Ben Brenman Pond Stormwater Management Retrofit Project

Ben Brenman Pond, also called Cameron Station Pond, is in Ben Brenman Park. The Ben Brenman Pond Stormwater Management Retrofit Project acts as a stormwater BMP to help filter pollutants, such as nitrogen, phosphorous, and sediment out of the stormwater that enters the pond. The project was substantially completed in June 2020. 
Page updated on September 30, 2024 at 1:50 PM
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Journey to Cleaner Water

Drawing of Ben Brenman pond and the four elements (forebay, weir, aquatic features, upflow filter) used to address pollution.

Welcome to the Ben Brenman stormwater pond tour! This tour highlights some of the investments made by the City of Alexandria — going above and beyond to protect our local waterways. The upgraded features in this pond reduce pollution that enters Holmes Run, Cameron Run, the Potomac River, and ultimately the Chesapeake Bay. The pond treats stormwater runoff from more than 290 acres of land!

Click on the cards below to learn more about how the forebay, weir walls, aquatic features, and upflow gravel filter in Ben Brenman pond all work together to help reduce water pollution. 

Drawing of the forebay at Ben Brenman pond

Forebay

After collecting stormwater runoff from more than 290 acres, the water first enters the expanded forebay.

Drawing of the weir wall at Ben Brenman pond

Weir Walls

The weir walls help slow the water down and settle pollutants that can be harmful to wildlife and plants.

Drawing of an aerator fountain at Ben Brenman pond

Aquatic Features

The City chose special features that are specifically designed to maximize pollution removal.

Drawing of the upflow gravel filter at Ben Brenman pond

Upflow Filter

Leaving the pond, stormwater passes through a special gravel filter called an upflow filter.

Outreach & Education

Visit the SEAS YouTube Channel to watch City Stormwater Management staff provide a closer look at the Ben Brenman Pond Retrofit Project. The City's presentation begins at 2:44. 

Reminders

  • Avoid using pesticides and fertilizers that could harm native plants. 
  • Call 311 (the City’s non-emergency hotline) if you see something that isn’t right. 
  • Dispose of trash properly to prevent litter from entering our waterbodies. 
  • Sweep driveway instead of hosing to prevent pollutant runoff. 
  • Avoid using pesticides, fertilizers, and insecticides. These chemicals are harmful to our water bodies.  
  • Don’t feed or interact with the wildlife.  
  • No fishing. These aquatic species are essential for the pond’s ecosystem and help regulate its waters. 
  • No swimming in the pond. Swimming could damage one of the pond’s features.  
  • Avoid trampling sensitive plants. Each plant plays an important role, either by helping absorb pollutants or preventing erosion.  
  • Pick up after your pets and dispose of waste properly. Pet waste can hold bacteria or pathogens, which can contaminate water.  
  • Get involved in community efforts.