ALL WHRO SITES Photo by Ken Lund, Flikr. The order seeks to reduce phosphorus and nitrogen runoff into the Chesapeake Bay. Both nutrients fuel algae blooms that suck up oxygen from the water, suffocating sea life. Northam Wants State Agencies To Reduce Polluted Bay Runoff Details Published: 03 June 2021 Gov. Ralph Northam has directed state agencies and higher education institutions to take steps to significantly reduce pollution that runs off into the Chesapeake Bay. The order, signed on Thursday, seeks to cut 122,000 pounds of nitrogen and 10,100 pounds of phosphorus flows into the bay. “If we make reducing pollution part of everyday business in Virginia, we will ensure that future generations can enjoy and benefit from healthy rivers and a cleaner Bay,” Secretary of Natural Resources Matthew Strickler said in a press release.