On Thursday April 14, 2011 we visited Bladensburg Waterfront Park and went on a boat tour of the Anacostia River with James Foster of the Anacostia Watershed Society. 
The river which is located in the middle of a highly urbanized area was previously highly polluted due to sedimentation, urban and industrial run off, landfill activities along its banks, and surcharge of untreated sewage.
With the aid of volunteers from the Anacostia Watershed Society  this river is being  transformed into a more natural state. The river is being enhanced for recreational use including boating, canoeing and walking trails along its banks.
Riparian zones have been replanted with native species, weeds are being removed, events are run to remove trash and students are being taught about river stewardship.
An old landfill that covered former marshlands was pushed back into a mound to allow for the reestablishment of marshlands, “the kidneys” of the river.  Fish stocks that were depleted due to pollution are on the increase.
The Society launched successful legal action in respect to storm surcharge of untreated sewage into the river, that has resulted in a program to progressively upgrade the sewerage systems.
It was clearly evident while we were there that the river is now a recreational magnet.  With people fishing, walking and rowing enjoying this restored environment.
Well done Anacostia Watershed Society!