AGP Executive Report

Electricity Affordability Fight: Maryland electricity bills are up 50.9% over five years, now about 24% above the national average, as Gov. Wes Moore blames utility profiteering and data center demand while critics argue state decarbonization rules are squeezing reliable power and pushing imports—raising voltage-collapse and rolling-blackout fears by summer 2027. Wildlife Health: Delaware’s DNREC is tightening chronic wasting disease (CWD) rules after its first case in Sussex County, emphasizing early action to slow spread among deer. Eastern Shore Data Center Backlash: Federalsburg became the first Eastern Shore community to ban data centers, citing concerns over energy prices, water use, noise, and health impacts. Chesapeake Bay Fisheries: Blue crab numbers rebounded to an estimated 349 million in the bay, a 46% jump, though scientists still don’t know why female counts fell. Back River Odor Crisis: Dundalk residents are demanding action over a severe stench from the Back River Wastewater Treatment Plant, pointing to MDE findings tied to sludge handling and high pollutant discharge. Lead Safety for Room Rentals: Maryland expands lead-paint requirements for homeowners renting rooms in pre-1978 owner-occupied homes, with new registration and inspection steps starting Oct. 1, 2026. Potomac River Uncertainty: Regional leaders warn the Potomac’s future water supply faces a “dry and uncertain” outlook as climate pressures and data-center growth strain planning. Rabies Alert: CDC reports a rise in rabies exposures and treatment mistakes, prompting renewed warnings for pet owners to keep vaccinations current.

Electricity Affordability Fight: Maryland electricity bills rose 50.9% over five years, now about 24% above the national average, as Gov. Wes Moore blames utility “double dipping” and data center demand while critics argue state decarbonization rules are squeezing reliable power and forcing imports. Utilities warn of possible voltage collapse and rolling blackouts by summer 2027. PFAS Wastewater Pressure: In Salisbury, residents packed a Maryland Department of the Environment hearing as Perdue sought to renew and sharply expand wastewater discharges tied to PFAS “forever chemicals” allegations; residents fear higher volumes will worsen contamination. Back River Odor Fallout: Baltimore County residents held tense town halls over “putrid” odors from the Back River Wastewater Treatment Plant, saying it disrupts daily life and pushing for stronger accountability. Endangered Species Act Legal Push: Michigan AG Dana Nessel joined a coalition suing to block federal ESA rollbacks that weaken habitat protections for threatened and endangered wildlife. Food Access Funding: Gov. Moore announced the FY 2027 NourishMD grant application round opening Sept. 22, targeting fresh-food retailers in Maryland food deserts. Local Energy Infrastructure: Baltimore-area residents in Remington criticized BGE’s plan to move a transmission line overhead to support Amtrak’s tunnel replacement. Chesapeake Bay Community Support: Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger visited Tangier Island, pledging continued support as erosion and severe weather threaten the island’s future.

Electricity Affordability Fight: Maryland electricity bills jumped 50.9% over five years, now about 24% above the national average, as Gov. Wes Moore blames utility profiteering and data center demand while critics argue state decarbonization rules are squeezing reliable power and could contribute to voltage collapse and rolling blackouts by summer 2027. PFAS Pressure on Eastern Shore: Perdue wants to nearly quintuple wastewater discharges under a proposed Salisbury permit, drawing fresh alarm from residents tied to PFAS “forever chemicals” contamination claims. Chesapeake Bay Food Safety: Maryland’s top seafood risks get a spotlight, with guidance on which fish and shellfish carry the strongest consumption warnings or raw-food hazards. AmeriCorps Legal Win: AG Nick Brown and a coalition of states reached a settlement blocking Trump administration cuts to AmeriCorps community service programs, protecting FY2026 funding. Transit Buildout in Baltimore: MTA will start construction Oct. 6 on the $50M RAISE East-West Transit Priority Project along 20 miles of CityLink corridors, in phases through 2029. Sewage Leak Response: Talbot County crews repaired a pipe connection in St. Michaels after a reported 500-gallon wastewater discharge, recovering about 300 gallons and stabilizing the ground. Education Attendance: Maryland reported chronic absenteeism fell to 22.8% for 2025-26, down from 30.9% in 2021-22.

Endangered Species Act Fight: A coalition of 20 states and D.C. sued the Trump administration over final rules that weaken Endangered Species Act protections, including narrowing what counts as “harm” to wildlife habitat. Maryland Data Centers: A new report highlights how Maryland jurisdictions are split on data centers, with 13 local moratoriums and policy battles tied to generator rules and environmental review. Chesapeake Bay Wildlife: Maryland reports continued gains in underwater grasses, with sea grass expansion noted for 2025. Local Water Quality: Wicomico County held a public hearing on a proposed Perdue wastewater permit near Salisbury, where neighbors raised concerns about PFAS and drinking-water impacts. Cybersecurity in Health Care: A cyberattack on Luminis Health Care disrupted systems at Anne Arundel Medical Center, causing appointment and treatment cancellations. Baltimore Oversight: Baltimore’s inspector general released a report alleging a senior employee sought to cut off her access to records during an active investigation. Greenbelt Stormwater & EMS Changes: Greenbelt officials discussed stormwater pipe responsibilities and a staffing shift that would end 24/7 ALS coverage at the Greenbelt fire station.

Endangered Species Act Fight: A coalition of 20 states and D.C. sued the Trump administration over new Endangered Species Act rules that narrow what counts as “harm” and weaken protections for threatened species and “critical habitat,” arguing the changes could open wildlife habitats to development and energy projects. Maryland in the Mix: WalletHub’s “happiest states” ranking put Maryland at No. 5, tying well-being and community factors to the state’s strong showing. Chesapeake Bay Nature Update: Maryland reports continued gains in underwater grasses, with sea grass expansion noted as a bright spot for the Bay’s ecosystem. Local Waterfront Upgrade: Baltimore’s Rash Field Park reopened after a second phase that adds pickleball, beach volleyball, fitness space, and more trees and habitat features. State Environmental Enforcement: Pocomoke City fairgrounds received Maryland Department of the Environment violations tied to excavation and sediment concerns that could affect city waters. Jobs & Food Supply: Saval Foods broke ground on a new Howard County headquarters and distribution center, planning 107 new jobs over four years.

Chesapeake Bay Recovery: Maryland DNR says underwater grass (submerged aquatic vegetation) expanded nearly 13% in 2025, with the Maryland portion rising from 36,799 acres to 41,419—good news for habitat, cleaner water, and a more resilient Bay. Local Transportation & Safety: MDOT announced more than $11 million in grants for 24 bicycle, pedestrian and trail projects statewide, including Safe Routes to School upgrades and trail connections in places like Baltimore City, Anne Arundel County and Frederick County. Bay Grass Momentum: A separate report notes grasses expanded for a fifth straight year in 2025, with strong gains in the lower Bay and especially in high-salinity areas. Workplace Health Policy: Gov. Wes Moore signed an executive order making Maryland a “recovery-friendly workplace,” requiring state agencies to offer support for employees dealing with substance use before discipline. Community & Youth: St. Mary’s County is set to open a new Boys & Girls Club at the Carver Recreation Center in Lexington Park, adding after-school and enrichment programs. Public Health Link to Water: Investigators report a cluster of drug-resistant infections at a Maryland hospital was tied to the building’s water system.

Chesapeake Bay Recovery: Maryland DNR says underwater grasses (submerged aquatic vegetation) expanded nearly 13% in 2025, adding about 4,600 acres in the state’s Bay waters and reaching an estimated 89,385 acres Bay-wide—progress toward Maryland’s restoration target. Public Health & Wildlife: A beaver attack at Cunningham Falls State Park left a 13-year-old injured; the animal tested positive for rabies, prompting a temporary swimming-area closure and rabies exposure guidance. Local Environment & Accountability: A Baltimore County delegate urged Dundalk property owners to appeal tax assessments tied to ongoing odors and pollution concerns from the Back River Wastewater Treatment Plant. Active Transportation Funding: MDOT announced more than $11 million in grants for bike, pedestrian, and trail projects across Maryland, including work on the C&O Canal towpath and connections to parks, schools, and main streets. Sustainable Community Designation: Maryland approved Harford County’s request to expand the Joppatowne Sustainable Community designation, unlocking state revitalization resources for eligible projects.

Parks & Land Conservation Funding: Maryland’s Board of Public Works approved more than $9 million in grants for recreation and land conservation across Anne Arundel, Montgomery, Prince George’s, and Worcester counties, including an Edgewater Recreation Center boost, upgrades at Wheaton Regional Park, a new Laurel park, and a 59-acre conservation easement in Worcester. Wildlife Habitat & Community Gardening: Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge is set to celebrate 25 years of butterfly gardening with free, family-friendly events and hands-on activities on Sept. 19. Climate Science: A new study warns that melting Arctic glaciers can trigger a “doom loop” by flushing ancient methane from beneath the ice into glacier-fed rivers, feeding faster warming. Endangered Species Act: The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service denied ESA protection to nine petitioned species, including the Chesapeake logperch, meaning no new federal habitat protections for them. Rural Conservation & Farming Support: Maryland researchers are promoting raptors like kestrels and barn owls as a natural pest-control partner for farmland, pairing wildlife conservation with integrated pest management. Local Energy/Resilience: Maryland’s broader push for cleaner, more resilient infrastructure shows up in stories about solar-and-battery microgrids used as disaster shelters. Data Centers Backlash: Across the country, opposition to data centers is rising over power, water, pollution, and grid strain—an issue Maryland communities are watching closely.

Wildlife & Habitat: Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge is marking 25 years of its Butterfly Garden with free tours and hands-on activities Sept. 19 in Rock Hall, featuring a traveling insect zoo and monarch-focused exhibits. Local Jobs & Wages: Gov. Wes Moore announced a minimum wage increase to $18 an hour for BWI contract workers, plus emergency legislation aimed at extending wage protections to indirect airport workers. Endangered Species Act: The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service denied ESA protection to nine petitioned species, including the Chesapeake logperch, meaning no new federal habitat protections for those populations. Community Grants: Keep Maryland Beautiful grant applications are open, with about $349,000 available for community environmental projects. Chesapeake Culture: A new look at Maryland’s skipjacks highlights how the working oyster boats became part of Chesapeake Bay identity. Peatlands & Climate: An Annapolis-area author event spotlights peatlands’ role in storing carbon in a new book, “Water, Carbon, Time.” Composting Future: A Maryland proposal would use human compost to grow a forest near Snow Hill, with zoning approval and a legal exception for food use limits.

Chesapeake Bay & Wildlife: A new Maryland spotlight on the skipjack—the working oyster-dredging sailboat that became a state symbol—ties local maritime heritage to today’s push to restore the Bay’s environmental integrity. Climate & Heat: A national report warns that rising summer heat is driving more extreme over-90°F days and pushing communities toward new coping habits, from public health alerts to cooling measures. Water & Pollution: Maryland’s water infrastructure continues to get attention, including a Bay-focused effort turning unused mitigation fees into a Chesapeake Bay restoration plan. Energy & Air Quality: Maryland regulators are weighing energy efficiency program cuts, raising stakes for how the state manages power demand and emissions. Biodiversity & Conservation: Maryland’s wildlife conservation work includes updates on native species protection, with DNR considering new reptile rules aimed at safeguarding biodiversity. Agriculture & Food Security: Federal approval of a treatment targeting citrus greening highlights how plant-health science can protect regional food supply chains.

Chesapeake Bay Wildlife: A new documentary, “The Last Osprey,” will spotlight troubling reproductive declines in Chesapeake Bay ospreys, where adults are returning but many chicks are failing to survive—an issue tied to food shortages and starvation—ahead of a free Sept. 24 screening in Lusby. Bay Water Quality Tech: Maryland is testing an algae-based river cleanup system at Bladensburg Waterfront Park, using controlled algal growth to pull pollution from the Anacostia while avoiding the oxygen-killing effects of harmful algal blooms. Local Environment & Health: Fall allergies are ramping up across Maryland as ragweed and other pollens extend the season, with state health officials warning pollen can worsen asthma and allergic rhinitis and increase missed school and work days. Outdoor Stewardship: Maryland’s DNR is opening more than 100 acres for regenerative farming, while a separate push highlights safe, legal rockhounding in Southern Maryland’s fossil-rich shore and stream areas. Energy & Homes: A Maryland utility and regulators are weighing energy-efficiency program cuts, while broader debate continues over gas ovens’ indoor pollution risks and the push for cleaner, more efficient home energy options.

Chesapeake Bay Wildlife: A new documentary, “The Last Osprey,” is set to spotlight troubling reproductive declines in Bay ospreys, with scientists pointing to food shortages and chicks dying from starvation. Water Quality Tech: Maryland is testing an algae-based river-cleaning system at Bladensburg Waterfront Park that grows algae to pull out pollution nutrients, aiming to reduce oxygen-sapping conditions tied to harmful algal blooms. Local Air & Health: Ragweed season is ramping up across Maryland, with state and federal health sources warning that pollen can worsen allergic rhinitis and asthma and contribute to missed work and school. Conservation & Species: A roundup highlights 10 endangered species in Maryland, including lesser-known wildlife residents at risk. Community & Environment: Baltimore has a new official city tree after a public vote, choosing the native tuliptree for canopy, resilience, and long-term stewardship. Policy Pressure: Harford County residents and officials continue pushing back against data centers over water use, air pollution from backup generators, and strain on the energy grid.

Urban Forestry: Baltimore picked the Tuliptree as its first official city tree in 50 years, replacing the long-maligned Chanticleer pear; the native, climate-resilient tree was chosen through public voting and is expected to boost canopy and stewardship. Chesapeake Bay & Farms: Maryland DNR is opening 111 acres for lease to regenerative farmers, aiming to improve soil health and support cleaner Chesapeake Bay outcomes through reduced disturbance, crop diversity, and rotational grazing. Wastewater & Enforcement: A Wicomico County septic worker was charged with illegally dumping sewage, adding to a growing list of enforcement actions tied to water pollution. Coastal Resilience & Shipping Safety: A Coast Guard review after the Key Bridge collapse warns that U.S. ports face rising risks as ships get larger and existing risk tools are underused, with implications for waterways across the country. Wildlife & Biodiversity: Maryland highlighted 10 endangered species residents should know about, underscoring how habitat loss and other pressures are reshaping local ecosystems. Local Governance & Data Centers: Harford County residents’ long-running push helped drive bans/pauses and tighter scrutiny of data centers in the Chesapeake region amid concerns about power, water use, and diesel pollution.

Regenerative Agriculture: Maryland DNR is opening 111 acres of state-owned land in Montgomery County for regenerative farming leases, aiming to improve soil health and support a cleaner Chesapeake Bay. Urban Trees & Climate Resilience: Baltimore retired the long-running Chanticleer pear and unveiled the Tuliptree as its new official city tree, chosen for resilience to climate, pests, and disease. Chesapeake Bay Planning: St. Mary’s County voted to bring Chesapeake Bay passenger ferry language back into its 2050 comprehensive plan, keeping the idea alive amid lingering questions about where a ferry could land. Pollution Enforcement: Maryland AG Anthony Brown charged a Wicomico County septic company employee for allegedly dumping sewage onto a wooded property, with investigators describing raw-sewage odors and active discharge. Wildlife at Risk: A new guide spotlights 10 endangered species in Maryland, including rare insects and aquatic wildlife, underscoring how habitat loss and environmental pressures are reshaping local biodiversity. Data Center Backlash: Across the Chesapeake Bay region, communities are weighing bans and moratoriums as opposition grows over water use, diesel emissions, and strain on the energy grid.

Regenerative Agriculture: Maryland DNR opened its first regenerative farming lease on state-owned land—111 acres in Poolesville/Montgomery County—under a 10-year pilot meant to improve soil health and support a cleaner Chesapeake Bay. Urban Climate Resilience: Baltimore named the Tuliptree its new official City Tree, replacing the Chanticleer pear after 50 years, as part of TreeBaltimore’s push for a more diverse, climate-ready urban forest. Water Pollution Enforcement: Maryland AG Anthony Brown charged a Wicomico County septic worker, Terry Handy Jr., alleging illegal sewage dumping into wooded land after investigators found sludge, an overwhelming odor, and witnessed discharges. Bay & Coastal Planning: St. Mary’s County planning language for a Chesapeake Bay passenger ferry returned to its 2050 comprehensive plan, despite ongoing concerns about feasibility and funding. Port Safety After Key Bridge: A Coast Guard review says U.S. ports face growing risks as larger ships outpace older waterways risk tools, urging better use of assessment methods. Chesapeake Bay Monitoring: Maryland DNR is also moving ahead with a new research vessel to strengthen monitoring efforts.

Data Centers in Baltimore County: Residents packed a public hearing to oppose large data centers as the county weighs a 51-page plan and nine regulatory recommendations; opponents warned about higher power bills, water strain, lost green space, and noise, while the report says electricity use is significant and tax revenue could help. Clean Water Funding: Maryland approved nearly $23M for Prince George’s County, including $11M for wastewater plant operations to cut pollution to waterways and the Chesapeake Bay, plus about $12M for water main replacements and upgrades. Chesapeake Bay Restoration via Mitigation Fees: St. Mary’s County will route about $368,111 in unused mitigation funds through a new partnership with the Chesapeake Bay Trust to support tree planting and habitat restoration in the county. Heat Impacts: Maryland reported 59 heat-related deaths since May, with 2026 described as the state’s deadliest summer on record, as officials warn the toll could rise. Assateague Horse Safety: NPS says vehicle strikes have killed 36 horses on Assateague since 1982, and this summer’s deaths highlight ongoing traffic risks for the wild herd. Assawoman Bay Living Shoreline: Ocean City is seeking bids for a Northside Park living shoreline project with sand, rock sills, and marsh restoration to reduce erosion. Energy Efficiency Program Cuts: Maryland regulators are weighing proposed reductions to EmPOWER Maryland, a move that could lower bills but may raise future grid costs.