A Forest Stewardship Plan was created in 2004 to help steer the preservation of the large wooded areas throughout Bay Ridge. This is an excerpt from that in-depth document. Download the full Bay Ridge Forest Stewardship Plan

The Bay Ridge Civic Association (BRCA) owns 93.5 acres of land, 90.65 of which are wooded, at various locations in the Bay Ridge community in Annapolis, Maryland. BRCA wishes to manage their property to improve the soil and water attributes and the natural heritage & recreational opportunities of the property.

These goals correspond to the Stewardship objectives of soil and water conservation (primary objective) and natural heritage and recreation (secondary objectives). This Forest Stewardship Plan will recommend practices that will be a balance of the needs of the landowner and the forest.

PROPERTY OVERVIEW

The property is located along Farragut Road, Herndon Avenue, East Lake Drive, West Lake Drive, Lawrence Avenue and Hull Avenue in Annapolis, MD. The property is a mix of flat and rolling terrain. Three tidal wetlands (E1OWL, E2EM5P, E2EM5/FLN) and one non-tidal wetland (POWZ) are located on the property.

Additionally, approximately 87% of the property lies within the Chesapeake Bay Critical Area. See the individual Stand Descriptions and the Additional Comments section for more information regarding Critical Area laws and regulations. The property is bordered on three sides by Balckwalnut Creek, the Severn River, Lake Ogleton and the Chesapeake Bay. The forest is composed of predominantly hardwoods with remnants of pine located in small sections of the property.

NATURAL HERITAGE RECOMMENDATIONS

The term “Natural Heritage” is used to describe the plants, animals, and natural ecosystems that make up the landscapes of Maryland. Thus, Natural Heritage Stewardship is concerned with preserving the plants, animals, and ecosystems of the state for the many benefits they provide us, especially those determined to be threatened, endangered, or in need of conservation.

The DNR-Natural Heritage Program maintains a database that has indicated that a nearby area of shoreline is for waterfowl concentration and staging areas. DNR Heritage Service has stated that forestry management practices will not impact these areas.

In addition, your property provides an important habitat for a group of bird species that are considered in need of conservation. These groups of bird species are collectively called “Forest Interior Dwelling Species” (FIDS). An information sheet about FIDS is included with this plan.

In a general sense, the natural heritage and recreational opportunities of your woodland can be enhanced through a variety of forest management practices, which can increase habitat diversity and foodsources for wildlife. This will provide frequent recreational opportunities for watching birds and other animals, and promote a diverse forest habitat.