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Location: Spring Valley Park 
Project Status:
The Spring Valley stream restoration project was completed in 2019.
Project Overview:
Spring Valley Run is in northwest Washington, DC. It is a first-order tributary that feeds into Dalecarlia Tributary, then Little Falls Stream, and then finally into the Potomac River. The stream runs east to west through Spring Valley Park, which is managed by the District Department of Parks and Recreation. Approximately one-third of the 32-acre watershed is covered by impervious surfaces, such as roads, homes, and university buildings. The surrounding neighborhood was developed before the enactment of stormwater regulations and, consequently, uncontrolled storm flows severely eroded the stream banks and riparian habitat. Before restoration, the stream channel was unstable, with highly visible signs of degradation such as eroding streambanks, exposed sanitary sewer lines, and frequent flooding in the park.
In 2017, the DOEE contracted with Biohabitats to prepare designs for the 1,000 ft stream restoration and Aquatic Resource Restoration Company conducted the construction of the project. The design approach focused on regenerative stream channel techniques to raise the stream bed, reconnect it to the floodplain, and promote infiltration. Raising the stream bed increased the storage capacity of groundwater and restored subterranean reservoirs within the riparian area. The restoration project was coordinated with DC Water to protect and bury sanitary sewer lines to prevent further stream impairment. Implementing the project also created a sustained baseflow for aquatic animal and plant survival and established native riparian vegetative communities. Lastly, and very important to neighbors, a walking trail was repaired and re-established to create safe access and substantially increased recreational opportunities throughout the park.
Project Objectives:
- Reduce streambank erosion and channel bed incision to provide long-term stream stability and downstream water quality benefits.
- Improve in-stream macroinvertebrate habitat.
- Manage invasive vegetation in the project area.
- Ensure the long-term protection of existing sanitary infrastructure.
- Provide an improved trail for visitors to enjoy Spring Valley Park.
