chesapeake bay trust

What is the Chesapeake Bay Trust?  

The Chesapeake Bay Trust is an independent, nonprofit grant-making organization chartered in 1985 by the Maryland General Assembly to engage the public in the protection and restoration of the Chesapeake Bay and its tributary rivers and streams.  Funding provided by the Trust sparks on-the-ground change in communities throughout Maryland and works to cultivate a new generation of Bay stewards.

The Trust receives approximately $4 million in contributions annually and reinvests those dollars through a variety of grant programs in community-led projects that reach communities throughout the Chesapeake Bay watershed, including each of Maryland’s 23 counties and Baltimore City. In its first year, the Trust funded 10 grants. Since then, through aggressive growth of our expertise, outreach, and revenue base, the Trust has received over 10,000 grant requests, awarding over $30 million to support environmental education and habitat restoration projects that have measurable impacts on the environment and that actively engage citizens in Bay and river restoration efforts.

Where does the Trust get its funding?

The Trust supports its mission through a variety of funding sources. Individual contributions are made through the  purchase of the popular Treasure the Chesapeake license plate, donations to the Bay and Endangered Species Fund on the Maryland State income tax form, and private contributions. The Trust brings in additional funds for its grant programs through partnerships with private foundations, corporations, and state and federal agencies. 

How is the Trust's money spent?

With over 90% of its expenditures directed toward its grant programs, the Trust is a highly efficient and accountable grant-making organization. For the 8^th consecutive year, the Trust has received the highest (“4-Star”) ranking by Charity Navigator, placing us in the top 1% of charitable organizations nationwide.

Who is the governing body for the Trust?

The Trust is governed by a board of trustees, including five ex-officio positions consisting of the president of the Senate, the speaker of the House, and leaders of the departments of Natural Resources, Agriculture and Environment. The remaining 14 members are appointed by the governor to staggered four-year terms and represent business, education, conservation, local government and the general public.

What impact do Trust Grants have?

In 2009, Chesapeake Bay Trust grants were leveraged to educate nearly 87,000 students on Bay related issues, plant over 220,000 trees and native plants, remove 429 tons of trash, and engage over 36,000 volunteers. 

Who can apply for grants?

Any nonprofit organization, school, community association and governmental agency that is willing to engage students or volunteers in Bay activities can apply for a grant, however generally speaking, the Trust does not fund projects on private land.

Chesapeake Bay Trust Contact Information:

Chesapeake Bay Trust
60 West Street, Suite 405
Annapolis, MD 21401
Phone: 410.974.2941
Website: www.cbtrust.org