Linnean Park has officially been adopted by some neighbors

In 2014, a DC stream restoration project gave us a park between Broad Branch Terrace and Linnean Avenue. Now, Linnean Park has a group of official caretakers.

The Linnean Park Partnership was established early this year through an agreement between the DC Department of Parks & Recreation and a group of environmentally committed neighbors to maintain this natural gem. Mitch Baer, John Burwell and Marlene Berlin (who is, full disclosure, FHC’s editor-in-chief) are now recognized through DPR’s Adopt-A-Park program.

Last summer, Baer and Burwell led a group of neighborhood volunteers, with the assistance of city agency staff and students, in maintenance and repair of the park trail. Burwell has also led volunteer efforts through the pandemic to remove invasive plants and protect native trees.

This spring, Linnean Park Partnership will work on further maintenance of the trail and invasive plant control. Opportunities for willing volunteers through spring, summer and fall will be offered. Tools, expert guidance and refreshments will be provided.

They are seeking neighborhood financial support of $715 for the purchase of necessary tools to regularly and properly maintain the trail and park for the safety and enjoyment of all visitors. Here is a list of tools in case you have an extra one you would like to donate:

• Shovel
• McCleod
• Hoes, wide and narrow
• Pick mattock
• Pulaski (ax)
• Hand saw
• Sledgehammer
• Wheelbarrow

For more information, or to volunteer, contact Mitch Baer via [email protected].

To make tax-deductible donations to Linnean Park Partnership for the purchase of tools, visit flipcause.com.