Finally, a SAV survey has been conducted which helps establish a baseline for Churn Creek. It is quite likely that these activities are currently underway because property owners were made aware of the problems in their community by the Churn Creek Project. Furthermore, the project has empowered the stewards to make changes in their neighborhood. Even though progress has been made by the outreach and education effort with property owners in the watershed, the differences between agricultural and non-agricultural property owners' knowledge of nutrient management was striking. Non-agricultural property owners tend to have minimal knowledge of their impact on nutrient loading of the Bay.
Farmers have a stronger understanding, probably due to the vast amount of resources available.
Resources for suburban homeowners are available, but the education and awareness efforts targeting homeowners is minimal compared to the attention given to agricultural properties. Also, there is a tendency for homeowners to identify agricultural contributions to nutrient loading because agricultural activities are so apparent. However, suburban homeowners are not aware of their impacts on water quality because runoff and clogged septic tanks are less obvious contributors to nutrient loading. As part of the continuing education effort, a newsletter will be sent to suburban homeowners addressing this issue. The Churn Creek Project has already increased awareness of nutrient reduction issues, but the achievements are only the beginning of a long-term commitment to the Churn Creek watershed and the Chesapeake Bay.