Free stormwater workshop series to start Feb. 20

The public is invited to attend a free four-part stormwater workshop series to be held from 9 a.m. to noon, Thursdays, Feb. 20, April 16, June 18 and Aug. 13, at the Carvel Research and Education Center in Georgetown. Registration will begin at 8:30 a.m., and light refreshments will be served.

This series is made possible by the Sussex Conservation District, University of Delaware Cooperative Extension and Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control.

The workshops are designed to present property owners, homeowner associations and property maintenance companies a holistic approach to stormwater and open space management. Presenters will provide technical resources to aid in the management and enhancement of the community.

“We encourage communities and property owners to become informed so they can identify problems early, before they become costly to repair,” said Jessica Watson, sediment and stormwater program manager at Sussex Conservation District.

“If you are new to Delaware, we want you to learn how your actions on private land, at home and in community open space affect water quality for all in Sussex County,” said Tracy Wootten, horticulture agent, University of Delaware Cooperative Extension.

Each workshop will address seasonal issues many property owners and communities encounter. The February workshop will introduce stormwater facilities, best management practices, common drainage concerns, and landscaping stormwater facilities with native plants. The April workshop will provide an overview of drainage in Delaware, open space management and wildlife management. The June workshop will discuss preventive maintenance, irrigation management, and water conservation practices. The August workshop will cover water quality, invasive species management, and stormwater facility winterization tips.

Seating is limited and preregistration is encouraged. Registered attendees will be entered for a chance to win a $15 gift certificate for native plants from the conservation district nursery.

Delaware nutrient management credits will be offered.

For more information or to register, go to www.sussexconservation.org/events or call Siobhan Kelley, communications and outreach specialist at Sussex Conservation District, at 302-856-2105, Ext. 122.