Vacant Lot Greening

The goal of this project is to transform unused vacant lots into low-maintenance, attractive green spaces that bring natural beauty into the neighborhood and positively impact the environment.

The first stage of the greening effort was to clear the lots and have inmates construct fencing around each.
The first stage of the greening effort was to clear the lots and have inmates construct fencing around each.

To accomplish this, we will:

  • Remove debris from lots, fence and mulch borders
  • Clear existing weed cover
  • Plant mixes of grasses and wildflowers, most of which are native to this region
  • Monitor the environmental outcomes of this project over time and continuously maintain these vacant lots

This project is the beginning stage of a long-term partnership between the Maryland Department of Public Safety & Correctional Services and the University of Maryland, Baltimore County.

Additional supporters include the Baltimore Ecosystem Study, the Maryland Native Plant Society and Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens.