Muddy Water Watch

Muddy Water Watch (MWW) is a state-wide initiative to reduce stormwater runoff from construction sites by providing training workshops and materials developed specifically for citizens on the NC Sedimentation Pollution Control Act of 1973 and the NC NPDES General Permit for construction stormwater runoff. MWW was developed so that trained volunteers will be able to properly identify sedimentation and erosion violations from active construction sites, as well as document poorly maintained Best Management Practices (BMP’s).

Who is involved in MWW?

MWW involves all nine North Carolina Riverkeepers, including Yadkin Riverkeeper®. We have also partnered with Southern Environmental Law Center, Conservation Council of NC and other watershed groups across the state to help stem the tide of sediment, NC’s #1 water pollution problem, from further impacting our rivers, streams and drinking water supplies. To date, more than a thousand NC citizens have participated in MWW trainings and volunteers across the state have reported over 300 non-compliant construction sites and hundreds of problematic construction sites. Yadkin Riverkeeper is in the process of training over 100 volunteers in the Yadkin River Basin to help improve compliance with the NC Sedimentation Pollution Control Act and to protect our water resources. 

How can you help?

Yadkin Riverkeeper is looking for Muddy Water Watch (MWW) volunteers. No previous knowledge of erosion and sedimentation is needed, just a motivation to learn.  We are looking for people to:

  • monitor construction sites and take pictures of potential violations
  • document and report streams, creeks, and other waterways that are polluted with excessive sediment
  • attend MWW trainings and meetings
  • learn how to use several data storage websites
  • take aerial photographs after heavy rainfalls
  • participate in our photo and video contest

How do I learn more about MWW?

The easiest way to get involved is to make sure you have signed up for the Yadkin Riverkeeper listserve to keep up with the latest information on Yadkin Riverkeeper events and activities, including MWW training opportunities.  Also, please visit the official Muddy Water Watch website to learn more about this statewide program, praised by the EPA in their July 2008 NPS magazine.  You will find complete job descriptions, contact information, workshop dates and locations, online training materials, and much more.  Contact Yadkin Riverkeeper for more information.

Less than 1% of all the water on the planet is available fresh water.

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