In October 2015, NOAA announced its intent to designate a new national marine sanctuary to help conserve nationally significant shipwrecks and related maritime heritage resources in Maryland. Following a public comment period last year, NOAA has developed a detailed analysis for a proposed national marine sanctuary to protect Mallows Bay-Potomac River, a maritime heritage resource area along the Potomac River, about 40 miles south of Washington, D.C. The public now has an opportunity to review the proposal and provide input.
Mallows Bay boasts a diverse collection of nearly 200 known historic shipwrecks dating back to the Civil War, as well as archaeological artifacts dating back 12,000 years. The area is most renowned for the remains of more than 100 wooden steamships, known as the “Ghost Fleet,” which were built for the U.S. Emergency Fleet between 1917-1919 as part of America’s engagement in World War I and are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Their construction at more than 40 shipyards in 17 states reflected the massive national wartime effort that drove the expansion and economic development of communities and related maritime service industries.
Mallows Bay is a largely undeveloped landscape and waterscape identified as one of the most ecologically valuable in Maryland. Additionally, the structure provided by the ship remains and related infrastructure serve as habitat to populations of recreational fisheries, bald eagles, and other marine species.
About the Nomination
Mallows Bay–Potomac River was nominated as a national marine sanctuary through the Sanctuary Nomination Process with broad community and bipartisan support.
In September 2014, the state of Maryland submitted a nomination to be added to NOAA’s inventory of places to be considered as national marine sanctuaries. The nomination cited goals to protect and conserve the fragile remains of the nationally-significant collection of shipwrecks and cultural heritage resources as well as opportunities to foster education and research partnerships, and increased opportunities for public access, tourism, and economic development.
The nomination is endorsed by a diverse coalition of organizations and individuals at local, state, regional, and national levels. This included elected officials, Native Americans, historical societies, businesses, museums, and environmental, recreational, conservation, fishing, tourism, and educational groups.
