by Ashley Thompson, Director of Education and Interpretation “Trees are nature for all of us.” – First Grader, Montpelier Elementary School 6am, Wednesday morning. Shovel and containers in hand, I walk into my backyard on a mission: to find examples of healthy and unhealthy soil. This has to be done in the early morning, because I’m taking these soil samples to an elementary school and really, the fresher the better. I find a good chunk of dry, light brown, compacted dirt nea

At the heart of the Accokeek Foundation’s mission is the preservation of an awe-inspiring space where people of all ages, and from all backgrounds, can learn about Maryland’s rich cultural and natural heritage. In this space–Piscataway Park–we interpret life on the Potomac during the 18th century, culturally-significant agricultural practices, and land management practices that are beneficial for the environment. For many decades, this space has been providing a backdrop for