Details on Finzel Swamp

This is a large preserve with many miles of boundary line, so we are looking for multiple Boundary Walkers. The lines are not on roadsides; a couple go through the wetland but most go through forested upland. They have a back-country feel to them. The elevation of the lines ranges from 2700-2860 feet, with a few sections climbing quickly, so there are some lines that require walking up steep hills. There is a lot of scenic variety at this preserve and some consider it our prettiest preserve.

Most of the lines are in good shape as of November 2006 because we have had our local crew relocating and remarking them after some years of neglect. We hope our new volunteers can get out on the ground soon while the lines are still clear and visible and keep them in good shape in the coming years.

One small section of this preserve is hunted by one neighbor, who retained hunting rights when he sold us part of his land. If you choose this preserve, we'll let you know the area he hunts and request that you carefully avoid it during the season. Otherwise, we have the entire fall and winter to do boundary work (easiest when the trees are bare). Also, in this cool part of the state fall comes earlier and spring comes later than elsehere in Maryland, giving us a longer season for boundary work.

This preserve has a parking area, an unmarked trail, several boardwalk sections, and an old house which are sometimes vandalized although they are currently monitored by a local volunteer.