Foodscapes for People and Nature
Mapping the diversity of food production around the world to inform food systems transformation.
Virginia's Chesapeake Bay Aerial photograph of the coastal area and wetlands. © Alan W. Eckert
Dear Supporters,
When you think of the Chesapeake Bay, what comes to mind? For me, it’s the water that links landscapes and communities—from the headwaters in New York to the Atlantic Ocean in Virginia. It’s also the food that brings us together: blue crabs, sweet corn, oysters and countless other local favorites that reflect the richness of this region.
We’re excited to share that the Chesapeake Bay has been named a priority landscape in The Nature Conservancy’s Regenerative Foodscapes strategy. This global initiative connects food-producing regions around the world through shared regenerative practices—opening doors to international expertise, new markets, resilient supply chains and policy support. It’s a powerful opportunity to accelerate our efforts to protect biodiversity from the headwaters to the ocean.
Food production—on land and in water—is deeply tied to the health of the Bay. Regenerative agriculture not only nourishes people but also supports clean water, wildlife habitat, and climate resiliency. That’s why TNC is working with farmers, aquaculture growers and their trusted advisors across Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware and Virginia to promote practices that are good for both soil and water.
Take Susquehanna Orchards, a 300-acre family-run farm in Pennsylvania. In collaboration with TNC and the Pennsylvania 4R Alliance, they’re using precision nutrient management—“spoon-feeding” crops to ensure nutrients are absorbed efficiently, reducing runoff that can harm fish and crab habitats downstream. By listening to farmers and understanding their challenges, we’re helping test new technologies and shape innovative incentive programs to make these practices more accessible.
We’re also partnering with organizations like Ducks Unlimited and Trout Unlimited, along with local, state and federal agencies, to restore streams and wetlands in agricultural areas. These natural features filter nutrients, improve habitat and strengthen the resiliency of working lands. The demand for restoration projects is growing—proof that communities care deeply about clean water and wildlife.
And let’s not forget oysters. These keystone species play a vital role in the Bay’s ecosystem. They filter excess nutrients from the water, provide habitat for fish and invertebrates, stabilize shorelines and support local jobs. TNC is working on large-scale oyster reef restoration and supporting individual oyster farmers to grow a sustainable industry that benefits both nature and people.
From New York to Virginia, the Chesapeake Bay watershed spans 64,000 square miles and touches the lives of over 18 million people. Together, we have a chance to show the world that conservation and food production can go hand in hand—producing nutritious food, supporting vibrant communities and protecting the natural resources that make this region so special.
Amy Jacobs
Chesapeake Bay Program Director
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