Harry R. Hughes, Chair (chosen by Governor)
Appointed by Governor: William (Will) Baker; Clinton S. (Clint) Bradley III; C. Bernard (Bernie) Fowler; Brian E. Frosh; Ronald A. Guns; Frederick W. (Rick) Nelson, Jr.; Lloyd L. Simpkins; Alfred Sommer, Ph.D.; Dolores Margaret Richard Spikes, Ph.D.; John S. Toll, Ph.D.
Joann M. Burkholder, Ph.D., Consultant
Staff: Joseph C. Bryce
Governor's Legislative Office
State House, 2nd floor
Annapolis, MD 21401
(410) 974-3336
Fish health hotline: 1-888-584-3110
The Governor appointed the Blue Ribbon Citizens' Pfiesteria Commission in September 1997. The Commission studied the toxic outbreak in Maryland waters of the microbe, Pfiesteria piscidida which occurred in the summer 1997. After determining causative factors, the Commission charge was to recommend short- and long-term solutions to prevent further toxic outbreaks in the Pocomoke River, Manokin watershed, and other State waters.
In the course of its study, the Commission considered the threat to public health of the microbe in its virulent form; what environmental conditions cause the microbe to transform; and the impact of outbreaks on the State's seafood industry and agriculture. The Commission also determined whether high levels of nutrients, such as nitrogen or phosphorus, trigger toxicity in Pfiesteria; the sources of such nutrients in affected waterways; and methods to prevent these nutrients from reaching State waters.
In recommending solutions, the Commission evaluated what federal expertise and programs might be used and what level of interstate cooperation is necessary. The Commission, in its report, focused on immediate actions to combat the pfiesteria threat, and interim solutions for issues requiring further consideration and scientific study.
© Copyright July 06, 1998 Maryland State Archives