The workshop will include presentations by CBU Environmental Engineering Professor, Bill Bailey; CBRM Wastewater Operations Supervisor, Brandon Talbot; and a MacLeod Lorway Insurance representative. Topics will include the impact of stormwater on the environment and municipal infrastructure as well as ways to protect your home from flooding.
A question and answer session will follow. ACAP Cape Breton will then present how-to sessions on rain barrel installation and rain garden construction. Light refreshments will be provided.
Stormwater has become one of the largest sources of water pollution on the planet as rain carries waste like motor oil, windshield fluid, and pet leavings directly from the streets into waterways often without passing through wastewater treatment.
“We encourage homeowners to find ways to keep stormwater clean by picking up litter and minimizing the use of fertilizers and pesticides,” says Brandon Talbot, Supervisor of Wastewater Operations in CBRM. “Citizens can also reduce the load on municipal infrastructure by collecting rain water in barrels and directing runoff from homes to an area where it can soak into the ground, such as a rain garden. Downspouts should never be attached to municipal sewers.
“We are happy to present speakers to inform the community of best practices for stormwater”, says Susan King, executive director at ACAP Cape Breton. “Homeowners and interested minds alike will benefit from learning from our region’s experts about what water flow means for their property and city.”
For more information, please phone ACAP Cape Breton at 902-567-1628 or visit acapcb.ns.ca.
