News

Conservation success on the Bush River

May 12, 2021

After nearly a decade of work, HLT succeeded in eliminating 13 historic building lots, covering over 120 acres, on the east bank of the Bush River near Sod Run. The lots, now owned by Constellation Power Source Generation, were legally created prior to the current zoning code, regulations, and Chesapeake Bay Critical Area regulations and therefore could have been developed, subject to development constraints. 

HLT worked with Constellation to explore numerous conservation options, ultimately agreeing on a “lot consolidation”, thereby eliminating the ability to develop this sensitive waterfront area. The property was re-deeded and re-platted to consolidate the 13 parcels into one large parcel in March 2021.

The area is part of the last remaining “flatwoods” in Harford County. Important environmental features include vernal pools, which are seasonally flooded non-tidal wetlands, large specimen trees, and rich habitat for rare species. The property is also identified as a green infrastructure hub and is a state Targeted Ecological Area.
While there is no public access to the property, the now protected scenic view from the water is a notable benefit of the project.

This success is yet another example of the perseverance required to preserve land in Harford County. HLT thanks Constellation/BGE for their partnership to find this innovative method of protecting this ecologically rich and rare waterfront.