Home / Environment / Maryland Park Set to Double in Size
Maryland Park Set to Double in Size
13 Apr
Summary
- Maryland DNR plans to expand Wills Mountain State Park.
- Acquisition includes 675 acres of forested land with streams.
- New land will enhance biking, hiking, and wildlife habitats.
Maryland is on the cusp of significantly expanding Wills Mountain State Park by acquiring an adjacent 675-acre parcel. This move, approved by Allegany County commissioners, will roughly double the park's current size and open up previously inaccessible areas. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is spearheading the acquisition.
The newly acquired land, known as the Mt. Savage Refractories Parcel 1 property, is largely forested and features numerous streams. Its development is anticipated to support expanded recreational activities such as mountain biking, hiking, and rock climbing, fostering environmental education.
Beyond recreation, the acquisition is crucial for conservation. It will safeguard a substantial portion of Wills Mountain, prevent further forest fragmentation, and establish a wildlife corridor. The project also aims to protect water quality in Wills Creek and the downstream Potomac River.
Historically, Wills Mountain State Park has been landlocked, with limited public access. Past acquisitions by DNR in 2017 and more recently in the previous year, totaling over 150 acres, have gradually expanded the park's boundaries and recreational potential. The latest proposed addition represents a major step in this ongoing effort to enhance the park's accessibility and ecological value.
