In the heart of Middle River, a historic deep-water cove is getting a much-needed facelift—and we’re not just talking about appearances. The Baynes Cove Shoreline Resiliency Project is a bold step toward a healthier, more sustainable future for the Bowley’s Quarters community and the entire Chesapeake Bay watershed.
Why This Project Matters
For decades, the Baynes Cove Community Boat Ramp has been a beloved access point to the water. But the shoreline has been struggling. The aging wooden bulkhead—originally built to prevent erosion—has fallen into dangerous disrepair. Not only is it a safety hazard, but it’s also failing to prevent sediment from washing away and doing little to protect the cove from rising sea levels and intensifying coastal storms.
That’s where Gunpowder Valley Conservancy (GVC) and Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) come in! With funding by Maryland’s Chesapeake & Atlantic Coastal Bays Trust Fund and generous GVC donors, we’re replacing 450 feet of deteriorating bulkhead with a living shoreline—a natural, environmentally friendly solution that restores balance between land and water.
What Is a Living Shoreline?
Unlike hardened erosion control structures like bulkheads or stone walls, a living shoreline uses native plants and natural materials to protect against erosion while restoring vital wildlife habitats. At Baynes Cove, we’re creating a terraced wetland—an innovative design that helps soften the impact of waves, improves water quality, and provides a sanctuary for aquatic species.
This approach will:
✅ Restore Marine Habitat: The new wetland will offer essential spawning areas for fish and shelter for other wildlife.
✅ Filter Stormwater Runoff: Native plants will naturally absorb and filter pollutants before they reach the water.
✅ Combat Climate Change: Wetlands capture and store carbon, playing a small but critical role in mitigating climate change.
✅ Inspire the Community: This project will serve as a living exhibit, showing local residents that there are better, greener ways to protect their shorelines.
Location of Baynes Cove Living Shoreline project (see red outline)
What’s Next?
The first phase of the living shoreline installation is happening now and will take approximately two weeks to complete. We’ll return in late April to plant native vegetation along the shoreline—an effort that will enhance the area’s natural beauty while strengthening its ecological resilience.
After the project is complete, GVC will continue to monitor the site with the help of local volunteers, ensuring that the shoreline thrives for years to come.
How You Can Help
This project is just one example of how your support fuels real change in our communities. From protecting historic waterways to planting trees that improve air and water quality, every contribution helps us continue this vital work.
Will you join us in shaping a cleaner, healthier future?
🌱 Donate today to support programs like the Baynes Cove Shoreline Resiliency Project. Together, we can restore and protect the Gunpowder Valley for future generations.
Click here to give now and become a part of this movement for positive environmental change.
Thank you for being a champion for our waters, our wildlife, and our community.