National Park Service Park News U.S. Department of the Interior

The official newspaper of National Capital Parks-East Beyond the Capital Washington, D.C. and Maryland Fall 2012

A Visitor’s Guide to National Capital Parks-East

Dr. Carter G. Woodson. Credit: Scurlock Photographic Studio Records, Archives Center, National Museum of American History, Smithsonian Institution.

Charting the Future while Preserving the Past. www.nps.gov/nace What’s Inside: National Park Service U.S. Department of the Interior For Your Information...... 3

National Capital Parks-East Important Phone Numbers...... 3

Superintendent Become a Volunteer...... 3 Alex Romero Parks of National Capital Parks-East...... 4–5 Mailing Address 1900 Anacostia Drive SE Park Partners and Cooperating Associations...... 6 Washington, D.C. 20020-6722 Events...... 7-10 E-mail [email protected] Articles...... 10-14 Phone Number Park Map...... 15 202-690-5185 Activities at Your Fingertips...... 16 Fax Number 202-690-0862

The National Park Service cares for the special places saved by Message from the Superintendent: the American people so that all Preserving a Monument to a Remarkable Figure may experience our heritage. Editing and Writing Alex Romero I would like to take this opportunity to tell you Peter Lonsway about the Carter G. Woodson Home National Wanda L. Washington Historic Site and the work we are doing to pre- Lori McKenzie Spillman pare this historic treasure for visitation. Layout and Design Kenneth J. Chandler and the Considered the “Father of Black History,” Dr. NPS Graphic Identity Program Carter G. Woodson founded the Association for Team the Study of Negro Life and History in 1915 (now Map Design the Association for the Study of African-American Jamese Hemsley Life and History (ASALH). In 1926 Dr. Woodson Tammy Stidham and the ASALH founded “Negro History Week,” now observed as “Black Please tell us what you History Month.” think. Beyond the Capital: A Visitor’s Built in 1872, Dr. Woodson owned and occupied 1538 9th Street NW in Guide to National Capital Parks- the historic Shaw neighborhood of Washington, D.C. from 1922 until East is a publication of the National Park Service. 1950. During this era the home was his residence, his research and writ- ing center, served as the headquarters of ASALH, and was a publish- Correspondence should be ad- ing house. Due to Dr. Woodson’s significant contributions to American dressed to: history, the Carter G. Woodson Home was designated a National National Capital Parks-East Historic Landmark on May 11, 1976. In 2000, District of Columbia Attn: Editor 1900 Anacostia Drive SE Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton introduced legislation, which Washington, D.C. 20020-6722 was signed into law December 19, 2003 on Dr. Woodson’s 128th birthday

Or you can e-mail: authorizing the NPS to take ownership of Dr. Woodson’s residence and [email protected] two adjacent properties at 1540 and 1542 9th Street, NW. On February 28, 2006, the Carter G. Woodson Home National Historic Site became the 389th unit of the National Park Service (NPS). The Woodson Site is man- aged by National Capital Parks-East.

Continued on Page 10

2 Beyond the Capital — A Visitor’s Guide to National Capital Parks-East Mission Important Phone Numbers Emergency 911 The National Park Service preserves unimpaired U.S. Park Police Dispatch 202-610-7500 the natural and cultural resources and values of the National Park System for the enjoyment, education, Park Headquarters 202-690-5185 877-444-6777 Frederick Douglass NHS Tours and inspiration of this and future generations. The www.recreation.gov National Park Service cooperates with partners to 202-637-7000 Metro Rail/Bus extend the benefits of natural and cultural resource www.wmata.com conservation and outdoor recreation throughout this country.

Did you know that National Capital Parks-East is For Your Information one of almost 400 national parks found all across America? Hiking and Camping As you take in the park’s beautiful scenery, think ahead, be prepared and stay safe. Become a Volunteer! • Check the weather forecast before heading outdoors for a hike. It is not safe to hike when thunderstorms or heavy snowfall is expected. Do you want to give back to the park that gives you Immediately seek shelter if hazardous weather approaches. so much? Have you ever thought of volunteering • Carry drinking water. Don’t drink from streams, springs, or lakes with- your time and talents to the National Park Service out first properly treating the water. (NPS)? Become a steward of the park by joining • Observe wildlife from a safe distance. Don’t try to get too close to wild the VIP (Volunteers-In-Parks) program at National animals. Capital Parks-East (NACE). • Stay on the trail – if you leave it, you may get lost. • To help prevent food poisoning keep cold foods cold and hot foods Volunteers contribute not just to the mission of the NPS, but to the hot. Don’t store perishable foods in a hot car. communities they serve. NACE VIP job opportunities are as diverse as the • Clean all surfaces and utensils that come into contact with raw meat parks. VIPs welcome visitors to the parks, conduct guided tours, assist or meat juices before reusing them. with special events, maintain trails, serve as campground hosts, work • Wash hands frequently when preparing food, and before serving and with computers, and much more. eating. • Keep children away from grills and lighter fluid, and keep grills away NACE offers a wide array of historic, cultural, and recreational areas that from flammable materials. are part of Washington, D.C., and its eastern environs. The park is com- • Be aware of tiny deer ticks that carry Lyme disease and know which prised of over 8,000 acres of federal land ranging from community parks symptoms to watch out for. When in a potentially infested area, ap- and national historic sites to unique wetland ecosystems, meadows, and ply insect repellent, wear light colored long sleeved-shirts, pants, and mature hardwood forests. socks. Contact the park at 202-690-5185 to find a coordinator near you or visit • Only build a fire in designated grills or fire rings. us at www.nps.gov/nace and click on the volunteer link. • When extinguishing a campfire, let it die down then break-up the coals or logs, spread the pieces, and soak them with water. Special Services Park Regulations NACE makes every effort to pro- vide access to all of our facilities To help protect park resources and ensure an enjoyable visit for every- and programs for the broadest one, please follow park rules and posted regulations. possible range of visitors. From • Pets are welcome in all areas of National Capital Parks-East (NACE), children and the elderly to those except at Oxon Cove Park. Pets must be on a leash no longer than 6 who are physically challenged, feet and under control at all times. NACE strives to create inclusive • Discharging firearms anywhere on NACE lands is unlawful. opportunities for all people. • Please dispose of your garbage and other refuse in trash containers or For detailed information on take it with you when you leave. special services, visitors should • For your safety while hiking, stay on the established trails and watch contact the park’s Accessibility your footing at all times. Coordinator at 202-690-5188. • Prevent damage to resources by bicycling on paved roads and desig­ Students help clean up Oxon nated bike trails only. Cove. NPS Photo.

Beyond the Capital — A Visitor’s Guide to National Capital Parks-East 3 Parks of National Capital Parks-East

Anacostia Park Baltimore-Washington Capitol Hill Parks Carter G. Woodson Parkway Home NHS Anacostia Park presently spans When Pierre Charles L’Enfant submit- ted his design for the national capital over 1,200 acres stretching the Enjoy our scenic gateway into the Imagine a world in which people like of Washington in 1790, a system of length of the Anacostia River from Nation’s Capital! Opened in 1954, you have no written history, or that grand avenues, public buildings, and the Frederick Douglass Memorial the parkway is a 29‑mile scenic park which has been written is incomplete grounds dominated the overall plan. Bridge north approximately five highway that connects Baltimore, or distorted. Before Dr. Carter G. Many of the parks, medians, circles, miles to the District/Maryland line. Maryland to Washington, D.C. The Woodson (1875–1950) began his and squares of Capitol Hill evolved It includes Langston Golf Course “parkway concept” involves preserv- work, there was very little informa- from this plan and its subsequent and River Terrace and it is one of the ing a wide, scenic, mostly natural tion, and much of that stereotypi- modification in 1901 by the McMillan largest and most important parks corridor along a limited-access cal misinformation, about the lives Commission. in Washington, D.C., with diverse rec- divided roadway, following the “lay and history of Americans of African reational opportunities, natural areas, of the land” allowing the visitor to descent. The Capitol Hill Parks, located be- and historic sites. experience the local topography and tween 2nd Streets NE and SE and natural scenery, undistracted by bill- The Carter G. Woodson Home at the Anacostia River, provide elegant This multi-use recreation park, with boards, traffic signals, and adjacent 1538 9th Street NW, in Washington, and open green space within the shoreline access, skating pavilion, ball dense development. D.C., was Dr. Woodson’s home fields, basketball and tennis courts, city of Washington for relaxation, from 1922 until 1950. From there, aesthetic enjoyment, and historic and picnic areas attracts people from The Baltimore-Washington Parkway he directed the operations of the commemoration. throughout the city and across the is one of four parkways that provide Association for the Study of Negro nation. The shore­lines also provide scenic access between major points Life and History and pursued his own Included in this group are: Lincoln, opportunities for river access, fishing, in the National Capital Region. The studies of African American history. Folger, Stanton, and Marion birding, and just relaxing! National Park Service manages this Parks; Maryland Avenue Triangles; parkway from Fort Meade south to The home was acquired by the Pennsylvania Avenue Medians, The park is open daily from 9:00 the Nation’s Capital. National Park Service in 2005. The a.m. to 5:00 p.m. except January 1, Squares and Triangles, including planning process is underway to Thanksgiving Day, and December 25. Seward Square; Potomac Avenue Contact Information restore the home and renovate the Metro Station; Twining Square, and adjacent buildings into a visitor and other inner city green spaces. Contact Information Baltimore Washington Parkway research center. The site is closed to c/o Greenbelt Park the public. 1900 Anacostia Drive SE 6565 Greenbelt Road Contact Information Washington, DC 20020 Greenbelt, MD 20770 Contact Information 1318 Vermont Avenue NW 202-472-3884 202-619-7105: U.S. Park Police Washington, DC 20005 www.nps.gov/anac 301-344-3948: Parkway Maintenance 1318 Vermont Avenue NW 202-673-2402 www.nps.gov/bawa Washington, DC 20005 www.nps.gov/cahi 202-673-2402 www.nps.gov/cawo

Kenilworth Park & Mary McLeod Bethune Oxon Cove Park/ Piscataway Park Aquatic Gardens Council House NHS Oxon Hill Farm Situated along the Potomac River Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens Nestled in the heart of the Logan Located in the District of Columbia in Maryland, Piscataway Park was is the only National Park Service site Circle Historic District in Washington, and Prince George’s County, created to preserve the historic devoted to the cultivation of flower- D.C., is the Mary McLeod Bethune Maryland, Oxon Cove Park features views from Mount Vernon, home to ing aquatic plants. It is a 12‑acre Council House National Historic the 63‑acre Oxon Hill Farm, a work- President George Washington, to Fort sanctuary that features serene ponds, Site. Bethune founded the National ing historic farm. Visitors can explore Washington. Piscataway Park is a nat- flowering water lilies and lotus, as Council of Negro Women and the site the early 19th-century farm house ural area and is home to bald eagles, well as many species of birds and served as its national headquarters (Mount Welby) and other historic beavers, fox, osprey, and many other wildlife. from 1943 to 1966. barns, stables, and outbuildings. species. The forested coves and tidal Animals, crops, orchards, and gar- marshes located along the Piscataway Park shoreline are a great place for Park will open from 7:00 a.m. to 4:30 The National Archives for Black dens are also found on the farm exploring by canoe. Piscataway Park p.m. starting Labor Day. The park is Women’s History, housed at the site, site. The park’s 485 acres provide is a beautiful place for picnicking closed Thanksgiving, December 25 has materials pertaining to black recreational opportunities for hiking, and fishing. National Colonial Farm, and January 1. women and their organizations and biking, and picnicking, and are an located in the park, is an outdoor contains extensive correspondence, excellent resource for environmental living history museum founded by the Kenilworth Marsh is a 77‑acre fresh- photographs, and memorabilia studies and wildlife observing. Accokeek Foundation. The park of- water tidal marsh that borders the related to the National Council of fers a public fishing pier, two board- Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens. Negro Women. The farm is open to the public daily walks over freshwater tidal wetlands, The marsh includes 32 acres of marsh from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. except and a variety of nature trails. restored in the 1990s to provide habi- The site is open to the public Monday January 1, Thanksgiving Day, and tat for a wide array of native wildlife through Saturday from 9 am to 5 December 25. Reservations are The park is open from dawn to dusk. and wetland plants. A boardwalk and pm. The park is closed January 1, required for special programs, educa- trail from the Aquatic Gardens pro- Thanksgiving Day, and December 25. tion offerings, and popular activities vide visitors access to various marsh such as milking cows, gathering eggs, Contact Information zones and the Anacostia River. Contact Information and wagon rides. 13511 Fort Washington Road Fort Washington, MD 20744 Contact Information 1318 Vermont Avenue NW Contact Information 301-763-4600 Washington, DC 20005 www.nps.gov/pisc 1550 Anacostia Avenue NE 202-673-2402 6411 Oxon Hill Road Washington, DC 20019 www.nps.gov/mamc Oxon Hill, MD 20745 202-426-6905 301-839-1176 www.nps.gov/keaq www.nps.gov/oxhi

4 Beyond the Capital — A Visitor’s Guide to National Capital Parks-East Parks of National Capital Parks-East

Civil War Defenses of Fort Washington Park Frederick Douglass NHS Greenbelt Park Washington Fort Washington Park is a 19th- The Frederick Douglass National Greenbelt Park is a natural oasis situ- To protect the District of Columbia century fortification that was built to Historic Site houses an impressive ated just 12 miles from Washington,­ from Confederate assault during the defend the nation’s capital from naval collection of original furnishing and D.C., and 23 miles from Baltimore, Civil War, a complex system of field attacks. It remained active through artifacts from Frederick Douglass. Maryland. The park’s 1,100 acres fortifications was built on ridges and 1946. of oak, maple, sweetgum, and old terraces encircling the outer edges Visitors learn about the life of pine are a retreat from the pressures of the Federal city. The section of the Tours of the fort are available daily. Frederick Douglass through exhibits, of city life and a forested refuge for Fort Circle Parks now under the juris- Picnicking areas, river views and a film in the park’s visitor center, native plants and animals. diction of National Capital Parks-East access, extensive woodlands, and and ranger-led tours of the home. extends southward from Bladensburg hiking trails are also available. Reservations are required for groups A wide range of recreational oppor- Road in Northeast Washington, of more than 10, maximum of 60 tunities and educational programs through the segment of the city Fort Washington Park hosts a number persons per group. Groups of 10 or are available year-round, including which lies east of the Anacostia River, of special events annually including less are strongly encouraged to make facilities for picnicking, camping, and to Fort Foote in Prince George’s Civil War artillery firing demonstra- reservations. Tickets are available backpacking, biking, bird watching, County, Maryland. It includes Forts tions and living history programs. on-site the day of the tour on a first- hiking, and wildlife viewing. Mahan, Chaplin, Dupont, Davis, come, first-served basis. Stanton, Carroll, Greble, and Foote, The fort is closed on Thanksgiving The park is open daily from dawn to Battery Ricketts, and various land Day, December 25, and January 1. The site is open to the public daily, dusk. The ranger station is open year- parcels, including Shepherd Parkway, The grounds are open from sunrise to except January 1, Thanksgiving Day, round from 8:00 a.m. to 3:45 p.m., which connect these sites. sunset and the fort and visitor center and December 25. except January 1, Thanksgiving Day, are open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 and December 25. Contact Information p.m. Memorial Day through Labor For further information, please call Day and from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 1-877-444-6777 or visit www.recre- Contact Information 1900 Anacostia Drive SE Labor Day through Memorial Day. An ation.gov. Tours are free; however, Washington, DC 20020 entrance fee is charged from April reservations require a service charge 6565 Greenbelt Road 202-690-5185 through October. of $1.50 per person. School groups Greenbelt, MD 20770 www.nps.gov/cwdw pay a flat service fee of $5.00 per 301-344-3948 Contact Information reservation. www.nps.gov/gree

1355 Fort Washington Road Contact Information Fort Washington, MD 20744 301-763-4600 1411 W Street SE www.nps.gov/fowa Washington, DC 20020 202-426-5961 www.nps.gov/frdo

Shepherd Parkway Suitland Parkway

Shepherd Parkway is actually not Suitland Parkway extends from a roadway, but a “corridor park” Andrews Air Force Base in Camp encompassing a forested ridge line Springs, Maryland to the Martin overlooking the Potomac River in Luther King, Jr. Bridge (South Capitol southeast Washington, D.C. It forms St.) in Washington, D.C. It is the the forested backdrop along the scenic “gateway” that countless visit- eastern side of Interstate 295, and ing dignitaries, royalty, world leaders, also contains multiple historical Civil and Presidents have traveled on their War defenses sites within its pre- route into the Nation’s Capital. dominantly wooded, natural scenery. It contributes greatly to the “green- Originally built as a wartime access ness” of our Capital City, as well as to road to Andrews Air Force Base, our oxygen supply! the parkway was redeveloped in the 1950s into the scenic, forested Shepherd Parkway is managed as park roadway that it is today. It is a natural area by National Capital one of four scenic parkways in the Parks-East. Washington, D.C., metropolitan area, providing an aesthetic access Contact Information to important destination points. The portion within Maryland is managed 1900 Anacostia Drive SE by the National Park Service. Washington, DC 20020 202-472-3884 Today, the parkway is extensively www.nps.gov/nace used by thousands of visitors to the Nation’s Capital arriving from the east. Notably, the parkway is often the first image that foreign heads of state get of the United States.

Contact Information

1900 Anacostia Drive SE Washington, DC 20020 202-472-3884 www.nps.gov/nace Fort Washington. NPS Photo.

Beyond the Capital — A Visitor’s Guide to National Capital Parks-East 5 Park Partners & Cooperating Associations

Accokeek Foundation Alice Ferguson Aquatic Resources Earth Conservation Corps Foundation Education Center The ACCOKEEK FOUNDATION Earth Conservation Corps (ECC) is a operates the National Colonial Farm, The ALICE FERGUSON FOUNDATION The AQUATIC RESOURCES non-profit youth development and located in Piscataway Park. The farm is a key environmental educational EDUCATION CENTER (AREC) is environmental service organization was established by the foundation organization on the Potomac River located in Anacostia Park adjacent to located on the Anacostia River. ECC in 1958 to educate people about in Piscataway Park. As a leader of the Anacostia Skating Pavilion. The provides underprivileged young farm life. It is a recreation of a middle watershed stewardship, it models Center is cooperative partnership people with hands-on life skills, class farm dating back to 1775. innovative practices, outreach, between the District of Columbia‘s education, career, and environmen- Demonstrations depict the life of a partnerships, programs, and events Fisheries and Wildlife Division, U.S. tal training with an overall goal typical family during colonial times. that are replicated globally. Through Fish and Wildlife Service and the to facilitate the restoration of the Visitors will find a circa 1780 farm its award-winning program for school National Park Service. Anacostia River and its surrounding dwelling, an 18th-century tobacco children at Hard Bargain Farm and communities. farm, a smokehouse, a public fish- the Bridging the Watershed program, Visitors and students learn about the ing pier and a riverside path with a students are guided to conduct ecology, conservation and biology of Since 1992, ECC has recruited and beautiful view of Mount Vernon, the investigations of the local environ- local aquatic and fisheries resources trained over 18,000 young people former home of President George ment, including wetlands, farmlands through workshops, presentations in an effort to reclaim the Anacostia Washington. The Ecosystem Farm and meadows while expanding their and interactive displays. These ac- River. In 2002, ECC was awarded offers educational opportunities personal connection to the natural tivities and programs also serve to a grant to construct the first three through the Center for Land-Based world. educate the local community on the demonstration sites of the Riverwalk Training. need for awareness and protection of Trail: Henson Park, the Old Capital Each year, more than 10,000 students these fragile resources. Pump House, and a trail beneath the Contact Information from the Washington, D.C., metro- 11th Street Bridge. ECC is a valuable partner to the National Park Service, politan area come to Hard Bargain Contact Information Angela Barnes Farm for day or overnight educa- assisting in the clean up, beautifica- Communications Manager tion, and restoration of several park tion field trips, the Annual Potomac Bryan King Accokeek Foundation sites. Watershed Cleanup and the Annual Associate Director Fishers and Wildlife 3400 Bryan Point Road Spring Farm Festival. 1900 Anacostia Drive SE Accokeek, MD 20607 Contact Information Washington, DC 20020 [email protected] Contact Information [email protected] Annett Gantt (Executive Director) 301-283-2113 202-535-2260 [email protected], or www.accokeek.org Alena Rosen www.doh.dc.gov/doh/cwp Communications Manager Kellie Bolinder 2001 Bryan Point Road [email protected] Accokeek, MD 20607 First Street & Potomac Avenue SE [email protected] Washington, DC 20003 301-292-5665 202-554-1960 www.fergusonfoundation.org www.ecc1.org

Eastern National Living Classrooms of the Sewall-Belmont House Student Conservation National Capital Region and Museum Association Eastern National is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit “cooperating associa- Living Classrooms Foundation The Sewall-Belmont House and The Student Conservation Association tion,” that supports National Capital strengthens communities and inspires Museum is the site where suffrage (SCA) provides high school students, Parks-East and other National Park young people to achieve their poten- leader Alice Paul and the women of college students, and others with Service sites. Eastern National as- tial through hands-on education and the National Woman’s Party led the meaningful conservation service in- sists the educational and interpretive job training, using urban, natural, fight for equal rights for women in ternships and volunteer opportunities mission of the National Park Service and maritime resources as “living the United States and throughout the in our national parks. Students enjoy primarily by procuring, distributing, classrooms.” world. The National Woman’s Party adventure, gain experience, and and selling educational material was instrumental in gaining the pas- make a difference. SCA has made an in retail outlets located in national Living Classrooms Foundation is a sage of the Nineteenth Amendment invaluable contribution to the beauti- parks. Eastern National also assists by Baltimore-Washington based non- to the Constitution giving women the fication and conservation of the parks providing supplemental funding for profit educational organization, right to vote. in National Capital Parks-East. land and artifact acquisitions, special founded in 1985 in Baltimore, and events, educational and interpretive serving the National Capital Region Alice Paul, the author of the Equal programs, and research grants. Since Contact Information since 2001. Rights Amendment, lived and worked its incorporation in 1948, Eastern in the house for many years. The National has donated over $100 Deirdre Fitzgerald Our maritime heritage programs library, which contains an unparal- million to the National Park Service, Media Relations create opportunities for employment leled collection of suffrage and equal in the form of direct donations and 1800 North Kent Street, training. Our education programs use rights artifacts and documents, is grants. Suite 102 our environmental and maritime re- dedicated to the history of the party Arlington, VA 22209 sources as living learning laboratories. and the history of the suffrage and [email protected] Eastern National bookstores can be Our employability programs create equal rights movements. Please call 703-524-2441 found in National Capital Parks-East stronger communities that are better for tour availability. www.thesca.org at Frederick Douglass NHS, Fort prepared to exercise environmental Washington Park, Oxon Cove Park, stewardship. Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens, and Contact Information Mary McLeod Bethune Council House NHS. Contact Information Elisabeth Crum Public Programs & Outreach Manager 515 M Street SE, Suite 222 144 Constitution Avenue NE Contact Information Washington, DC 20003 Washington, DC 20002 202-488-0627 [email protected] 470 Maryland Drive, Suite 1 www.livingclassroomsdc.org 202-546-1210 Fort Washington, PA 19034 www.sewallbelmont.org 215-283-6900 www.easternnational.org www.eparks.com

6 Beyond the Capital — A Visitor’s Guide to National Capital Parks-East Events

borrow a pair from us. Keep Ever wonder how Civil War Birds can bring feathered fun— Recurring your eyes open, you may get a cannons were fired? The Fort and free insect control—to a chance to see Osprey nesting in Washington Guard, in period backyard garden. Join us for Anacostia Park! uniforms will demonstrate and an introduction to the back- Events explain the procedures used yard birds of Maryland. From ORATORICAL CONTEST during the muzzle-loading era of red-breasted robins to cheer- M A R Y M C L E O D American Artillery. The park has ful bluebirds, instructors will Frederick Douglass NHS B E T H U N E C O U N C I L two artillery pieces, a 6‑pound identify several common birds Application Deadline—Monday, HOUSE TOURS field gun and a 12‑pound moun- of Maryland and discuss how November 12 tain howitzer. Firings will be at to attract them with shelter, wa- Monday–Saturday Contest—December 6-8 1:00 p.m., 2:00 p.m., and 3:00 ter, and food—from seed and 202-673-2402 Grades 1–12 p.m. suet cakes to bird-friendly native Free Visitors can tour the Mary plants. Weather permitting; par- 202-426-5961 McLeod Bethune Council W I N T E R P A R K ticipants will take a guided trail House. Please contact the site for Let the world hear your voice. O P E R A T I O N H O U R walk. This program is provid- tour details. Hone your public speaking skills CHANGES ed by the Accokeek Foundation, a partner of the National Park and follow in the footsteps of Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens F R E D E R I C K D O U G L A S S Service. For more information Frederick Douglass. Memorize Monday, September 3 H O M E T O U R S or to register online, visit www. a portion of a Douglass speech 202-426-6905 accokeek.org. Daily and deliver here at his home. 202-426-5961 Park will be open from 7:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. starting Labor Day. B E A V E R S I N T H E Ranger-led tours are the only September The park is closed Thanksgiving, WETLAND ECOSYSTEM way to see the inside of the December 25 and January 1. Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens Frederick Douglass house. Tours R A N G E R F I T Sunday, September 9 are ticketed and there are a lim- PONTOON BOAT RIDES CHALLENGE 1:00 p.m. ited number of tickets available Bladensburg Waterfront Park 202-426-6905 for each tour. Tour tickets are Anacostia Park—Skating Pavilion 4601 Annapolis Road All ages, FREE available by reservation or on a September, every Thursday Bladensburg, MD first-come, first-served walk-in 6:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m. Join Ranger Lee to learn about September 6 and 28 basis. Visitors are strongly en- 202-472-3884 the beaver’s place in wetlands. 12:00 noon couraged to make a reservation Free for all ages 301-779-0371 to guarantee their place on the LISTEN TO THE MUSIC All ages, FREE tour. Tours last approximately 30 Come out to Anacostia Park, a Healthy Park for Healthy People, Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens minutes. Visitors are encouraged Join a National Park Ranger at and get Ranger Fit! Walk around Saturday, September 15 to arrive at least 20 minutes ear- Bladensburg Waterfront Park the park and get moving while 8:00 a.m.–8:45 a.m. ly to pick up tickets at the visitor for a delightful one hour tour of elevating your heart rate and 202-426-6905 center and use restrooms. the Anacostia River at its natu- stop at one of the many Ranger RSVP to Kate ral best. Discover the rich histo- Fit activity stations for a quick Appropriate for older teens and B I R D I N G A L O N G T H E ry of the area. Participants must agility activity. Rangers will be up. FREE ANACOSTIA be at the marina by 11:30 a.m. to available to encourage and pro- sign up. Call the Bladensburg AARP is the latest to endorse Anacostia Park mote healthy lifestyles and Waterfront Park for reservations “vitamin N” for healing. The Weekly, every Sunday healthy parks! Contact Ranger and conditions. N stands for nature which can 10:00 a.m. Miguel. 202-472-3884 be therapy for stress, pain, and BACKYARD BIRDS speed recovery from surgery and Free for all ages A R T I L L E R Y F I R I N G illness. Join Ranger Kate for a DEMONSTRATION Piscataway Park/Accokeek Come enjoy birding for begin- half hour or more of gentle exer- Foundation ners along the Anacostia River Fort Washington Park—Old Fort cise, relaxation techniques and Saturday, September 8 with Ranger Miguel at Anacostia Sunday, September 2 focus on the music of nature our 10:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Park. See a variety of birds and 1:00 p.m.–3:00 p.m. ears were made for. No special 301-283-2113 learn about their habitats and 301-763-4600 equipment is needed. $40 non-members; $30 members why they call Anacostia home. All Ages Bring your own binoculars or

Beyond the Capital — A Visitor’s Guide to National Capital Parks-East 7 Events

L I S T E N T O N A T U R E ’ S H O W F O R T Emphasis will be on how ani- equipment, and getting grounds MUSIC W A S H I N G T O N C A N mals adapt to winter. ready for winter. All hands H E L P Y O U S U R V I V E A Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens needed. ZOMBIE APOCALYPSE Saturday, September 15 H A S T H E N A T I O N A L 1:00 p.m. Fort Washington—Old Fort P A R K S E R V I C E G O N E N A T I O N A L P U B L I C 202-426-6905 Saturday, September 15 & 22 TO THE DOGS? LANDS DAY CLEAN-UP All ages, FREE 2:00 p.m. Fort Washington Park—Visitor Oxon Cove Park 301-763-4600 Center Saturday, September 29 Join us for a combination of me- Ages 12–Adult Saturday, September 29 9:00 a.m.–12:00 noon diation, yoga, and directed lis- 11:00 a.m.–12:00 noon 301-839-1176 tening to the sounds of nature, The time has come when the 301-763-4600 Ages 18 and up (Children are mind, and body. dead walk the earth; what would All ages welcome if accompanied by an you do to survive? Come and ex- adult) CHILDREN’S STORIES plore the 19th century fort that How many types of dogs does defended Washington, D.C. Greenbelt Park—Ranger the National Park Service em- Do your part to help clean up and see how to survive with- Classroom ploy? What do they do and the Potomac River Watershed by in its walls. Learn why this fort Saturday, September 15 where to they work? Ever won- picking up trash down at Oxon was designed and placed where 12:00 noon der about these questions? Cove. Earn service hours need- it was, and how it could help you 301-344-3944 Come out to the park and learn ed for your organization! Wear survive in the chaos of a Zombie Ages 6–8 about these special dogs. old clothes and shoes that you attack. don’t mind getting wet and mud- Join a park ranger in read- N A T I O N A L P U B L I C dy. Bring work gloves and rakes, ing nature stories introducing R E A D I N G S T O R I E S L A N D S D A Y — R I V E R if you have them. Meet in the life cycles of animals and their W I T H R A N G E R S T E P H : CLEAN-UP parking lot. For more informa- F A R M A B C ’ S tion, go to www.publiclands- habitats. Fort Washington Park— day.org. Oxon Cove Park—Visitor Barn Lighthouse MONTHLY FOODWAYS Monday, September 17 Saturday, September 29 Piscataway Park/National 9:00 a.m.–10:00 a.m. 9:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m. Colonial Farm 301-839-1176 301-763-4600 October Saturday, September 15 Ages 0 to 5 and accompanying All ages R A N G E R F I T 12:00 noon adults 301-283-2113 National Public Lands Day is the CHALLENGE ABC... Easy as 1 2 3! Simple as Do nation’s largest single day vol- FREE Anacostia Park—Skating Pavilion re mi, ABC, 1 2 3, baby you and unteer event. Volunteer at Fort October, every Thursday Join us at the National Colonial me! Every third Monday of the Washington to help clean up the 5:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m. Farm for a kitchen table con- month, come listen to stories, Potomac River. Grab you gloves 202-472-3884 versation as we introduce you sing songs, and enjoy other ac- and meet us at the lighthouse. Free for all ages to the epicurean delights of co- tivities. This month, join Ranger The park has a limited supply of Steph as she takes a look at the lonial Marylanders. Learn how gloves. Come out to Anacostia Park, a alphabet through a farm lens. our tastes and the food itself Healthy Park for Healthy People, Meet in the Visitor Barn. have changed over 300 years as N A T I O N A L P U B L I C and get Ranger Fit! Walk around we explore the “receipts” (reci- L A N D S D A Y the park and get moving while P O N D L I F E pes) and meal preparation. This Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens elevating your heart rate and month’s theme is “Well, Fancy Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens Saturday, September 29 stop at one of the many Ranger That!” featuring: To Make Force- Saturday, September 23 9:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. Fit activity stations for a quick Meat Balls, Gravy for White 8:00 a.m.–8:30 a.m. 202-426-6906 agility activity. Rangers will be Sauce and To Force a Tongue. 202-426-6905 RSVP to Ranger Doug available to encourage and pro- For more information about this RSVP to Ranger Kate All ages, FREE mote healthy lifestyles and monthly program, visit www. Suitable for children 9–11 years healthy parks! Contact Ranger accokeek.org. This program old, FREE Join volunteers and the Friends Miguel. is provided by the Accokeek of Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens Foundation, a partner of the Join us for a program that ex- for a host of opportunities that National Park Service. plores life in the ponds. will make a difference in the park. We will be cleaning ponds,

8 Beyond the Capital — A Visitor’s Guide to National Capital Parks-East Events

A FUNGI FORAY LISTEN TO THE MUSIC know more about the various or- helps children learn about the Piscataway Park/Accokeek Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens ganizations in the area that are animals that live in Greenbelt Foundation Saturday, October 13 working towards a more sus- Park and how they have easi- Saturday, October 6 8:00 a.m.–8:45 a.m. tainable food system. This eve- ly adapted to an urban lifestyle. 10:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m. 202-426-6905 ning will include a tour of the Come and join us as a puppeteer 301-283-2113 RSVP to Ranger Kate Accokeek Foundation’s certi- to educate those interested in $5 suggested donation Appropriate for older teens and fied organic vegetable farm op- learning about the park. up. FREE eration, a short hike, a discus- This fall, join biologist Tovi sion about our local food sys- H I S T O R I C S T R U C T U R E S Lehmann for a foray into the fas- AARP is the latest to endorse tem and sustainable agricul- TOUR ture, a potluck, music and more! cinating world of fungi. In this “vitamin N” for healing. The Oxon Cove Park Please bring lawn chairs, hiking two-part workshop, Tovi will in- N stands for nature which can Saturday, October 20 boots, bug spray and a dish to troduce participants to mush- be therapy for stress, pain, and 2:30 p.m.–3:30 p.m. share. Visit the website for more room life cycles and habitats, as speed recovery from surgery and 301-839-1176 information or e-mail the edu- well as the important role that illness. Join Ranger Kate for a All ages fungi play in the natural world. half hour or more of gentle exer- cation and outreach coordina- Tovi will also discuss the ba- cise, relaxation techniques and tor at [email protected]. Join a Park Ranger for a walking sics of mushroom identification. focus on the music of nature our This program is provided by the tour of Oxon Cove Park’s histor- Participants will take a guid- ears were made for. No special Accokeek Foundation, a partner ic structures. ed trail walk to hunt for fun- equipment is needed. of the National Park Service. gi. Please wear close-toed shoes TWILIGHT TALES and clothing appropriate for the W A R O F 1 8 1 2 W A Y S I D E R E A D I N G S T O R I E S Piscataway Park/National weather. This program is provid- WALKING TOUR W I T H R A N G E R S T E P H : Colonial Farm ed by the Accokeek Foundation, Y O U ’ R E T H E A P P L E O F Oxon Cove Park Friday, October 26 & Saturday, a partner of the National Park M Y E Y E Saturday, October 13 October 27 Service. Registration online at 12:30 p.m.–1:30 p.m. Oxon Cove Park 7:00 p.m.–9:00 p.m. www.accokeek.org 301-839-1176 Monday, October 15 301-283-2113 Ages 10 and up 9:00 a.m.–10:00 a.m. $10 non-members; $7 members A R T I L L E R Y F I R I N G 301-839-1176 DEMONSTRATION The War of 1812 has begun and it Ages 0 to 5, and accompanying When night descends on the Fort Washington Park—Old Fort is impacting families all along the adults Potomac River, this historic site Sunday, October 7 Potomac River. Find out how the comes alive with spirits from 1:00 p.m.–3:00 p.m. DeButts family and others coped Every third Monday of the Maryland’s past. Guests will en- 301-763-4600 during this time by joining a park month, come listen to stories, joy scary stories and songs per- All ages ranger for a short walking tour. sing songs, and enjoy other ac- formed as the sun sets over We will view our indoor and out- tivities. This month, we’ll con- George Washington’s Mount Ever wonder how Civil War door exhibits. A discussion will centrate on everyone’s favorite Vernon across the river; each cannons were fired? The Fort take place at each stop. Be sure sweet October treat.... No, not with their own lantern-led Washington Guard in period to wear comfortable shoes. candy corn! The All-American ghoulish guide to explore the uniforms will demonstrate and Apple! Find out if it’s true that haunted farm house, through explain the procedures used F O O D A N D F A R M I N G an apple a day keeps the doctor the fields to the historic tobac- during the muzzle-loading era of MIXER away. Meet Ranger Steph in the co barn and the “Tavern” where American Artillery. The park has Visitor Barn. Piscataway Park/Accokeek they’ll encounter various lost two artillery pieces, a 6‑pound Foundation souls from Colonial Maryland. field gun and a 12‑pound moun- “ T A L K I N T R A S H W I T H Saturday, October 13 Registration online at www. tain howitzer. Firings will be at SASHA THE SPIDER” 4:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m. accokeek.org. This program 1:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. 301-283-2113 Greenbelt Park—Ranger Station is provided by the Accokeek $5 suggested donation Saturday, October 20 Foundation, a partner of the 11:00 a.m. National Park Service. The Food and Farming Mixer 301-344-3944 is a great networking opportu- Ages 7–12 nity amongst the farm and food systems community and will Want to become a puppeteer? feature opportunities to get to Talk in Trash is a play, which

Beyond the Capital — A Visitor’s Guide to National Capital Parks-East 9 Events

P U M P K I N S , T H E an open house style activity for Join the Fort Washington Guard Continued from page 2 SPECIAL SQUASH home school grades K–8. E-mail as they celebrate the 237th birth- We are actively developing Oxon Cove Park the manager of education at ed- day of the Field Artillery and plans to restore the home to its Sunday, October 28, 2012 [email protected] to reg- all who have served in the de- period of significance. These 9:30 a.m.–10:00 a.m. ister and for more informa- fense of the nation. The Fort formal plans, including a General 301-839-1176 tion or visit www.accokeek.org. Washington Guard in period Management Plan/Environmental Ages 3 to 12, but all are welcomed This program is provided by the uniforms will demonstrate and Assessment, a Historic Structure Accokeek Foundation, a partner explain the procedures used Report, and a Historic Resource Ever wonder why pumpkins are of the National Park Service. during the muzzle-loading era of Study, will guide us through the a prominent symbol of fall and American Artillery. The park has restoration process. the holiday season? Through LISTEN TO THE MUSIC two artillery pieces, a 6‑pound field gun and a 12‑pound moun- The natural disasters (earthquake songs, stories, and poems we Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens tain howitzer. Firings will be at and Hurricane Irene) that oc- will we discover the cultural im- Saturday, November 10 1:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. curred in the D.C. metro area in portance of pumpkins and their 8:00 a.m.–8:45 a.m. 2011 caused significant damage place in the American land- 202-426-6905 MEET THE BEAVER to the Woodson home and the scape. This program is for kids, RSVP to Ranger Kate adjacent NPS owned properties. ages 3–12, but all are welcome. Appropriate for older teens and Greenbelt Park—Classroom In response to this damage, the Reservations required. up. FREE Saturday, November 17 National Park Service’s Historic 11:00 a.m. Preservation Training Center is AARP is the latest to endorse 301-344-3944 planning exterior earthquake November “vitamin N” for healing. The Ages 8–12 N stands for nature which can stabilization and needed condi- tion assessments for the site. SLEEPY TIME FROGS be therapy for stress, pain, and Join a Park Ranger Debbie to speed recovery from surgery and learn about the beaver charac- Additionally, we are working Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens illness. Join Ranger Kate for a teristics and their habitats. with the District of Columbia Sunday, November 4 half hour or more of gentle exer- Historic Preservation Office and 1:00 p.m. cise, relaxation techniques and R E A D I N G S T O R I E S completing compliance process- 202-426-6905 focus on the music of nature our W I T H R A N G E R S T E P H : es specified by Section 106 of All ages, FREE ears were made for. No special WHAT’S FOR DINNER? the National Historic Preservation equipment is needed. Act in order to begin work now Ever wonder where frogs go for Oxon Cove Park—Visitor Barn scheduled for early autumn. This the winter? Walk with Ranger Monday, November 19 O X O N H I L L H I S T O R Y work will temporarily brace the Lee to discuss how frogs prepare 9:00 a.m.–10:00 a.m. TALK exterior facade in preparation for hibernation. 301-839-1176 for more comprehensive reha- Oxon Cove Park Ages 0 to 5, and accompanying bilitation. This is a monumental C O L O N I A L H O M E Saturday, November 10 adults project to begin stabilization S C H O O L D A Y 2:30 p.m.–3:30 p.m. and rehabilitation of the three Food, food, and more food. 301-839-1176 buildings. We are working with Piscataway Park/National November is a time to celebrate All ages many stakeholders to identify Colonial Farm a bountiful harvest. But what are Join a Park Ranger for a presen- needs and understand how they Wednesday, November 7 the favorite foods of farm ani- tation on the rich history of the could help us return the home 10:00 a.m.–12:00 noon mals? Every third Monday of the city of Oxon Hill, Maryland. to its former glory. The home is 301-283-2113 month, come listen to stories, $5 per person; 2 and under are an incredible historic resource F I E L D A R T I L L E R Y sing songs, and enjoy other ac- free and we are excited about this BIRTHDAY tivities. This month, learn what the animals of the farm like to project and the progress we have Calling all homeschoolers! Fort Washington Park—Old Fort feast on. Meet Ranger Steph in made to date! If you would like Join the Bolton Family at the Sunday, November 11 the Visitor Barn. to learn more about the project National Colonial Farm and 1:00 p.m.–3:00 p.m. or Dr. Woodson, please visit our spend the day learning about 301-763-4600 website at www.nps.gov/cawo. life on a small tobacco farm in All ages the mid-18th century. Children Thank you, will learn about heritage breed The Continental Congress unan- farm animals, crops and gar- imously elected Henry Knox Alexcy Romero dens, and try their hands at co- “Colonel of the Regiment of Superintendent lonial chores. This program is Artillery” on 17 November 1775. 10 Beyond the Capital — A Visitor’s Guide to National Capital Parks-East Articles

Archaeology Students “Find” Paddle on the Anacostia River

History at Fort Mahan In late October, students representing local schools, will canoe the Anacostia River as part of the third annual Anacostia Paddle. By Jim Rosenstock The week-long event of 10 half-day trips runs Oct. 22–28 and aims to inspire the students to reconnect with the River and to seek opportuni- This summer, the newly-formed Urban Archeology Corps (UAC) was ties to serve, advocate, and lead a lasting, sustainable future for the active in our parks. An educational program to foster awareness of the River. field of archeology, this group of five young adults and their archeolo- gist-mentor focused their activities on the heavily urbanized park lands The public is invited to experience the Paddle during free, 30–45 minute of their neighborhood, near Fort Mahan Park in the District of Columbia. trips on Saturday Oct. 27 and Sunday, Oct. 28. Please contact us for pro- gram times. No experience is necessary and registration and equipment The UAC had not planned to do any actual digging; their focus was to will be provided on-site. learn the processes of research and field investigations that need to be done before any shovels are used. However, near the end of the pro- In traditional Voyageur-style, 24’ canoes, participants will have the op- gram, a suspicious “dig” was discovered by NPS maintenance employees portunity to connect with local natural resources, experience firsthand at Fort Mahan. After an initial investigation, park managers allowed the the successes of efforts to reclaim the River, and better understand the UAC to practice their newly learned skills, while also documenting an challenges the River and its neighboring communities and green spaces important historic site in the park. face. Organizers hope that the program will encourage participants to be a new generation of stewards for the river, sparking a lasting commit- The group’s examination of the site revealed a brick-lined well about 100 ment to protect and transform it and its communities. years old. They also recovered artifacts including metal parts, old bottle glass, buttons, and other early 20th-century items. The UAC findings The Paddle is brought full-circle with classroom lessons and educa- will create greater awareness about the history of the Fort Mahan area. tional materials provided by the sponsoring organizations that focus Thanks, ladies! on sustainable living, the importance of community green spaces, and how the River touches every facet of the students’ day-to-day lives and neighborhoods.

The Paddle is a collaboration between a number of local and federal partners, including the National Park Service (National Capital Parks- East), Wilderness Inquiry, DC Department of Health, DC Department of Parks and Recreation, District of Columbia Government, National Parks Trust, US Army Corps of Engineers, the Anacostia Watershed Society, and Washington Parks & People.

Community members are invited and encouraged to join the Paddle. For more information on how to join, visit www.wildernessinquiry.org.

Two students look for artifacts. NPS Photo. Paddling on the Anacostia River. NPS Photo.

Beyond the Capital — A Visitor’s Guide to National Capital Parks-East 11 Articles

Dupont Kalorama Museums Groundwork Anacostia River Consortium Walk-Weekend DC heads out to the Shenan- By Kimberly Brown doah Mountains

The Mary McLeod Bethune Council House National Historic Site kicked By Miguel Marquez off an exciting summer of events with this year’s Dupont Kalorama Museums Consortium Walk-Weekend special program, Artists and In July, the Groundwork Anacostia River DC “Green Team,” including Activists: The National Council of Negro Women and the Fight for Justice 5 youth and their leaders, ventured to Shenandoah National Park for a through Artistic Alliances. week-long camping and service learning program. While in the park the team conducted several resource management projects; including trail The two-day affair featured a panel discussion with leading theatre rehabilitation, invasive vegetation removal, and GPS view shed projects. scholars Eric Ruffin (Howard University Professor of Theatre Arts), Sybil They also learned about the unique treasures of Shenandoah National Roberts (American University Professor of Dramaturgy and Performing Park....and by all accounts had a great time. Three National Capital Arts), and Faedra Carpenter (University of Maryland Assistant Professor Parks-East rangers; Tommy Safranek, Eli Alford, and Miguel Marquez of Theatre Dance Performance Studies). With more than two hundred worked with NPS Rivers, Trails and Conservation Assistance staff and people from the neighborhood and surrounding community in at- Shenandoah National Park rangers to plan, prepare, and lead the team tendance, guests not only engaged in an informative and stimulating during the expedition. The collaborative efforts of Groundwork and the exchange about the responsibility of contemporary artists to use their National Park Service created an experience of a lifetime for 5 urban platforms to call for equality, but also relaxed and enjoyed monologues youth. presented by producer and writer Lauren E. Banks and the Howard Theater Collective. The audience snapped along and gave oral responses to the actors during the African-style call-and-response readings. A for- mer Miss Howard University and Miss HBCU, Kendall Isadore, embodied the event’s theme with a stirring performance that combined classical violin and old Negro spiritual. Museum visitors were moved to a standing ovation.

The next day, Council House favorite and regular Walk-Weekend fea- ture Jeff Antoniuk and his three-piece jazz ensemble did not disappoint as folks mingled and swayed in the courtyard. After she heard the trio begin its Duke Ellington set, visitor Heather Nurse, a music enthusiast and junior biology student from Howard University, squealed, “I am so glad I came out here. Can you say love, love, LOVE?” Those inside the museum learned about one of America’s foremost educators and intel- lectuals of the early 20th century, Mary McLeod Bethune. Dr. Ida Jones, Assistant Curator at Moorland-Spingarn Research Center, explained the importance of the roles of Mrs. Bethune and Kelly Miller in her book, Heart of the Race Problem: The Life of Kelley Miller. In keeping with the theme, kids were all smiles making theatrical masks with the help of Park Guides, Kelly and Veronica. In light of Mrs. Bethune’s consistent emphasis on youth and her regular collaborations with artists of all kinds, this year’s programming certainly did its best to capture her spirit.

Jeff Antoniuk and his three- piece jazz ensemble during the DKMC Walk-Weekend. NPS The Groundwork Anacostia Rover DC “Green Team” with Rangers at Photo. Shenandoah National Park. NPS Photos.

12 Beyond the Capital — A Visitor’s Guide to National Capital Parks-East Articles

Feet in the Street

By Thomas Safranek

The National Park Service will hold its fourth annual “Feet in the Street” event at Fort Dupont Park on Saturday, September 22, 2012, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. We are excited to team up again this year with the District of Columbia Department of Transportation (DDOT) and for the first time with the annual Car Free Day! It seemed only natural to join forces with this great program and help promote physical activity, green transportation choices, and community spirit:

“Car Free Day is an international event celebrated every September 22nd in which people are encouraged to get around without cars and instead ride a train, bus, bicycle, carpool, subway, or walk…. The ben- efit to greater society is a day with less traffic congestion, a greener environment and reduced gasoline demand.”

Fort Dupont Park is one of the largest parks in the Nation’s Capital, with 361 acres to explore. On September 22, the roadways in the park, in- cluding Fort Davis Drive and Fort Dupont Drive, will be closed to motor vehicles from 10:00 a.m. to 5 p.m. Residents and visitors are invited to come put their Feet in the Street and run, walk, bike, skate, and move along this 1.6 mile long corridor. There will also be organized activities and programs including: • 5k Walk/Run to kickoff the event • Guided nature hikes • Rock climbing wall • Physical fitness classes • Community garden and bee hive tours Rock Climbing (above) and yoga classes in the park (below). • Farmer’s Market NPS Photos. • Face painting • Free bike rentals courtesy of Bike and Roll • Mountain bike tours of the Hiker/Biker trail • Capitol Bikeshare test rides and free ride coupons • Much more!!!!! Participants are encouraged to cycle, walk or take transit to the event if possible, but a limited amount of parking will be available at the Fort Dupont Activity Center. Drivers can access the parking from Minnesota Avenue. The park is also accessible by Metro. For more information call 202-426-7723.

Beyond the Capital — A Visitor’s Guide to National Capital Parks-East 13 Articles

clothing can potentially result in a latent tick bite. Blacklegged ticks Don’t Get Ticked Off (deer ticks) can survive for many days if humidity is above 65%, and can also survive a warm or hot water wash but they cannot withstand By Eli T. S. Alford Jr., Park Ranger—Greenbelt Park one hour in a hot dryer. • Take a hot shower and wash off DEET with soap and water and re- National Capital Parks-East features incredibly diverse sites with numer- check for ticks. ous recreational, cultural, and historical opportunities for the adven- Taking small safety precautions and educating yourself on ticks and turous visitor. With summer upon us, it is important to recognize that tick borne illnesses are great first steps in ensuring a safe and healthy spending time outdoors has inherent hazards. Among these hazards summer. are insects, arachnids, and mites that live in the outdoors and thrive in warmer climates. Mosquitoes are one the most commonly recognized summer pests, but for anyone who spends time outdoors, ticks are a close second. Fortunately, there are several tactics you can use to prevent tick bites and reduce your risk of tick-borne illnesses.

One of the more common diseases you can get from a tick bite is Lyme disease. Lyme disease is a tick-borne illness that is transmitted to hu- mans by the bite of infected ticks. People who spend extended periods in grassy and wooded areas during the active tick season (April to October); pose a high risk in contracting Lyme disease. Lyme disease is spread to people by the bite of a blacklegged tick (Ixodes Tick Identification Chart scapularis, commonly called a deer tick). Ticks must be attached to the body for at least 24 hours before they pass the Lyme disease bacteria to humans, but not every bite causes Lyme disease. If a tick does bite you, thoroughly check your body for tick attachments. If you notice a tick bite, immediately remove the tick with tweezers. Do NOT try attempt to remove the tick with hot matches, alcohol or petroleum jelly to coax the tick to ‘back out.’ These irritants may cause the tick to deposit more disease-carrying saliva into the bite site. If bitten by a tick, monitor the site of the bite for the appearance of a rash beginning 3 to 30 days after the bite. If a rash or other early symptoms develop, see a physician immediately.

The best way to prevent Lyme disease is to prevent tick bites. Each indi- vidual is responsible for taking precautions to reduce the likelihood of infection, such as: • Wear light-colored, tight weave, long sleeved shirts, long pants, socks, close-toed shoes, and a hat. • Apply 20-40% DEET or other tick repellent (e.g. Repel-Lemon eucalyp-

tus) to exposed skin or clothing-but not to underclothing. Reapply as Original image by Litwak for CDC; modified by D.N. Gaines for VDH. necessary. • Apply permethrin insecticide to clothing (if not already using DEET on Tick-borne Disease Chart clothing)—but DO NOT apply to skin. Apply especially to shoe tops, socks, and lower portion of pants. One application of permethrin typi- Tick-borne Diseases cally stays effective through several washings. Anaplasmosis Ehrlichiosis Babesiosis Lyme Disease Rocky SpottedMountain Fever Tularemia

• Tuck pant legs into sock or boot tops to help delay ticks from getting Blacklegged Tick Vector Vector Vector Ixodes scapularis in contact to skin. Lone Star Tick Vector Vector • When you get back from the field, carefully inspect the entire body Amblyomma americanum

American Dog Tick Vector Vector and remove any attached ticks. Immature ticks are very small and may Dermacentor variabilis

Tick Stage that Transmits the Nymph or be hard to see. Remember to check your hair, underarms, and groin Nymph Adult Nymph Nymph Adult Only Most Disease to People Adult for ticks. Most people are unaware that they have an attached tick Minimum Feeding Time for 24 hours 24 hours 36 hours 36 hours 4-6 hours Not known without a careful check. Disease Transmission • Remove, wash, and dry your clothing. Unattached ticks brought in on For more information on tick-borne diseases, visit www.vdh.virginia.gov/TickBrochure. June 2010

14 Beyond the Capital — A Visitor’s Guide to National Capital Parks-East Map

¤£32 Maryland ¨¦§95

Baltimore-Washington Parkway

355

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Greenbelt Park

¤£50

Washington, D.C. Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens Carter G. Woodson Home National Historic Site

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i Fort Mahan R 495 a Fort Chaplin ¨¦§ Mary McLeod Bethune i Anacostia Park t Council House s c o National Historic Site a Fort Dupont n A Civil War Defenses of Washington Fort Davis Poplar Point Fort Ricketts Capitol Hill Parks Frederick Douglass Fort Stanton National Historic Site Suitland Parkway ¨¦§395

Battery Carroll Shepherd Parkway r

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i Oxon Run Parkway

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210 Fort Foote

¤£301

Harmony Hall ¤£1

Fort Washington Park

Ft. Washington Marina

Accokeek Boardwalk Piscataway Park Wharf Road Legend Marshall Hall National Capital Parks-East °

0 2.5 5 10 Miles

Beyond the Capital — A Visitor’s Guide to National Capital Parks-East 15 National Park Service First Class Mail U.S. Department of the Interior Postage and Fees P A I D National Capital Parks-East Washington, DC 1900 Anacostia Drive, SE 80501233 Washington, DC 20020-6722

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Biking Birding Camping Education Programs Hiking Music Live On-Site Parking Picnicking Ranger-led Programs Sports Fields Visitor Center Anacostia Park ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● Fort Dupont Park ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● Fort Washington Park ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● Frederick Douglass NHS ● ● ● ● ● ● Greenbelt Park ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens ● ● ● ● ● ● ● Mary McLeod Bethune Council House NHS ● ● ● Oxon Cove Park ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● Piscataway Park ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● 16 Beyond the Capital — A Visitor’s Guide to National Capital Parks-East