Beach to Bay Heritage Area Expands Access to Outdoor Recreation Through New Grant

 Photo Credit: Maryland Coastal Bays Program

BERLIN, MD- The Beach to Bay Heritage Area (BBHA), a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving, promoting, and interpreting the unique history, culture, and natural resources of Maryland's Lower Eastern Shore, has been awarded a Reinvestment and Repair Act Grant from the Worcester County Local Management Board.

BBHA will use the grant to expand recreational opportunities for at-risk and low-income residents in the 21811 area, particularly individuals and families who have had limited access to outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, and paddling. The initiative is designed to reduce barriers to participation while promoting healthier lifestyles, improved mental well-being, and stronger connections to the region's natural resources.
Research consistently shows that access to outdoor recreation can help improve physical and mental health by reducing stress, anxiety, and depression while encouraging physical activity. The project is particularly focused on reaching underserved populations, including Hispanic families, who may face barriers to accessing recreational opportunities. By creating welcoming, accessible opportunities to experience nature, BBHA hopes to encourage healthier habits and strengthen community connections.

Project deliverables include the creation of multilingual brochures, trailhead signage, and short-form educational videos highlighting accessible outdoor recreation opportunities throughout the Coastal Bays watershed. The materials will feature public access sites for both land and water trails, making it easier for first-time visitors to discover and enjoy the area's natural resources.

To ensure equitable access, all educational materials will be culturally relevant and available in multiple languages. The initiative is intended to foster a greater sense of belonging by connecting residents with the landscapes that surround them and encouraging lifelong participation in outdoor recreation.

In partnership with the Maryland Coastal Bays Program, BBHA will also offer guided boating experiences that provide hands-on learning opportunities. Participants will explore local waterways while learning about the region's unique ecosystems, wildlife, conservation efforts, and responsible outdoor recreation practices.

"We are grateful to the Worcester County Local Management Board for investing in a project that promotes both community wellness and environmental stewardship," said Lisa Challenger, Executive Director of the Beach to Bay Heritage Area. "By making outdoor recreation more accessible, we hope to inspire new audiences to discover the incredible natural resources found right here in their own communities while improving quality of life for residents."
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The project reflects BBHA's ongoing commitment to connecting people with the history, culture, and natural landscapes of Maryland's Lower Eastern Shore through education, partnerships, and community engagement.


For more information about the Beach to Bay Heritage Area and its programs, visit www.beachesbayswaterways.org