July 2025 - Issue #117

Project Update: Empowering Sustainable Urban Landscapes with Biochar

CWP’s work to demonstrate and advance innovative stormwater management strategies has recently focused on the use of biochar-a carbon-rich product made from organic matter through a process that involves heating the material in a low-oxygen environment-to enhance the effectiveness of stormwater management facilities and reduce cost. Research shows that adding biochar to the filter media of a stormwater management practice can increase soil water holding capacity and water infiltration, improve soil fertility in nutrient-poor soils, filter metals, and prevent the movement of bacteria into waterways.

CWPA Member Spotlight: In-Situ

Would your monitoring program benefit from radar level data? CWP member In-Situ is excited to announce the Level TROLL NC, a non-contact level sensor that works with the rest of their shared ecosystem of products and telemetry. Featuring easy setup through the VuSitu mobile app, a built-in bubble level and a 5-degree beam angle for more site selection flexibility, the NC is designed to help your team get flood and stormwater monitoring equipment into the field fast. Chris Davis of Lower 48 Instruments field tested the NC, collecting data on how urban expansion affects water level and flow downstream. Read the full story here.

CWP Staff Profile: Meet Bruce Binder

Bruce Binder is CWP's newest Grants/Contracts Specialist.


How did you get started working on watersheds?

I retired from EPA in January 2025, but I always expected to do some part-time grants/contracts/proposal preparation work in retirement.  I learned of the opportunity to do so at CWP in the spring of 2025-applied, interviewed, and was selected for a part-time grants/contracts specialist position.


What is your favorite part about working for the Center?

While I have only been working at CWP for a short time, I enjoy the flexibility of the position, professionalism and enthusiasm of the CWP staff, and the opportunity to be part of CWP’s grants and contracts portfolio.


At which store would you like to max-out your credit card?

Costco-because they have such a variety of different things.


What was your favorite TV show when growing up?

The Twilight Zone-the original one with Rod Serling.


What is the nerdiest thing you do in your spare time?

I do read sports and news a lot on my phone, but the nerdiest thing I do is probably do nothing. I can enjoy just sitting outside and listening to music on my phone. I also still balance my check book which is nerdy since I don’t know if most people even use a check book anymore!


What is your favorite river?

I live by the Rappahannock River and its usually very quiet and calm.


If you could have any one superpower, which would you choose?

I know it sounds corny but given the world we live in today, having the ability to make everyone get along and respect each other, especially those with different points of view, would be a good power to have.


If you won the lottery, what would be the first thing you would buy?

I probably would not buy anything for myself, but rather, buy things for my children and grandchildren, and pay off my daughter’s student loans.

CWP News

The call for abstracts for the 2026 National Watershed and Stormwater Conference opens on August 4th!

We are excited to announce that our National Conference will be held in Charlotte, North Carolina, on April 14th-16th! This annual event brings together professionals from across the country for an inspiring few days of networking, knowledge-sharing, and innovation.


Learn More!

CWP is partnering with the City of Salisbury to update the Water Resources Element of its Comprehensive Plan

The plan addresses future drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater needs to support sustainable growth. CWP staff recently joined a public stakeholder forum hosted by the City to hear community concerns and help facilitate discussions about threats to sensitive areas such as flooding, pollution, invasive species, and erosion, and to identify potential solutions like policy changes, infrastructure upgrades, and public education.


Learn More!

Stormwater Solutions Webinar: How will funding and staffing impact stormwater in 2025?

Hye Yeong Kwon, executive director and CEO of the Center for Watershed Protection, drops by to discuss her outlook on 2025. Kwon discusses CWP's upcoming conference, which will be held in April in Puerto Rico, and touches on the importance of working with coastal communities and how staffing may impact the industry this year. 


Watch here!

CWP Board News

Thank you Baysox for hosting our fundraiser!

The Board of Directors would like to thank the Chesapeake Baysox for hosting our annual baseball game fundraiser. We had over 50 people supporting CWP through ticket sales and even more support through the game from baseball fans. The Baysox even took the field as the Chesapeake Oyster Catchers as a tribute to the Chesapeake Bay’s rich heritage and thriving ecosystem. CWP can't wait to do it again next year and we hope to see even more friends and family at the game!

Funding Opportunities

Upcoming Events

Lunch and Learn Series (CWPA MEMBERS ONLY):

Eric Seidl from Envirolok: August 21st, 2025, 1:00PM EST

Deanna Bobak from Civil & Environment Consultants, Inc.: September 25th, 2025, 1:00PM EST

Become a Member Here!


FREE CWP Webcast: Meet the Center for Watershed Protection Directors Team

August 26th, 2025, 1:00 - 2:30 PM EST

This is your chance to connect with the leaders advancing the science and practice of watershed and stormwater management. Whether you are new to the field or a seasoned professional, this session offers valuable insight and direct access to the experts behind our work.

Register here!


2025 Webcast 7: Incorporating Landscaping in Stormwater Practices

September 17th, 2025, 1:00 - 2:30 PM EST

Speakers: Dave Hirschman from Hirschman Water & Environment, LLC & Beth Ginter from Chesapeake Conservation Landscaping Council

Register here!


2025 Webcast 8: Impacts of Climate Change on Rainwater Harvesting Systems

October 15th, 2025, 1:00 - 2:30 PM EST

Speakers: Sarah Sojka from Randolph College & Benjamin Sojka from Rainwater Management Solutions

Register here!


2026 National Watershed and Stormwater Conference

April 14th - 16th, 2025

Join us in Charlotte, North Carolina

Learn More!

Learning Links
The Center for Watershed Protection | www.cwp.org
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