Students

PFAS is a huge global pollution issue that will be with for many decades or longer. These ‘forever chemicals’ are also everywhere and are causing human health issues and impacting our environment. There are dozens of research studies ongoing to help us know more about the risks of PFAS and also how to reduce our exposure. Tune into this webinar to hear the latest on this contaminant and what you can do.

Is your septic system old and in need of replacement? Join this webinar to learn more about how advanced treatment units (ATU) can provide benefits to the environment and public health. Also, learn about Maryland’s Bay Restoration Fund grant program to help replace septic tanks with advanced treatment units or best available technology (BAT). The increased treatment and nitrogen reduction and operation of these systems greatly reduces the risks to groundwater and helps to extend the lifespan of a drainfield.

Stormwater runoff originates during precipitation events when water flows over the ground. Hard surfaces such as streets and rooftops increase runoff by preventing water from soaking into the ground. Water running over these hard surfaces can pick up sediment, chemicals, debris, and toxins which are carried to local streams. These pollutants prevent waterways from being fishable and swimmable. Learn about ways to manage stormwater at your home and community.

Tune in to hear answers to the most frequently asked questions on drinking water quality. You can also ask your own questions during the registration process or during the webinar. Learn from what others ask!

Seems we are hearing more about floods in recent years due to extreme weather and the damage they cause to buildings and road infrastructure. What we don’t see often with flooding is the damage to underground systems such as wells or septic systems. In these situations, the damage can be to our health due to contamination. This webinar will discuss issues with increased flooding, the impacts to our home water and wastewater systems and strategies to reduce risks.

There are many contaminants that can occur in drinking water depending on the source. We will discuss the most common ones including bacteria, metals, nutrients; where they come from and how to know if they are present and how to treat them. The quality of water we drink is important to our health and this webinar will discuss key steps to ensure good drinking water quality.

A septic system is the most expensive appliance or system in a home! There are several practices you can do to help your system work effectively, last longer, and therefore save you money. We will discuss these practices.

Become a plant detective and enhance your diagnostic skills! Join Madeline Potter, UME Faculty Specialist for Entomology & IPM, for a three-part plant diagnostic training series with a focus on diagnosing plant damage by insects and other arthropods. Live attendance is highly encouraged to participate in interactive portions of the training, but each training will be recorded if you cannot join us live. Training topics will include diagnostic tools, identification of plant damage categories and types, identification of common arthropod pests, plant diagnostic case studies, and more. Participants will have the opportunity to put their new skills to practice by virtually submitting monthly plant damage specimens. Register to receive webinar recording links and materials.

Schedule:
-Sept. 11th: Diagnosing plant problems
-Oct. 9th: Insect identification
-Nov. 13th: Integrated pest management & working with the public

When it comes to adding color and texture to your living space, look no further than houseplants. In this presentation, University of Maryland Extension Horticulture Educator Ginny Rosenkranz will discuss the top 10 picks for easy houseplants and dive into the deep end of sprucing up our indoor spaces.

If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in this activity please contact your local University of Maryland Extension Office, Rachel Rhodes (410) 758-0166 or rjrhodes@umd.edu by February 6, 2025.

University programs, activities, and facilities are available to all without regard to race, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, age, national origin, political affiliation, physical or mental disability, religion, protected veteran status, genetic information, personal appearance, or any other legally protected class.

Using winter salt to provide safe roads, parking lots, and sidewalks during ice or snow storms is common in Maryland, with the vast majority used on roads. However, many times too much winter salt is used during winter storms. Many people think salt is there to melt snow or ice and tend to follow the more is better philosophy, but that’s not what salt’s primary job is. Over-salting doesn’t help, it’s throwing money down the drain! Join Extension Specialist Dr. Andrew Lazur, who will discuss, melting snow and ice safely to protect our waterways.