Howard County Conservancy | Columbia MD

Howard County Conservancy is a nonprofit organization focused on land preservation, environmental education, and community engagement in Howard County, Maryland. Founded in 1990, the Conservancy operates two primary properties: Mt. Pleasant Farm and Belmont Manor and Historic Park, providing a blend of natural habitats, historic sites, and educational opportunities. Its mission is to foster an understanding and appreciation of the natural world, promote stewardship of the land, and preserve the county’s open spaces for future generations.

Mt. Pleasant Farm

Mt. Pleasant Farm, located in Woodstock, Maryland, is the Conservancy’s flagship property, encompassing approximately 232 acres of varied landscapes, including rolling hills, woodlands, meadows, and small streams. This expansive natural area features over five miles of maintained trails that are open daily from dawn to dusk, inviting visitors to hike, birdwatch, and explore the diverse ecosystems present on the farm.

The farm’s landscape offers a mix of habitats supporting native wildlife such as deer, foxes, numerous bird species, amphibians, and pollinators. Visitors experience a blend of open fields, forested areas, and riparian zones, all carefully preserved and managed for ecological health and public enjoyment. Throughout the property, signage educates visitors about native plants, ecological processes, and conservation practices.

Mt. Pleasant Farm also hosts seasonal events, workshops, and volunteer activities, providing hands-on opportunities to participate in habitat restoration, invasive species removal, and native plant gardening.

Belmont Manor and Historic Park

Belmont Manor and Historic Park, located in Elkridge, Maryland, is the Conservancy’s historic site featuring a restored 18th-century manor house surrounded by gardens, woodlands, and open green spaces. This property serves as a complementary venue for educational programs, community events, and celebrations.

The manor and parkgrounds blend cultural heritage with natural beauty. Visitors can explore walking trails through wooded areas, attend historic tours, and participate in environmental workshops hosted at the site. Belmont Manor provides an elegant setting for Conservancy fundraisers, weddings, and public events, connecting history and nature conservation.

Educational Programs and Community Outreach

Education is central to the Conservancy’s mission. It offers a comprehensive range of programs designed to engage people of all ages with nature and environmental stewardship. These include:

School Field Trips: The Conservancy hosts thousands of students annually for immersive environmental education experiences. Programs align with curriculum standards and include guided hikes, wildlife observation, and lessons on ecology and conservation.

Public Workshops and Classes: Regular workshops cover topics such as composting, native plant gardening, wildlife habitats, sustainable living, and climate awareness. These classes empower community members with practical skills to support local ecosystems.

Seasonal and Annual Events: The Conservancy organizes popular events like Earth Day celebrations, Pollinator Fest, and Native Plant/Seed Shares. These gatherings feature educational activities, plant sales, demonstrations, and opportunities to connect with conservation experts.

Youth Engagement: Programs such as the Youth Climate Institute focus on empowering young people to take action on environmental issues through education and advocacy.

Volunteer Opportunities: The Conservancy relies on volunteers for trail maintenance, native plant propagation, event support, and nature program assistance. Volunteers often serve as hike leaders, naturalists, and educators, fostering community involvement in conservation.

Conservation and Stewardship Efforts

The Conservancy actively manages its properties to maintain biodiversity, protect water quality, and enhance wildlife habitat. Efforts include:

Controlling invasive plant species that threaten native ecosystems.

Restoring native meadows and forests.

Protecting waterways and riparian buffers.

Promoting sustainable land use and conservation practices.

These initiatives contribute to regional environmental health and serve as demonstration sites for best practices in land stewardship.

Community Impact and Partnerships

The Howard County Conservancy serves as a vital hub for connecting people with nature in a rapidly developing suburban region. By providing accessible natural spaces, educational resources, and community events, it helps nurture environmental awareness and a conservation ethic among county residents.

The organization collaborates with schools, local government, environmental groups, and businesses to broaden its impact. Through partnerships, the Conservancy enhances its programming, expands conservation efforts, and fosters a culture of sustainability across Howard County.

Visitor Information

Access: Mt. Pleasant Farm trails are open daily from dawn to dusk, free of charge. Programs and events at both properties may require registration or fees.

Location:

Mt. Pleasant Farm: 10520 Old Frederick Road, Woodstock, MD 21163

Belmont Manor and Historic Park: 6555 Belmont Woods Road, Elkridge, MD 21075

Contact: Phone: 410-465-8877

Summary

Howard County Conservancy blends land preservation, environmental education, and historic preservation to provide a comprehensive resource for conservation and community engagement in Howard County, Maryland. Its expansive natural areas and historic sites serve as living classrooms and places of refuge for wildlife and people alike. Through hands-on programs, events, and stewardship activities, the Conservancy promotes sustainable practices and inspires a lifelong connection to the natural world.