After decades of neglect, the DOPC was formed in 2010 to restore, promote, and maintain Dumbarton Oaks Park, now and for future generations. In the heart of the city, the park is a 27-acre wild garden oasis designed in 1921 by Beatrix Farrand, America’s first female landscape architect. Through a public-private partnership with the National Park Service, DOPC mobilizes a vast number of volunteers to remove invasive plants, mitigate urban stormwater, and engage the next generation of environmental stewards in the service of restoring Farrand’s masterwork. Its Leave No Child Inside program engages youth of all backgrounds and identities in recreation, education, and stewardship that benefits the kids and the park. In all, more than 93,000 volunteer hours have helped restore 16 acres of meadows, waterfalls, woodlands, and historic structures. You can ensure this national treasure endures for yet another century.

Headquarters: DC-Ward 2

Where They Operate: DC-Citywide; MD-Montgomery County; MD-Prince George's County; VA-Arlington County; VA-Fairfax County; Greater Washington Region including DC wards 1-8

Age Groups Served: All

Population(s) Served: Individuals with Disabilities; Individuals who identify as LGBTQ; Individuals living with HIV/AIDs; Low- to Moderate-Income Community Members; Men/Boys; Women/Girls; Students; Veterans/Military Families; Immigrants/Refugees

Awards & Recognition

The Conservancy’s Milestones & Key Accomplishments include:

To date, 12+ acres of the Park’s 27-acres have been restored; 7+ acres have been seeded with native warm-season grasses; and 600+ native trees and shrubs have been planted.

In 2016 awarded one of just 70 Centennial Challenge Grants issued across the country by the National Park Service.

In 2016 received the National Capital Region 2015 Hartzog Volunteer Group Award for over 30,000 volunteer hours served. Since the award was received an additional 15,000 hours has been logged bringing the total volunteer hours served to 45,000+.

Was selected for inclusion in the 2015/16 Catalogue for Philanthropy, and was one of only a select few organizations featured with an exhibit at their annual gala on December 5th, 2016.

In Spring 2017, established an Artist-In-Residence with artists Sophia McCrocklin and Ray Kaskey already actively engaged in the Conservancy’s mission.

Created a new Friends Group Agreement with Rock Creek Park NPS allowing for increased fundraising authority to meet our mission.

Currently developing our first five year master planning process to commence in November focused on a long term vision and strategic roadmap in partnership with Rock Creek Park NPS with participation from cultural preservation and technical experts.

Press

Budget (FY2023)

  • $3 million or higher
  • $1 million to $3 million
  • $500k to $1 million
  • The current budget for Dumbarton Oaks Park Conservancy is: Less than $500k

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