Maryland and constellation reach $340M pact for Conowingo Dam water quality improvements

Maryland Governor Wes Moore revealed a new agreement with Constellation Energy to carry out operational improvements and environmental restoration at the Conowingo Dam, aimed at strengthening water quality in the Susquehanna River basin and the Chesapeake Bay. The commitments, exceeding $340 million, include both upfront investments and ongoing payments geared toward mitigating the dam’s downstream impacts. Under terms negotiated in collaboration with Waterkeepers Chesapeake and the Lower Susquehanna Riverkeeper Association, the deal will guide re-licensing of the dam’s hydroelectric operations under enforceable water quality conditions.

The agreement allocates funds to a range of initiatives. About $87.6 million will support pollution reduction and resiliency work, including shoreline restoration, establishment of forest buffer zones, improvements to fish passage, and planting of underwater grasses to stabilize sediment, foster oxygenation, and enhance habitat. Another $77.8 million is earmarked for trash and debris removal, augmenting existing efforts that clear roughly 600 tons annually, with innovations like barge-based removal included in the plan. Fish and eel passage enhancements will receive over $28 million to reconnect habitats for species such as American shad, river herring, and freshwater mussels. A freshwater mussel restoration hatchery will be funded to the tune of $23.3 million, facilitating reseeding of the river with mussels to act as natural filters. Dredging and related studies are allocated $18.7 million, while invasive species control measures, targeting species such as snakeheads and blue catfish, will be supported by $9.4 million.

Beyond ecological goals, the agreement is tied to broader economic and social objectives. Cleaner waters are projected to enhance Maryland’s tourism sector and benefit its seafood industry, which generates nearly $600 million in revenues. The state budget for FY 2026 also allocates over $400 million for Chesapeake Bay and clean water initiatives, reflecting heightened commitment to environmental restoration in tandem with managing energy and economic interests.