Natural Environment

Despite its urban characteristics, the District of Columbia contains a vibrant and diverse natural environment, characterized by major rivers, parks, wetlands, and habitats. The close proximity of these natural features to the busy workplaces, commuter routes, and residences creates unique challenges to ensure their protection; but also greater opportunities to enjoy their benefits. In reality, our urban environment causes us to value our rivers, streams, trees, and green spaces even more, and prompts us to work to ensure their preservation and enhancement.

Natural Environment Resources

• Plan for a Fishable and Swimmable Anacostia River by 2032 [PDF]
• Nitrogen Calculator: Chesapeake Bay Foundation Nitrogen Calculator from Your Bay Footprint
• D.C. Schoolyard Greening: This project installs green elements in District schoolyards, as a means of furthering environmental education. Topics and projects covered by the group include trees, stormwater reduction, wildlife studies and green buildings.
• Anacostia River Real-Time Monitoring
• DDOE/Casey Trees Tree Planting Rebate: [PDF] From now until May 31st, District residents can apply for a $50 rebate towards any large shade tree.
• Greenspace: There are many open, undeveloped areas in the District that have been set aside for parks, community gardens, street trees, habitat preservation and other uses.
• Trees and the Urban Environment [PDF] : This overview explains how trees play an integral role in making the urban environment livable.  
• Become a Canopy Keeper: Adopt a Tree: The District's Urban Forestry Administration has a program by which District residents can care for newly planted trees on their block. Click the link for more information.   
• Wildlife Action Plan [PDF]: The District is home to over 500 species of birds, fish, mammals, reptiles and amphibians including two endemic species of amphipods.