Learn about natural techniques for cleansing and conserving stormwater for humans and wildlife, at any scale–backyard to campus to region. Our bayous and bays are greatly impacted by the quality of the stormwater flowing into them, and now is a great time to start improving it with practices we can implement at home, at school, or beyond. The workshop is open to everyone, with particular focus on educators. TCWP demonstrates many years of partnering with schools and educators to produce innovative sites with a positive impact on water quality and wildlife.

Join us on Saturday, March 4, in a beautiful setting–the Gulf Coast Bird Observatory‘s new LEED-certified building in Lake Jackson, TX.

Speakers and Topics:

• Charriss York, Green Stormwater Infrastructure Program Specialist: Collecting and cleansing stormwater runoff at home, the neighborhood, and schools
• Mary Carol Edwards, Stormwater Wetland Program Specialist: Using wetlands in flood control basins for water quality and habitat
• Marissa Sipocz, Wetland Restoration Program Specialist: How large-scale wetland restoration benefits us all

Workshop Schedule:

8:30-9:00–Registration

9:00-9:10—Opening remarks by the Gulf Coast Bird Observatory

9:10-9:20—Introductions to the speakers, green infrastructure program, and the Wetland Plant Partnership with GCBO

9:20-10:05—Charriss York on techniques for capturing and cleaning stormwater as part of the small-scale landscape

10:05-10:50—Marissa Sipocz on getting engaged in freshwater and estuarine wetland restoration

10:50-11:10—Break

11:10-11:55—Mary Carol Edwards on changing the way we design and use flood control basins, including campus ponds, in this region.

11:55-12:00—Concluding remarks

Attendees are encouraged to walk the birding trails, and visit the onsite wetland nursery. Bring your lunch and enjoy the setting!