Chesapeake Bay Oyster Industry: A Somerset County oyster farmer, Daniel R. Webster Sr., was found guilty of tampering with evidence in a state probe tied to alleged illegal dumping of oyster bed material into the Bay, with a judge rebuking him for “contaminating” the water. Local Water Costs: Ridgely approved its first water and sewer rate hike in more than a decade, tied to a potential EPA sewer relining grant and aimed at closing operating deficits and building reserves. Data Centers vs. Communities: Prince George’s County extended a two-year moratorium on hyperscale data center development after residents raised concerns about water impacts and utility strain. Energy & Grid Pressure: PJM approved data centers to use backup power during heat waves, highlighting how extreme heat and growing demand are colliding. Air Quality & Heat Risk: Washington’s Fourth of July fireworks drove “very unhealthy” air quality readings, with fine particle pollution spiking well above EPA standards—conditions that also affected nearby Maryland and Virginia. Conservation & Wildlife: NASA transferred 103 acres near Goddard to the Patuxent Research Refuge, expanding protected habitat managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Invasive Species Help: A Virginia Tech study found trained dogs can spot spotted lanternfly egg masses better than experienced human searchers in dense vegetation, pointing to a new early-detection tool for Maryland growers. Public Media for the Bay: Baltimore Public Media and Delmarva Public Media announced a partnership that will add a shared agriculture and environmental reporter focused on Chesapeake Bay water quality and conservation. EMS Strain From Road Work: Southern Dorchester County road construction raised concerns about slower emergency response times, prompting a local store to receive a basic life-saving kit.