Report Pollution

See a pollution problem on the river?
Report it!

Oil Slick Sewage Leak Plastic Dump Odd Color Bad Smell

Have you noticed pollution in or around the Anacostia? See something, say something. Report the pollution you see and we’ll work to investigate the issue and hold accountable those who are responsible. When possible, include photos of what you see to help ARK and investigators build a clearer picture of what caused the pollution. Once we know where challenges are occurring, we can track their frequency and identify possible locations for concerted action.

What pollution should I be reporting?

Pollution comes in many forms and looks different from case to case.

Excessive sediment in the water, especially on dry-weather days
Sewage overflows or a sewage smell on the water during dry-weather days
Dead fish in the water (more than one or two)
Illegal dumping of trash or debris (especially from construction sites)
Excessive flooding
Abnormal or discolored water

Anacostia Pollution Reporting Form

Thank you for helping to protect the Anacostia River!

Other Ways to Report Pollution

Contact your state or local environmental department

District Department of Energy and Environment

Pollution Hotline: Call 311 or (202) 737-4404

Report Illegal Dumping to DPW: Call 311 or go to 311.dc.gov

General Concerns: Call DOEE at (202) 535-2600

Maryland Department of the Environment

24-hour hotline: (866) 633-4686

Maryland Wildlife Crime Stoppers: (443) 433-4112

Maryland Department of the Environment

24-hour hotline: (410) 260-8888 OR 1 (800) 628-9944

Maryland Wildlife Crime Stoppers: (443) 433-4112

Montgomery County

Pollution Hotline: Call 311 or (240) 777-0311

Prince George's County

Pollution Hotline: Call 311 or (301) 883-7266

Let our Riverkeeper know

Contact Anacostia Riverkeeper Trey Sherard at [email protected] or [email protected] or (202) 863-0158 and let him know what you saw. Include a photo if you can.

Report bulk trash and large debris

As part of our derelict vessel and large debris cleanup project with MWCOG and NOAA, we are collecting information on known dumping spots. If you see an item out on the riverbank, report it here for removal.

Donate for a Clean River

Support Anacostia Riverkeeper's work to improve water quality for all.