C&O Canal Issues
The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park runs 184.5 miles along the Potomac River from Cumberland, Maryland, to Washington, D.C. Known for its canal towpath, the park is also home to a rich diversity of plants and animals found nowhere else in the United States, including several federal and state-listed endangered species, which thrive in one of the nation's longest stretches of protected river habitat. Some 3 million visitors enjoy the park each year, as many as visit Yellowstone.
The C&O Canal is the backyard national park for thousands of Potomac watershed residents, but it faces an ever-growing number of challenges. Among them are increasing development pressures and boundary infringements, irresponsible development proposals inside park lands, and chronic under-funding. A business plan analysis of the park's fiscal year 2001 budget showed that its funding met only about one-third of its needs, compared to an average of two-thirds for other national parks producing similar plans.
C&O Canal Setback Rule (Montgomery County, MD): Although the C&O Canal is 185 miles long, the actual parkland is a mere ribbon, in many places reaching only a few feet beyond the canal itself. Its scenic and natural views depend almost entirely on the scenic and natural qualities of adjoining private properties. In 2007, Potomac Conservancy successfully advocated for a setback that will prevent almost all accessory structures within 200 feet of the park boundaries. This setback will provide strong, consistent protection for the scenic experience of millions of park visitors.
C&O Canal NHP Funding: In partnership with a variety of other organizations, the Potomac Conservancy has been advocating for increased funding for the C&O Canal National Historical Park. In particular, we have been working towards funding the Big Slackwater project, which would close the only gap in the 184.5-mile long towpath.
Georgetown Boathouse in the C&O Canal NHP: Georgetown University has proposed building an enormous, private boathouse on C&O Canal NHP land, immediately adjacent to the Capital Crescent Trail and just upstream from the Washington Canoe Club. While Potomac Conservancy recognizes the need for more and better river access for rowers, and is a strong advocate for recreation on the river, the proposed structure is poorly sited and scaled. We are advocating with Congress and the National Park Service to ensure a full environmental review of this proposal.
Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park
C&O Canal Virtual Tour
C&O Canal Cycling and Hiking Guide