The Chesapeake Bay is the largest estuary in the United States. Known for both its beauty and bounty, the Bay has become “emptier”, with fewer crabs, oysters, and watermen since the mid-20th century. The economy of the Eastern Shore of Virginia is dependent on the health of the bay. The life of a waterman is difficult in the best of times. Nutrient pollution and urban runoff have been identified as major components of impaired water quality in the bay stressing ecosystems and compounding the decline of shellfish due to overharvesting.
I have a long relationship with the bay, fishing it since childhood. I continue to fish it whenever possible. I have been trying to document the watermen and their tools for some time now. The “Shore” is a special place that I visit as often as possible. Consider supporting the Chesapeake Bay Foundation as they work to saving the bay for future generations.
