wide Index of Biotic Integrity (Chessie BIBI).
  • Establish a 2008 baseline for stream health and an approach for determining future trends.
  • Develop a Stream Restoration Permit Committee to bring regulators, practitioners and the regulated community together to explore streamlining the review process for stream restoration project permits.
  • As recommended by the Chesapeake Bay Program’s Scientific and Technical Advisory Committee, establish a subcommittee or action team to develop guidance in support of aligning stream restoration best management practice protocols with approaches to optimize improvements in stream function and health.
  • Provide recommendations for water quality impairments associated with a Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) that will encourage the use of restoration practices to address additional environmental stressors and achieve “co-benefits.”