from left to right, founding members Dan Dozier, Amy Wooden, Lynnwood Andrews, Sara Robinson, Suzanne Richman, Richard Yates and Sarah Morse. Not pictured Carol Hearle.
History
In 2008 a group of neighbors in lower Montgomery County coalesced around common concerns about litter, invasive species, and water quality affected by excessive runoff.
In the spirit of “think globally, act locally,” these residents decided to combine their resources and talents to protect their own fragile local watershed. While a small geographic area, the Little Falls Watershed is an important test case of the impact of development on urban creeks and forests. Encompassing Friendship Heights, much of Chevy Chase, downtown Bethesda, and two country clubs, the parks and natural spaces in the Little Falls Watershed are in a precarious place and need a strong, unified advocate and champion.
While individual members of LFWA had been doing their part individually to protect these environments, they recognized the need for collaborative action and incorporated the Little Falls Watershed Alliance as a non-profit organization.
Annual meetings
From 2008 to 2015, LFWA was an all volunteer organization thriving on the dedication and action of its board members. Besides being neighbors, and a strong predilection for the law, what brings these board members together most has been a common love for nature and the outdoors. Through bird-watching, hiking, and dog-walking, these residents fell in love with the nature right outside their doors and wanted to spread that love and preserve that nature.
LFWA was formed around three committees, Trash Abatement, Invasive Vine Removal, and Stormwater Management. The actions of the committees center around regular events to raise awareness for and to clean up the watershed and periodic advocacy for laws and policies in the best interests of the local environment.
In 2015, LFWA took a big step in hiring a part-time Executive Director to manage the day-to-day operations of the organization. In the future, LFWA hopes to expand beyond its humble beginnings and involve residents throughout the watershed area. By working together, we can ensure the long term viability of the watershed and of our communities.