ANNAPOLIS, MD (March 16, 2004) – Governor Robert L. Ehrlich, Jr. today announced approval of a $100,000 grant by the Board of Public Works to The Town of Grantsville in Garrett County to help with local stream water quality. The Board is comprised of Governor Ehrlich, Treasurer Nancy K. Kopp and Comptroller William D. Schaefer.

“Better management of non–point sources of pollution in this area will improve down stream conditions and habitat along the Casselman River, a tributary to the scenic Youghiogheny River that is a component of our eco-tourism effort,” said Governor Ehrlich.

The proposed project includes the design and construction of a stormwater management facility to correct problems in the area of Hershberger Lane and Park View Drive in the town. Presently the area is absent of any stormwater management allowing runoff from a nearby farm and surrounding terrain to deposit excess sediment and nutrients in that portion of the Casselman River. If left unchecked, the river could suffer further deterioration from erosion, fecal coliform and other pollutants.

The total cost of the project is $175,000, of which $45,000 is the local share. Funding for today’s Board action comes from the Water Quality Infrastructure Program administered by the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE). Construction is expected to begin in August and be complete by November.

“Without these grants, most small municipalities would have to do without these types of projects,” said Grantsville Mayor Gerald Beachy. “The Town of Grantsville would like to thank the Governor and Maryland Department of the Environment for all your hard work.”

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