Preserving Natural Resources for Future Generations

We must be careful stewards of our precious natural resources, ensuring that we can leave clean air, clean water, and healthy, vibrant ecosystems to our children. We are blessed in Delaware with lands, waterways, and wildlife that continue to be a source of pride, including our coastal ecosystems and those of the Chesapeake Bay watershed. One of Chris’ priorities in this Congress is to work with the rest of our state’s delegation to ensure that Delaware’s open spaces, waterways, and wildlife are protected so that they may be enjoyed by future generations. 

As a member of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, Chris’ environmental priorities include:

• Moving forward with the Chesapeake & Delaware Canal Greenway project. The C&D Canal Wildlife Area sets aside nearly 5,200 acres alongside the shores of this historic waterway for trails and recreation. Chris will work with Senator Carper, Congressman Carney, state leaders, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and other federal and sate agencies to ensure that this project moves forward and that Delawareans can enjoy this wonderful outdoor space.
• Passing legislation to create the First State National Historic Park. Delaware remains the only state in the nation without a national park unit. With our rich history and contributions to American life, it is fitting that the first state to ratify the Constitution should host the First State National Historic Park. This park, which would be established by legislation Chris cosponsored with Senator Carper, is long overdue.
• Restoring and protecting the Chesapeake Bay. The Chesapeake Bay and its watershed sustain millions of lives and jobs in our region. Since our earliest days, it has served as both a conduit for trade and as a source of food. Today, the Chesapeake Bay is under threat, and we need to take significant action to restore its ecological health and sustain its vital role in our regional economy. We must ensure that the Chesapeake Bay watershed, including Delaware, can benefit from this incredible natural resource for generations to come.
• Pursuing alternative energy solutions. Fossil fuels alone are not our only national energy asset. We need to invest in clean-energy solutions, like wind, solar, and biofuels that we have in abundance at home and which does not put the environment at risk. As we invest in growing a 21st Century advanced manufacturing economy, we must focus as well on incentivizing clean energy manufacturing, of which Delaware is already an early leader.