Program Open Space - Anne Arundel County
50.0 Acres - Brewer Pond

Brewer Pond is located just south of Round Bay, on the southwestern shore of the Severn River in Crownsville. It has been championed for years by local conservationists as one of the most important sites on the river due to its isolation and undisturbed ecosystem. The Pond, its pristine wetlands, and the heavily wooded steep slopes bordering it are both tranquil and abundant. This place of rare beauty is home to ospreys, otters, blue herons and eagles.

The volunteer SRLT Board negotiated a purchase agreement to acquire the critical lands, and the County then received title to the land. Anne Arundel County will manage Brewer Pond as a natural area, while SRLT and MET jointly hold a conservation easement on the site. Partnering with the County, SRLT and MET will ensure Brewer Pond's permanent protection as a natural area.

As pressure to develop the western side of the Severn continues, parcels like Brewer Pond are increasingly endangered and are at risk of being lost to development. SRLT sees a great current opportunity to protect a large and valuable natural area and preserve the views, forest and wildlife that are now so unique on the river.

Brewer Pond is a key parcel for SRLT's Severn River Heritage Program, and its goal of protecting the Green Cathedral in Crownsville. The Green Cathedral is one of the last large forested areas along the bank of the Severn River, almost 700 acres located along the southern shore. SRLT, and its partners, the Trust for Public Land, the Severn River Association and Anne Arundel County, are committed to protection of the Green Cathedral since scientists have described it as one of the few sites left on the river large and isolated enough to sustain a variety of wildlife.

"As a natural area, it is not rivaled," says Crownsville resident Jane Sinclair, president of the Severn River Association, when describing the Green Cathedral.

SRLT thanks its many supporters and partners for their help and assistance in making this project a success. Your interest provided a strong signal to the community that Brewer Pond was a priority for conservation, and helped us to win County and State approval for $1.15 million dollar commitment of public funds. We look forward to continued success in our efforts to fully protect the Green Cathedral.