Programs Director at Anacostia Riverkeeper
On the surface, a city budget may seem dry and bureaucratic—but the fate of Washington, D.C.’s rivers, public health, and community access to nature hangs in the balance. Most recently, Mayor Muriel Bowser’s proposed Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) budget included staggering cuts: 24.1% slashed from DOEE, the largest reduction of any city agency. Advocacy by Anacostia Riverkeeper & community members helped bring Bag Fee funds back, but the final budget still delivered a 21% cut to the agency, and therefore startling cancellation of critical programs. Here’s why they matter—and what’s at stake for the Anacostia River, its health, and the communities it serves.
1. Trash Traps and Debris Capture: Choked by Cuts
Since 2009, DC has deployed multiple trash traps—like the Bandalong Litter Traps—that together have intercepted over 70,000 pounds of trash from waterways. But the new budget zeroes out funding for trash trap maintenance and community-based cleanup programs. Without upkeep, debris capture systems fail—leading to clogged waterways and increased litter in the river.
2. Community Science: The River’s Health Depends on Data
Wednesday during summers, staff, partners, and volunteers are out on the water collecting water samples as part of our weekly water quality monitoring program. These data tell residents when and where it’s safest to recreate on the river—whether for paddling, fishing, or community events. This program’s water quality reports are among the few publicly accessible resources that let residents make informed decisions about enjoying their river. Without this data, residents lose trust and access, and the city loses one of its most cost-effective tools for tracking pollution trends.
3. Green Infrastructure: Losing Our First Line of Defense
Green infrastructure—like rain gardens, bioswales, and permeable pavement—acts as the city’s natural filter system. It slows stormwater, reduces flooding, and captures pollution before it reaches the river. For years, DOEE has funded projects that not only build but also maintain these systems. Now, with those maintenance funds eliminated, green infrastructure across the city risks falling into disrepair. These systems are not “one-and-done.” Without upkeep, they fail—and the river pays the price.
4. Recreation and Education: Building the Next Generation of River Stewards
For decades, the Anacostia river had a reputation as too polluted to touch. But today, through programs like Anacostia River Explorers, we are changing that perception. We get people of all ages out for free boat tours of the river, helping residents reconnect with their river. When budgets cut these programs, the people most affected are the residents who have historically had the fewest opportunities to access safe, healthy outdoor spaces.
The vision of a fishable, swimmable Anacostia River has never been closer. Investments in trash traps, stormwater controls, and community science have already led to measurable improvements in water quality. Fish populations are returning, bald eagles are nesting along the river, and recreation is at an all-time high. But without ongoing investment, we risk sliding backward. Trash and plastics will overwhelm the river again. Stormwater and pollution will undo decades of cleanup work. Residents will lose trust in the idea that the river can ever be safe. We can’t let that happen.
