Susquehanna University Partnership
Chesapeake Conservancy and Susquehanna University have partnered together on precision conservation projects since 2016, solidifying the relationship in 2023 through a formal memorandum of understanding. In 2024, The Princeton Review named Susquehanna University as one of the nation’s most environmentally responsible colleges, citing the collaboration with Chesapeake Conservancy among the university’s achievements.
Through this partnership, Chesapeake Conservancy and Susquehanna University support each other in our shared efforts toward healthier waterways. Several Chesapeake Conservancy employees are housed in the Susquehanna University’s Freshwater Research Institute. Additionally, Chesapeake Conservancy welcomes multiple interns from the university each year.
Precision Conservation Data to Accelerate Water Quality Work
Precision conservation uses high-resolution geospatial data to identify small watersheds and stream segments where the implementation of best management practices could yield the highest benefit to local water quality. The strategy encourages a collective community approach that concentrates limited local, state and federal resources to address water quality issues for the local community. Using Chesapeake Conservancy's Conservation Innovation Center's high-resolution data in conjunction with on-the-ground partner expertise provides an accurate analysis of how water carries nutrients and sediments into these significantly impacted stream segments. Focusing on smaller and precise portions of the Chesapeake Bay-wide restoration and conservation efforts allows for rapid and tangible improvements to the community waterways while simultaneously improving the water quality downstream.
Live Stake Collaborative
Susquehanna University has also partnered with Chesapeake Conservancy on the Live Stake Collaborative (the Collaborative) since its creation in the spring of 2019. The Collaborative leverages volunteers to collect and distribute streamside tree planting materials – free of charge – to local conservation partners. Susquehanna University provides refrigerated storage space for the Collaborative, while students serve as leaders and volunteers for collection events. In our pilot year, the collaborative distributed over 28,000 free tree cuttings, resulting in the planting of over 10 acres of streamside forest valued at over $42,000.
