A creek whispers secrets through Spring Valley Park. This small park nestled behind private residences is a hidden oasis. It’s a place where history and nature intertwine. Spring Valley Park isn’t huge. It’s about the size of a football field. Yet within its confines lies a remarkable story.
Originally part of land owned by American University this land held a darker secret. During World War I Camp Leach operated here. The US Army produced and tested chemical weapons. Mustard gas lewisite and arsenic were manufactured. After the war the Army closed the facility. American University sold the land for development.
Years later construction workers unearthed a shocking discovery. Unexploded chemical mortar rounds and 75mm shells were found. Operation Safe Removal a massive cleanup ensued. Over two years 141 munitions including 42 poison gas shells were removed. The cleanup was expensive and extensive. It cost the army over $221 million. Even after the initial cleanup more munitions and contaminated soil were discovered and removed over subsequent years.
Despite the extensive cleanup health concerns lingered. A federal lawsuit was filed. A house at 4825 Glenbrook Road NW was dubbed the “mother of all toxic dumps”. It was eventually demolished. Excavation and restoration took eight years. It was declared complete in August 2020.
Today Spring Valley Park is a peaceful place. It’s a place for a walk or a picnic. Leashed pets are welcome. The creek still flows offering a quiet counterpoint to the vibrant history hidden beneath the grass. Spring Valley Park stands as a reminder of the past. It’s a testament to the enduring power of nature’s resilience. It’s a small green space. But it has a big story to tell.