#SundayZen #deinlandbays #delaware

Non-native invasive species can devastate the ecology of estuaries. But, in many cases, they can be prevented from establishing and be controlled.

The Asian Shore Crab shown here is an invasive species spreading along the East Coast that has been found in the Inland Bays. This silver-dollar-sized crab has displaced the native crabs that live along rocky shorelines on parts of the northeastern Atlantic coast.

Keeping track of this species can help with its control. If you see this crab, you can report it through this website: https://nas.er.usgs.gov/queries/FactSheet.aspx?SpeciesID=183.

📷: Robert Bachand

We're making progress toward clean water! The Clean Water For Delaware Act (HB 200) has unanimously passed the House Natural Resources Committee. The Center, along with Clean Water: Delaware's Clear Choice, proudly support what bill sponsor state Rep. Valerie Maglio Longhurst said during the proceedings: "Access to our water is not a privilege, it's a right."

Thank you to all who have supported this effort to bring clean water to all Delawareans. This is a positive start for 2021, but we must continue the effort to pass and fund the bill.

The bill would create a Clean Water Trust Fund to invest in wastewater and drinking water infrastructure, among many other clean water projects. The bill, and the funding to support the solutions it calls for, still need to be approved by the Delaware General Assembly before it can be signed into law.

You can read the full text of the bill here:
https://legis.delaware.gov/Search?searchTerm=HB200. Join the Clean Water Campaign's efforts today at cleanwaterdelaware.org.

The Center is still accepting applications for a part-time Administrative Specialist!

To review the position description, responsibilities, and qualification requirements, go to inlandbays.org/about/employment.

Interested candidates should submit an electronic resume, cover letter, and three professional references in a single PDF document to Brittany Burslem, Office Manager, at office@inlandbays.org. The deadline to apply for this position is February 8, 2021.

This is fantastic news! It means that National Estuary Programs, like the Center for the Inland Bays, will be able to continue restoring, protecting, and preserving American's estuaries.

The majestic bald eagle, America's national emblem since 1782, is flourishing in Delaware once again. Hunting and pesticides once threatened this regal species, but now they can be spotted throughout the First State, especially along Delaware's waterways.

Did you know bald eagles will harass osprey and steal the smaller species' catch in mid-air, even right out of its talons? (Source: Cornell Lab of Ornithology.)

📷: Amy Johnson