Stewardship

Much of the Spa Creek watershed (the approximately 2.4 square mile area that drains into the creek) is covered by parking lots, roofs, driveways, sidewalks, etc.—impervious surfaces that don’t allow rain to soak into the ground. Rainwater is directed into a storm drain system which eventually empties into Spa Creek–unfiltered and untreated. On its way into the storm drain system, rainwater picks up fertilizers, loose soil, pet waste, oil and gas residue and other pollutants from lawns, roofs, parking lots and streets–all of which is directly deposited into Spa Creek.

Once a haven for fishing, crabbing and boating, Spa Creek has been classified as a highly impaired urban watershed. The creek is currently unfit for swimming and sediment build up is reducing navigable waters for boaters. Spa Creek flows into the mouth of the Severn River which then empties into the Chesapeake Bay.

The good news is there is a solution.

There are many proven techniques and technologies to slow and stop stormwater pollution. By joining the Spa Creek Stewardship Program, you can dramatically and positively influence the water quality of Spa Creek and ultimately the Chesapeake Bay.

Program Benefits

• A free on-site assessment giving you specific recommendations on how to reduce stormwater runoff
• Planning and technical assistance implementing recommendations
• Help applying for grant money to fund and cost-share pollution prevention projects
• Volunteers to implement simpler projects
• Spa Creek Conservancy window decal
  Recognition: The more you do, the more your efforts are recognized.

Spa Creek STEWARD  

Implement 50% of the recommendations from your site assessment

• Recognition on the Conservancy website
• Special logo for use in your marketing materials
• Media press release recognizing your efforts

Spa Creek CHAMPION

Implement 75% of the recommendations from your site assessment

• Special award recognizing your achievement
• “Champion” logo for use in your marketing materials
• Recommendation for City of Annapolis recognition in city and agency newsletters and website
• Promotion of your business with special events encouraging media coverage

1. Set a date for a site assessment.
2. After the site assessment, sit down for a discussion of “next steps.” The Conservancy will give you detailed information on pollution prevention practices appropriate for your business or organization. The Conservancy will help you identify the best approaches to pollution prevention, e.g., Best Management Practices (BMPs), project planning, qualified contractors, etc.
3. Many items will not require funding and can be implemented by changes in operations, storage practices, clean-ups, minimal purchases, etc. Some actions can be implemented with volunteer events coordinated by the Conservancy.
4. The Conservancy Stewardship Coordinator will work with you to identify grants and other funding resources to cost-share the implementation of pollution prevention practices at your site.
5. There is a $50 per year membership fee to help offset administrative costs.