Taking the pledge to protect water quality

SANDUSKY — In 2014, those at the Erie Conservation District and the Old Woman Creek training and engagement program created the clean water contractor program as an adaptive approach to protect local water quality in Erie County. While trainings for stormwater professionals have always been a focus of both organizations in the past, it became clear that a need existed for site contractors in particular. Program goals include: • Expanding on-the-job skill sets and National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permit knowledge • Establishing open lines of communication between contractors and local program agencies • Sharing helpful information about environmental impacts to keep local construction sites in compliance With 10 companies represented at the first field day training, attendance more than doubled the second year to 26 companies. Since then, the clean water contractor training moved to an expo-style event to connect local suppliers with attending contractors and provide attendees with access to the industry's latest technology and innovations. Last year, the program had more than 70 companies pledging to follow environmental regulations pertaining to stormwater management, properly maintain their site controls and encourage others to do the same. People can learn more about the program by visiting erieconserves.org/clean-water-contractor-program Want to go? To be recognized as a clean water contractor, the contractor must achieve the following: • Attend the annual Clean Water Contractor Expo • Sign a pledge card to be kept on-file at Erie Conservation District • Remain free of local violations pertaining to stormwater runoff The 2026 Clean Water Contractor Expo will be from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 19 at Cedar Point Sports Center, 2701 Cleveland Road W. (U.S. 6), Sandusky. Registration is available until Feb. 11. People can learn more about the expo and sign up by visiting cwcexpo2026.eventbrite.com. Breakfast and lunch are provided by the generosity of this year's platinum sponsors: Renewed Outdoors, Evergreen Seed Supply, RYMAR Waterworks Innovations and MKB Stormwater Innovations.