"...to provide for fish passage at dams, and remove stream blockages wherever necessary to restore passage for migratory fish..."

That was the primary goal of the Fish Passage Program (FPP) when it was Established in the Chesapeake Bay Agreement in 1987. This landmark agreement Included commitments by Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and the District of Columbia. Our initial efforts were focused on reopening over 1,300 miles for Anadromous species like shad and herring, so they could reach upstream spawning Habitat. After surpassing our original goal by opening 1,838 miles by 2005, the group decided to expand the goal to 3,500 miles by 2025. This new goal now includes opening habitat for all fish species and favors dam removals over fish ladders.

​Meet the Fish Passage Program Manager and learn more about the Program

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