Join us for CBF’s first ever federal Volunteers as Chesapeake Stewards (VoiCeS) class! This 4-week virtual course will deep dive into the federal processes, policies, partners, and programs that impact our waterways and communities.

Federal policies and investments play a vital role in protecting and restoring the Chesapeake Bay and its rivers, streams, and communities. This four-part training series will equip participants with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to understand federal environmental policy, navigate the advocacy process, and communicate the importance of continued federal support for Bay restoration. Through expert-led presentations, discussions with funding recipients, and hands-on communications training, participants will gain a deeper understanding of how federal decisions shape local conservation outcomes and learn how to become effective advocates for clean water, healthy habitats, and thriving communities throughout the Chesapeake Bay watershed.

What to Expect

  • Expert-Led Sessions: Each week, experts in policy, communications, and Bay issues will present and lead group discussions and activities.
  • Certification: Those who attend all sessions and complete an advocacy project will earn the Chesapeake Steward designation.
  • Participation: Sessions will include guided workshops, discussions, and group activities to sharpen communication and advocacy skills for federal-level policy issues.
  • Connection: Participants will become CBF’s frontline for federal advocacy opportunities and build relationships with other environmental advocates to broaden impact.

This class is open to anyone interested in Chesapeake Bay advocacy at the federal level. If you have participated in CBF’s Virginia, DC, or Maryland VoiCeS classes, this course will build on what you have learned, but past participation is not required.

Class Agenda

  • Jan 27: Foundations of Federal Environmental Policy: Join CBF’s Director of Litigation for an engaging overview of the landmark laws, regulations, and legal decisions that form the foundation of federal environmental protection in the United States. Explore how the Clean Water Act, Clean Air Act, Chesapeake Bay Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL), and related litigation continue to shape restoration efforts across the watershed and drive water quality goals. We’ll also be joined by CBF’s Federal Policy Fellow for an introduction to the 120th Congress, the federal legislative process, and the key members of Congress representing communities across and Chesapeake Bay region. By the end of this session, you’ll understand why federal policy matters locally and how decisions made in Washington directly impact the waterways, wildlife, and habitats you care about most.
  • Feb 3: Advocating at the Federal Level: Effective advocacy begins with understanding the systems and decision-makers that influence change. In this session, CBF’s Federal Policy Team will guide participants through the federal agencies, programs, and partnerships that play a critical role in restoring and protecting the Chesapeake Bay. You’ll learn about federal investments that support habitat restoration, environmental education, oyster recovery, and community-based conservation projects throughout the watershed. We’ll also demystify the advocacy process, helping you identify your members of Congress and build confidence in communicating with federal policymakers.
  • Feb 10: Federal Funding, Local Impact: Federal programs fuel conservation and restoratio nwork in communities across the Chesapeake Bay watershed. From environmental education programs in Baltimore City to streamside forest buffers in Lancaster County, these investments support projects that improve water quality, strengthen habitats, and engage local communities. During this session, you’ll hear directly from local partners on the on-the-ground impact of federal investments and learn how these resources support nonprofits, local and state governments, schools, universities, and conservation practictioners.
  • Feb 17: Federal Funding, Local Impact: Turning Knowledge into Action: Now it’s your turn! In our final session, participants will bring together everything they’ve learned about federal policy, funding, and advocacy to become effective champions for the Chesapeake Bay. CBF’s communication experts will lead this session, focused on crafting compelling messages and stories that resonate with elected officials, community members, and fellow advocates. Participants will develop practical communication tools and storytelling skills to demonstrate why continued federal investment in Bay restoration is essential for healthy waterways, thriving wildlife, and resilient communities.

 

How to Participate

  • Sessions will be held virtually. Links and calendar invites will be shared ahead of the sessions.
  • Supplementary readings and resources will be shared with all registered participants prior to each class to share additional information on topics covered in class.
  • The course agenda will be shared once finalized.