Hashawa
When Henry David Thoreau said, "I shall be glad if all the meadows on the earth were left in a wild state" he might have beem describing the rolling hills and panoramic vistas of "Hashawha", an Indian term meaning old fields. Natures's bounty and diversity has made this land a jewel. Recognizing this value, the Carroll County Commissioners acquired the land in 1972 and set it aside for present and future generations to enjoy.
As part of the Carroll County Dept. of Recreation and Parks, Hashawha Environmental Appreciation Center serves groups and individuals as a resource for environmental education and outdoor recreation.
Facilities at Hashawha include an administrative building with meeting rooms, cafeteria and nature discovery area, five winterized cabins, an in ground swimming pool, and a solar heated conference center capable of seating 150 people. The facilities are available for public use on a reservation basis.
Pavilions are located in the cabin area, at Lake Hashawha, and at the primitive camp, which is designed for tent camping for large or small groups. Nature trails, a partially restored log cabin, and play areas are available to campers.
In keeping with its purpose as an environmental center, Hashawha has taken the lead in conservation measures. Both traditional and innovative methods have been used in this regard. These measures include a passive solar collection system, a wind mill, various types of wind generation and other conservation techniques to preserve land and water. Hashawha is a participant in Program Open Space, Maryland Acres for Wildlife, and is a registered tree farm.
Those coming to Hashawha may expect to find the meaningful and pleasurable experience of seeing wide open spaces and the unlimited potential for learning about nature. There is healing peacefulness which comes with contact in this way with our ultimate "roots".
*the above was extracted from the Hashawha brochure.
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Biodiversity in Carroll County