The Deep Creek Watershed Management Plan provides direction for protecting, enhancing, and restoring the resources of the Deep Creek watershed. A plan was developed and published in 2016 as a cooperative effort between state and county government agencies, business owners, and local citizens. This plan outlines an array of actions needed to address the concerns identified by this public-private partnership.
The Deep Creek Lake Administrative Council is represented by agencies with regulatory control in the Deep Creek Lake watershed including Garrett County Government, Maryland Department of the Environment, and Maryland Department of Natural Resources that ultimately oversee the implementation of the plan. The Administrative Council is guided by the Steering Committee and comprised of local, state, and community representatives. The council works through the steering committee to balance environmental conservation, recreation, and economic development while ensuring the long-term health of the watershed.
The Deep Creek Lake Administrative Council Steering Committee met on Friday, January 31, 2025, to review and refine the priorities for the next two years, focusing on critical watershed management efforts and the implementation of targeted conservation strategies. During the meeting, members discussed emerging environmental challenges, assessed ongoing initiatives, and coordinated actions to align with the tasks and objectives outlined in the Deep Creek Lake Watershed Management Plan.
Key topics discussed included water quality monitoring & protection, aquatic invasive species prevention, shoreline & watershed management, policy coordination, and community engagement.
Updates were provided on monitoring of water quality in the lake, sediment control, harmful algal bloom prevention, and stormwater management strategies. The committee also reviewed the latest initiatives to prevent the introduction and spread of invasive species, emphasizing boater education, decontamination stations, and inter-agency cooperation.
A discussion on best practices for shoreline stabilization, buffer plantings, and sustainable land use emphasized the importance of property owner participation in lake preservation efforts. And a constant and ongoing effort is to improve transparency and public outreach including updates on lake-related policies, upcoming educational events, and resources available to property owners and recreational users.
"The health of Deep Creek Lake is directly tied to the health of its watershed, and our coordinated approach ensures that we are addressing challenges proactively," said Molly Ramsey, Watershed Coordinator for Garrett County Government. "By fostering collaboration between local, state, and community stakeholders, we can protect this vital resource for future generations while supporting responsible recreation and the economic activity that supports the Garrett County area."
The committee will continue to work on the management plan and strategies, with the next meeting scheduled for Friday, February 7, 2025 at 10:00 A.M. Community members are encouraged to stay informed and participate in lake preservation efforts by visiting https://www.garrettcountymd.gov/community-development/watershed-management/deep-creek-lake.
A public input survey will be announced within the next 30 to 60 days.
For more information or to get involved, please contact Molly Ramsey at 301-334-1923 or email mramsey@garrettcountymd.gov.
