The Susquehanna River is the main faucet that fills the Chesapeake Bay. For decades, the Conowingo Dam trapped much of the pollution from the river before it reached the Bay.
But now the pool behind the dam has filled up and pollution is spilling through after storms, degrading water quality downstream and in the Chesapeake Bay. Those who pollute the Susquehanna upstream are largely responsible for this problem. But the dam itself bears some responsibility.
Exelon, the owner of the dam, says it can only contribute $200,000 to reduce its share of pollution making its way through the dam. But a new analysis of the company's finances shows Exelon can provide substantially more—$27 million to $44 million a year.
Exelon is asking for a new license to operate the dam for 46 years, and Maryland is seeking public comment on this request and its impact on water quality in the state.
The public comment period ends on January 15, 2018. Join the Chesapeake Bay Foundation—which has fought for the Bay and its rivers and streams for more than 50 years—in demanding that Exelon be held accountable for its fair share of the pollution problem. Our health, economy, and Bay depend on it.
Subject: Exelon must be held accountable for its share of Conowingo pollution
Dear Maryland Department of the Environment,
I support proper mitigation of the Conowingo Dam and urge you to hold Exelon accountable for the pollution the dam is causing in the Chesapeake Bay. As the owner of the dam, Exelon has a significant responsibility to help mitigate the harm the dam causes. The State of Maryland has the responsibility to insist on an appropriate level of mitigating conditions.
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As a result, Maryland should require Exelon to contribute financially to the mitigation effort. Exelon has offered just $200,000, but a recent study shows more financial capacity, by orders of magnitude. A portion of Exelon's larger contribution should be used to partner with Maryland, Pennsylvania, and New York on a collaborative initiative to reduce upstream sediment and nutrient pollution, as well as the implementation of other practices that will benefit downstream water quality. Exelon also must be required to make specific operational changes at the dam, including improving flow and fish habitat.
Exelon can continue to make a substantial profit from the Conowingo Dam and still do what's right for the health of the Chesapeake Bay. I urge you to hold Exelon accountable.
Thank you,
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