The Stormwater Scoop | July 2026 | | CSN interns Ashleigh Thur and Nadia Chichester were hosted by Radhika Wijetunge on a tour of stormwater ponds in Howard County | | Welcoming summer with CUSP | | Our first CUSP course of the year, Science and Stormwater Practices, began this month with 115 participants. So far, the cohort has learned about urban hydrology, impervious cover and contaminants, and the basics of water quality science. And it's not too late to register for our second CUSP course later this year! Also in this issue, join CSN summer intern Ashleigh Thur as she interviews Michael Haire, Adjunct Faculty at Towson University, about the Chesapeake Bay dead zone. We also highlight some of the new features on our website. Take a look, and stay cool! | | |
The Chesapeake Bay Dead Zone, Nonpoint Source Pollution, and How We Can Help
By: Ashleigh Thur
Featuring: Michael Haire, Adjunct Faculty at Towson University Environmental Science & Studies Program
Each summer, excess nutrient loading contributes to the formation of the Chesapeake Bay's seasonal "dead zone," where low dissolved oxygen levels threaten aquatic ecosystems. This article examines the connection between nonpoint source pollution, stormwater runoff, and hypoxia, highlighting the role of watershed management in improving water quality. It also explores how green infrastructure, everyday stewardship, and informed decision-making can help reduce nutrient inputs and support the long-term health of the Bay.
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Website Highlight
We've updated our fact sheets on Bay Approved BMPs, you can search for them in our resources or check out the whole collection here.
| | CUSP: Stormwater Policy and Programs registration open until September 27th | | Don't forget that CUSP is now two courses, and Stormwater Policy and Programs will begin on September 30th. This course can be taken separately or in combination with Science and Stormwater Practices. You can view the schedule here. Looking for answers to your questions about CUSP? Check out the FAQ. | | Get Ready for Summer...Webinars! | | | | Building Better Stream Monitoring Programs: Strategies, Innovations, and Success Stories from Local Governments | | Where in the Watershed is CSN? | | During our visit on this Howard County stormwater tour, we were treated to the arrival of maintenance staff, allowing us a peek into the before and after of this stormwater pond | | |
Howard County, MD — June 24
Board member and Engineering Specialist at Howard County Department of Public Works, Radhika Wijetunge, hosted Michele, Ashleigh, and Nadia for a tour of a community's array of stormwater management techniques, including dry ponds, a stream restoration, and residential conservation areas.
Severn, MD — June 26
The CSN Board members and staff convened for their annual in person Board meeting!
Annapolis MD — June 30
David visited the Chesapeake Bay Trust Offices to talk about CSN's training and capacity building work and explore the Trust's green headquarters, which feature rain gardens, permeable parking, rooftop solar, and more!
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Baltimore County Land Trust Coalition
The Baltimore County Land Trust Coalition, Inc. (BCLTC) is hiring a full-time Executive Director. BCLTC supports county-wide conservation, working with its member land trusts and with State and County agencies and officials. Baltimore County is a national leader in land conservation, with over 72,000 acres of conserved land, and BCLTC’s member land trusts have been in existence for over 40 years and hold portfolios of, in the aggregate, over 625 easements on over 22,750 acres. BCLTC is a 501(c)(3) organization with an office in Hunt Valley, Maryland.
| | Maryland Conservation Corps | |
Maryland’s Department of Service and Civic Innovation
Applications due August 1st. The Maryland Conservation Corps is recruiting for the 2026-2027 program year. MCC is a full-time workforce development program for young adults, running from early September 2026 to late June 2027. MCC members will improve Maryland’s state parks and public lands by completing various conservation-focused projects, including trail maintenance & construction, invasive species removal, and tree & grass plantings.
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Friday, July 24, 2026
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM ET
Hosted by The Choose Clean Water Coalition, in partnership with the Chesapeake Bay Program Workforce Outcome Workgroup
This discussion is an opportunity to share your experiences and perspectives on workforce needs, challenges, and opportunities across the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Whether your organization is experiencing challenges with recruitment, retention, professional development, or building leadership capacity, we want to hear from you.
Who should attend?
- Environmental nonprofit staff and leaders
- Government agency staff
- Academic and Extension professionals
- Students and emerging professionals
- Anyone interested in strengthening the Chesapeake Bay environmental workforce
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Applications due July 20th
Are you passionate about implementing local climate action and building a resilient future for Prince George’s County? The Prince George’s County Climate Stewards Academy is looking for motivated residents to join a transformative program that will prepare you to lead local climate adaptation and resilience efforts.
| | Check out this schedule of events with the Chesapeake Bay Landscaping Professionals, including certifications and workshops. Completed CUSP with Chesapeake Stormwater Network? You have the opportunity to register for programs with CBLP at a discount. Reach out to Katie at CBLP to learn more. | | Do you have an upcoming job position or internship you'd like us to post in the Stormwater Scoop? Please email Michele. | | |
Help us continue advancing efforts for a healthier Chesapeake Bay watershed and beyond. Make a gift today. | | | | |
