Barren Island is one of the few remaining islands in the Bay, and it is eroding at a rapid rate. Offshore islands are a unique ecosystem in the Bay. They typically have a relative lack of human disturbance and fewer predators compared with mainland habitats; therefore, they are more desirable as nesting sites for colonial waterbirds and some endangered species. In addition, islands provide offshore protection for mainland habitats by reducing wave action and erosion rates.
The Aquarium is working with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Maryland Conservation Corps, Friends of Blackwater, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and community volunteers to restore wetland habitat by planting native salt marsh grass.
» View a slideshow of photos from past Barren Island events here.
Due to work conditions associated with marsh waterfront features, the minimum age for restoration events is 10 years.
