Issues in the Watershed

Invasive plants and animals

An invasive species is an organism that is from another region of the world that thrives in our local environment and causes ecological or economic harm. There are a number of invasive species reeking havoc in the watershed including the emerald ash borer, spotted lanternfly (pictured), and many plants.

Stormwater runoff

When it rains, rain water travels over the land and carries with it whatever may be on the surface including trash, road salt, landscaping chemicals, coal-tar sealants, known as nonpoint source pollutants. These nonpoint source pollutants run downhill into our creeks, ponds, and river. Once there, they negatively impact wildlife and water quality.

Fertilizer, herbicide, and pesticide runoff

Many local landscapers, homeowners, and farmers apply chemicals to encourage plant growth or kill pests. Unfortunately, these chemicals are major nonpoint source pollutants, causing harm to our waterways when they are wash into creeks after rain events. Fertilizers make algae grow, causing harmful algae blooms. Herbicides and pesticides are often toxic to aquatic life.

Overpopulation of white tail deer

A normal sight on any day in the watershed is white tail deer. These large herbivores devour most native plants they come in contact with and usually avoid munching invasive plants. This overgrazing makes it extremely difficult for native plants to thrive and for successful tree grow and planting. Deer contribute to the success of invasive plants.

Thermal pollution from man-made ponds

Although beautiful and historically interesting, ponds and dams are a major source of thermal pollution. Ponds act like a heat sink, warming water in the summer and then discharging the warmed water downstream, harming organisms that thrive in cold waters. Dams create a physical barrier, limiting how far fish can migrate upstream.

Deterioration of stream riparian buffer zones

The riparian buffer zone is the land area adjacent to a water body. When properly vegetated, this important strip of land helps reduce nonpoint source pollution, prevent erosion of stream banks, and creates wildlife habitat. Developing or impairing these areas cause direct negative impacts to the water body.

Improperly maintained private wells and septic systems

Improperly maintained wells and septic systems can leach contaminants into ground and surface water.