On April 23, 2026, Nature Forward welcomed members of the DC Workgroup of the Choose Clean Water Coalition (CCWC) for an inspiring day of learning, collaboration, and community building in “The Great Ward 8,” Southeast Washington, DC. Led by DC Conservation Advocate and DC Lead for CCWC, Jamoni Overby gathered nineteen advocates, practitioners, and partners in person to strengthen relationships, deepen their understanding of local water issues, and explore opportunities for collective action.
The day began at Martha’s Table Headquarters in Southeast DC with coffee, pastries, and the chance to reconnect with colleagues and meet new partners. Participants were welcomed by Jamoni Overby and Sara Ramotnik, who expressed appreciation for the dedication of DC Workgroup members and outlined the goals for the day ahead.
Defining “Clean Water” in the District
From rivers and streams to lead in drinking water, the workgroup explored what the phrase “clean water” truly means in the District of Columbia. The morning opened with a “State of the Rivers” discussion featuring Trey Sherard of the Anacostia Riverkeeper. Although Dean Naujoks of the Potomac Riverkeeper Network was unable to attend due to a scheduling conflict, his perspective remained part of the broader conversation as well as discussion about the massive sewage spill which has been the biggest clean water topic of the year.
The discussion quickly evolved beyond updates on local waterways. Recent concerns surrounding the Potomac sewage spill prompted a thoughtful exchange about water quality, public health, and environmental accountability. Members reflected on the role advocates can play in redevelopment projects, the importance of sustaining grant-funded green infrastructure and water quality initiatives, and the need to expand public access to water recreation and swimming education.
Understanding the Challenges Ahead
Jonathan Champion of the DC Department of Energy and Environment’s Water Quality Division provided an in-depth briefing on the District’s Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) permit requirements and the agency’s funding priorities for the FY27 budget.
His presentation highlighted the difficult reality the agency has faced, which we have seen for several consecutive years. With approximately 50 percent in funding cuts over the past two years, advocates voiced serious concerns about the District’s ability to sustainably comply with the Clean Water Act while retaining the staff needed to carry out essential permit requirements.
Oxon Run: Reimagining an Urban Stream
Members also heard from Riley Piva, who is leading the Oxon Run stream restoration project through the DC Department of Parks and Recreation. As we met just a short distance away from the stream, it was beautiful to see the green infrastructure surrounding Martha’s Table and knowing that the community would benefit from these same investments very soon. The project seeks to transform the stream’s concrete channel into a more naturalized waterway as it flows from Prince George’s County through the District and into the Potomac River.
Attendees learned about the project’s evolving community engagement strategies and its potential to improve ecological health while reconnecting residents to their local environment.
Behind the Scenes at Blue Plains
Following the morning presentations, members traveled just 10 minutes away to the Blue Plains Advanced Wastewater Treatment Plant for an exclusive tour led by Stephen Akyereko.
This unique opportunity was made possible through relationships cultivated during the 2025 Annual DC Member Event. DC Water representative Taeilorae Levell-Young helped secure special access for the workgroup, demonstrating the value of sustained partnership and collaboration.
The tour offered an informative look at the complex process of treating wastewater before it is returned to the Potomac River. Participants gained a deeper appreciation for decades of technological advancements made at the top ranked treatment plan and dedicated professionals working to safeguard regional water quality.
Leaving Inspired and Connected
Before heading back to our desks, members received take-away lunches, DC Water’s memorable poop emoji stress balls, and custom buttons supporting the Recycling Refund Amendment Act of 2025, commonly known as “DC’s Bottle Bill,” which members have been working on for over two years in hope to see a bill passage this Summer 2026.
Conversations throughout the day highlighted opportunities to support one another’s work, including efforts such as Green Budget Day of Action and the Annual Earth Day Cleanup in Oxon Run Park led by fellow member organizations.
The 2026 DC Choose Clean Water Coalition Annual Member Event served as a powerful reminder that environmental progress depends on relationships as much as policy. By bringing stakeholders together to learn, strategize, and build community, the gathering strengthened the coalition’s collective capacity to advocate for clean water across the District.
As the challenges facing our waterways continue to evolve, so does the commitment of this network of advocates.
