Volunteers plant native vegetation on the banks of
Daniels Run. Photo by Rich Starr, USFWS

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Chesapeake Bay Field Office is working with the Army Navy Country Club (ANCC) to assess and restore a portion of Daniels Run flowing through the ANCC property. Daniels Run is an urban perennial stream located in the City of Fairfax, Virginia.

Assessment of Daniels Run found widespread instability throughout the restoration area, with 60 percent of the banks actively eroding. Without restoration, significant amounts of sediment enters the stream, adversely affecting aquatic species and in-stream habitat. 

Using natural channel design methods, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, in partnership with ANCC, is working to return the main stem to a stable, self-maintaining state while meeting the aesthetic goals and golf course needs of the ANCC. This is being accomplished through channel alignment and landscape alterations. A riparian buffer is being installed by volunteers lead by the Chesapeake Bay Foundation Other restoration components include in-stream habitat structures. The project will be monitored for three years.

Daniels Run before restoration has begun. Photo by Rich Starr, USFWS.

Restoring the stream’s riparian buffer will not only provide habitat for wildlife along the water but also improve conditions for fish and other aquatic wildlife. The stream restoration will reduce sediment and nutrients, which are significant problems for the Chesapeake Bay and its natural resources. 

This project was made possible by contributions of in-kind services as well as funds from ANCC and funds from a National Fish and Wildlife Foundation Legacy grant to ANCC.

For more information contact Rich Starr at 410/573-4518.