Back River Restoration Committee Cleans Up Storm Debris

Mother Nature has wreaked havoc all across Maryland this week. 

The storms crossing Baltimore have produced a great deal of damage—flooding roadways, knocking out power and tearing down trees. Unfortunately, the heavy downpours also wash litter, debris and trees into the waterways.

The Back River Restoration Committee (BRRC) staff and volunteers worked diligently throughout the week to remove trash, sticks, limbs and whole trees from the river as they accumulated along the trash boom. 

The boom, when properly in place, prevents much of the litter and other debris from washing into and polluting the Chesapeake Bay. The boom is also responsible for keeping the Back River a safer and cleaner waterway for those who earn their living on the water. The BRRC has also made a huge impact on making the Back River a more enjoyable and safer recreational venue.

On Saturday, a dedicated crew of environmentalists met at the trash boom site on Diamond Point Road to continue the cleanup from the week's storms, including downpours on Thursday and Friday nights.

Brian and Elliott Schilpp partnered with Fred Juggernaut on the barge to remove the large trees in the water along the trash boom. Clarke and Joyce Testerman, along with Don Albright, manned the bobcat and ARGO vehicles on shore, processing the debris.

This Saturday, volunteers are asked to again meet at the trash boom site as summer storms continue to dump hazardous items into the river. Proper attire that can get wet and dirty is recommended. Work gloves should also be worn for your protection. Bringing hand tools such as rakes and shovels will also be helpful and much appreciated. The crew will begin at 8 a.m. and plans to be there for several hours. To volunteer your time, call 443-414-4384 or email savebackriver@gmail.com.

The BRRC will also be hosting a golf tournament at Rocky Point Golf Course on Sept. 15. Visit their website for all the details.

Help of a Different Kind

The world of business is a tough situation in today's economy.

Some local entrepreneurs are networking to improve their chances of success. On the third Friday of each month, a group of women gathers at to discuss what they do, how they are handling the recent recession and ways to prepare for what might be coming. 

Woman business owners and entrepreneurs are welcome to attend the “Connections Over Coffee” event.  Details are available in the free On Purpose Woman magazine (available at the Essex Library), or on the website (ginnyrobertson.com). Mark your calendar for Sept. 16.