Counties See Boost in Conservation and Recreation

Funding has been approved for the Department of Natural Resources conservation and recreation projects in Charles, Frederick, and Worcester counties.

Last month, the Maryland Board of Public Works approved $900,000 in grants to enhance outdoor recreation and conserve natural landscapes in Charles, Frederick, Worcester County. These funds, administered by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR), will support critical programs that safeguard ecosystems and expand recreational opportunities in Maryland.

Charles County

The Rural Legacy Program will conserve 103 acres across two properties in Charles County with funding exceeding $380,000:

  • Nanjemoy-Mattawoman Rural Legacy Area: A 50-acre property with dense forest and 5,000 feet of riparian stream buffers along Mattawoman Creek.
  • Zekiah Rural Legacy Area: A 53-acre ecologically significant forest that provides habitat for interior-dwelling bird species and safeguards 3,500 feet of stream buffers along Zekiah Swamp Run, a tributary to the Potomac River.

Frederick County

A $470,000 grant under the Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP) will fund a permanent conservation easement on a 75-acre property in Frederick County. This initiative protects water quality in the Israel Creek and Lower Monocacy River watersheds by maintaining forested and grassed buffers. The project also preserves Israel Creek, a resource designated for recreational trout fishing and public water supply.

Worcester County

Worcester County received $45,000 in Program Open Space—Local funds for beach sand and rip rap maintenance at Homer Gudelsky Park. This project will improve public access and enhance visitors’ beach experience.

Read the full press release.

At the 2024 MACo Winter Conference affiliate session, “Parks & Partnerships: Making the Most of Recreation Resources,” an esteemed panel of parks and recreation leaders and policy experts will share their insights and experiences, showcasing innovative approaches to resource management and community engagement. The 2024 MACo Winter Conference will be held at the Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay Hotel in Cambridge, MD from December 11-13. This year’s theme is “Anticipate, Adapt, Achieve: Thriving Through Turbulent Times.”

Learn more about MACo’s Winter Conference: