Reconnecting for Clean Water: DC Workgroup Luncheon Builds Momentum for a Healthier Bay
Coalition members, panelists, presenters, and attendees pose for a group picture
On April 24, 2025, environmental advocates, local leaders, and community stakeholders came together for an inspiring day of collaboration and learning at the DC Choose Clean Water Coalition (CCWC) Workgroup Luncheon, hosted by Nature Forward.
Held at The Arc in Southeast Washington, DC, the gathering welcomed 32 attendees—many meeting face-to-face for the first time in years. The morning kicked off with coffee, pastries, and vibrant networking, setting the tone for a day dedicated to strengthening partnerships and advancing environmental equity in the District.
Our momentum never skipped a beat. Jamoni Overby and Sara Ramontik opened the session by expressing gratitude for the workgroup's shared commitment and walking attendees through the day’s agenda.
Together, we explored a central question: What does clean water truly mean for the District of Columbia?
Jamoni Overby, NatureForward, giving opening remarks
Department of Energy and Environment
The morning’s presentations began with the DC Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE). Josh Burch, Environmental Protection Specialist, highlighted the Oxon Run Stream Restoration Project - a transformative effort to naturalize the concrete-lined stream channel that stretches from Prince George’s County to the Potomac River. Burch emphasized the role of community engagement in shaping this project and building trust with residents.
Lily Cheng, DOEE’s Flood Resilience Planner, shared updates on the Watts Branch Flood Resilience Plan—critical for addressing flooding in DC’s most affected neighborhoods. As the largest tributary to the Anacostia River, Watts Branch is at the forefront of resilience planning to protect vulnerable communities.
The State of Our Waters
Trey Sherard and Dean Naujoks, Riverkeepers for the Anacostia and Potomac Rivers, offered a deep dive into the State of the Rivers. Highlights included:
Expanded E. coli testing to trace pollution sources more accurately
Support for the 2026 Virginia bottle bill, a regional effort to reduce waste and improve recycling through cross-jurisdictional collaboration with DC and Maryland
Discussions around PFAS, microplastics, biosolids, and the public health risks of fish consumption in local waterways
These updates sparked lively dialogue on how policy, infrastructure, and public education must align to protect the health of both people and rivers.
Public health panel
Public Health Intersections: The Fight for a Lead-Free DC
A standout moment came during the public health panel, led by Tene Lewis and Dr. Janet Phoenix from the Campaign to Reduce Lead Exposure and Asthma. Their dynamic discussion centered on the Lead-Free DC Omnibus Amendment Act of 2025 - legislation critical for eliminating toxic lead service lines and safeguarding children’s health.
Panelists including Carlton Poindexter, Robin Lewis, Valerie Baron, Susan Schorr, and William Washburn shared their insights, personal experience and call to action for our member organizations in attendance. Taeilorae Levell-Young of DC Water affirmed the agency’s commitment to collaboration across sectors from residents and advocates to agencies and lawmakers to achieve a Lead-Free DC.
Call to Action
Attendees refueled over a delicious catered lunch, using the time to network, reflect on the day’s presentations, and explore ways to work more closely together. The luncheon concluded with a powerful presentation from Rachel Felver of the Chesapeake Bay Program, offering a forward-looking vision for the Bay Beyond 2025.
The DC CCWC Workgroup Luncheon proved to be more than just an event. It was a necessary gathering to deepen relationships, exchange ideas, and re-energize efforts for clean water in the District and across the watershed.
In the coming weeks, the workgroup will turn its attention to:
Submitting comments on the Poplar Point Redevelopment Plan
Engaging in the DC FY26 Budget process
Supporting key legislation like the Recycling Refund Amendment Act of 2025 and the Lead-Free DC Omnibus Amendment Act of 2025
Together, we were left reminded of a vital truth: Clean water work is people work. It’s built on trust, shared responsibility, and the belief that everyone deserves safe, clean and accessible water.
Thank you to everyone who joined us. We look forward to building on this momentum and continuing our journey toward a healthier, more equitable future for all who call the District home.
