The Walnut Creek watershed in Raleigh, North Carolina, has been designated as the 21st Urban Waters Federal Partnership location. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Department of Interior (DOI), along with 15 other federal agencies and local partners, will work together to mitigate flood risk, restore the watershed, support healthy ecosystems and recreational opportunities and create jobs, according to a recent release from the EPA.

This designation also supports President Biden’s EJ Strong Initiative by addressing legacy environmental justice concerns in the community.

“The Urban Waters Federal Partnership embodies several EPA priorities – protecting vital water resources, working with partners to address community needs, and advancing progress toward an equitable water future for all Americans,” Radhika Fox, EPA Assistant Administrator for Water, said in the release. "With this designation, EPA will help improve water quality and deliver multiple benefits to the residents of Raleigh and Wake County, North Carolina in support of President Biden’s commitment to clean water and environmental justice.”

According to the release, the Urban Waters Federal Partnership program will engage with Walnut Creek stakeholders to advance local goals and priorities identified in their Watershed Action Plan. This plan pinpoints areas for improvement projects and seeks to develop implementation plans and track water resources throughout the entire Walnut Creek Watershed, the release states.

Partners for Environmental Justice will hire an Urban Waters Ambassador to lead local, state, federal, non-profit and academic partners in the implementation of projects that achieve the goals of the Watershed Action Plan.

This partnership is a testament to the spirit of the community and the enduring legacy of Dr. Norman Camp, Congresswoman Deborah Ross said in the release. Ross has been supporting the Walnut Creek Wetland Center since its creation over a decade ago and welcomes the partnership as it will help revitalize the watershed and mitigate flooding that has disproportionately impacted underserved communities in southeast Raleigh for far too long, she said.