The Patuxent River is considered one of the most beautiful sites in Prince George's County and the State of Maryland. But it is not just a stunning site, it is also a valuable natural resource. The Patuxent River Watershed Act of 1961 recognized this and that the river is worthy of protection.

Patuxent River Park

The 1000ft driving tour bridge you are standing on crosses Mattaponi Creek and was built in 1986 in partnership with The Maryland-National Capital Park & Planning Commission and the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. Mattaponi Creek is a freshwater tributary of the Patuxent River with protected wetlands that are full of life. We are hoping to document seasonal changes in the marsh as well as impacts from climate change such as sea level rise and salt water intrusion.

Mattaponi Creek

Meadows are field habitats dominated by non-woody plant species.  They are often an overlooked habitat that can be full of life and beauty.  The pollinator meadow in front of you was created in 2018 with pollinator-friendly plants including wildflowers and grasses to help support declining populations of butterflies, bees, and other meadow dependent species.  These insects play critical roles in the ecosystem and in agriculture by pollinating trees, flowers, and crops.  The Department of Parks and Creation has a goal of creating 100 new acres of meadow habitat by 2023 on park land.  By submitting this photo, you are helping to document the seasonal changes in this meadow.

Governor Bridge Natural Area

The Jug Bay portion of the Patuxent River is the largest freshwater tidal wetland in Maryland. Located 42 miles from the Chesapeake Bay, Jug Bay is an estuary full of life and diversity. A wide variety of animals, plants, and other organisms can be found here which is why it is considered one of the ten most ecologically significant sites in Maryland.

Patuxent River Park

Maryland

3 chronologs managed by Patuxent River Park

Jug Bay

Governor Bridge Natural Area

Mattaponi Creek

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