A new community forest takes root.

Thanks to a generous land donation from a local homeowner, Riverdale is gaining a new community green space. Designed with input from Riverdale residents, this community forest will feature walking paths, native trees and shrubs, natural play areas, and quiet spots for reflection.

Located along Well’s Run, a narrow stream that drains into the Anacostia River, this protected green space will serve both the neighborhood and the environment in perpetuity.

A 3D-rendering of the final design for the Ravenswood pocket park

Environmental Impact

The Ravenswood Community Forest tackles critical sustainability challenges head-on. It will add healthy tree canopy, improve water quality through natural filtration systems, and provide habitat for pollinators—all while giving the community a welcoming space to gather, play, and connect with nature.

Community-Centered Design

Neighbors shaped every detail of this green space. In May 2025, we hosted a design charette at the Riverdale Farmers Market and presented three design concepts for the community to weigh in on. Riverdale residents chose the “Woodland Wander” design concept, which includes winding trails through native trees, a pollinator garden, natural play areas for children, and charming birdhouses to welcome wildlife to the neighborhood.

Our progress

We have made great strides in restoring the Ravenswood Community Forest by removing invasive species, protecting mature trees, and planting native plants. Our work supports the community by improving green space, expanding tree canopy, and enhancing access to nature for local residents. This restoration is part of our ongoing commitment to conserving and growing DC’s tree canopy, especially in neighborhoods facing environmental challenges.

Ravenswood Before
Ravenswood before invasive vines and plants were removed. | Spring 2025
Ravenswood During
Ravenswood after invasive species were removed. | Summer 2025
Ravenswood after
Ravenswood after native trees and plants were installed. Fall 2025
Completed Milestones
  • Community Conservation Plan developed with input from our generous land donor
  • Community Design Charrette held at Riverdale Park Farmer’s Market (May 2025) – your feedback shaped our final design
  • Landscape Design Finalized, incorporating all community input
  • Public Access Secured through fence removal along Ravenswood Road
  • Phase One Site Preparation Complete – debris, dead trees, and invasive bamboo removed
Ravenswood before with invasives
Beginning in the summer of 2025, work began to remove invasive species and clear the area of debris and dead trees. [Click to enlarge.]
The site continues to undergo invasive species management to make way for native trees and plants. [Click to enlarge.]
Current & Upcoming Work

Now through November 2025: Site preparation continues with a second round of invasive species treatment to ensure these unwelcome plants don’t return.

November & December 2025: Casey Trees staff will plant native trees and shrubs, marking a major milestone in bringing the Woodland Wander design to life.

View of conservation site
As of November 2025, we installed 46 trees, 50 shrubs, and 1.5 pounds of native wildflower seed at the site. [Click to enlarge.]
View of Conservation Site
Native plants were selected to complement the existing landscape. [Click to enlarge.]
Plants added to the landscape will provide ecological and environmental benefits to the community, including native Serviceberries (pictured here with red leaves), which offer edible berries for wildlife. [Click to enlarge.]
View of conservation site
Over 45 trees were planted on the site, including Loblolly Pine, Pawpaw, Sweetgum, Oak, and several other native species. [Click to enlarge.]

How you can help

To bring the green space fully to life, we still need support for key elements to make this a lasting neighborhood treasure. All donations will help fund art installations, signage, planting, maintenance, and other features, including:

  • Natural play features – boulders and logs for children’s exploration and adult respite
  • Wildlife habitat – birdhouses to welcome back local species
  • Community art – public art pieces that reflect Riverdale’s character
  • Ongoing maintenance – ensuring this space remains beautiful and safe for years to come
DONATE NOW

Want to get involved?

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If you have any questions or feedback about the project, email conservation@caseytrees.org. We want to hear from you.

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