Alice Ferguson Foundation, Washington DC

In 1922, Alice and Henry Ferguson purchased the Hard Bargain Farm, a 130-acre plot of land along the eastern banks of the Potomac River in Accokeek, MD, across from historic Mount Vernon. The arm included pristine rolling hills, fields, woods, and streams.

Upon Alice’s death, Henry Ferguson established the Alice Ferguson Foundation in her memory, intended to foster and support the local education system. This vision has led the organization to become a vibrant education center, which thousands of citizens enjoy each year.

The Alice Ferguson Foundation’s educational programs unite students, educators, park rangers, communities, regional organizations, and government agencies throughout the Washington, DC, metropolitan area to promote the environmental sustainability of the Potomac River watershed.

Our team of educators teaches more than 10,000 students annually through an on-site program at the Hard Bargain Farm Environmental Center and through Bridging the Watershed, an off-site partnership program providing high school field studies in national parks. Our curriculum-based education programs are designed to enhance each participant’s life experience and environmental perspective while integrating a multitude of science, math, language, and problem-solving skills into non-traditional, non-classroom based learning opportunities. Student programs are complemented by workshops for teachers and park rangers, and dynamic educational Web sites with activities for youth and educators.

The Foundation’s Annual Potomac River Watershed Cleanup has become a decisive catalyst for progress that ignites people throughout the watershed with the Fergusons’ community spirit. The largest regional event of its kind, the Cleanup provides a transforming experience that engages citizens and community leaders and generates momentum for change. The Foundation also hosts annual special events open to the public, which include the Spring Farm Festival, Oktoberfest, summer concerts, and theater programs performed at the Foundation’s outdoor amphitheater.