|
Click on photo to view larger image
|
Representatives from federal, state and local agencies in Maryland and nearby states attended MDE’s 21st annual Groundwater Symposium to learn about new regulations, programs and policies, the latest science and state-of-the-art technologies.
The symposium, hosted by MDE’s Water Supply Program, annually attracts about 450 groundwater professionals from around the State and region.
Speakers at this year’s event, held September 27 at Martin's West, included Delegate Maggie McIntosh, chair of the House Environmental Matters committee. Delegate McIntosh talked about some of the important environmental issues that the General Assembly has been working on over the past year, such as changes to the Bay Restoration Fund, and discussed the importance of growth management and planning to ensure the sustainability of Maryland environmental resources.
Ed Singer, director of the Carroll County Bureau of Environmental Health, described how regulations and environmental management have changed over the course of his decades-long career with local environmental health. The final plenary presenter, John Quigley, of John H. Quigley, LLC, gave an overview of Marcellus shale drilling. He talked about the history of shale drilling in Pennsylvania and its environmental and social impacts. He also offered advice for how Maryland regulators can better protect environmental and social resources while still reaping the economic and national security benefits of harvesting domestic fuel reserves.
After the morning plenary session, four concurrent sessions were offered throughout the rest of the day. Speakers from MDE, local environmental health and planning programs, neighboring states, the federal government, academia and the private sector addressed an array of topics related to groundwater management. Presentations were offered on topics that included onsite sewage disposal technologies and regulations, drinking water treatment, source water protection, corrective measures at landfills, groundwater flow regimes and the impacts of hurricanes on groundwater recharge.
The Water Supply Program appreciates the individuals from around the State and region who take the time to prepare and present information about their experiences and areas of expertise. Anyone who is conducting groundwater-related research or implementing an innovative program or who has an interesting case study, is encouraged to email Lyn Poorman of the Water Supply program or call 410-537-3714 about presenting at next year’s symposium. |
