Anacostia Watershed Society

Anacostia Watershed Society is a nonprofit environmental organization dedicated to restoring and protecting the Anacostia River and its watershed. Founded in 1989, the society works to address severe pollution and habitat degradation through scientific restoration, advocacy, and extensive community programs. Its efforts are centered in the Washington metropolitan area, encompassing portions of the District of Columbia and Prince George's County, Maryland.

History

The organization was established in 1989 by Robert Boone, a former Department of the Interior employee, in response to the river being declared one of the most polluted in the United States by the Environmental Protection Agency. Early advocacy was crucial in prompting the District of Columbia Water and Sewer Authority to address longstanding issues with combined sewer overflow systems. A pivotal moment came in 1998 when the society, alongside partners like the Anacostia Watershed Citizens Advisory Committee, helped secure a landmark consent decree with the Government of the District of Columbia to implement major water infrastructure improvements.

Mission and work

The society's mission is to make the Anacostia River swimmable and fishable by 2025. Core work involves hands-on ecological restoration, including large-scale reforestation and wetland creation projects at sites like Kingman Lake and Watts Branch. It actively monitors water quality and champions strong policies, such as the DC bag bill, which reduced plastic pollution. The organization also leads major trash trap installations and collaborates with agencies like the United States Army Corps of Engineers on sediment management.

Environmental issues and restoration efforts

The Anacostia River faces challenges from urban runoff, toxic sediments, and pervasive trash. The society addresses these through targeted initiatives like the Anacostia River Sediment Project, which aims to remediate contamination from historical industrial sites. It has planted over 70,000 native trees to reduce stormwater flow and improve habitat. Key restoration sites include the Northeast Branch and areas around Bladensburg Waterfront Park. The organization also advocates for full implementation of the Clean Water Act and the Anacostia River Restoration Strategy.

Community engagement and education

Public involvement is central to the society's strategy. It runs the Anacostia Riverkeeper program to patrol and protect the riverway. Annual events like the Anacostia River Festival and the Earth Day Cleanup draw thousands of volunteers. Its education department provides canoe and kayak trips for students from District of Columbia Public Schools and Prince George's County Public Schools, fostering direct connection to the watershed. Programs often partner with institutions like the Smithsonian Anacostia Community Museum.

Organizational structure and partnerships

The society is governed by a board of directors and employs a staff of scientists, educators, and program managers. It operates from its primary River Center at 1301 4th Street SE in Washington, D.C.. Critical partnerships include collaborations with the District Department of Energy & Environment, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, and the National Park Service, which manages Anacostia Park. It also works with corporate partners and foundations, such as the Chesapeake Bay Trust and the Morris and Gwendolyn Cafritz Foundation, to fund its restoration and outreach work.

Category:Environmental organizations based in Washington, D.C. Category:Organizations established in 1989 Category:Anacostia River