USDA Launches "People's Garden" on the National Mall for Earth Day

As part of Earth Day celebrations, the U.S. Department of Agriculture broke ground on a 6-acre “People’s Garden” on the National Mall, transforming lawn into an organic demonstration garden promoting sustainability, conservation, and accessible growing techniques. The name honors Abraham Lincoln, who founded the USDA in 1862 as the “People’s Department.”

What the Garden Includes

• 1,300 sq ft vegetable plot
• Pollinator gardens
• Mini-wetlands (demonstrating runoff management)
• Green roofs
• Educational workshop spaces

Diverse Growing Methods on Display

The garden showcases multiple techniques so visitors see that you don’t need vast acreage:

• Traditional “Three Sisters” planting: Corn supports pole beans; squash shades soil and deters pests with prickly leaves.
• In-ground, raised beds, and containers—proving small spaces can be productive.
• Seasonal rotations: Spring crops (peas, lettuce, spinach, kale) followed by summer/fall crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash, herbs).

Education & Community Impact

• Harvest donated to local food banks.
• Goal: USDA organic certification within 3 years.
• Maintained by Melwood (nonprofit employing developmentally disabled adults) with USDA staff volunteers.
• Secretary Tom Vilsack envisions a national network—already collaborating with 47+ groups (Rodale Institute, Seed Savers, American Gardeners Association) to bring gardens to schools and communities.

“The garden will help explain how small actions at home, work, or farm promote sustainability, conserve resources, and make America a leader in combating climate change.” —Tom Vilsack

More than a garden, it’s a living classroom proving that anyone, anywhere, can grow fresh food and nurture the planet.