Health & Wellness Programs

Want to grow fresh produce or flowers in a community environment? Check out our five plot locations where county residents can come together to garden and connect with the environment.

Community Garden Plot Rentals

Cherry Hill Park

9301 Cherry Hill Road
College Park, MD 20740

• Plot Size: 25 feet by 30 feet
• Rental Fee: $30 per plot
• No water provided
• Cherry Hill Map (PDF)

Old Landover Hills Park

6424 Old Landover Road
Landover, MD 20785

• Plot Size: 10 feet by 20 feet
  • Rental Fee: $35 per plot
• Plot Size: 20 feet by 20 feet
  • Rental Fee: $55 per plot
• Water provided
• Old Landover Hills Map (PDF)

Prince George’s Sports and Learning Complex

8001 Sheriff Road
Landover, MD 20785

• Plot Size: 20 feet by 20 feet
• Rental Fee: $55 per plot
• Water provided
• Sports and Learning Complex (PDF)

Rollins Avenue Park

701 Rollins Avenue,
Capitol Heights, MD 20743

• 4′ x 8’ Raised planters – $20
• 8′ x 12′ In-ground beds – $30
• 12′ x 20′ In-ground beds – $40
• Water provided
• Rollins Avenue Map (PDF)

Walker Mill 

8000 Walker Mill Road
Capitol Heights, MD 20743

• Plot Size: 20 feet by 20 feet
• Rental Fee: $55 per plot
• Water provided
• Walker Mill Map (PDF)

Watkins Regional Park 

(next to Largo Kettering Perrywood CC)
 431 Watkins Park Drive
Upper Marlboro, MD 20774

• Plot Size: 20 feet by 20 feet
• Rental Fee: $55 per plot
• Water provided.
• Watkins Regional Park Map (PDF)

Growing Season: March 1 to December 15

Reservation Requirements

Resident

In order to participate, you must be a Prince George’s or Montgomery County resident age 21 or older.

PARKS DIRECT Account

A Parks Direct account is required in order to make a reservation. 

Rental Agreement

A rental agreement must be agreed to. 

Full Rental Fee

The full rental fee must be paid at the time of reservation.

Online Only

Reservations must be made online via Parks Direct. A Parks Direct account and residency verification and age are required to make a reservation. Verification information can be found here.

Contact Us

Park Permits
Email Park Permits
Physical Address
6600 Kenilworth Avenue
Suite 100
Riverdale, MD 20737
Phone: 301-699-2400
Maryland Relay 7-1-1

Related Documents

The program aims to promote healthy eating, active living and reinforce healthy behaviors in order to reduce the prevalence of various chronic diseases amongst county residents.

Program Overview

Dine, Learn & Move meets once per month for two hours. During the first segment, participants are encouraged to get up and move through an instructor-led exercise routine. Next, participants relax and learn about healthy eating from a Registered Dietician. Lastly, the program wraps up with a step-by-step healthy cooking demonstration that includes a free sample and take-home recipe. Learn simple, everyday tips for healthy meal choices with Dine, Learn & Move.

Benefits

The Dine, Learn & Move program aims to promote healthy lifestyle habits by exposing county residents to physical activity, health, and nutrition education. The goal of the program is to reduce the incidence and prevalence of cardiovascular disease and CVD-related conditions (i.e. obesity) affecting Prince George’s County residents. According to Prince George’s County Health Department, “The prevalence of obesity has been increasing among adults and children in Maryland.” Poor eating habits and physical inactivity contribute to overweight and obesity as well as many chronic diseases, including heart disease, some cancers, diabetes, and arthritis. Dine, Learn & Move participants have the opportunity to reduce the incidence of these chronic ailments as they:

• Learn from step-by-step live healthy cooking demonstrations with a chef 
• Sample FREE freshly prepared foods freshly prepared healthy foods and take home new healthy recipes
• Discuss the latest trends in nutrition with a Registered Dietitian
• Exercise with instructor-led fitness routines

Virtual Dine, Learn & Move

Join us each month for 90 minutes of virtual fun where participants will be able to get active, learn simple everyday tips for making healthy choices, and engage with a chef while watching a cooking demonstration.

Dine, Learn & Move: My Healthy Metabolism

Wednesday, September 27, 6-7:30 pm

Eating better and moving more are always great ways to stay healthy. But if you are still holding on to extra pounds, we have some tips for you! Join us this month for a weight training segment, nutrition tips to kick-start your metabolism, and a live cooking demonstration that showcase recipes to support weight loss. All exercises will include modifications for those who wish to participate seated.
Registration required. All ages welcome. FREE

Check out the latest virtual session recording to get active, learn simple everyday tips for making healthy choices, and watch a healthy cooking demonstration.

Additional Information

For more information, please call (301) 446-6817; Maryland Relay 7-1-1, or email wellness@pgparks.com.

ADA Accommodations

The Department of Parks and Recreation encourages and supports the participation of individuals with disabilities. Register at least a minimum of two weeks in advance of the program start date to request and receive a disability accommodation. Maryland Relay 7-1-1 for customers who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability.

Contact Us

Health & Wellness
Email wellness@pgparks.com
Phone: (301) 446-6800
Maryland Relay 7-1-1 for customers who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability.

M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation, Prince George’s County seeks to improve healthy food access for residents while promoting economic and agricultural development. Stock up on fresh and tasty foods while supporting local farmers.

Program Overview

Prince George’s County has several farmers’ markets located throughout the county. Purchase organic produce, fresh baked goods, artisanal soaps and candles, various plants and herbs, and much more!

Interested in growing your own produce? Learn more about our community garden plots.

Click here for a list of Farmer’s Markets in Prince George’s County!

Benefits

• Fresh: most food is hand-picked the morning of the farmers market.
• Organic: many of the farmers that participate in our farmers’ markets grow their produce using organic methods.
• Affordable: the value of the items at our farmers’ markets is typically better than what you would find at your local grocery store. Some farmers’ markets even accept federal nutrition assistance benefits!
• Better for the environment: small farms produce less environmental waste.
• Strengthens the local economy: when you buy from local farms you are directly supporting local independent/family farms.
• Accessible: farmers’ markets make healthy food choices accessible to everyone in the community.
• Enjoy the outdoors: get some fresh air while getting your shopping done!

View additional Health and Wellness offerings.

Additional Information

View additional Health and Wellness offerings (make this a link to their calendar category) For more information, please call 301-446-6817, Maryland Relay 7-1-1, or e-mail wellness@pgparks.com.

ADA Accommodations

The Department of Parks and Recreation encourages and supports the participation of individuals with disabilities. Register at least a minimum of two weeks in advance of the program start date to request and receive a disability accommodation. Maryland Relay 7-1-1 for customers who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability.

Contact Us

Health & Wellness
Email wellness@pgparks.com
Phone: (301) 446-6800
Maryland Relay 7-1-1 for customers who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability.

Mental health is vital to our overall well-being, yet it is often overlooked or stigmatized. According to the World Health Organization, one in four people in the world will be affected by mental or neurological disorders at some point in their lives.

Program Overview

Join us as we observe Mental Health Awareness Week between October 1-7, 2023. Learn about mental health resources in Prince George’s County and gain knowledge on how to take care of your mental well-being through FREE workshops, trainings, and fitness classes.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Participants are encouraged to register for classes through Parks Direct using the links above. Learn how to set up a Parks Direct account. For assistance with registration, contact the Customer Service Help Desk at 301-699-2255. For more information, e-mail wellness@pgparks.com.

ADA ACCOMMODATIONS

The Department of Parks and Recreation encourages and supports the participation of individuals with disabilities. Register at least two weeks before the program start date to request and receive a disability accommodation.

Contact Us

Health & Wellness
Email wellness@pgparks.com
Phone: (301) 446-6800
Maryland Relay 7-1-1 for customers who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability.

Why? We care about you and we care about your health!  

Why? Experts confirm that small steps to make healthier food and beverage options available in vending machines can help to reduce Type 2 diabetes, obesity, and other recurring diseases.  

Why? Healthy grab-n-go food choices in our vending machines will help shape a healthier future for our communities.

1. What is Smart Vending?
   • For the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC), Smart Vending is a campaign to provide healthier snack and beverage choices in vending machines on M-NCPPC properties including the Department of Parks and Recreation. 
2. Why has Smart Vending begun at Department of Parks and Recreation facilities?
   • We care about your health!
   • Prevention and management of chronic disease is essential for improving the overall health, life expectancy and quality of life for all our patrons and employees. 
   • We want to create healthy communities through people, parks, and programs. 
   • According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and other health experts, small steps, like making healthier food and beverage choices more widely available in vending machines, can help reduce the frequency of Type 2 diabetes, obesity and other recurring diseases.
   • We want to work with our partners to reduce obesity and to promote a wellness within the County. 
   • Health and wellness is a major focus of its Formula 2040: Functional Master Plan for Parks, Recreation and Open Space. 
3. What is the M-NCPPC Smart Vending Policy?
   • Any packaged food and beverage item offered shall contain no more than:
   • 0.5 grams of trans-fat per serving
   • 200 milligrams of sodium per package
   • No more than 200 calories per package
   • Less than 35% of total calories from fat except for foods containing 100% nuts or seeds with no added fats
   • Less than 10% of calories from saturated fat
   • No more than 35% of calories from total sugars excepts for 1%, 2% or non-fat dairy products, non-dairy milk products, fruits, and vegetables
   • At least on healthy food choice offered must meet the Food and Drug Administration’s definition of “low sodium” (<140 mg per serving)
   • Sugarless chewing gum and mints also meet healthy food choices specifications
   • Healthy Beverage choices shall meet the following specifications:
     • Individual healthy beverage choices offered in vending machines must contain fewer than 40 calories per serving unless specified below
     • The following beverages also meet healthy beverage choices nutritional standards even though they exceed 40 calories per serving:
       • Fat-free milk; 1% low fat dairy milk; calcium or vitamin D fortified soy milk with less than 200 calories per containers
       • Packages containing 12 ounces or less of 100% fruit juice, vegetable juice or fruit juice combined with water and no added caloric sweeteners and no more than 200 milligrams of socium per container.
     • Vegetable juice must contain <230 milligrams of sodium per serving.
4. Will all vending machines within the Prince George’s County Department of Parks and Recreation meet the Smart Vending Standards?
   • Yes. We are transitioning machines, and when completed, all Prince George’s County Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) facilities will have machines with healthier snack and beverage options. There are, however, a few facilities that we do not own, buy may host our programs. While their vending machines may not adhere to the policy, we are hopeful that they will support our efforts.
5. Is it a permanent change?
   • Yes, it is a full Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission change in both Prince George’s and Montgomery Counties. 
6. Will this policy bring a price increase?
   • According to our policy, food and beverage items that meet the Healthy Vending Standards must be similar in price or less expensive than products that did not meet the Healthy Vending Standards previously stocked in the machines.
7. Does the policy call for fresh produce?
   • No, the policy does not currently call for fresh produce. However, there will be tasty snacks such as nuts and dried fruit available to eat.
8. What is M-NCPPC’s view on artificial sweeteners?
   • M-NCPPC is currently reviewing the literature on the pros and cons of the use of artificial sweeteners. Once a decision is made about the use of artificial sweeteners, it will be reviewed periodically. 
9. Can I suggest snack and/or beverage options that meet the Smart Vending Standard?
   • We welcome your suggestions of items for the new vending machines. Please email wellness@pgparks.com or call (301) 446-6800 with your suggestion(s).
10. Has this initiative been successful at the other agencies?
    • Yes! Park and recreation agencies, schools, hospitals, and many other organizations have begun to make these changes to support better outcomes. Please visit the National Parks and Recreation Association’s website for more information and success stories at www.nrpa.org/success-stories/Healthy-Vending. 

Nutrition & Health Education Programs

Watch videos of healthy cooking demonstrations and workshops conducted by trained healthcare professionals on various health and nutrition topics during our monthly observances. 

New Year New You Nutrition Series

Watch the Goal Setting and Eating from MyPlate Nutrition Workshop
Learn how to start at the beginning of any task by setting “SMART” goals and identify what balanced eating looks like.

Watch the Healthy Store Tour
Join us for a virtual Giant Store tour! During this interactive store tour, learn how to fill your cart with nutrient-packed foods that will help you stay on track with your personal health and wellness goals throughout 2023.

Watch the Meal Planning to Fit your Budget Nutrition Workshop
Rethink your weekly shopping routine and stretch your grocery dollar even further. In this virtual session, you will be provided with tips for creating healthy meals at home while staying on a budget.

Watch the Mindful Eating Nutrition Workshop
Mindfulness is the capacity to bring full attention and awareness to one’s experience, in the moment, without judgement. Mindful eating brings mindfulness to food choices and the experience of eating. Learn how to become aware of your thoughts, feelings, and physical sensations while eating in this virtual session.

Watch the Eating for Health and Setting Wellness Goals Nutrition Workshop
Start the New Year with an interactive session that will give you healthy tips to achieve your goals. Explore paths to healthy eating and learn how to balance your plate to meet your health and wellness goals. This virtual session will help you identify simple changes that will add up to major improvements!

Watch the What’s on your Plate and Eating Out Nutrition Workshop
Healthy eating starts with what goes on your plate. During this virtual session, learn what a well-rounded meal looks like and tips to help you create a nutritious plate whether you are at home or out at a restaurant.

Watch the Cook Once, Eat Twice Nutrition Workshop
Explore ways to cook less and fill your freezer (or fridge) so that you can have a meal in minutes.

Watch the Beating Sugar Cravings: Fruit Yogurt Parfait & Apple Crisp Cooking Demonstration
Learn two recipes that will put a twist on your favorite dessert dishes to keep you on track with your wellness goals.

National Heart Health Month

Watch the Fuel Up for Your Heart Cooking Demonstration
Explore a new way to eat canned tuna! During this virtual session, you will learn how to make tuna cakes and quinoa that are packed with heart-healthy and brain-boosting omega-3 fatty acids.

Watch the Heart-Healthy Perfect Pairings Cooking Demonstration
In this virtual session, discover how to make a vegan alternative to the classic tuna sandwich paired with a colorful vegetable soup.

Healthy Holiday Nutrition Series

Watch the Holiday Appetizers: Garlicky Hummus & Stuffed Croissants Cooking Demonstration
Start your holiday gathering with a Mediterranean inspired appetizer that the whole family will love. In this session you will learn how to make garlicky hummus and stuffed croissants.

Watch the Eating for Your Health Store Tour: Holiday Edition Workshop
Looking for ways to add festive colors to your holiday spread? During this interactive store tour, learn how to fill your cart with nutrient-packed foods that will help you stay on track with your personal health and wellness goals over the holiday season.

Watch the Lettuce Eat! Workshop
No matter your nutrition goals, adding vegetables to your diet is a great way to improve long-term health and maintain a healthy weight. In this session we will learn how to add more veggies on your holiday plate.

Watch the Healthy Holiday Party Beverages Workshop
Being health-conscious doesn’t mean you can’t indulge in festive drinking at your holiday gathering. In this session you will learn recipes for beverages that will have you feeling festive while keeping your health in mind.

Watch the Set It and Forget It Slow Cooker Meals Workshop
You’re too busy to stress over what’s for dinner during the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. After attending this session, you will have a few new recipes to add to your repertoire of slow cooker meals for your family.

Watch the Cranberry Stuffing & Medley Root Vegetables Cooking Demonstration
Let the side dishes steal the show during your next holiday gathering! In this session, you will learn two new recipes to add to your holiday spread: cranberry stuffing and medley root vegetables.

Watch the Black-Eyed Peas & Collard Greens Cooking Demonstration
Healthy side dishes don’t have to lack flavor! During this session, you will learn how to tweak your traditional black-eyed peas and collard greens recipes to make them healthier.

Fun Fresh Summer Smoothie & Cooking Demonstration Series

Watch the Superfood Smoothies Demonstration
Participants will learn how to build two smoothies filled with superfoods to give their bodies the needed vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants: an Avocado Banana Smoothie and Chocolate Lovers Protein Shake.

Watch the Protein-Packed Smoothies Demonstration
In this session, participants will learn to create two protein-packed smoothie recipes to give their bodies fuel: a fruity and fun Watermelon Strawberry Protein Shake and a creamy and smooth Almond Delight Protein Shake.

Watch the Satisfyingly Sweet and Healthy! Desserts Cooking Demonstration
In this session, participants will learn how to satisfy their sweet-tooths with two healthy dessert recipes: Black Bean Brownies and an Açaí Fruit Bowl.

National Nutrition Month

Watch the Build Your Best Breakfast Nutrition Workshop
Learn easy ways to make a quick breakfast from scratch, products to consider if you don’t like to cook, and ways to break your fast outside of the traditional cereal box.

Watch the Anti-Inflammatory Diet: Brown Rice Pasta & Broccoli Stir-Fry Cooking Demonstration
Learn about what types of food can reduce or even prevent chronic inflammation—a risk factor for many health issues. These recipes will include fruits, veggies, lean protein, nuts, seeds, and much more.

Watch the Mindful Eating Nutrition Workshop
Discover tips and tricks to help you become more aware of how the environment influences eating habits. This session is not about what to eat — it’s about how to eat.

Watch the Cook Once, Eat Twice Nutrition Workshop
Explore ways to cook less and fill your freezer (or fridge) so that you can have a meal in minutes

Watch the Beating Sugar Cravings: Fruit Yogurt Parfait & Apple Crisp Cooking Demonstration
Learn two recipes that will put a twist on your favorite dessert dishes to keep you on track with your wellness goals.

Watch the Plant-Based Eating Nutrition Workshop
Learn about vegetarian and vegan eating while exploring ways to add plant-based foods to your diet.

Watch the Plant-Based Diet: Vegan Crab Cakes & Succulent Spinach Cooking Demonstration
Discover two recipes that are nutrient-dense and plant-based to add to your list of go-to meals.

May is National Physical Fitness & Sports Month

Watch the Fueling Up & Powering Down Nutrition Workshop
How you eat before and after a workout can affect your ability to maximize your activity and recover afterward. Join us with a Giant Nutritionist to learn about the role carbs and protein play in fueling and repairing your body.

Watch the Healthy Snacks On-the Go: Power Booster Balls and No-Bake Chocolate Cookie Bark Cooking Demonstration
Sports and fitness classes keeping you busy? The snacks you eat in between meals matter. Discover the fun in making power booster balls and no-bake chocolate cookie bark in this interactive virtual cooking demonstration.

Watch the Hydrate to Feel Great Nutrition Workshop
In this session, find out why water is an essential nutrient, how to know if you’re getting enough, and ways to keep it interesting.

Watch the Nutrition and Athletic Performance Nutrition Workshop
In this session, you will explore when to eat and what kinds of foods are best to fuel and maintain peak performance.

Watch the Fueling Up & Powering Down Nutrition Workshop
Learn about the role carbs and protein play in fueling and repairing your body, and how what you eat before and after a workout can affect your ability to maximize your activity.

Watch the Gamifying Meal Planning Nutrition Workshop
Eating the same meals over and over? Stuck with a pantry of boring ingredients? In this session, learn how to stay balanced but up the fun with random cuisines and cooking methods.

Virtual Nutrition Workshops

Watch the Spice up Your Life! Workshop
Herbs and spices are an easy way to add flavor, fragrance, and nutrition to your meals. In this session, learn about the health benefits of common culinary spices!

Watch the Eating for your Health Store Tour Workshop
During this interactive store tour, learn how to fill your cart with nutrient-packed foods that will help you manage a healthy weight, fight fatigue, and meet your personal wellness goals.

Watch the Is Your Portion Control Out of Control Workshop
Food provides nourishment for the body and enjoyment for the mind and spirit. How can you achieve balance in your relationship with food? Learn how to add mindful eating, meditation, and calming foods into your lifestyle.

Technique Tuesdays

Join us each week for a new sports skill video to help you stay healthy and keep your sports skills sharp while at home. This is another great resource to keep you connected to your favorite sport and to also introduce you to new ones!

Health and Wellness Wednesdays

Join us each Wednesday for new fitness, health education, and nutrition videos. This is another great resource to stay healthy and motivated on your path to wellness.  

Dine, Learn & Move

Watch the latest virtual session recording to get active, learn simple everyday tips for making healthy choices, and watch a healthy cooking demonstration.

Mental Health Awareness Week

Watch the Foods to Get Your Zzzzzz’s On for Great Mental Health Workshop
If your sleep routine is a little out of whack, we can help! In this virtual session, you will learn the best foods to help you achieve a good night’s sleep, foods you should avoid, and foods that will kick-start your energy when you wake up.

Watch the Life In Recovery After Surviving Suicide: A Conversation About Mental Health & Self-Care Seminar
This virtual session will take participants through a suicide survivor’s journey of mental health recovery and healing. Hear her story of recovering from a suicide attempt to successfully manage a diagnosis and live a fulfilling life. You will also explore self-care strategies that will help inspire you to begin your wellness journey.

Watch From Jail to Joy: My Journey with Bipolar Seminar
This virtual session will take participants through the breathtaking journey of Ph.D.’s mistaken identity. This session will discuss Dr. Ray’s experience, share tips on crisis prevention, and allow space for questions. This session is for anyone who has lived experience with bipolar disorder and the friends and family, who are supporting them.

Watch the Mood Boosting Foods Nutrition Workshop
Did you know that the food you eat can impact your mood? In this virtual session, learn tips and tricks to help you positively impact your mental health. Learn about mood-boosting and brain-powering foods.

Contact Us

Health & Wellness
Email wellness@pgparks.com
Phone: (301) 446-6800
Maryland Relay 7-1-1 for customers who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability.