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Potomac Riverwatch: Spring 2024
NEWS
Road Reopens at Harpers Ferry--An important road that connects Harpers Ferry with access points along the Potomac has finally reopened after months of awkward detours and road closures. In December, the West Virginia Department of Transportation completed a $10.5 million repair of a mile of U.S. 340 near Harpers Ferry which had suffered damage from rock falls and erosion. The project involved closing a popular stretch of the road that provides access to both the Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers and setting up a 22-mile detour that was very unpopular with residents and visitors alike. The reopening coincided with the annual Christmas events in Harpers Ferry. More information.Big Year for Oysters--Chesapeake Bay oysters had a record year in 2023, according to the Maryland Department of Natural rEsources. Results of a survey showed that more than 1.7 billion new juvenile oysters have been planted, and will result in strong oyster harvests in the coming years. More information.
Drought Conditions Are Over--Strong storms and heavy rainfall have changed the drought outlook for the Potomac River and its tributaries. November and December rainfall, plus a heavy snow in January, led to increased streamflow in many parts of the river basin. The Shenandoah River valley is still in need of more precipitation, however. Details.
New Park in Virginia--A landowner in Northern Virginia has added to the parkland along the Potomac River. The Harris family, which has already donated land near Edwards Ferry and the Potomac River, as well as Temple Hall Park, announced plans to donate another 85 acres for preservation in Loudoun County. The park will be known as Cattail Regional Park and be part of the Northern Virginia Regional Park system. More information.
George's Creek Scenic Railroad--The Western Maryland Scenic Railroad continues its expansion and development. In November, WMSR announced that it had completed purchase of a lease on the Georges Creek rail line near Cumberland, as well as several locomotives to run scenic trips up through Georges Creek, a coal mining valley with a rich industrial history. Details.