An example of the saliency of urban ecology research can be found in the Baltimore Ecosystem Study's efforts to restore the city's watershed. In the past, urban planning did not ameliorate increased storm water run-off and the result was large quantities of low quality drainage. Working with the Parks & People Foundation, BES scientists are studying a research site where Baltimore city agencies and the U. S. Forest Service are increasing green cover in city neighborhoods. This cover will reduce the quantity and improve the quality of storm drainage. The goal— to increase the environmental quality of urban neighborhoods while also improving urban drainage and the quality of water ultimately delivered to the Chesapeake Bay.