PENNSYLVANIA, June 5 - 173 species of shellfish and more than 3,600 species of plant

and animal life, including 2,700 types of plants and more than

16 species of underwater grasses; and

WHEREAS, The Chesapeake Bay produces more than 500 million

pounds of harvested seafood each year; and

WHEREAS, This productivity supported the settlement and

growth of our nation and is a vital resource for future

generations; and

WHEREAS, The Chesapeake Bay area is home to more than 18

million people, many of whom rely upon the bay for their

livelihood and recreational activities; and

WHEREAS, The rich history, pivotal economic importance and

astounding beauty of the Chesapeake Bay watershed never cease to

amaze residents and visitors alike; and

WHEREAS, This year begins the fifth decade of the Chesapeake

Bay Program, a partnership between the Chesapeake Bay watershed,

the Federal Government, states and the Chesapeake Bay Commission

to coordinate science and policy across jurisdictions; and

WHEREAS, All residents of this Commonwealth are encouraged to

commemorate "Chesapeake Bay Awareness Week" with events and

educational programs designed to increase awareness of the

importance of the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries to this

Commonwealth, the region and the United States; therefore be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate designate the week of June 2

through 8, 2024, as "Chesapeake Bay Awareness Week" in

Pennsylvania.

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