The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service and the Geronimo and Alligator Creeks Watershed Partnership are teaming up to host a free workshop on low-impact development (LID) concepts. The workshop, scheduled for September 5th at the Seguin Independent School District Irma Lewis Outdoor Learning Center, aims to educate participants on ways to reduce runoff and erosion while improving local water quality.
One of the key focuses of the workshop is the importance of LID in mitigating the harmful effects of urban development on natural water flow. While structures like houses, roads, and parking lots may seem innocuous, they can disrupt the natural flow of water, leading to increased runoff and pollution. By implementing LID practices, individuals and organizations can help minimize these disruptions and protect the environment.
The workshop will cover a range of LID concepts, including the design and function of rain gardens, pervious pavement, green roofs, and rainwater harvesting. These practices are all aimed at reducing runoff volume and pollution in urbanized environments. By learning about the design, construction, and maintenance of these elements, participants can play a role in promoting sustainable stormwater management.
Leading the workshop is Fouad Jaber, Ph.D., an AgriLife Extension specialist and professor in the Texas A&M College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Department of Biological and Agricultural Engineering. Dr. Jaber emphasizes the importance of green stormwater infrastructure in urban environments and will provide valuable insights into how these elements can be integrated into development projects.
The Geronimo and Alligator Creeks Watershed Partnership, a stakeholder-driven group, is actively working to address watershed bacteria and nutrient impairments in the region. Through their Watershed Protection Plan, the partnership aims to educate the community and increase stakeholder involvement in efforts to restore and protect local water quality. Funding for these initiatives is provided through a federal Clean Water Act nonpoint source grant administered by the Texas Soil and Water Conservation Board with support from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
Professional engineers, floodplain managers, and certified American Institute of Certified Planners members are eligible to receive three continuing education units for attending the workshop. To register for the event, visit https://tx.ag/geronimocreek or call 979-321-5921. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn about LID concepts and contribute to the preservation of water quality in your community.