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Location: Kenilworth neighborhood, in NE DC
Project Status: The Nash Run stream restoration project was completed in June 2016.
Project Overview:
Nash Run is located in northeast Washington, DC, and is a first-order tributary of the Anacostia River. The headwaters of the stream are located in Prince George’s County, Maryland, but 75% of the watershed is within the borders of the District. The stream is piped beginning in Prince George’s County and outfalls east of Kenilworth Avenue in North East DC. The Nash Run sewer shed encompasses a 229-acre area in the District, 112 acres (49%) of which is impervious. The stream has an estimated normal flow of two cubic feet per second.
To restore the Nash Run stream DOEE used the floodplain connection restoration technique which called for the excavation and removal of soil from both sides of the stream. This allowed for the creation of a low 55’ wide floodplain bench along the stream. The low floodplain bench allows for the stream to access its floodplain in most storm events allowing for the stream flow to spread out thus dissipating the energy of the stream and reducing the erosive forces of the stream at high flow. The low floodplain bench which is frequently inundated with water now serves as a grassy wetland complex adjacent to the stream. 99 native trees and over 1000 native grasses and herbaceous plants were planted as part of the restoration effort. In addition, to the restored stream DOEE installed a trash trap that captures floatable trash at the upstream outfall before it can enter the project areas.
Project Objectives:
- Reduce streambank erosion and channel bed incision to provide long-term stream stability and downstream water quality benefits.
- Restore half an acre of wetland
- Reduce trash from entering the stream system
- Improve in-stream and riparian habitat conditions
The District has contracted with JMT for the 100% Designs and Environmental Quality Resources for the construction of the restoration work.
Project Area Map:
Presentations: As-Built Plans
More Information:
- https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2019-12/documents/dc_nash_run_1684_508.pdf
- https://chesapeakestormwater.net/the-bubbas/2017-bubbas-2/2017-best-stream-restoration/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7pvcPf1aveA
Contact Information:
Josh Burch
Environmental Protection Specialist
[email protected] | (202) 734-9527