ba/stream.pr          97-173                                      Contact: Diane Davis, 301-217-6394


PUBLIC INVITED TO COMMENT
ON STREAM PROTECTION STRATEGY      For Immediate Release: June 2, 1997


     Residents interested in helping to protect the health of local stream waters are invited
to attend a public meeting on the Draft Countywide Stream Protection Strategy (CSPS) on
June 10, from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m., at the Executive Office Building (cafeteria)  in Rockville.
     The Draft Strategy contains an assessment of conditions in the 1,170 miles of streams
in the County.  The document was developed by the County's department of Environmental
Protection in cooperation with the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission.
     In addition to the stream conditions assessments, the CSPS:
     -- identifies management tools that can target resources to protect the streams most in
need; and
     -- provides information that agencies, businesses and the public can use to develop
partnerships which can address stream problems on a smaller, workable level.
     The last Countywide assessment of stream water quality was conducted in 1980, but
this is the first such study that was based upon assessment of aquatic life and stream channel
indicators, as well as the usual chemistry measurements.
     The CSPS indicates that 48 species of fish and approximately 140 types of aquatic
insects were found in local waters.  Many streams supported diverse aquatic communities; 
                                  -more-

PUBLIC INPUT INVITED ON STREAM PROTECTION STRATEGY                   2-2-2-2

others were in an impaired condition (few species and reduced populations.  A few streams
were found to be nearly devoid of aquatic life.
     The Executive office Building is located at 101 Monroe Street.  Free parking is
available under the building on the G2 level.
     Copies of the CSPS may be reviewed at the County's regional public libraries and at
the County's Regional Services Centers.
     For more information, call 301-217-6394.
     
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