Stormwater Solutions: Creek Keepers
As part of the Stormwater Management Grant Program, the Friends of Cabin John Creek are developing a Creek Keeper Volunteer Program to help monitor and maintain the health of the mainstem and tributaries of Cabin John Creek. Creek Keepers will provide oversight, leadership, and hands-on work within the section of the creek in which they live. Training is available.
The work of stewards is variable, depending on interest and time, as well as the needs of their segment and their community.
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Creek Keepers will serve as FoCJC’s eyes and ears, walking their segment of the creek periodically, noting and reporting new problems, or passing on issues identified by others in the community.
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Creek Keepers will help FoCJC coordinate quarterly events within their section, either as part of an all-creek event or one focussed on their segment. Typical stewardship activities include trash clean-ups and invasive plant removal.
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Creek Keepers will stay current with activities and developments via the FoCJC e-newsletter and the website: www. cabinjohncreek.org
Booze Creek Keepers
The Booze Creek tributary of Cabin John Creek will be the initial segment to enter the program. Montgomery County’s Department of Environmental Protection recently completed a large restoration project along Booze Creek, and we are now seeking residents of nearby neighborhoods who are interested in participating in or leading a Creek Keeper group.
Booze Creek, located near I-495 and River Road, experienced some of the worse impacts of stormwater pollution. In addition to reducing water quality, stormwater runoff exposed sanitary sewer lines, which caused the leakage of raw sewage into the stream.
Montgomery County DEP, working with the Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission, stabilized the stream banks, reduced the speed of the stream flow, repaired sewer lines, and planted numerous trees. You can view photos of the restored Booze Creek.
If you are interested finding out more, please email Tina Rouse, Program Manager.
