Swan Harbor Farm Recreational Area in Havre De Grace

A new recreation area in Havre de Grace is now complete, providing access for walking and other outdoor recreation. The project used sediment dredged from nearby boating channels to construct a pond and scenic path. The project was a partnership between the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Boating Services and the Harford County Department of Parks and Recreation.

The park provided a much needed home for sediment that filled the Havre de Grace Yacht Basin after flooding from Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee forced officials to open the Conowingo Dam on the Susquehanna in the fall of 2011.

The area features an ADA-accessible, pedestrian walkway with scenic views of the surrounding area and a 20-foot by 20-foot timber observation platform.   Dikes and tree buffers were added to improve the health of local waters and the Chesapeake Bay. Approximately 14,800 square feet has been planted to include 37 large trees and 74 understory trees. According to DNR, the dredge site will become a pond and serve as home to a v-ariety of local wildlife.

The project has the capability to hold 100,000 cubic yards of dredged material from the Havre de Grace Yacht Basin. Cells inside the dike will slow water flow and allow the silt to settle out before the water reaches Swan Creek. From there, there are a series of small pools with check dams made of porous rock material to help filter the water.

The landscape features are required by the Chesapeake Bay Critical Area Commission. DNR and the Harford County Parks and Recreation worked with the Chesapeake Bay Critical Area Commission to ensure that the facility meets environmental requirements. The park is located at 401 Oakington Road in Havre de Grace.

source: MD DNR