Opinion Pieces by Rob

Anyone who lives or works on the water understands that responsible maintenance is essential to safe navigation, healthy fisheries, and strong waterfront communities. The Little Wicomico River is located at the junction between the Potomac River and the Chesapeake Bay and serves as a lifeline for Northumberland County’s watermen, boaters, and local businesses. Today, it is in clear need of maintenance dredging.

As an avid outdoorsman, I’ve seen firsthand how well-maintained waterways support both access and conservation — allowing watermen to work safely, recreational boaters to navigate with confidence, and marine habitats to remain productive. That’s why I have consistently advocated for attention and funding for the Little Wicomico River dredging project.

Over time, sediment buildup has narrowed the channel, making navigation more difficult and limiting reliable access to docks, marinas, and working waterfronts, while also disrupting natural tidal flow. After hearing directly from watermen, boaters, and residents in Northumberland County, I began working with county leaders, the Army Corps of Engineers, and state partners to identify options to address this growing challenge.

Maintaining our waterways is about protecting livelihoods, preserving access to the water, and being good stewards of the Bay for the next generation. I remain committed to working alongside the community to pursue solutions that keep the Little Wicomico River navigable, safe, and environmentally healthy. I appreciate the many members of the community who have dedicated their time to raising awareness and sharing their expertise.

I encourage anyone who depends on or enjoys the Little Wicomico River — whether for work, recreation, or conservation — to reach out to my office with questions or experiences. Your firsthand knowledge helps ensure we get this right.