Purpose
The bylaws of Newark Street Community Garden Association (NSCGA), updated in 2001, outline multiple principles:
Vital Statistics
The four-acre site at 39th and Newark Streets, N.W., consists of 220 garden plots gardened by DC residents. A diversity of gardeners, who speak at least 10 languages come from seven zip codes around the District. Space is shared with three tennis courts, a children’s playground and a picnic area.
Background
The garden was established as a community garden in 1974 by local resident Anne Chase as part of National Food Day. The land is owned by the city and under the control of the Department of Parks and Recreation. NSCG celebrated three decades of community gardening in April 2004 with an activity-filled celebration. Operated as an organic garden since 1995, the NSCG was featured in the February/March 2005 Organic Gardening Magazine. Despite the variety of activity it supports, NSCGA is a piece of paradise in sight of the Washington National Cathedral.
Environmental Asset
In addition to working their own plots, gardeners have developed beautification plots on the garden’s perimeters to add visual pleasure for neighbors. A bird sanctuary was established several years ago on the property’s southern boundary. Species spotted include woodpeckers, juncos, titmice, chickadees red-shafted flickers and nuthatches. The garden was certified as a “Wildlife Habitat” by the National Wildlife Federation in 2007. Over 30 trees were planted with a Casey Tree Foundation grant in 2007.
Community Involvement
Members participate in community projects – such as the Cathedral Flower Mart in May 2005 – and welcome visitors to stroll the garden paths unlike other member-only community gardens. During previous budget crises in the Department of Parks and Recreation, members mowed and maintained the perimeters of the garden.
Community Outreach
Several times during harvest season, members contribute excess produce to the Capital Area Food Bank, Martha’s Table and other organizations that feed the hungry. Members traditionally contribute canned goods for a Thanksgiving food drive. Several years ago, NSCGA adopted a sister garden in Guyana and contributed seeds and tools and provided dictionaries and books for the elementary school.
Educational Opportunity
The community gardens are used for educational tours by local school children and scout troops.
Children’s Garden
The Children’s Garden, established in 2004, recently received a grant from Garden Resources of Washington (GROW). Children’s learning opportunities include regular monthly sessions during the growing season for pre-schoolers to look at worms, plant seeds, water and see the results of their work. A picnic table and children’s garden equipment has been added so children can work in the garden and dig in the worm bed.
Artistic Opportunity
Both amateur and professional artists take advantage of the park-like setting. Art classes are in evidence through the summer and harvest season with students and instructors armed with easels and palettes. Photographers are often focused on the variety of butterflies attracted to the flower gardens planted with butterfly-friendly species.
Organization
The NSCGA is headed by six board members and a president elected at the annual fall annual meeting. Officers and committee chairs, are appointed and work as a leadership team. They volunteer their energy and countless hours to keep the garden operating as a well-organized, inviting and tranquil garden park.
