Reservoirs, Parks Reopen; Some Restrictions In Effect

BALTIMORE COUNTY, MD — Many restrictions have been lifted around activities and amenities in Baltimore County, including at various parks and reservoirs, officials announced this week.

Baltimore County government reopened recreational fishing, boating, tennis courts and disc golf courses Friday, May 8.

Effective Saturday, May 9, Baltimore Mayor Bernard C. "Jack" Young rolled out phase one of the reopening of Liberty, Prettyboy and Loch Raven reservoirs. The Baltimore City Department of Public Works oversees the water supply for Baltimore City and Baltimore County, including the reservoirs.

These activities were allowed at the reservoirs starting at 8 a.m. Saturday, Young said:

• Hiking
• Biking
• Kayaking
• Fishing from the bank (fishing from platforms is still restricted)
• Boating
• Horseback riding

Officials say they will be enforcing watershed regulations, and those engaged in boating and fishing must have their registrations up to date. Loch Raven Drive remains closed to pedestrian traffic on weekends.

"These activities will allow residents to get outside and get exercise," Young said in a statement, "but we still need residents to practice social distancing while doing so."

Groups greater than 10 people are prohibited in Maryland, based on the governor's orders.

Federal health guidance calls for allowing at least 6 feet between people to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, which is transmitted primarily through respiratory droplets.

The reopening of county and city recreational opportunities follows guidance at the state level.

Playgrounds at state parks, golf courses, driving ranges, fishing, boating, horseback riding in state parks, outdoor archery and shooting ranges, marinas, watercraft rentals and campgrounds reopened in Maryland by executive order at 7 a.m. Thursday, May 7.

See Also:

• MD Governor Eases Restrictions; Reopening From Coronavirus Ahead
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• 400 Baltimore County Inmates Released Amid Coronavirus: Officials