Today, Maryland Governor Hogan, officials at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), and other partners will hold a public event to celebrate the designation of Mallows Bay as the country’s newest national marine sanctuary--the first to be created in 19 years.

The official opening comes after years of dedicated work by local community members, multiple local, state, and national conservation organizations, elected officials, and preservation, recreation, and education advocates who have long believed that this important community resource deserved heightened recognition.

“This is a great day for all of the people who have worked hard on behalf of one of the nation’s most historically significant marine resources,” said Sharee Williamson, associate general counsel at the National Trust for Historic Preservation. “The Ghost Fleet at Mallows Bay really is a place like none other. In addition to telling the unique history of America’s shipbuilding program during World War I, it has evolved into a place of stunning natural beauty. Fishermen, kayakers, and history buffs can all find something special to appreciate at Mallows Bay.

“The new sanctuary designation will increase public access and national awareness of this remarkable place, which should in turn lead to an increase in regional tourism. It should also unlock additional resources to better preserve and interpret the site. We congratulate the many people who worked so hard to make this designation possible.”

Additional Background

In 2017, the National Trust designated the Ghost Fleet as a National Treasure, our signature advocacy program that works to protect historic sites of national importance. More information can be found about the Ghost Fleet in the Winter 2018 edition of Preservation magazine.