Protecting Maryland's Vernal Pools

The National Aquarium urges the Maryland General Assembly to pass the Vernal Pool Wetlands Protection Act, legislation that would extend existing state protections for nontidal wetlands to qualified vernal pools. Vernal pools are isolated seasonal bodies of water that form during the wetter months of each year. Though temporary, they are critical wetlands that filter stormwater, replenish groundwater, and provide habitat for more than 700 species in the northeastern U.S. Despite their importance, vernal pools are effectively no longer protected under the Clean Water Act, and many are not covered by Maryland's existing wetland regulations. The recent weakening of federal water protections underscores the need to further improve state water policy.

The Chesapeake Bay watershed is home to more than 18 million people and 3,600 plant and animal species. The region's wetlands filter water, act as natural buffers from storm surge, provide habitat for wildlife from river otters to menhaden and blue crabs, and offer both economic and recreational opportunities for people. Ensuring protections for both year-round and temporary wetlands—like the vernal pools found in Gunpowder Falls State Park and throughout the region—is crucial to maintaining their environmental and cultural benefits.

Earlier this year, the National Aquarium submitted public comment voicing concerns over the Environmental Protection Agency and Army Corps of Engineers' latest proposed changes to reduce the scope of waters protected under the Clean Water Act. Experts estimate this proposal could negatively impact approximately 80% of wetlands nationwide. These proposed changes are in the wake of 2023 regulatory changes following the Sackett vs. EPA Supreme Court decision, which already significantly reduced the number of wetlands and streams protected by the Clean Water Act.

The Clean Water Act is overwhelmingly popular and broadly supported by Americans. More than ninety percent of the public understand that protecting our nation's lakes, streams, rivers and wetlands is vital. To support these habitats, especially in the face of loosening federal protections, we are encouraging Marylanders to seek out and contact their state lawmakers to ask they support the Vernal Pool Wetlands Protection Act.