Board of Public Works Approves Expansion of Pocomoke State Forest

Program Open Space Acquisition Benefits Environment and Outdoor Recreation

The Board of Public Works today unanimously voted to approve the Maryland Department of Natural Resources acquisition of 224.5 acres in Worcester County as an addition to Pocomoke State Forest.

The site provides both exceptional ecological benefits as well as recreational opportunities, especially for hikers — with trails linking Pocomoke River State Park, located within the 15,000-acre state forest, with the Town of Snow Hill. The state park offers biking, boating, camping and fishing opportunities, and also includes a nature center, park store and swimming pool.

The department has partnered with the county and town on a long-term strategy to establish a land-based trail connection that includes local and state lands properties.

“The department is constantly looking to conserve and protect sensitive and targeted areas that benefit our communities and the environment,” Maryland Natural Resources Secretary Mark Belton said. “This acquisition accomplishes both while aiding our mission to expand outdoor recreation and public access.”

This mostly-forested property, featuring about one-half mile of frontage on the scenic Pocomoke River, will be managed by the Maryland Forest Service. The acquisition was funded by Program Open Space.