Join Us in Cleaning and Restoring the
Port Tobacco River for Future Generations
The Port Tobacco River is simply amazing.
For those of us fortunate enough to live here, the river plays such a vital role in our lives. It provides beauty and nourishment. It offers recreation and a backdrop for memorable days with friends and family.
Yet stormwater runoff and septic system failures continue to pollute the river and endanger its future.
The S.O.A.R initiative is dedicated to spreading the word about the most important ways that residents can come together to Save Our Amazing River.
Take the Port Tobacco Septic Survey!
Port Tobacco Resident? Complete our online Septic Survey to be entered in a random prize
drawing or at least one septic pump-out voucher worth up to $400!
S.O.A.R. Septic Program
Many of our homes rely on septic systems that, if not properly maintained, contribute to pollution in our waterways. Proper septic care reduces harmful nitrogen that can lead to algae blooms, dead zones, and the decline of aquatic life.
Septic Pump-Out Incentives
If you live in the Port Tobacco zip code and complete our brief online survey, you are eligible for:
- A $100 rebate from Charles County Government toward the cost of a septic pump-out. Find more details here.
- The first 100 respondents will be entered in a random prize drawing for at least one septic pump-out reimbursement worth up to $400.
- Join the PTRC today for an additional random prize drawing for at least two free pump-out reimbursements worth up to $400 each.
Care for Your Property. Protect Our River.
Every homeowner can actively protect the quality of groundwater
before it leaves their property. Here’s how:
Septic System Care:
- Pump & Save Money: Pumping your septic tank costs about $300 compared to $8,000 for a replacement. Regular maintenance saves thousands.
- Pump Out Regularly: Pump your tank every 3 years to prevent costly failures. Don’t wait for problems to become noticeable.
- Protect Drain Field: Avoid compacting the drain field and prevent large roots from causing damage.
- Avoid Overloading: Spread household water use throughout the day and week to prevent overloading your system.
- Install Nitrogen-Reducing Units: Consider adding a nitrogen-reducing unit to your system. Grants are available through the Bay Restoration Fund.
Home Maintenance:
- Manage Rainwater: Direct rainwater from downspouts away from drain fields to prevent overload.
- Create Buffers and Rain Gardens: Plant buffers and install rain gardens to manage rainwater and filter pollutants.
- Limit Fertilizer Use: Apply high-nitrogen fertilizers sparingly, and only in the fall.
- Dispose Properly: Recycle oils and chemicals instead of dumping them on the ground or into your septic system.
- Plant Trees Wisely: Add trees to your property, but avoid planting them over the drain field to prevent root damage.
Community Involvement:
- Attend Workshops: Join workshops on rain gardens.
- Participate in Clean-Ups: Engage in river clean-up events.
- Get Involved: Join local watershed organizations and cherish our beautiful rivers and land.
Download Our
Septic Care Brochure!
Become a River Keeper
The Port Tobacco River Conservancy is actively recruiting new members to help us reach out goals to protect and restore our river.
Every member of PTRC earns the title River Keeper, while members 13 and under are Junior River Keepers.
River Keepers
Enjoy benefits such as regular updates, invitations to special events, and a stronger voice in river conservation efforts.
Dues: $50 Annually
Junior River Keepers
(age 13 & under):
Youth members receive unique educational opportunities, activities, and a chance to actively participate in preserving our river.
FREE
