It is our belief that through an understanding of a natural area people will then take strides to protect that area. This is why we promote safe and responsible recreation on over 6,000 acres of WSSC property along the Patuxent River. Our watershed recreation areas are located in three counties surrounding the reservoirs (Montgomery, Howard and Prince George’s). Through our watershed recreation pr
ogram we open our property to users who are committed to using these areas in a responsible and sustainable manner. Our Brighton Dam Recreation area is also home to the award-winning Azalea Garden. Established in 1959, the five-acre garden features more than 20,000 blossoming azaleas when in full bloom near Mother’s Day. Admission is free, during the blooming season
WSSC wants to share our passion for the environment and outdoor recreation with the communities surrounding our watershed. We hope to develop a community of environmental stewards who will partner with us to protect the drinking water source for many of our 1.8 million customers
WSSC’s watershed recreation areas are open 30 minutes before sunrise to sunset from early spring through mid-fall. The recreation areas are open for a variety of activities including non-motorized boating, fishing, hiking, horseback riding and picnicking. All users must obtain a watershed user permit before participating in any of the activities. To see a full list of activities permitted on our watershed visit https://www.wsscwater.com/watershedregs
Permits can be obtained in person or online. Children under 16 years old do not need a permit, but they must be with someone who does have a permit. There are a few populations that may receive complimentary watershed user permits. These include people age 65 and older or disabled military veterans and active military on leave. To obtain your complimentary Seasonal Watershed Use Permit you need to visit one of the following locations:
Brighton Dam Visitor Center, 2 Brighton Dam Road, Brookeville, MD 20833. Open every day from 7:00 am to 8:00 pm
WSSC Cashier’s Office, 14501 Sweitzer Lane, Laurel, Maryland 20707. Open from 7:30 am to 5:00 pm Monday through Friday. Complimentary permits must be obtained and renewed in person at one of these two locations.--------------------------------
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