The CWEA Spring Seminar is presented to facilitate peer-to-peer information exchange for representatives of regulated stormwater programs. The goal of this seminar is to encourage lessons learned and case studies surrounding pollutants of emerging concern that we don’t often get to hear about, yet still have to address within the Chesapeake Bay, such as organics including polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), metals (e.g., mercury, lead, copper, nickel, zinc); microplastics; pesticides; salts; trash; bacteria (including the state of microbial source tracking); and thermal impacts.

The seminar will tentatively follow two tracks:
Track 1: Scientific Advances
This track will consist of 30 to 45-minute sessions that focus on monitoring and the latest research into local and regional TMDL compliance. Topic examples include:
– Pollutant source tracking
– Data collection
– Emerging pollutants
– Monitoring and assessment tools
– Trading/offsets programs

Track 2: Planning and Implementation
This track will consist of 30 to 45-minute case studies on BMP implementation, regulations to reduce or eliminate products/chemicals, and tools for planning and implementation. Topic examples include:
– Source control (e.g., pesticide management, runoff elimination, plastic bag ban)
– Using water quality monitoring to inform decision making
– BMP selection, performance and verification
– Tracking and reporting

Abstract Submittal and Information
Authors shall submit an abstract (500 words maximum) concisely describing their project or program. All abstracts must be received by March 18, 2024. Notice of acceptance/rejection is scheduled for April 4, 2024. Abstract submittals shall include title; track (1 or 2); local TMDL and/or pollutant of concern addressed; abstract (<500 words); and brief speaker bio (<100 words).

The CWEA Stormwater Committee encourages the participation of students and young professionals. Abstracts that include a student or young professional co-presenter are strongly encouraged.

If you are interested in submitting an abstract, please respond via email or telephone to Leying Zhang: Leying.Zhang@montgomerycountymd.gov/ (202) 207-8061