Annapolis, MD (January 21,2010) - County Executive John R. Leopold today announced the formation of the Bacon Ridge Natural Area Stewardship Committee, consisting of representatives from the County, Scenic Rivers Land Trust, South River Federation and the South River Greenway Steering Committee. In addition three residents of the South River watershed who are knowledgeable in environmental conservation and planning will serve on this committee. "The protection of the Bacon Ridge Natural Area is a critical component of my initiative to preserve over 1,000 acres in the South River watershed," said County Executive Leopold. "This committee has the task of planning opportunities for public access while conserving the natural resources of the park." The first meeting of the Stewardship Committee will be held on Thursday, February 18, 2010 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. The meeting will be held in the Department of Recreation and Parks Conference Room, 1 Harry S Truman Parkway, Annapolis, Maryland 21401. This committee will provide recommendations to the Department of Recreation and Parks and offer direction for the implementation of the Bacon Ridge Natural Area conservation easement. The conservation easement designates guidelines to preserve the scenic, rural and natural character of the property and allow public access and passive recreation. "The creation of this advisory group, involving members of the community, the non-profit sector, and the County government continues to build on the unprecedented collaboration that has already allowed us to preserve hundreds of acres in this environmentally-sensitive stream valley corridor", said Erik Michelson, Executive Director of the South River Federation. "The Federation looks forward to working to preserve and protect this land for generations to come." For additional information on the Bacon Ridge Natural Area Stewardship Committee contact Karyn Molines, Department of Recreation and Parks’ Supervisor of Cultural Resources, (410) 222-7317. |
