Water Quality and Management

Growing Great Buffers is a series of short, helpful videos that describe step-by-step maintenance tasks needed for newly planted riparian buffers.

Did you know that runoff containing deicing chemicals can damage our rivers and streams?

Downspout planters are an effective and attractive way to help minimize stormwater problems.

Free workshops enhancing water education for 6-12 grade educators. Curriculum kits and training provided. Earn Act 48 Hours.

These metal yard signs will be installed near Master Watershed Steward restoration projects to prevent maintenance workers from accidentally mowing over plantings.

Why plastic overuse is a problem, defines what microplastics are, and provides tips to reduce our use of plastics.

These yard signs will be installed near Master Watershed Steward restoration projects to prevent maintenance workers from accidentally mowing over plantings. Kit includes 1 Coroplast sign with wire stake.

This article discusses controlling water's edge erosion problems on small riparian sites.

Having a stream in your yard can be a beautiful addition to your property. It can also be a source of frustration and confusion when things aren't going well.

Create and maintain a water-saving rain barrel using the purchased kit, a barrel, and these step-by-step instructions, including photos.

This article provides information on what PFAS chemicals are, their sources, how they impact us, and what we can do about it.

As landscapes grow and develop, the health of streams and rivers affects the quantity and quality of the rainfall entering waterways; what many call stormwater.

Thoughtful selection of streamside trees and shrubs can have the added bonus of producing fruit, nuts, berries, or woody florals for profit or personal enjoyment.

Tips for using the Rain to Drain: Slow the Flow Curriculum at fairs and community events when time is limited.

An interactive online atlas of statewide water resources and use trends to inform and educate Pennsylvanians on the sustainable use of our lakes, rivers, streams, and groundwater.

A video guide to affordable and easy stream bank restoration using branch cuttings called live stakes.

Several Aquatic Invasive Species of particular concern in Pennsylvania are discussed, and their identifying characteristics reviewed.

Manure impacts water quality. In PA, everyone who produces manure needs a plan. That includes 4-H youth!

The following is a list of Middle School Level performance expectations from the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS)*, which are addressed by Rain to Drain – Slow the Flow.

Comprehensive Water Quality and Pesticide Stewardship Outreach lesson plan on water sources, pollution, and best management practices, including engaging groundwater recharge and pollution activity.

Results of a 2006 Penn State study on the condition of septic systems statewide, funded by a grant from the Center for Rural Pennsylvania.

Learn the basics of farms and farming, including crops, livestock, and natural resources, common to Pennsylvania and other Mid-Atlantic and Northeast states.

Rain to Drain: Slow the Flow is a hands-on stormwater education curriculum available from Penn State Extension Youth Water Resources and 4-H.

Taking a deeper look at plastics and how to reduce plastic pollution in the environment.

Managing stormwater, reducing flooding, and improving water quality.