Conservation district holds stormwater pond maintenance workshops
The Sussex Conservation District recently held two free stormwater pond maintenance workshops at the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control Lewes field office.
Jessica Watson, SCD sediment and stormwater program manager, spoke on the history of the sediment and stormwater program in Delaware, and the process by which plans are implemented and approved by the district. Watson covered the various types of stormwater conveyance systems including wet, dry and infiltration ponds, underground stormwater systems, bioswales, bioretention cells, filter strips, constructed wetlands and vegetated roofs as well as the maintenance responsibilities and requirements of each.
“We urge property owners and homeowners associations to contact us before there is a problem, in addition to hiring professionals to maintain and enhance the stormwater facilities within a community,” said Watson.
Matthew Messina, equipment program project manager, spoke about drainage concerns and how the district can provide technical assistance to property owners, HOAs and municipalities that need to address serious issues. He discussed best management practices to correct drainage concerns such as pipe failures resulting in sinkholes, standing water, tax ditches, erosion and embankment stabilization.
“Due to the lack of topographic relief and the varying water table, drainage issues are common throughout Sussex County, but it is our goal to provide assistance wherever possible. We want you to understand how your stormwater facilities work and to contact us with serious drainage concerns,” said Messina.
Jim Passwaters, owner of Sussex Landscaping, discussed the benefits of landscaping stormwater ponds, the associated maintenance, and how native plants assist stormwater facilities.
“Native plants help filter pollution from runoff, assist with erosion issues, enhance the aesthetics of stormwater facilities and provide a natural habitat for many beneficial species. Also, many communities are inundated with geese; proper implementation of native plants in the buffer zone can reduce these numbers as well as provide filtration of excess nutrients,” said Passwaters.
Local pond maintenance companies Envirotech Environmental Consulting Inc., Solitude Lake Management and Tributaries Ecological Restoration were on site to provide information, discuss concerns and offer guidance for guests on stormwater best management practices.
Guests at each session were treated to light refreshments and door prizes including two $15 gift certificates for native plants from the conservation district’s nursery.
