Watershed Protection | University of Maryland Extension

Updated: October 19, 2023

What are Permeable Hardscapes

Permeable hardscapes help manage stormwater (surface water from heavy rains or snow) and are an alternative to hard surfaces. Materials used as permeable hardscapes allow stormwater to seep into the ground (permeate) rather than pool in low spots or run off into storm drains or local streams.

Updated: October 17, 2023

Conservation Landscaping

A conservation landscape is a garden that improves water quality, promotes and preserves native species, and provides wildlife habitat. Conservation landscaping replaces hard surfaces or turf grass of a traditional lawn with native plants. There are many social and environmental benefits that result from installing a conservation landscape.

Updated: October 17, 2023

Downspout Redirection

Hard surfaces such as roofs increase runoff by preventing rain water from being absorbed into the ground.

Updated: October 17, 2023

Rain Barrels and Cisterns

Rain barrels and cisterns are devices that are placed at the end of downspouts to collect rainwater and store it for later use.

Updated: October 4, 2023

October 2023 WSA Newsletter

Updated: September 20, 2023

Certified Baywise Landscaping

Most Maryland residents live within a half-mile of a storm drain, stream or river. Most of those waterways eventually drain into the Chesapeake Bay.

Updated: July 25, 2023

What Happens after Phragmites is Killed? Year 2 (EBR-2023-0652)

In the second year of the project, researchers returned to the same field and mesocosm sites to evaluate the results of planting native species after Phragmites eradication. The results have led to several preliminary implications for restoration. Authors: Eric Buehl, Andrew Baldwin, Hope Brooks, Sylvia Jacobson, Karin Kettenring, Melissa McCormick, and Dennis Whigham; Title: What Happens after Phragmites is Killed? Year 2 (EBR-2023-0652)

Updated: March 13, 2023

Pond and Watershed Management

Prior to digging or re-digging a pond, landowners need to contact their Soil Conservation District or Natural Resources Conservation Service Office to obtain the appropriate permits. In most counties, these offices can offer assistance in pond sitting and design.

Updated: March 1, 2023

2023 Charles County Rain Barrel Workshops

The Charles County Government and University of Maryland Extension are pleased to offer workshops on the practical uses for rain barrels and how they reduce the impact of runoff on our local waterways and Chesapeake Bay.

Updated: November 21, 2022

Landscapes that Help the Chesapeake Bay - FS 701

Water flowing from the landscape after rain or during irrigation can pick up sediments and nutrients that pollute streams, rivers, and the Chesapeake Bay.