The Warm Springs Watershed Association (WSWA) has been investing in green infrastructure throughout the community since 2010. Because the watershed is so narrow, stormwater moves quickly and flows into Warm Springs Run, which often leads to flash flooding. Managing it takes creativity.

At the Berkeley Springs Depot, rainfall used to run straight off the compacted two-acre lot. The site is a former railyard and is classified as a brownfield under a remediation agreement, which means digging into the ground is restricted. To work within those limits, WSWA volunteers developed a natural, soil-building stormwater system that also supports long-term land recovery.

The project is transforming the site into a living habitat that captures and filters stormwater, brings back songbirds and pollinators, and helps rebuild healthier soil. Volunteers used logs and branches from the property, along with other local organic materials, to build hugel mounds that encourage microbial and fungal activity. Over time, these mounds are enriching the soil and creating a more resilient landscape.

Local partners played a big role. U.S. Silica donated sand and native stone, and area farms contributed organic matter. WSWA organized more than 40 volunteers who planted a tiny forest of 165 native trees and shrubs along with more than 1,900 perennial wildflowers.

The benefits of this natural system include:

• Native plants help remove pollutants from soil and water and improve environmental quality.
• Restored habitat increases biodiversity for birds, insects, and small mammals.
• Green spaces give people places to relax, explore, and enjoy time outdoors.
• As the trees grow, they will create shade and help cool the area, reducing the urban heat-island effect.
• The site serves as an outdoor classroom for learning about green infrastructure and funding opportunities.