We are deeply concerned about the proposal to close the Beltsville Agricultural Research Center (BARC). We respectfully request a 100 day extension to the public comment period so that our community has time to fully weigh in on this critical decision.

BARC is a 6,500 acre site that has supported world class agricultural research for decades. Its work benefits farmers across the Chesapeake Bay region and helps ensure safe, healthy food for the entire country. Losing this research hub would undermine years of progress in protecting our natural resources and supporting American farmers.

Equally important, BARC is one of the most valuable natural areas left in our urban region. The site contains intact forests, wetlands, and rare habitats such as vernal pools, magnolia bogs, and pine barrens. It is home to over 230 bird species and freshwater mussels recently found in Beaver Dam Creek, which is a Tier 1 waterway and the reference stream for much of the Anacostia River watershed. In a region covered by pavement and development, this much intact green space is incredibly rare and provides clean water, flood protection, and healthy outdoor access for surrounding communities.

If the USDA decides to close BARC as a research facility, it should not be sold to private interests. Instead, it should be brought under conservation management through Greenbelt National Park or Patuxent Research Refuge so that these habitats and community benefits are permanently protected.

The USDA has opened the decision to public comment until August 26th. Make your voice heard by emailing [email protected] and telling them how important this land is to the watershed!