Alice Ferguson Foundation
Environmental Education on the Potomac
Celebrating 70 years of SHARING JOY IN NATURE
We are environmental educators sharing the wonder and excitement of the Potomac River watershed with thousands of students, teachers, and citizens each year. And each year, we can’t do it without your support.
Since we were founded, over 1 million students from Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, DC have explored nature through the Alice Ferguson Foundation. Join us for a learning adventure or special event as we celebrate our 70th anniversary!
Come celebrate with us!
Our Programs
Located on 330 acres of emergent wetlands and the longest, freshwater Living Shoreline in the nation, the staff and educators of Alice Ferguson Foundation have provided transformative environmental education experiences for nearly half a million area students since 1954.
FOR ELEMENTARY
In-person programs for young learners that connect science to the classroom and the real world.
For MIDDLE SCHOOL
Standards aligned science field trips and experiments that engage students’ learning and curiosity.
For HIGH SCHOOL
Robust field studies that take data and science and challenge students to use them in the real world.
SUMMER CAMPS
Featuring a variety of nature inspired themes, there is an opportunity for every camper to find joy in nature!
The Alice Ferguson Foundation is a supporter of the Maryland Green Schools Program.
If you are a school looking to become a Green School (or recertify), we can help you in your journey. Please contact education@fergusonfoundation.org for more information.
Upcoming Events
Celebrate our 70th Anniversary with us by joining us at our upcoming events! Whether you’re looking for cleanups or community programs, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss out – check our calendar regularly for updates!
37th Annual Potomac Cleanup & Open House
Saturday, April 5, 2025
Summer Adventure Camp
July – August 2025
Get Involved in Trash Cleanups
For more than 30 years, the Alice Ferguson Foundation has helped organize one of the biggest trash cleanup efforts in the region. Help us continue to make a difference and learn more about how you too can take action.
Students don’t get many chances to go outside and explore any more. Being able to see and touch what we are learning helps students to remember and see how science affects them in real life.” –
Teacher from Rosa Parks Elementary School, October 2019
Become a Part of Our Story
From volunteer opportunities to rentals, learn more about the ways you too can be a part of the Alice Ferguson Foundation legacy.
Plan Your Event
From team meetings to cozy gatherings. Your special day is just a click away.
Volunteer With Us
Check out our upcoming volunteer opportunities to make a difference.
Family Programs
Our programs aren’t just for students! Bring your family and friends to the Farm.
Activity Library
Browse our collection of more than 100 free teaching resources and activities.
Discover the Alice Ferguson Foundation
Did you know we were the first overnight outdoor education center in the region? We have been sharing the wonder of nature with local area students, adults, and teachers for more than 65 years. Click below to learn about our history, our campus, and more.