The National NEMO Network is hosting several webinars in 2012. The first webinar “NEMO Programs and the Healthy Watersheds Initiative” was held on March 7th and is now online at http://nemonet.uconn.edu/webinars/healthy_watersheds/.

The next webinar is “Surrogate TMDLs-Better Than the Real Thing?” and will be held on May 2nd, 2012. For more information and to register visit http://nemonet.uconn.edu/webinars.

Surrogate TMDLs Abstract: In some areas of the country, states are issuing “surrogate” Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) orders that use impervious cover, flow or other factors as a surrogates for pollutant load limits in impaired streams. The intent is to develop a pragmatic, simplified approach to addressing the complex web of urbanization impacts on stream health. While the ultimate end goal is the same – improved biological health of the stream – the implementation is focused on tangible actions that communities can take to disconnect impervious cover and reduce runoff volume.

This webinar will explore how these TMDLs were developed, how they are working (or not), and whether or not they are a viable alternative to a traditional TMDL. Case studies from CT and Maine will be highlighted.

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