A 5.6-acre farm in Edgewater, Maryland, has been transformed into a community garden, offering accessible green space for residents to grow food and connect with nature. The property, previously slated for development as an assisted living complex, was donated by the McNew family through the Chesapeake Conservancy’s Giftlands program in 2019. The farm is now permanently conserved, marking a significant achievement in preserving green spaces in the increasingly urbanized Rt. 2 corridor near the South River.

Community Partnership Brings the Project to Life

The newly named McNew Community Gardens is owned by Anne Arundel County and managed by Grow Annapolis, a nonprofit dedicated to fostering community gardens since 2010. A ribbon-cutting ceremony on November 26, 2024, marked the garden’s official opening, with leaders from Anne Arundel County, Chesapeake Conservancy, and Grow Annapolis joining local officials and community members to celebrate the milestone.

County Executive Steuart Pittman highlighted the importance of the project, saying, “Demand for community garden space in our county far exceeds the supply. This partnership will allow more residents to engage in the fulfilling act of growing food in a location accessible by both car and transit from Edgewater and Annapolis.”

A Vision for Conservation and Accessibility

The McNew Community Gardens address both environmental and social needs in a growing region. Maryland Senator Sarah Elfreth, who helped secure funding through the Program Open Space initiative, emphasized the garden’s accessibility, noting, “This community garden is special because it can be reached by public transportation, providing much-needed green space for residents to grow fresh, healthy food.”

J. Kent McNew, the former owner of the property, shared his conservation vision: “The idea to put conservation easements on the property was to create a lasting habitat for all things wild. Priority should be given to those most vulnerable in our society who need fresh vegetables.”

A Milestone in Local Conservation Efforts

The McNew family’s donation through the Chesapeake Conservancy’s Giftlands program aligns with global conservation goals, including the initiative to protect 30% of the Earth’s lands and waters by 2030. Joel Dunn, President and CEO of Chesapeake Conservancy, praised the partnership: “Success is achieved one parcel at a time, through conservation heroes like J. Kent McNew and collaborations between organizations like Anne Arundel County, Chesapeake Conservancy, and Grow Annapolis.”

Dunn, who announced his departure from Chesapeake Conservancy to join the Campaign for Nature, was lauded for his contributions. Anne Arundel County Recreation and Parks Director Jessica Leys remarked, “McNew Community Gardens stands as a testament to our shared dedication to preserving green spaces for future generations while nurturing a sense of belonging among our residents.”

A Gift for Future Generations

Anne Arundel County Council Member Lisa Rodvien expressed gratitude to the McNew family and project partners, saying, “County residents will enjoy this gift now and for generations to come.” The garden not only serves as a space for local food production but also reinforces the importance of preserving biodiversity and fostering community stewardship.

The McNew Community Gardens exemplify the power of conservation and collaboration, offering residents a sustainable space to grow food, enjoy nature, and contribute to a greener future.

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