Spring is almost here, and green groups are recruiting volunteers to watchdog Maryland's river and stream health.
The Severn River Association is looking for help to protect the Chesapeake Bay tributary from mud washing off construction sites in spring rains. A recent audit by Community & Environmental Defense Services, a consulting firm, estimated that the Severn is being polluted with up to 1.4 million pounds of pollutants because storm-water runoff controls aren't working.
In partnership with CEDS, the association is mounting a campaign to check on building sites in the watershed for compliance with state law requiring control of erosion and sediment runoff. A particular focus will be on seeing that builders cover all exposed soil with straw or seed it with grass to minimize muddy runoff.
Volunteers attending a workshop from 9:30 a.m. to noon Saturday (3/10) will be trained on how to evaluate construction sites and report on their compliance - or lack thereof. Log in here to register to participate or call ¿¿410-654-3021.
The Friends of Patapsco Valley & Heritage Greenway also are seeking stream-watching volunteers. The group is offering training Saturday (3/10) on how to monitor stream health and organize litter cleanups. The workshop is from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at historic ¿Pfeiffer's Corner School House, 6109 Rockburn Branch Park Road, Elkridge. To register in advance, go here.