Chesapeake Rivers Association Inc DBA Severn Riverkeeper Program

Due to eroding streams and poor septic systems, the Severn River is struggling.

We’re on a mission to Save the Severn-       “One Creek at a Time”. We hope you’ll help!

Fred Kelly, the Severn Riverkeeper, started the Severn Riverkeeper Program in 2002 with a number of friends who were also distressed that the river was getting worse year after year. After 35 years on Saltworks Creek, Fred noticed the loss of fish and wildlife. The yellow perch spawning population had collapsed, and fewer river otters could be seen. His creek, like the rest of the Severn, turned browner with mud after every rainstorm.

 

With the help of Dr. Pierre Henkart, we began monitoring the water quality. What we found was disturbing- a large portion of the Severn couldn’t support life! Each year, there was little improvement.

 

Stormwater runoff is the primary culprit killing marine life and making swimming unsafe. Our mission is to stop the major sources of this type of pollution. To do this, we initiated our “Saving the Severn- One Creek at a Time” program. Major sources of runoff have already been stopped in Brewers, Clements, and Saltworks Creek. Citizens continue to work to restore the rest of the river.

 

One Creek at a Time

Since we committed to saving the Severn from pollution, we have:

• Restored shoreline at Drevar Park
• Restored headwaters of Clements Creek
• Restored Cabin Branch
• Monitored the water quality of the Severn each year

• Restoring shoreline in Chase Creek