USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is looking for volunteers to assist with the People’s Garden, located outside of the USDA headquarters in Washington, DC. The site is easily accessible – only a block from the Metro! NRCS provides cost-share financial assistance programs, technical assistance, soil survey information, wetland and highly erodible land determinations, and more to support farmers and forestland owners meet their conservation goals. The People’s Garden initiative was started by our Secretary of Agriculture, Tom Vilsack, during the Obama administration. Secretary Vilsack and the USDA team are now working to revitalize the People’s Garden to showcase what we do at USDA, raise awareness about sustainable agriculture practices, connect people with where their food comes from, and educate on protecting our environment and conserving resources.
Volunteers are needed for a variety of activities such as garden preparation, planting, and maintenance. There are many days and times available for this opportunity with more details to come. This fun volunteer opportunity is offered through NRCS Maryland’s Earth Team Volunteer Program. Earth Team is a program that allows NRCS to partner volunteers with employees to provide a wide range of services to private landowners and the public. These activities can include conservation technical assistance, office support, and teaching and generating awareness about conservation through community projects. This special partnership is a great way for students and recent graduates to build their resume, and a wonderful opportunity for anyone who wants to be involved in helping to conserve our nation’s natural resources.
Please reach out to Maryland’s Earth Team Volunteer Coordinator, Laura Eddy, at Laura.Eddy@usda.gov for more information and to get on our volunteer communications list.
