Celebrate National Public Works Week May 20 - 26

Public Works Director Alfred H. Foxx today announced the fourth annual Loch Raven Day event at Loch Raven Dam. This will be held on Saturday, May 26 from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.

Director Foxx stated: “Loch Raven Day is quickly becoming a Baltimore tradition, and it harkens back to an old Baltimore tradition, weekend family trips to Loch Raven Dam where young and old could enjoy the breathtaking scenery and watch the birds in the air and fish in the reservoir. This event is an opportunity to once again share these memories with your children and grandchildren.”

To make this occasion even more memorable the Department of Public Works, with our partners from Gannett Fleming, Inc., will be providing tours of the recently renovated and enlarged Dam. You will have the opportunity to learn how our outstanding water system works and learn the remarkable history of this structure and of the Gunpowder Valley. Engineers, biologists and historians will be on hand, along with historic photographs, maps and diagrams to make your learning experience all the more enjoyable.

This is your chance to walk out on Loch Raven Dam. As a visitor told the Baltimore Sun at last year’s event: “This is awesome”! Indeed it is! From the river to your tap – the story of your drinking water is fascinating and fun.

And that is not all. Exhibits of live local wildlife from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources – Scales and Tales - will show and tell about the animals which inhabit the watershed lands. Rescued wildlife will be there to squawk and hiss for you from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.

Do you like to hike? Organized guided hikes will occur at 11:00 and at 1:00, weather permitting. You will discover the hidden and not-so-hidden flora and fauna of the Loch Raven forest and how the land is protected and renewed. Bring your hiking shoes!

Food: Pack a lunch or enjoy hot dogs, chips and sodas - available on site from the Baltimore Police Explorers.

AND THERE IS MORE:

Olton’s Company of Baltimore Rangers is back with their authentic 17th Century encampment, costumes and muskets. They have been a very popular and educational attraction for adults and children.

AND, FOR THE FIRST TIME, LIVE MUSIC ON THE DAM:
Enjoy the acoustic sounds from the very talented Mark Hopkins who will live on the Dam performing for you.
http://www.markhopkinsmusic.com/2011/12/02/hello-world/