What is WSA?

Do you know what is the single, greatest source of pollution to our area waterways? The answer: untreated (or polluted) stormwater runoff.

The good news is that we can do something about it - in large part, thanks to the Watershed Stewards Academy (WSA).

WSA has been an important participant at the annual Earth Day Festival. The work they do makes such a difference to our community. Watch and learn about this important treasure: What is WSA

WSA and GNG hope that we each recognize that individual actions make a difference in stormwater runoff. Here are some of the things we can do:

• Reuse rainwater
• Plant a rain garden
• Install a patio, sidewalk, or driveway that absorbs rainwater. Learn about permeable pavers.
• Practice Bay-Friendly Car Maintenance
• Dispose of hazardous waste properly
• Lawn care with limited use of pesticides fertilizers
• Pick up after your pet - scoop the poop!
• Be a responsible boater
• Maintain your septic system
• Be sure lids are on trash cans and recycle bins so that items don’t land on the ground.
• If you’re a smoker, put your cigarette butts in the trash. Cigarette filters are made of plastic. They release toxic chemicals, including arsenic and lead and can get trapped in the digestive tracts of animals, birds, and many Bay creatures.

WSA envisions every community in Anne Arundel County actively engaged to ensure a healthy environment for all. Our mission: to train and mobilize community leaders to drive change for sustainable landscapes and clean waters.

WSA trains Master Watershed Stewards to help neighbors reduce pollution in our local creeks and rivers. Our hands-on certification course gives Stewards the tools to implement change in their communities, turning knowledge into action. Stewards work with their communities to install projects such as rain gardens or conservation landscapes and to reduce pollution at its source. Collectively, these small community-based actions are improving the health of the larger Chesapeake Bay watershed. Learn more about WSA

You’re invited: contact WSA and get involved with cleaning up our rivers and streams!