The rain garden construction project, which was originally scheduled to begin on January 18th and close the R Street gate to traffic, was delayed due to weather. We'll let you know when construction is scheduled to continue so you can plan your National Arboretum visit accordingly.

A pair of beavers have built a lodge and two dams in Springhouse Run. Although beavers have lived in the National Arboretum for at least the last 20 years, these are the first structures built in Springhouse Run since it was restored from a channelized concrete stream to an open wetland.

Beavers are a keystone species and signify an important step in wetland restoration. Beaver dams slow down water, capturing sediment and nutrients while also recharging groundwater. This not only allows a wetland's plants and wildlife to flourish, but it also reduces erosion and improves water quality throughout the entire watershed.

Since these beavers began building their structures this past fall, Arboretum staff have observed aquatic and marsh birds, muskrats, and a river otter enjoying the new pools.

Although flooding from one dam has closed a trail near Springhouse Run, there are many other trails you can walk to spot the busy beavers hard at work. Take the full tour of Springhouse Run using the National Arboretum's mobile app (iOS or Android).

In a recent HillRag article, FONA board member Bill Matuszeski explores how local leaders like Akiima Price are empowering communities of color to shape the Anacostia River's future and fit their communities' needs.

You can help scientists monitor wetlands in the District and beyond by participating in FrogWatch USA. As a citizen scientist, you would report frog and toad calls during the breeding season from February through August. Frogs and toads are important indicators of wetland ecosystem health, and their populations have been declining dramatically across the country.

There are many FrogWatch chapters around the country, including one in Washington, DC.

Thank you to everyone who helped us pull invasive Japanese honeysuckle at our recent Springhouse Run volunteer day! We appreciate the volunteers, USNA staff, and FONA staff who braved the frigid temperatures. Removing invasive species such as these helps the native plants reintroduced by the Arboretum thrive.