Difficult Run - Reston to Great Falls National Park

This web page is a guide for the development of riparian buffer projects that focus on land use in watersheds. It uses Difficult Run as a model for project development and management due to the successful reforestation of this urban watershed. Riparian forest buffers are an aspect of watershed protection that influence many features of water quality. Difficult Run is able to maintain its healthy water quality because of urban forest buffers. The Difficult Run Riparian Project was implemented to raise awareness about the importance of urban forest buffer conservation, preservation and restoration. When beginning a riparian buffer restoration project, you should take the time to familiarize yourself with the watershed. Learn the stream's history, walk beside and in the stream. Taking the time to learn about the stream teaches you its morphology, the organic life in the stream, as well as the wildlife around the stream. In addition you will learn the cultural and social activities that take place in the stream. Learning more about the stream also aids in diagnosing its ailments and can lead to a healthier watershed