In a heartwarming display of community dedication and environmental stewardship, the Town of Chesapeake Beach Oyster Cultivation Society (CBOCS) has been honored with the prestigious Excellence in Community Service Award by the John Hanson Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR). This recognition serves as a testament to the tireless efforts of CBOCS volunteers in their mission to restore oyster populations and enhance water quality in the Chesapeake Bay, aligning perfectly with the DAR’s core values of historical preservation, educational outreach, and civic engagement.
Celebrating Community Service Excellence
The Excellence in Community Service Award, bestowed annually by the DAR, celebrates nonprofit organizations that have significantly impacted their communities by addressing critical needs in areas such as environmental conservation, social services, or education. Founded in 1890, the Daughters of the American Revolution is a venerable national organization dedicated to upholding the values of patriotism, historical preservation, and public service. Holly Lynne McKinley Schmidt, National Chair of the DAR Community Service Awards Committee, emphasized the importance of recognizing individuals and groups who make tangible differences in their communities. She noted, “The honored volunteers provide service in a wide spectrum of areas where they fill a need for people, animals, or our environment.”
The Chesapeake Beach Oyster Cultivation Society, established in 2010, has been at the forefront of engaging the local community in the vital task of restoring the oyster population in the Chesapeake Bay. Acknowledged for their crucial role in filtering and enhancing water quality, CBOCS volunteers collaborate with schools, businesses, and conservation organizations to promote sustainable oyster cultivation as a key solution for bay restoration. Through the maintenance of floating oyster cages, meticulous growth monitoring, and strategic relocation to designated reef sites, these dedicated volunteers actively contribute to reinforcing the natural ecosystem. Moreover, the society undertakes educational initiatives to raise awareness about the ecological and economic benefits of a thriving oyster population.
Preserving History and Promoting Service
The John Hanson Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, which serves Southern Maryland, bears the name of John Hanson, a prominent Maryland statesman recognized as the first President of the United States under the Articles of Confederation. Engaged in diverse community-focused endeavors, including student scholarships, veteran support programs, and historical preservation projects, the chapter exemplifies a commitment to upholding public service values. The decision to bestow the Excellence in Community Service Award upon CBOCS underscores the organization’s unwavering dedication to environmental stewardship and its significant impact on Maryland’s natural resources.
By honoring the exceptional work of CBOCS, the DAR emphasizes the profound importance of grassroots-driven conservation efforts. The collective actions of CBOCS volunteers not only ensure a cleaner and more sustainable bay for future generations but also underscore the transformative power of local initiatives in safeguarding and restoring the environment. Through their commitment to community service and environmental advocacy, these volunteers embody the spirit of civic engagement and inspire others to join in their noble cause.
For those interested in learning more about the Chesapeake Beach Oyster Cultivation Society and getting involved in their impactful initiatives, visit chesapeakebeachmd.gov/oysters.
David M. Higgins II, a seasoned journalist with a deep-rooted passion for uncovering compelling stories, hails from Baltimore and has a rich upbringing in Southern Maryland. His commitment to shedding light on the truth and sharing engaging narratives reflects his enduring dedication to storytelling and community empowerment.
