Press Releases

Hoyer Attends Bernie Fowler's 32nd Annual Patuxent River Wade In

ST. LEONARD, MD – This afternoon, Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) attended former Maryland State Senator Bernie Fowler’s 32nd annual Patuxent River Wade In. Each year, Bernie Fowler walks into the Patuxent River to assess how far he can wade until he can no longer see his white sneakers. The “Sneaker Index,” a non-scientific measurement, highlights the importance of the health of the Patuxent River and the Chesapeake Bay.

"For thirty-two years, Bernie Fowler has inspired all of us to fight for a cleaner and healthier Chesapeake Bay and its watershed," said Congressman Hoyer. "Bernie has worked tirelessly to make a complex environmental issue understandable to everyday Marylanders. I continue to be thankful for his steadfast advocacy and attention to environmental issues in our region."

"In Congress, I've fought alongside my colleagues to oppose efforts by the Trump Administration to dismantle clean air and clean water rules and to instead promote policies that address the dangers of climate change," continued Congressman Hoyer. "I’ve been proud to bring legislation to the House Floor to address the climate crisis, including the Climate Action Now Act and legislation to address the acidification of our oceans and waterways. I look forward to bringing additional legislation to the Floor. We must continue to work together to combat climate change at the local, state, and federal levels. I'm confident our state will continue to be a leader in cleaning up waterways and promoting a clean environment."

Bernie Fowler held the first Patuxent River Wade In in 1988. This year’s index was measured at 47 inches.