Information Sessions for Homeowners

Presentations to our Three Oaks Association Owners

Our Three Oaks Association Storm Water Grant Team held several information sessions with the HOA owners and renters.



First we gave background information on what storm water is, why it can be a problem in our neighborhood, and what we can do about it.

We have some terrific presentation posters to illustrate all of those points.



Second, we handed out material that shows what our Grant budget looks like, including how much is matched by our HOA reserve funds and by "in-kind" donations from our neighbors.



We also offered drawings that illustrate the current property area and the concept of the Conservation Landscape as it will be constructed in November 2018.

Owners like to see the detailed plant illustrations, which give them ideas of what native plants will flourish in their personal yards. 

 

Prior to Construction: Perc Test completed!

We needed a perc test!

As we get closer to the construction of our Conservation Landscape (CL), a Three Oaks Association owner (Katherine) enlisted the help of her grandchildren to dig a hole and check if the water would drain according to CL rules.
This drainage check is commonly called a "perc test," where you see if the water percolates quickly enough into the soil to allow proper drainage. If the soil does not "perc" quickly enough, then the rainwater will simply run downhill and pool at the lowest point.

Children can help dig and measure a for a perc test!

This test is ideal for eager hands and a strong shovel. You also need a measuring tape to make the hole the proper depth.

After digging the hole, you fill it with water. After waiting 24 hours, check the hole. If the water has all drained and the hole is empty, the perc test is successful.  Some standards ask for a repeat.

While doing this test, be sure to cover the hole or fence it off so no one will hurt themselves. And then fill the hole when the test is completed.

Here's a great pdf that gives easy illustrations for doing a perc test:   https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DEP/Resources/Files/downloads/rainscapes/How-To-Do-a-Perc-Test.pdf

Free light bulb swap!

At one of the 5 Books and Bulbs events in Montgomery County, MD 

October is Energy Action Month!  Montgomery County is celebrating with programs and events that can help residents and businesses save energy and money.

Books and Bulbs are free events where County residents bring their old, inefficient light bulbs and trade them for free for up to 3 LED bulbs, a kids’ activity book, and a reusable bag. 

• Wed, Oct 10 from 3-5pm at Connie Morella Library in Bethesda
• Sat, Oct 13 from 10:30am-12:30pm at Damascus Library
• Mon, Oct 15 from 4-6pm at Maggie Nightingale Library in Poolesville
• Thurs, Oct 18 from 5-7pm at Marilyn J. Praisner Library in Burtonsville
• Sat, Oct 27 from 12-2pm at the White Oak Library

More information on Montgomery County's Energy Events
https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/green/energy/index.html