In September, the County’s Department of Environmental Protection, in partnership with Montgomery College, introduced a new National Green Infrastructure Training and Certification Program. The exam results, posted on December 7, indicated that 100% of the students who took the exam, passed the test. The national pass rate is 84%. DEP staffers, Ann English and Ryan Zerbe taught the curriculum that was offered at Montgomery College’s Germantown campus.
The new training and certification program ensures that individuals have the foundational knowledge needed to properly perform tasks in construction, inspection, and maintenance of green infrastructure, a fast-growing approach to reduce stormwater pollution. These practices are essential to effectively managing stormwater to minimize flooding risk and protect property and natural resources. The practices, which can include green roofs, pervious pavement, rain gardens, rain barrels, and other approaches, mimic and restore the natural water cycle.
The introduction of the 22 newly-certified professionals helps to generate a trained, green workforce to connect skilled workers to in-demand jobs that protect and preserve the environment. This workforce development work supports the design, construction and installation and maintenance work that DEP is doing to meet the regulatory requirements that the County must meet in their MS4 stormwater permit. The training program is consistent with the DEP mission to enhance the quality of life in our community by protecting and improving Montgomery County's air, water and land in a sustainable way while fostering smart growth, a thriving economy and healthy communities.
