Dyke Marsh is a tidal, freshwater marsh noted for the diversity of plants, birds, insects and other creatures that call it home. This land at the edge of the Potomac River has not always been cherished. Early maps referred to the area as “Hell Hole Swamp.”
This marsh is a delicate mixture of water and land. Dredging, subsidence, erosion and rising water levels have threatened the very existence of the marsh. In 2013, the USGS (United States Geological Survey) predicted that unless changes were made, the marsh would likely disappear by the year 2035.
Thanks to the work of concerned citizens and local, state and the national government, changes have been made. Hopefully, Dyke Marsh will remain long into the future for the enjoyment of Washingtonians, human and otherwise.
Dyke Marsh Wildlife Preserve is managed by the National Park Service. The grounds are open year-round from 6 am to 10 pm.
Created by 200_laps
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