University of Maryland Extension will be hosting monthly webinars on various water quality related topics. Join Andrew Lazur, Water Quality Specialist, as he dives into water topics that affect us all. These webinars will take place via Zoom on the dates shown below, allowing time for Q & A at the end.
On scheduled Wednesdays (below) from 12:00- 12:40 PM
• Drinking Water Treatment…………………………..………......……….….….October 7, 2020
Does your water need to be treated? If so, this webinar will explain common water problems, the options of filters and filtration systems, their operation and maintenance to ensure you have safe and good quality water for drinking. Click here [1] to register!
• My New Home Has A Septic System – What Do I Do Now?...........November 18, 2020
Have you been used to public sewer in previous homes and now you wonder what a septic system is? A summary of septic system function and types will be presented. Key maintenance practices to keep the system operating effectively, prolong it life while protecting human and environmental health will be shared. Click here [2] to register!
• Salty Roads – Salty Drinking Water?.............................................December 9, 2020
The connection of road salts for deicing and its impact on ground and surface water quality will be presented. In addition to potential increased water corrosion and the impact to home appliances, there are several important potential water quality related health risks including elevated sodium, heavy metals and radionuclides caused by road salts. Click here [3] to register!
• Landscaping a Septic System?......................................................January 20, 2021
Whether it be a sand mound drainfield or the maintenance access ports to a septic tank or BAT unit, homeowners often wish they could camouflage these to make their yards more aesthetically pleasing. This webinar will cover considerations, options and specific plants and practices to use. Click here [4] to register!
• All This Rain – Does It Harm My Septic System?........................February 17, 2021
This webinar will present basic hydraulic capacity and design flow of a septic system and how excessive surface water may negatively affect the efficiency of the system and potential harm to the system and environment. Click here [5] to register!
• Pond Management Basics…………………….…………………..……………March 17, 2021
The basics of pond ecology and water quality will be presented with the goal of providing pond owners an understanding of the pond ecosystem and practices to help maintain good water quality. In addition, strategies for managing ponds for varied uses, e.g. fishing, swimming, and irrigation will be covered. Click here [6]to register!
• Water Gardens and Management……….…………………………..……….April 21, 2021
Water gardens can be an enjoyable feature of homes, providing a relaxing area with water sounds, fish and varied colored plants and flowers. Caring for these requires new gardening skills and understanding of water quality to maintain the pond and minimize both required inputs and issues. This webinar will present the basics of managing a water garden. Click here [7]to register!
• Upgrading to Best Available Technology (BAT) Septic System…....May 19, 2021
Advanced nitrogen reduction technologies provide significant improvements in onsite wastewater treatment compared to a traditional septic tank. This webinar will present how the systems work, operation and their care, and will describe Maryland’s Bay Restoration Fund grant program supporting upgrading to the technology. Click here [8] to register!
• Water Contaminants of Emerging Concern (CEC’s)…………………....June 16, 2021
The growth in production and use of industrial chemicals and personal care products has resulted in these contaminants reaching surface and ground waters. Many of these compounds either have been shown to cause environmental damage or are detrimental to human health. This webinar will present an overview of many classifications of CEC’s including organic waste compounds, endocrine disruptors, personal care products and PFAS. Click here [9] to register!
• Prolonging the Life of Your Septic System………………………………..July 21, 2021
A septic system may be the most expensive technology or appliance of a home. Providing proper care and maintenance can help protect your investment, prolong the system life, while reducing risks to public and environmental health. This webinar will present an overview of recommended maintenance practices to empower homeowner to protect their system and help save money. Click here [10] to register!