Studying the aquatic insects found in Marsh Creek helps us determine how healthy the stream is.

Protecting and Restoring the Health of the Marsh Creek Watershed:
The Watershed Alliance of Adams County (WAAC) is an organization of citizens of the watersheds of Adams County. These landowners, teachers, farmers, sportsmen, business people and others are volunteers who work together in the community to document changes over time in the water quality of their local streams including Marsh Creek and Rock Creek..

All volunteers undergo special training in chemical and biological sampling. WAAC is committed to good science and sharing the results of its work with anyone interested in the quality of their local streams. Through educational programs, WAAC volunteers work to foster appreciation of the value of these streams. WAAC hopes that its work will ensure the preservation of the waters of Adams County for generations to come.

How You Can Help Protect the Watershed:

• Make your voice heard. Support local land use plans that allow for compatible growth and that protect ground water and wetlands.
• Reduce the use of fertilizer and pesticides on your lawn.
• Use Best Management Practices (BMPs) on agricultural and timer land.
• Plant trees and shrubs along stream banks to reduce erosion and absorb nutrients and sediment runoff.
• Make sure your home septic system is routinely cleaned.
• Recycle paper, newspaper, glass, tin aluminum, cardboard, plastics, used motor oil and safely dispose of toxic materials.
• Install effective anti-siltation devices to keep exposed soil from washing into streams during construction. Plant grass as soon as possible to prevent soil erosion.
• Use phosphate-free detergents.