“Had it not been for their banks of data, proof and evidence, the Bay would’ve died 20 years ago,” said former Maryland Senator and environmental activist Bernie Fowler, famous for his white sneakers and his annual wade-in at the Patuxent River, of the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science.
Fowler and others toasted the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science at its 90th Anniversary Celebration in Annapolis on October 1, a party that drew close to 200 Maryland policymakers, supporters and friends into a stormy night with the Severn River lapping at their feet.
Founded in 1925 at the Chesapeake Biological Laboratory in Solomons, Maryland, by biologist Reginald Truitt, the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science has grown to a network of laboratories across Maryland dedicated to leading the way toward better management of Maryland’s natural resources and the protection and restoration of the Chesapeake Bay.
Senator Ben Cardin thanked formerMaryland Governor Harry Hughes and 90th Anniversary Celebration honorary co-chair for his role in guiding the development a model program in Maryland to guide Chesapeake Bay restoration based on UMCES science.
“We have the best program in the nation. We have the science. We have the capacity,” said Cardin. “We are committed to this. We’re not turning back. We’re going to continue policy based on good science.”
Don Boesch, celebrating 25 years as UMCES president this year, noted that things are just getting started.
“This year we are celebrating this rich history and our many accomplishments, but we are not dwelling on them because there is so much more to do,” said Boesch. “Rather, we are using this 90th milestone to make sure that that we fully express those genes in our institutional DNA in tackling the challenges and opportunities of today and tomorrow.”
Faculty members focusing their research on everything from nutrient pollution and algae blooms to climate change and alternative energy development shared their work with guests, and the Research Vessel Rachel Carson was available for walk-on tours to see where the science happens up close.
“Some of the greatest friendships I’ve ever had have been with the scientists at the Chesapeake Biological Laboratory at Solomons, and to this day that friendship is great and for good reason,” said Fowler. “They are good people that are doing a great job and let’s stand on their shoulders and support them all the way in supporting in whatever they suggest we do.”
90th Celebration Honorary Co-Chairs Hughes and Fowler offered a toast to the next generation of environmental leaders—graduate students.
“UMCES has been the leading voice behind science-based environmental management by training the next generation of scientists,” said Hughes. “It’s up to you to build upon the great tradition of UMCES offering timely advice to protect and restore the Chesapeake Bay and beyond.”
