The Hancock Avenue Rain Garden uses a rain garden and step pool system to filter and slow stormwater running off nearby streets, driveways, and rooftops. During most rainstorms, street runoff is diverted into the rain garden, while in larger storms increased flow falls over the step pool system. The rain garden captures stormwater and lets it soak into the ground, filtering pollutants and reducing erosion. This helps reduce water pollution in Sligo Creek, which feeds the Anacostia River and the Chesapeake Bay. It also increases underground water levels, helping provide steadier flows for Sligo Creek throughout the year. Native plants in the garden are suited to local conditions, grow deep roots, absorb water, and filter pollutants. They also attract songbirds and butterflies. Before the step pool system was built, torrents of stormwater washed down the steep hillside, eroding the banks of this natural area and contributing to erosion and water pollution in Sligo Creek. The step pool system now slows the water during large storm events, prevents erosion, and allows more stormwater to seep into the soil. The project was created through cooperation among the City of Takoma Park, M-NCPPC Montgomery Parks, Friends of Sligo Creek, and residents of the Sherman-Hancock-Sheridan neighborhood. It was designed by Natural Resources Design, Inc., constructed by Environmental Quality Resources, and funded by the City of Takoma Park, the Takoma Foundation, Friends of Sligo Creek, and the Takoma Horticultural Club.