The Sussex Conservation District, in partnership with the University of Delaware Cooperative Extension, will offer a series of free seminars aimed at improving water quality through through effective stormwater management and best management practices. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, stormwater runoff from yards, roads and developed areas is one of the top contributors to water pollution, making education and proactive management essential.

Sessions will run from 10 to 12 p.m. on select Wednesdays at the Carvel Research and Education Center west of Georgetown.

Stormwater 101 is the Sept. 16 topic. Jessica Watson, SCD sediment and stormwater program manager, will provide an overview of the stormwater program in Delaware, including regulations, types of stormwater systems, required maintenance and enhancement options. "We encourage communities and property owners to become informed so they can identify problems early, before they become costly to repair," Watson said. Guest speakers Jackie Toggart from Envirotech Environmental Consulting Inc. and Cory Cook from Advanced Ecology LLC will provide guidance on stormwater pond maintenance and vegetation management, and showcase the different conservation enhancement practices their companies offer.

Pond Health Starts at the Edge: Meadows, Buffers & Better Stormwater Management will be held Oct. 14. Blake Moore, UDCE natural resources extension agent, will highlight the benefits of meadow management in open spaces to support pollinators, wildlife and water quality. Chris Fish with Lake Source will teach the fundamentals of keeping a healthy stormwater pond functioning at its best. In closing, Sussex County Planning and Zoning Director Jamie Whitehouse will provide an update on the county’s buffer requirements.

Beauty Meets Function: Rethinking Stormwater Landscapes & Development Responsibilities is the Nov. 18 topic. Valerie Thompson, a Sussex County project engineer, will provide insights into the county’s responsibilities and coordination throughout the development process. Burr Monroe from Tributaries will demonstrate different opportunities to transform stormwater facilities into attractive yet functional assets. Local pond maintenance professionals from Envirotech, Advanced Ecology, Lake Source and Tributaries will participate in a special question-and-answer session providing practical knowledge on stormwater facility maintenance.

Seating is limited, and preregistration is encouraged. Delaware nutrient management credits are pending.

To register or learn more, go to sussexconservation.org/events or contact Jackie Waller, SCD communications and outreach specialist, at 302-856-2105, Ext. 122.