What is the Conowingo Dam settlement about?

The $340 million settlement between Maryland and Constellation, the dam's owner, funds environmental projects for the Chesapeake Bay.

Why did Eastern Shore counties challenge the Conowingo Dam settlement?

The counties initially sought more input on the settlement's rollout and assurances on project focus and reimbursements.

What environmental projects will the $340 million settlement fund?

Funds will support tree and underwater grass planting, fish passage improvements, trash removal, and dredging studies.

Home / Environment / Conowingo Dam Deal Clears Hurdle, $340M for Bay Projects Unlocked

Conowingo Dam Deal Clears Hurdle, $340M for Bay Projects Unlocked

6 Jan

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Summary

Eastern Shore counties dropped their challenge to the $340 million dam settlement.
The settlement funds will support various environmental projects for the Chesapeake Bay.
Constellation will provide funds for dredging studies and other environmental initiatives.

Conowingo Dam Deal Clears Hurdle, $340M for Bay Projects Unlocked

Maryland's significant $340 million settlement with the owner of the Conowingo Dam, Constellation, has cleared a major obstacle. The agreement, designed to fund critical environmental projects for the Chesapeake Bay, can now proceed after a group of Eastern Shore counties withdrew their legal challenge. This withdrawal comes less than a month after the appeal was filed, following extensive negotiations with the Maryland Department of the Environment.

The settlement, brokered by the state, involves Constellation providing substantial funds in exchange for a water quality certification for the hydroelectric dam. This certification is essential for the dam's 50-year license from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. Officials expressed excitement to shift focus from legal battles to implementing environmental improvements, particularly for the Upper Shore region.