The Kitsap Public Health District has scheduled a project kickoff meeting for its Murden Cove Watershed Water Quality Project on Wednesday, April 24, 2013, from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Bainbridge Island Grange Hall, located at 10340 Madison Avenue NE on Bainbridge Island.

The District was awarded a National Estuary Program “Toxics and Nutrients Prevention, Reduction and Control Grant” from the Washington State Department of Ecology to conduct a targeted nutrient and fecal bacteria reduction project in the Murden Cove watershed.

The purpose of the project is to assess, identify and correct residential nutrient non-point pollution sources in the Murden Cove watershed using the District’s Pollution Identification and Correction (PIC) Program methodology. The goal of the project is to improve water quality in Murden Cove to protect shellfish, aquatic habitat and public health.

At the kickoff event, District staff will discuss the project and provide information on the basic mechanics of septic systems, maintenance tips to help maximize system life and information about natural yard care. A wide variety of free printed materials will be available, including the District’s “Homeowner Septic System Manual”. Free water conservation items, such as low-flow shower heads and “toilet tummies”, will also be available upon request.

Partners for this project include the Bainbridge Island Watershed Council, Sakai Middle School, IslandWood, and the City of Bainbridge Island. Members from each group will be in attendance at the meeting to provide information about their efforts in the watershed. A question and answer period will follow the presentations.