From the Bay to the James: A Local Look at the Chesapeake Bay Agreement

Recorded July 29, 2025 | Richmond Public Library – Main Branch

This recorded panel discussion explores the evolving future of clean water protection in Virginia and the broader Chesapeake Bay watershed. Hosted by the Chesapeake Bay Foundation at the Richmond Public Library, the event brought together state leaders, policy experts, scientists, and community advocates to reflect on the progress made under the 2014 Chesapeake Bay Watershed Agreement and discuss the renewed commitments outlined in the revised Bay Agreement set to guide efforts beyond 2025.

With significant improvements in the health of the Bay and tributaries like the James River—once among the most polluted rivers in the nation—this conversation focused on the opportunities and challenges that remain. The updated agreement emphasizes not only continued environmental restoration but also a deeper commitment to measurable outcomes, community-level impact, and equity in access to clean water.

Panelists included Stefanie Taillon, Virginia Secretary of Natural and Historic Resources; Anna Killius, Executive Director of the Chesapeake Bay Commission; Jasmine Gore, member of the Chesapeake Bay Program Local Government Advisory Committee; and Dr. Charles Gowan, Professor of Biology and Environmental Studies at Randolph-Macon College. Their insights addressed how the new Bay Agreement will influence policy, local decision-making, and public engagement across the region, particularly in and around Richmond.

This program was presented by the Chesapeake Bay Foundation’s Richmond Office as part of its ongoing work to engage local communities in the shared responsibility of protecting and restoring our waterways. Clean water has no finish line, and continued collaboration at the local level is essential to achieving a healthier, more resilient Bay and James River for future generations.