DOEE's Watershed Protection Division (WPD) works to protect and restore the environmental health of the District’s rivers and streams. The division is comprised of two branches that work together to protect our watersheds from soil erosion, litter and debris, and other nonpoint sources of pollution.
Partnering and Environmental Conservation Branch
The mission of the Partnering and Engagement Branch is to advance the District’s clean water goals by cultivating partnerships, funding education and litter reduction projects, providing compliance assistance, and working with communities to draft and implement waterways plans. The Branch’s primary activities include school-based environmental education, schoolyard greening, small grants, Anacostia River boat tours, litter reduction activities, and inspection and enforcement of the District’s Bag Law, food service ware requirements, and high-PAH ban. In addition, the District’s new Office of District Waterways Management is situated within the Partnering and Engagement Branch.
Branch Chief: Emily Rice - [email protected]
Restoration Branch
The mission of the Restoration Branch is to protect and restore the District waterways for the health of our communities and future generations through watershed planning, innovative stormwater management projects, and stream and habitat restoration.
Branch Chief: Matt Weber - [email protected]
RiverSmart & Incentives Branch
The mission of the RiverSmart & Incentives Branch is to motivate and support communities to be environmental stewards by installing green stormwater infrastructure in the District. The Branch's primary programs include RiverSmart Homes, RiverSmart Communities, RiverSmart Rebates and tree canopy expansion. See how you can Get RiverSmart!
Branch Chief: Arielle Conti - [email protected]
Maintenance & Pollution Prevention Branch
The mission of the Maintenance and Pollution Prevention Branch is to prevent pollution through compliance assistance, training, and maintenance of District stormwater assets. The Branch's primary activities include compliance assistance for stormwater pollution prevention plans (SWPPS) of District facilities, implementing Green Infrastructure Maintenance, RiverCorps and other job training programs, as well as litter reduction and invasive plant management activities.
Branch Chief: James Woodworth – [email protected]