NEW YORK, Aug. 14 /PRNewswire/ -- The Chesapeake Bay is the nation's
largest watershed. At 7,000 square miles, it supports more than 3,600 species
of plants, fish and animals -- with 15 million people living near its basin.
(See video from Siemens ( SI) at:
http://media.medialink.com/WebNR.aspx?story=35456)
While it's one of the world's most important watersheds, it's also one of
the dirtiest. Recent surveys have revealed more than 80 percent of the water
does not contain enough oxygen in the summer -- killing off fish, crabs,
oysters and plant life. The Chesapeake Bay Initiative, a multi-state
agreement, was developed to change that.
As part of the agreement, Maryland, Virginia, Pennsylvania and the
District of Columbia have agreed to reduce nitrogen and phosphorous discharge
into the bay area by 2010. Over 70 wastewater facilities will have to enhance
their nutrient removal process by using more natural methods, like bacteria,
instead of harmful chemicals. These efforts, along with groups like the
Chesapeake Bay Foundation, are part of a larger commitment to restore the bay
to its original condition.
Registered journalists can access video, audio, text, graphics and photos
for free and unrestricted use at http://www.mediaseed.tv.
08FF08-0018
SOURCE Medialink and Siemens
