As of July 22, 2021, the Bertie Backus Community Garden is full and not accepting applications. Eligible, complete applications (applications + supplemental materials) that were received by July 21, 2021 have been placed on a waiting list. To be notified by email in the event of plot vacancies, sign up here:
https://forms.gle/TE5i5KZfVBWxQpzQ7----------------------------------------------------
Please read the instructions, especially the required documents, entirely to ensure your application is processed in a timely manner.
The University of the District of Columbia (UDC) is accepting applications for garden plots in the Bertie Backus Community Garden. The garden space is located at the UDC Bertie Backus Campus. The Community Garden consists of twenty-six (2) 3' x 6' raised garden boxes. The Community Garden's Board of Directors, in conjunction with UDC's College of Agriculture, Urban Sustainability and Environmental Sciences (CAUSES) assigns plots to applicants on a first-come, first-served and waiting list basis. The garden is currently free and does not collect any type of membership dues or fees.
While CAUSES will administer workshops and training throughout the season, UDC's primary contribution to the Community Garden will be in an advisory role. The University shall provide members with prefabricated garden boxes, a source of water for irrigation, and security fencing. All other materials (hand tools, seedlings, insect protection, etc.) must be provided by the members themselves or be purchased by the leadership team.
Applicants to the Bertie Backus Community Garden must be Ward 5 residents. One household per application, please.
Upon completing the application, immediately send proof of identification (Washington D.C. Driver's License, Military ID, Washington D.C. ID, Voter Registration, etc.) and residency (bank statement, utility bill, lease, deed, etc.; we recommend blacking out account numbers) to
BertieGarden@gmail.com. Your identification must include your current address, while also matching the address on the residency document. Your application is not complete until we have received all of these materials.
No gardening experience is necessary. New, amateur and experienced gardeners are welcome!
