Restoration will stabilize the stream banks and slow down rushing storm water through a series of dams, mini-waterfalls and pools. Some of the dams will be made of stone.

We are working to restore Clean Drinking stream at Woodend that has been degraded by stormwater runoff caused by urbanization. By repairing Clean Drinking stream, we will reduce pollution flowing into Rock Creek and the Chesapeake Bay.

Restoration will rebuild Clean Drinking stream’s severely eroded channel that floods with water (and pollutants) during storms, but stands empty through much of the year.

Other dams will be made from logs cut from trees that have fallen at Woodend. The restored stream will deliver water downstream gently and filter pollution while adding to groundwater.

Over time, the stream restoration will provide better wildlife habitat, especially for amphibians like this wood frog that lays its eggs in woodland pools every spring.

In addition to restoring Woodend’s stream, we are managing stormwater all over the sanctuary to help keep pollution out of Rock Creek. This rain garden stores and filters water running off of our driveway.

This step-pool garden at Woodend slows down water flowing out of a
stormwater pipe and onto the ground.

Pictured here is our vision for the future of Clean Drinking Stream. Please visit as we make progress toward a Woodend Sanctuary that is an urban oasis of nature for all people and all wildlife.