IN THE NEWS:

Deep Creek Watershed Foundation Volunteer Treasurer Needed

The Deep Creek Watershed Foundation is seeking a volunteer Treasurer to help manage cash-basis financial records and QuickBooks accounting for conservation projects. Interested candidates with a background in basic financial statements are encouraged to apply by emailing rahoffmann93@gmail.com.

Deep Creek Watershed Foundation’s Septic & Sewer Community Meetings

To improve local water quality, the Deep Creek Watershed Foundation (DCWF) is advancing initiatives to promote the proper care and maintenance of onsite septic systems, aligning with Goal 9 of the Watershed Management Plan. As part of this ongoing stewardship effort, the Foundation hosted community educational sessions in August 2026 addressing septic and sewer management.

Deep Creek Lake is 100 Years Old!

Curious about the health of Deep Creek Lake? The Deep Creek Watershed Foundation recently hosted its first Scientific Symposium at Garrett College, where six expert scientists shared insights on water quality trends, shoreline erosion, sediment studies, wastewater management, and long-term restoration efforts tied to the Deep Creek Watershed Management Plan. With new data showing gradual water quality concerns and a forthcoming DNR Water Quality Trend Analysis report, the Foundation encourages the community to watch the seven recorded presentations and stay informed about ongoing public-private efforts to protect and preserve the lake and its watershed.

Shoreline Erosion Control Cost-Share Grant Information from DNR

Cristina Sanders of Deep Creek Lake NRMA shared via the Deep Creek Watershed Foundation that shoreline erosion control cost-share grant funds are now available through the Maryland Park Service Deep Creek Lake Management Office, offering financial assistance for eligible projects on Buffer Strip Use Permit sites.

Lake Water Level Management Tool

Brookfield Renewable Energy recently presented stakeholders with insights into the challenges of managing Deep Creek Lake’s water levels. The Deep Creek Watershed Foundation continues efforts to develop a tool for fair water use, balancing power generation and stakeholder needs.

Want a Free Rain Barrel?

Exciting news! If you’ve been thinking about getting a rain barrel this year, you’re in luck—Deep Creek Watershed Foundation still has some available! Just make sure to register by September 15, 2024.

Deep Creek Watershed Foundation Efforts to Support Management of SAVs

Efforts to control Subaquatic Vegetation (SAV) growth in Deep Creek Lake hinge on legislation authored by State Senator Mike McKay (SB837) and Delegate Jim Hinebaugh (HB910). Hearings for these bills are scheduled in Annapolis on Feb 20th and 23rd. We aim for positive hearings in both chambers and hope the bills receive favorable recommendations from committees. Subsequently, they will undergo a second reading before a full vote in the Senate or House of Delegates to determine passage.

Local Non-Profit Makes Strides in Protecting Deep Creek Watershed

The Deep Creek Watershed Foundation, renowned for its impactful environmental initiatives, is capturing attention with its innovative approach to water management in the Deep Creek Watershed. Since its inception eight years ago, the foundation, supported by a dedicated team of volunteers, has been driving transformative change in preserving this vital ecosystem.

Giving Tuesday at DCWF!

Make a Contribution on November 28!

As the holiday season brings a sense of gratitude for all our blessings, please remember the Deep Creek Watershed Foundation in your giving plans!

Check out the 2023’s Project Success and 2024’s Plans For More!

Canada Goose Management within Deep Creek Lake Natural Resources Management Area

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources has been managing Canada geese on Deep Creek Lake for many years. The Department’s ongoing efforts include reducing the rate of growth in the local population through non-lethal nest management in addition to administering a long-standing hunting program during the winter season. The current Canada goose management hunt has been operating since 2015, with three sites on the waters of the lake: Deep Creek Lake State Park, Crows Point, and Turkey Neck. These sites are available for reservations during a 5-day hunt in November.

The “Low-down” on Water Levels at Deep Creek Lake

Deep Creek Lake, initially created in 1925 for hydroelectric power, has evolved over 98 years. Water control shifted from private to public hands, with Maryland now managing levels to meet diverse user needs.

Want a Free Rain Barrel?

Want a Free Rain Barrel? In order to qualify, you must participate in a 30-minute educational class about rain barrel installation, care, and benefits to the environment and local watersheds.

10 IN 10 Project

Help Deep Creek Watershed Foundation in this project to provide an example of how to REFOREST the buffer strip on Deep Creek Lake for properties where erosion is a problem.

We are asking for volunteers to help plant trees at the Deep Creek Lake State Park by the launch dock from April 17- 19. This would be for the prototype garden for the 10 in 10 project (10% vegetation of the riparian border of the Deep Creek Lake in 10 years project.)

Launch Steward Project

The Deep Creek Watershed Foundation has purchased rain jackets, long sleeve ¼ zip sweatshirts, flashlights, and extendable mirrors for the Garrett College Launch Steward Program with part of a grant we received from the Jayne Koskinas Ted Giovanis Foundation for Health and Policy.

Water-Wise Garrett County Officially Underway

The first landscape in Garrett County has been certified as Water-Wise, an exclusive program of University of Maryland Extension, which highlights properties that are installing best management practices to promote water conservation, native plants, stormwater management, and much more!

A No-Cost Way to Donate to the Deep Creek Watershed Foundation

We recently learned of a no-cost manner folks can donate to the DCWF and wanted to share it with you.