The Susquehanna, Upper Potomac, and Patapsco buoys--which had been pulled from the water in early winter--were all redeployed the week of March 17.
These buoys, which are the northernmost buoys in the CBIBS and are also in the freshest water (which freezes at a slightly higher temperature than does saltier water), had been removed to ensure that they were safe from any potential ice damage. The Chesapeake Bay experienced significant icing this winter, and ice can damage sensors on the buoys and can even move buoys.
The buoys were put back in place thanks to CBIBS' partnership with the U.S. Coast Guard.
While the buoys are back in the water, water temperatures around the Bay are still quite cold and potentially dangerous. Be sure to check conditions on the water via CBIBS and your local marine forecast to determine if conditions are right before heading out on the water.