Ayres Creek

In early 2011, The Trust for Public Land conserved a large, forested wetlands property along a half-mile of Ayres Creek, a popular canoeing and kayaking destination. The property, a priority for local conservation efforts, is within the 4,000-acre Holly Grove Swamp area, and will be the first large wooded area available for public access in northern Worcester County.

The County will work with the Maryland Coastal Bays Program to restore forests and wetlands on the property. The County and Maryland Coastal Bays Program are also planning a kayak and canoe launch on the eastern shore of Ayres Creek for a proposed watertrail system. The property is in a critically important area for preserving the water quality of Maryland's coastal bays, and serves as an important habitat for dozens of species. It is also one of the few sites in the area where the red-bellied water snake has been observed.

Immediately to the south is Golden Quarter Farm, which The Trust for Public Land conserved in 2005 with an easement. It was the first CELCP-funded project in Maryland and also includes a mile of Ayres Creek frontage.