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Places We Protect

Selinger Marsh

Maryland / DC

Purple flower with four purple fringed tip petals. The center of the flower is pale yellow.
Selinger Marsh State-rare fringe-tipped gentian. © Alden Warner
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Explore an unusual wetland in an otherwise dry region.

Overview

Description

Selinger Marsh lies in the rain shadow of the Appalachian Mountains—this area receives the least rainfall in Maryland. Springs on the surrounding slopes provide the water for the marsh, making it an unusual wetland in a otherwise very dry region. This area was selected for conservation for that reason.

Its importance as a breeding ground for amphibians makes the site a priority in order to maintain viable populations of these species in this part of Maryland. It has been protected by TNC since 1985.

There are no facilities, trails or established parking areas at this preserve.

Access

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

Dogs are not allowed at this preserve.

Hours

Open year round, dawn to dusk.

Highlights

There are no facilities, trails, or established parking areas at this preserve.

Size

85 acres

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What To See

The preserve is small, but the watershed is completely protected and provides an important breeding ground for amphibians, including the upland chorus frog and Jefferson salamander.

Fringe-tipped gentian (Gentiana andrewsii) is a rare plant species in Maryland that grows here. Other wetland plants include arrowhead, monkey-flower and cardinal flower. New England aster, great blue lobelia, water plantain and blue flag also grow here. The wetland opening is surrounded by a dense stand of silky dogwood, alder and elderberry. 

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Need more nature? Visit some of TNC's other preserves.

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Find More Places We Protect

The Nature Conservancy owns nearly 1,500 preserves covering more than 2.5 million acres across all 50 states. These lands protect wildlife and natural systems, serve as living laboratories for innovative science and connect people to the natural world.

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