AGP Executive Report

Data Center Push Meets Public Backlash: Erin Brockovich launched the Brockovich Data Center map, urging Americans to track where AI-linked data centers are planned and built—highlighting concerns about water and energy demand. Maryland Water Stress: Drought conditions are still hitting groundwater and well water in parts of the state, even after recent rain; residents report low pressure and watch for voluntary restrictions. Invasive Species Watch: Spotted lanternflies are reemerging across Maryland, with officials calling them mostly a nuisance but warning about sticky residue and plant impacts. Livestock Biosecurity: USDA confirmed a New World screwworm case in Texas, triggering quarantines and sterile-fly releases—an alert for food production risk if it spreads. Local Cleanup Incentives: Baltimore County students earned grants by completing hundreds of litter cleanups, with results tied to protecting local waterways. Anne Arundel Sewer Relief: The county lifted a sewer-related development moratorium by borrowing unused wastewater capacity from BWI to keep projects moving while protecting the Patapsco River.

Chesapeake Bay Education: Virginia’s Dept. of Education named Boxerwood a regional “Bright Spot” at a Chesapeake Bay Program education summit, highlighting K-12 watershed learning across five states. Oysters & Waterways: Maryland lawmakers added $400,000 to the Horn Point oyster hatchery after NOAA cut funding; NOAA later backfilled more than $350,000, helping the hatchery keep producing for the Bay. Data Centers & Environmental Justice: A new report flags Maryland’s data center boom for raising environmental justice concerns, as communities weigh impacts from power and water demand. Energy Markets: A look at PJM’s capacity auction shows AI-driven data centers pushing up capacity prices that flow into electricity bills—raising costs for millions. Wildlife Health Threat: USDA says the New World screwworm has been detected about 25 miles from the U.S.-Mexico border, with officials monitoring as it moves north. Climate & Ocean Life: NASA satellites spotted unusually blue-green coastal water off the Jersey Shore, tied to upwelling and phytoplankton blooms. Agriculture Under Stress: Maryland’s freeze response continues as state leaders issue directives and aid for farms hit by cold snaps.

Ocean Monitoring Fight: Maryland lawmakers vow to push back against a Trump plan to dismantle the $368M Ocean Observatories Initiative, risking more than a decade of lost ocean and climate data. Local Data Center Pressure: Howard County passed a moratorium on new data centers while it updates zoning rules, with a task force to study impacts before the pause ends in 2027. Water & Drought Watch: A Maryland drought update points to low streamflow and stressed groundwater (especially for well water), while some central reservoirs are closer to normal after May rains. Wildlife & Hunting: Maryland DNR released the 2026 managed deer hunt shooter-qualification schedule, aimed at safer, controlled population management. Invasive Pest Alert: USDA says a New World screwworm was detected in Mexico near the U.S. border, keeping livestock risk “very low” but raising vigilance. Public Health & Workplaces: A federal pest-tracking agency in Beltsville, Maryland, has been hit by bed bugs, prompting fumigation and staff disruptions. Energy Transition: Heat pump incentives are expanding locally, with programs helping offset installation costs and boost contractor demand.

Wetlands Under Threat: A new federal push to scale back wetlands protections is leaving local governments to fill the gap, raising alarms for Maryland’s marshes and waterways. Data Centers & Environmental Justice: Residents and advocates are fighting back against data center expansion, citing water, power, air quality, and added burdens on already overtaxed communities. Baltimore Waterways: A proposed move of a trash and recycling drop-off site near Jones Falls has reignited pollution and flood-risk concerns, with officials still searching for a better location. Chesapeake Bay Wildlife: Baby blue crabs are rebounding after years of decline, a sign of shifting conditions in the Bay ecosystem. Public Lands & Access: Maryland approved a $2.7M land purchase to expand St. Mary’s River State Park, boosting habitat protection and public recreation. Outdoor Events: Paddlefest returns June 6-7 at Janes Island State Park, with free admission and paddles across salt marsh water trails. Agriculture & Pollinators: USDA plans to close the Beltsville bee research hub, just as beekeepers face major stress from pests and disease. Invasive Species Watch: A flesh-eating screwworm was detected in Mexico near the U.S. border, keeping livestock risk low but monitoring critical.

Sewage Spill in Severna Park: A force main break sent about 16,200 gallons of sanitary sewage into Cypress Creek on May 31, with most contained on land; county officials reported “minimum impact,” lime and cleanup underway, and urged residents to wash after contact. Drought Update: Despite heavy rains in late May, meteorologists say Maryland’s drought is still persisting into summer, with Southern Maryland in severe drought and other regions only partially improved. Tick Surge: Tick activity is rising across the Mid-Atlantic, and ER visits for tick bites hit the highest levels for this time of year since 2017, with Maryland flagged among states seeing surges—experts recommend quick tick removal and yard-prep steps. Wildlife & Hunting: Maryland hunters harvested 5,094 spring turkeys in 2026, up 5% from last year, with Garrett County leading. Local Water System Oversight: A report says statistical agencies at the Suitland Federal Center have faced repeated temporary office closures due to unspecified water issues, underscoring ongoing water-management concerns. Policy & Environment Watch: Gov. Moore vetoed five bills, including one tied to hospice reimbursement rules, while Maryland lawmakers could still move to override.

Chesapeake Bay Invasives: Maryland anglers and chefs are pushing back on invasive blue catfish, a manmade introduction that’s now spreading through the region and damaging native shellfish and fish stocks—while also creating a “catch-and-eat” push to reduce numbers. Local Wildlife Safety: Maryland DNR is urging drivers to watch for turtles crossing roads during nesting season, especially near wetlands and wooded roads, and to move turtles only when it’s safe. Water Pollution Accountability: Questions remain after a jet fuel leak contaminated Piscataway Creek at Joint Base Andrews, with Maryland lawmakers pressing the Air Force over delays and incomplete information. Bay & Environment Policy: Maryland’s cover crop termination deadline was extended to June 5 due to wet conditions, aiming to protect soil health and the Chesapeake Bay. Housing Stability Data: Maryland was selected for a New America eviction data program to build reliable eviction data pipelines and better target help to keep people housed. Farm Crisis Response: Gov. Moore ordered a coordinated, urgent response to the late April freeze affecting crops, alongside efforts to secure federal disaster aid. Clean Transportation Politics: A second major Maryland environmental group endorsed a challenger to Sen. Nancy King, citing disagreements over clean transportation priorities. Credit & Budget Pressure: S&P revised Maryland’s debt outlook to negative, pointing to growing budget pressures—an indirect but real factor in funding environmental and public services.

Wetlands Under Pressure: As the federal government backs away from wetlands protection, Maryland localities are becoming the frontline—raising alarms about what gets filled, drained, or left unprotected. Agriculture Freeze Fallout: Gov. Wes Moore directed state agencies to respond to April’s statewide crop freeze, with Maryland wineries warning of major revenue losses. Chesapeake Access Boost: Anne Arundel County opened new overnight cabins at Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary, expanding public access and supporting education and research. Invasive Fish Pushback: Maryland is encouraging anglers to target invasive snakehead and other species, including through bounty-style “Reel Rewards” programs in Baltimore-area waters. Baltimore Bridge Litigation: Families and BGE reached settlements tied to the Dali collapse, while broader liability fights are still set to play out in federal court. Litter Crackdown: Maryland launched a new anti-littering campaign after spending about $17 million a year cleaning up roadways. Pollinator Science at Risk: A report warns that shutting down federal bee labs in Maryland could weaken support for beekeepers and the broader food system.

Baltimore Bridge Collapse Litigation: Families of six workers killed in the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse and BGE have settled with the Dali ship owner/operator, while other lawsuits still move toward a civil trial over whether the companies can cap liability. Invasive Species Push: Baltimore Harbor’s Reel Rewards program is paying anglers up to $30 per invasive catch, targeting snakehead, blue catfish, and flathead catfish to protect local ecosystems. Wildlife Access & Education: Anne Arundel County opened new overnight cabins at Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary, a $5.6 million upgrade to expand public access and support research and citizen science. Coal Ash Rules: Virginia and Maryland are tightening coal ash disposal rules as the EPA rolls back federal oversight, with public comment open until June 12. Land Conservation Planning: Maryland DNR is seeking public input on a draft Land Preservation and Recreation Plan guiding conservation and recreation priorities through the next decade. Agriculture Freeze Response: Gov. Wes Moore directed state agriculture and environment agencies to coordinate relief after April’s statewide crop freeze, including support for wineries and farmers. Insect Decline Angle: A new focus on the “insect apocalypse” highlights how industrial agriculture and pesticides can drive pollinator losses, with policy solutions discussed.

Land Conservation: Maryland DNR is asking for public comment on a draft Land Preservation and Recreation Plan that sets statewide conservation and recreation priorities for the next decade, including goals to protect 40% of land by 2040, with comments due June 28. Farm Relief After Freeze: Gov. Wes Moore ordered state agencies to help farmers hit by the April freeze, including waiving certain winery sourcing rules, pushing irrigation and risk-management support, and directing the Environment Department to prioritize water permit applications for agriculture. Chesapeake Water Quality & Recreation: Baltimore’s Harbor Splash is set to return Sunday with a “pop-up” approach to harbor swimming after last year’s rainouts, as organizers continue efforts to make the harbor swimmable. Wildlife & Invasives: Maryland officials are urging fishermen to target invasive snakeheads (“Frankenfish”) using bow fishing, with bounties up to $200, because the fish can breathe air and survive out of water. PFAS Pollution Fight: A new report argues U.S. garbage incinerators are failing to eliminate PFAS “forever chemical” air pollution and warns about disproportionate risks to low-income neighborhoods, including renewed scrutiny tied to fights in Baltimore and other cities. Data Centers & Environmental Justice: Coverage highlights how the data center boom is raising environmental justice concerns in Maryland as states grapple with power, water, and utility-bill impacts. Local Nature Stewardship: A community yarn-bombing project is set to brighten Pigtown’s Washington Boulevard lampposts, while other local stories spotlight efforts to protect and restore nature in Maryland communities.

Maryland Agriculture Freeze Response: Gov. Wes Moore ordered a coordinated, urgent state response to late-April freeze damage, directing the Maryland Department of Agriculture and the Maryland Department of Environment to help producers recover after catastrophic crop losses and ongoing drought impacts. Beach Water Monitoring: St. Mary’s County health officials are testing water quality at public beaches through summer, with weekly updates and guidance to avoid swimming after heavy rain or if water looks/smells unusual. Data Center Environmental Justice & Grid Strain: Coverage highlights how data center growth is raising environmental justice concerns in Maryland and stressing the power grid during extreme heat, with AI-driven demand adding pressure. Baltimore Water System Overhaul: Baltimore leaders proposed a charter amendment to create a standalone agency for the regional water system, aiming to strengthen management and funding tools if voters approve. Transportation Infrastructure Costs: A national look at potholes ties road deterioration to deferred maintenance and funding gaps, with Maryland readers likely feeling the same strain. Key Bridge Litigation Update: Families of the Key Bridge collapse victims settled federal civil claims against the Dali ship owner/operator, setting the stage for remaining broader liability fights. Clean Transportation Pilot: Perdue launched six trucks that can run on 100% soybean biodiesel, cutting emissions by 70% for livestock transport.

Key Bridge Fallout: Families of the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse victims have settled with the Dali ship owner and operator, and BGE also resolved its claims—clearing some claims ahead of a major liability trial starting Monday. Water Infrastructure: Baltimore proposed a standalone agency to oversee the regional water system by separating its water bureau from Public Works, with a voter decision in 2026. Data Centers & Pollution: A new report highlights how diesel generators tied to data centers can harm public health even when used rarely, with Maryland and the region flagged as areas of concern. Climate/Power Readiness: An emergency grid warning ahead of summer heat points to thin reserves, with AI-driven power demand adding pressure. Drought & Fire Safety: In Eden, a brush pile fire spread to an abandoned house during a county burn ban, prompting possible code and ordinance violations. Environmental Cleanup Contract: NAVFAC Atlantic awarded a $480M contract for long-term environmental restoration work at Navy and Marine Corps sites. Chesapeake Wildlife: Coverage notes blue crab population trends showing a modest rebound from a long slump. Boating Education: BoatUS Foundation expanded its free, state-approved boating safety course to 15 additional states, including Maryland.

Anti-Litter Push: Maryland’s Highway Administration is rolling out a statewide campaign urging residents to “Respect Maryland Roads. Don’t Litter,” warning that trash cleanup costs the state more than $17 million a year. Local Clean Energy: The Maryland Clean Energy Center announced a 2.2 MW dual-array solar project in Chestertown, including 1.2 MW for municipal use and 1.0 MW for community solar, supported by state financing and grants. Chesapeake Wildlife Hotline: DNR is asking people to report marine mammal and sea turtle sightings and strandings this summer, using the Natural Resources Police Hotline or an online form. Land Conservation Planning: Maryland DNR opened public comment on a draft Land Preservation and Recreation Plan setting priorities for the next decade, including goals to conserve 30% of land by 2030 and 40% by 2040. Data Center Pollution Concern: A report highlights health and pollution worries tied to diesel generators at Virginia data centers, as the AI boom spreads. Invasive Species Alert: A northern snakehead was found in New York’s Lake Ronkonkoma, raising concerns about the predator’s spread to new waters.

Permitting Push for Maryland: The Maryland Department of the Environment launched an online Environmental Service Center with electronic payment, aiming to cut permit delays after last year’s 25% turnaround improvement. AI and Energy Pressure: Gov. Wes Moore unveiled an AI Innovation Lab to help agencies test and deploy AI securely, while separate reporting highlights how data center growth is raising environmental justice concerns in Maryland. Farm Freeze Fallout: Moore petitioned USDA for disaster aid after April freeze damage to orchards and vineyards, with preliminary losses reported as high as 94% for apples and 99% for peaches, plus major grape losses. Chesapeake Bay Wildlife Update: A new look at juvenile blue crabs finds a long-term 50% drop since 2010, but this winter’s survey suggests a rebound—raising questions about what’s driving the shift. Waterfront Safety Education: The BoatUS Foundation expanded its free, state-approved boating safety course to Maryland and more states, including environmental stewardship content. Local Conservation/Health: Earth Funeral opened an Elkridge human composting facility, and UM Charles Regional earned a top CMS cleanliness rating.

Potomac Sewage Spill Aftermath: Residents near Glen Echo and Cabin John say the sewage stench from the Potomac Interceptor collapse is getting worse as temperatures rise, with DC Water’s odor-control system reportedly out of service. Chesapeake Bay Wildlife: A new study using passive underwater listening found a “thunder” of Atlantic sturgeon in the Hudson, highlighting how noninvasive monitoring can help protect the long-recovering species. Bay Health Indicator: Chesapeake Bay Foundation surveys estimate 349 million blue crabs in 2026, up 46% from last year—an encouraging sign for the watershed, even as female numbers remain low. Climate Impacts on Maryland Farms: Gov. Wes Moore requested federal disaster aid after an April freeze devastated orchards and vineyards, with Maryland Wineries Association estimating a $2.4 million projected wine-sales deficit for the 2026 vintage. Local Flood-Protection Costs: A longtime downtown Annapolis business says it will close by year’s end, blaming revenue losses from the City Dock revitalization and flood-mitigation construction. Policy & Pollution Watch: Maryland finalized its first set of EPR rules for packaging and paper products, aiming to shift responsibility and reduce waste.

Chesapeake Bay & Water Quality: Maryland approved up to $3.7M to restore the Indian Head shoreline and cut nutrient pollution entering the Potomac and Chesapeake Bay, using a hybrid living shoreline plus bank stabilization to reduce erosion and filter runoff. Bay Restoration & Tech: Scientists are weighing how AI could boost Chesapeake Bay cleanup—by improving mapping and targeting nutrient management—while warning that AI-driven data center growth can strain water and energy resources and worsen local pollution. Invasive Species Watch: A northern snakehead was spotted at a pond near Lake Ronkonkoma, triggering a New York DEC investigation; the fish is known for rapid spread and ecosystem disruption. Native Plants & Pollinators: A new native plant nursery in the region is pushing Delaware and other native species for lower-maintenance, pollinator-friendly gardens, and the Mountain Laurel Garden Club is set for its native-plant sale and conservation-focused garden tour. Local Environment Governance: Oxford commissioners defended a stormwater and shoreline protection budget and their hybrid policing approach while residents raised concerns about costs and services. Agriculture & Land Stewardship: Maryland honored a Century Farm in Lexington Park, highlighting long-running farm stewardship tied to local land preservation. Cyber & Critical Infrastructure: Maryland National Guard units trained with Estonia in a major cyber exercise, reflecting ongoing focus on protecting infrastructure.

Salisbury labor shock: Salisbury City Council voted to end the city’s union agreement, a move that hits city workers including firefighters and police and sparked a tense rally and packed chambers. Water quality win: Maryland reached a $4 million settlement over Gunpowder River pollution tied to construction runoff that turned parts of the river orange—no admission of wrongdoing, but stricter erosion controls going forward. Election fix: Maryland’s Board of Elections is mailing replacement mail-in ballots for the June 2 primaries after some voters received the wrong party ballot; replacements go out county-by-county through May 27. Energy policy tug-of-war: The PSC is weighing changes to EmPOWER Maryland after a new law pushes utilities to scale back efficiency targets to prioritize affordability. Tech + power demand: AWS filed a site plan for a Calvert County data center, as local residents keep pushing back. Kids online protections: AG Nick Brown joined a coalition opposing the KIDS Act, arguing it would weaken state authority to protect children online. Beach monitoring funding: EPA awarded Michigan $260,000 for beach water monitoring under the BEACH Act.