Consultants with Biohabitats, Inc., and the Center for Watershed Protection will soon begin conducting surveys and field investigations for the Rockville Department of Public Works as the first step in the study of Low Impact Stormwater Management Approaches for the College Gardens neighborhood. The studies will be conducted from July through November. College Gardens drains into Watts Branch, the largest stream system in the City of Rockville. The Department of Public Works, in cooperation with College Gardens community groups, is investigating alternative measures to reduce the volume and pollutant levels of stormwater runoff leaving yards, parking lots and streets. Urban areas typically have high pollutant levels such as phosphorus, bacteria and oil/grease, which degrade fish and insect habitat in the streams and ultimately in the Chesapeake Bay. Our consultants will look for runoff patterns, pollution sources and good locations for small water quality treatment features such as rain gardens and downspout outfalls on vegetated areas. Generally, the consultants will make their observations from the public streets and sidewalks. If they need to examine drainage patterns within private properties, they will first attempt to notify the owner by knocking on the door. The consultants may take photos of buildings, parking areas and yards. We will identify potential water quality improvements this summer. During the winter and spring of 2005, the City and the community will evaluate the pros and cons of various measures at several public meetings. The College Gardens Civic Association and the Garden Club are seeking volunteers to try these small-scale improvements on their properties with some cost-share assistance. Construction will occur in a later phase. Watch for a written survey for property residents/tenants this summer to assess your understanding of watershed protection and interest in pollution reduction. The City will use the responses to determine what stormwater treatment measures will have the greatest benefit to Watts Branch and widest appeal to residential and business property owners in the College Gardens area. The City will NOT use survey or field work results for property management control or code enforcement purposes. In September and October, there will be a series of workshops for residents interested in trying rain barrels or a rain garden on their property. Our consultants will guide you in choosing the best methods for reducing your lot’s runoff and show you how to construct each in Do-It-Yourself sessions. Look for details on these workshops in the August edition of Rockville Reports or on the City’s Web site at www.rockvillemd.gov Please contact the City’s project manager, Lise Soukup, Civil Engineer II, with the Department of Public Works at 240-314-8515, if you would like more information or have any concerns. | 
