Chesapeake Bay Trust

The Chesapeake Bay Trust is a nonprofit grant-making organization dedicated to improving the watersheds of the Chesapeake Bay, Maryland Coastal Bays, and Youghiogheny River. Created in 1985 by the Maryland General Assembly, the Trust aims to increase environmental stewardship through grant programs, special initiatives, and partnerships. Their core objectives include supporting K-12 environmental education, on-the-ground watershed restoration, community engagement, and underlying scientific research. The Trust awards $20-30 million in grant funding annually to hundreds of nonprofits and community organizations throughout the region. They engage hundreds of thousands of students and volunteers in projects that have a measurable impact on natural resources. Funding sources include the Treasure the Chesapeake vehicle license plate, donations through the Chesapeake Bay and Endangered Species Fund, individual and corporate donations, and partnerships with private foundations and government agencies. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, fostering participation from all local residents in restoring and protecting the region's natural resources.