New “Mud Busters” Program Helps Document Pollution Problems

Citizens concerned that runoff of muddy, sediment-filled rainwater from construction sites is damaging local waterways can help solve the problem by joining the Chesapeake Bay Foundation’s (CBF) Team Mud Busters.

Team Mud Busters members will keep an eye on local construction projects in their community. After a rain event, members will take digital photographs of on-the-ground controls that appear to be failing to keep muddy runoff out of storm drains, roadways, and streams. The photos will be sent to CBF, who will report significant violations to the proper authorities. In 2007, CBF plans to use the data collected to develop a region-wide report on construction site runoff. The report will focus attention on areas where regulations are inadequate, or better enforcement is needed. CBF says their goal is to document the problem of construction site pollution and then hold government accountable to stop it. Anyone interested in joining Team Mud Busters should visit http://www.cbf.org/site/PageServer?pagename=exp_sub_state_stormwater_mud . The site also provides a guide to construction site erosion and sediment control practices, and tips for identifying violations.