10 Acres Owned By Swim Club Spared From Development Through County's Protection Program

ELKRIDGE, MD — County officials have secured a third land preservation easement, which will permanently preserve 10 acres of environmentally sensitive land on the site of the nonprofit Watermont Swim Club.

Nestled within a residential community that borders the Timbers at Troy Golf Course, Watermont Swim Club is a member-supported club that was founded in 1967. The non-profit offers members a six-lane pool, diving well, toddler pool, clubhouse and other recreational opportunities.

"Howard County leads as a model of environmental protection and preservation. From our award-winning parks and renowned agricultural land preservation program to our aggressive forest conservation policies and dynamic tree planting initiatives, we prioritize the green and open spaces that enhance our communities,” said Howard County Executive Calvin Ball at a news conference announcing the land's protection.

The $326,250 easement purchase, underwritten by a grant from the county to the Conservancy, includes more than eight acres of forest, wetlands and two tributary streams within the Deep Run and Patapsco River watersheds. The easement ensures the 10-acre parcel at 5819 Bellanca Drive is protected from future subdivision and development, and the existing environmental resources on site are sustained in perpetuity.

“This easement reinforces our comprehensive approach to smart land use, sustainable development and environmental conservation,” said Lynda Eisenberg, director of the Howard County Department of Planning & Zoning. “With each easement, the county and Howard County Conservancy strengthen the balance between development and preservation, consistent with the County’s vision for responsible growth.”

In 2022, Ball launched the Purchased Conservation Easement Pilot Program to provide non-profit property owners financial incentives to preserve environmentally significant properties permanently. With the signing of this agreement, Watermont Swim Club’s 10 acres joins the preservation of Holy Trinity Russian Orthodox Church's 62 acres and North St. John’s Swim & Tennis Club eight acres. To date, more than $2.7 million has been invested and 80 acres of environmentally sensitive land has been preserved through this easement program.

“Watermont Swim Club is proud to partner with Howard County Government and the Howard County Conservancy on this Purchased Conservation Easement,” said Alexis McKenzie, president of the Watermont Swim Club. “This agreement helps protect our surrounding forested land – including the Shallow Run stream – while supporting Watermont as a cherished retreat for families for years to come.”

Proceeds from the easement sale will be used to sustain the club’s continued programming.

“The conservation of this forested 10-acre parcel is a big win for our county and the Elkridge community,” said Meg Boyd, executive director of the Howard County Conservancy. “The purchased easement program, a first in the region, not only supports the Conservancy's mission of conservation, but also the goals of Watermont Swim Club, to preserve this beautiful, forested area for the benefit of its members and the surrounding community.”