head above the water
OFFICIAL VIRTUAL FLOOD RESOURCE GUIDE
The Event:
Saturday, June 24th, 2023 | 11am-4pm EST
Respecting Water through Art, Storytelling & Flood Risk Awareness
On Saturday, June 24th, 2023, artists Cary Michael Robinson and Nicole Salimbene, along with environmental scientists and community organizers, facilitated a day of walking/talking/making along Watts Branch & Oxon Run streams and neighborhoods. This event served as an invitation to honor the power of water through creative expression, and to learn more about the flood risks and mitigation programs/actions to protect the community and the surrounding waterways in Ward 7 and Ward 8.
Walk Leaders
Dr. Alsean Bryant, Strategic Support Team Clinical Pharmacist at the AIDS Healthcare Foundation for the DC, MD, and VA region
Dr. Travis Gallo, Assistant Professor in Urban Ecology and Conservation in the Department of Environmental Science and Technology at the University of Maryland
Brenda Richardson, Coordinator for the Anacostia Parks & Community Collaborative (APACC) & Vice-Chair of the Friends of Oxon Run Park
Cary Michael Robinson, Interdisciplinary and Mixed Media Artist.
Nicole Salimbene, Interdisciplinary Artist
Dr. Jennifer Sklarew, Assistant Professor, Energy and Sustainability Policy, Food-Energy-Water-Climate Nexus, Social Science, George Mason University
The Affiliates:
In collaborative celebration of the power of water and its impact on our communities, we want to acknowledge the incredible support from a few of our partners and organizations who share our passion for protecting our waterways! Special shoutout to all whom have helped “make a splash” to our amazing initiative, and we hope we can continue to work together to protect our precious waterways!
The PLAYLIST:
We are excited to offer you a complimentary playlist featuring carefully selected water-inspired songs to compliment our "Head Above the Water" initiative, and to enhance your experience as you explore the power of water through creative expression.
Available on both Spotify and Apple Music, this playlist is the perfect companion for your journey along Watts Branch & Oxon Run streams and neighborhoods. From soothing melodies to energizing beats, each song has been chosen to inspire and uplift you as you connect with the natural world around you.
So put on your headphones, press play, and let the music guide you as you explore the beauty and importance of water in our lives!
The RouteS:
Click on the photos the view each of the two routes we explored on our journey to protect our waterways!
The Raffle:
"Hey, WALKers! Don't just keep the amazing memories from Head Above the Water to yourself - share them with us on Instagram!
Tag @cityaslivinglab or use the #HeadAbovetheWaterDC official event hashtag on your posts and stories to enter our raffle! We're giving away some amazing prizes like rain barrels and event merch.
But wait (there's a small catch) - you must stay until the end of either walk to be eligible to win. Rain barrel winners can pick up their prize from a location TBD.
So start snapping and sharing to show your love for our precious waterways in Ward 7 and Ward 8!
The Quiz:
Attention all Ward 7 and Ward 8 residents!
Your knowledge and experiences are essential to our mission of respecting the power of water through creative expression. We invite you to take a quick questionnaire and share with us what you know about flooding in your community.
Your input can potentially be used in an exciting project involving the creation of artwork by WALK leader and artist, Cary Michael Robinson.
Don't miss this opportunity to share your insights and be a part of something meaningful. Your participation matters!
The PHOTOS:
“Head Above the Water” is not just about walking and talking - we want to see your perspective on flood risks and mitigation programs in your neighborhood.
Whether it's photos of previous instances of flooding or areas that need attention, we want to hear from you!
Click the photo to share your photos to help us work towards a safer and stronger community.
NOTE: Your input can potentially be used in an exciting project involving the creation of artwork by WALK leader and artist, Cary Michael Robinson.
The Resources:
Hey there, Ward 7 and 8 residents! We know that the thought of flooding can be a bit alarming, but don't worry - we've got you covered!
Our team has gathered some super helpful resources that will make you feel like a pro when it comes to flood preparedness.
From tips on how to protect your home to emergency preparedness kits, we've got everything you need to stay safe and sound. Plus, our community organizers are always ready to answer your questions, share their flood survival stories, and provide you and your community with the guidance you need to stay safe and secure.
Don't let flooding catch you off guard. Take advantage of the resources we’ve made available to you and be prepared for whatever comes your way. Visit the links today and take the first step towards a safer, more secure future for your community!
Video Series for Watts Branch Flooding:
The Connection:
Hey there residents and participants! If you're interested in staying connected to flood resources, seeing what other exciting projects we have in store, offering feedback, or making contributions to continue this project, we've got you covered! Simply fill out the form and we'll make sure to connect you with the right resources. Let's keep the momentum going and continue to honor and protect the power of water in our communities.
Thanks for being a part of this incredible experience!