537 Acres Of Forested Land Worth $1.1M Acquired By Prince George's County

PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY, MD — The county has acquired 537 acres of forested land in Upper Marlboro spanning almost a square mile. The land includes the Charles Branch Stream Valley Park.

Officials are considering installing a natural surface trail system and other recreational options for hikers, mountain bikers, equestrians and birdwatchers to use.

The acquisition serves as one of the most significant in Prince George’s County, and the largest land purchase in recent history through the county's Capital Improvement Program, officials noted.

According to the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, this forested land in Upper Marlboro annually provides approximately $1.1 million in value of ecosystems services. This includes providing water quality protection, carbon sequestration, temperature moderation, air quality improvement and habitat connectivity to the Patuxent River.

“This purchase reflects the mission and vision of Parks and Recreation Department by ensuring the continued sustainable management of the county’s green spaces, protecting and enhancing natural resources for the community's benefit, education and enjoyment for present and future generations,” said Bill Tyler, director of the M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation in Prince George’s County.

The acquisition increases the protection of Prince George’s biodiversity at the species, natural community and landscape level in Upper Marlboro, and increases the amount of natural forestland available for sustainable management of natural resources.

“This dedicated conservation parkland area in Upper Marlboro is one of the most biologically diverse habitats in the county,” said Sonja Ewing, AICP, chief of park planning and environmental stewardship at the M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation. “Protecting this landscape not only benefits rare native plants and wildlife, but also preserves natural systems and provides exciting new recreational opportunities. We remain driven to continue conservation and environmental stewardship efforts for Prince George’s residents.”