Public Drainage Task Force Report
In July 1998, the Choptank River Tributary Team wrote the DNR Secretary raising a potential conflict between non-point nutrient and sediment controls that slow down water movement and the need for adequate land drainage through established public drainage systems. The letter recommended development of best management practices through interagency consultation between DNR, Departments of the Environment and Agriculture, the State Highway Administration, and local jurisdictions.
After endorsement by the Governor's Chesapeake Bay Cabinet, the Cabinet Chair convened the Public Drainage Task Force. The Task Force comprised a broad based group, including representatives of the agricultural, legally-established, Public Drainage Associations as well as local environmental groups to allow a greater exchange of information and ideas, greater buy-in of proposed solutions, and better consideration of issues beyond those associated with Public Drainage Association operations and maintenance. The Task Force was charged with creating a 'win-win' solution for the agricultural community and the environment of our Eastern Shore.
The report was completed in October 2000, endorsed by the Governor's Chesapeake Bay Workgroup, and forwarded to the Chesapeake Bay Cabinet for implementation. This entire effort exemplifies the important role the Tributary Teams are playing in identifying and bringing significant local and regional watershed issues to the attention of Maryland state agencies. Beyond the role the Choptank Tributary Team played in raising the original matter, representatives from all Eastern Shore Tributary Teams were active members of the Task Force. This commitment and participation is itself a "win-win" solution for Maryland.
Moving
Water: A Report to the Chesapeake Bay Cabinet
by the
Public Drainage Task Force - October 2000
(3.14 MB PDF File)
For more information, contact:
Claudia Donegan
DNR Habitat Restoration and Conservation - Community Partnerships Program
cdonegan@dnr.state.md.us
or
Carrie Decker
DNR Watershed Specialist
cdecker@dnr.state.md.us
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