Join April 1st planting at Broad Branch to boost wildlife and beautify stream

Part of the restored Broad Branch Stream. (photo courtesy of Underwood & Associates)

For decades, Broad Branch Stream existed only on old maps. Then, in 2014, the District Department of Energy and the Environment and contractor Underwood and Associates brought it back above ground. Wildlife quickly moved in, but the area still needs our help to mature and flourish.

The next opportunity to help out is on Saturday, April 1st. Volunteers will plant native plants that will support the local wildlife as well as make it lovelier for the local humans. Here are more details and registration information:

Put April 1 on your calendar to join Rock Creek Conservancy, the National Park Service, and the District Department of Energy and the Environment (DOEE) for a special habitat and restoration planting in the Broad Branch section of Rock Creek Park. Volunteers will help plant a selection of native shrubs and perennials, to add color and visual interest to the site, increase biodiversity, and further support birds, pollinators and wildlife.

This planting is supported by a DOEE RiverSmart Innovation Grant, and will build upon the Casey Community Tree Planting that took place last November, at which over 125 trees and 50 shrubs were planted at the site.

The planting will take place along Broad Branch Stream, at the intersection of Broad Branch Road and Linnean Avenue NW. Volunteers will be assigned to planting zones and be asked to plant specific varieties of plants and shrubs that will be provided. After a brief introduction with background on the project, followed by a safety demonstration, volunteers will receive a tutorial on how to plant perennials and shrubs.

When: Saturday, April 1, 2017 from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm. In case of rain, the event will be rescheduled to Saturday, April 8. Please check the Rock Creek Conservancy website for updates. Street parking is available.

What to Wear: Please dress appropriately for the weather. Wear sturdy boots or sneakers, no sandals. We recommend long pants and sleeves to prevent contact with poison ivy.

What to Bring: Bring water. Tools and gloves will be provided. Feel free to bring your own tools and gloves if you have them.

Register to volunteer here: http://www.rockcreekconservancy.org/what-we-do/upcoming-events/2017-restoration-planting-broad-branch-4-1-17