Maryland Scientist Honored as 111th Admiral for Lifelong Work on Chesapeake Bay Fisheries

Thomas Miller was named the 111th Admiral of the Chesapeake Bay. The University of Maryland professor received the lifetime achievement award from Governor Wes Moore. The ceremony took place in Annapolis on October 1, 2025.

This prestigious honor recognizes individuals for extraordinary contributions to the Bay’s conservation. Miller’s decades of scientific research directly supported the health of key fisheries. His work was crucial for the cooperative management of the blue crab population.

Scientific Research Forms Bedrock of Bay Management

Professor Miller has worked at the Chesapeake Biological Laboratory since 1994. His research provided the foundational science for managing Maryland’s recreational and commercial fishing industries. According to Reuters, such long-term data is vital for ecosystem health.

His most significant contribution was to the blue crab fishery. In the early 2000s, he helped lead a bi-state committee that warned of overfishing risks. This work established the first bay-wide thresholds that Maryland and Virginia still use today to protect the species.

A Legacy Informing Future Chesapeake Bay Policy

Miller’s current research continues to guide critical policy decisions for the state. His studies are now focused on the impacts of climate change and invasive species. This science helps ensure a sustainable future for blue crabs and other important Bay species.

This appointment underscores the vital link between scientific research and effective environmental policy. The recognition celebrates a career dedicated to evidence-based conservation. It highlights the ongoing need for science in preserving the Chesapeake Bay’s ecological and economic vitality.

The appointment of Thomas Miller as Admiral of the Chesapeake Bay honors a career defined by scientific rigor and a deep commitment to the estuary’s future, ensuring that key fisheries management remains grounded in expert research for generations to come.

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What is the Admiral of the Chesapeake Bay award?

It is a lifetime achievement honor given by Maryland’s governor. It recognizes individuals for extraordinary contributions to the Bay’s conservation and restoration. It is a ceremonial title that signifies the highest level of dedication to the estuary.

Why was Thomas Miller chosen for this honor?

He was chosen for his decades of scientific research on Chesapeake Bay fisheries. His work was pivotal in developing the modern, sustainable management plan for the blue crab. Governor Moore specifically cited his role in fostering cooperative fishery management.

What was Miller’s key contribution to blue crab management?

He helped lead a committee that first warned of overfishing risks in 2001. This group established the first science-based, bay-wide catch thresholds. These thresholds are still used by Maryland and Virginia to prevent overharvesting today.

How does this award impact Chesapeake Bay conservation?

It highlights the critical importance of scientific research in guiding environmental policy. It brings public recognition to the experts whose work underpins successful conservation efforts. This reinforces the state’s commitment to evidence-based management of its natural resources.

What other species has Miller’s research impacted?

Beyond blue crabs, his scientific expertise has informed management of menhaden and dolphins. He serves as an advisor to multiple federal and state fishery management councils. His work provides a broad scientific foundation for the entire Bay ecosystem.

Trusted Sources

Office of Governor Wes Moore, University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science, Reuters, Associated Press