Royce Hanson Conservation Park Campaign

Preserving Nature. Honoring History. Engaging Minds.

teens enjoying the outdoorsThe Royce Hanson Conservation Park at Broad Run represents a unique opportunity to conserve, interpret,and engage with Montgomery County’s natural and cultural heritage. Named for Royce Hanson—distinguished academic, urban planner, author, and champion of natural and cultural resources—the park honors a visionary leader whose work shaped the county’s landscape.

As Chairman of the Montgomery County Planning Board (1972–1981, 2006–2010), Royce was the driving force behind the creation of the nationally recognized Agricultural Reserve, preserving nearly a third of the county for farming, recreation, and conservation. His innovative land use strategies have become global models.

Royce’s legacy includes leadership roles with the Maryland Environmental Trust, the Legacy Open Space Advisory Group, and the Montgomery County Parks Foundation (2009–2022). His lifelong commitment to environmental stewardship, education, and public service is at the heart of this park’s mission.

Located within the Agricultural Reserve, the Royce Hanson Conservation Park at Broad Run advances a three-fold mission:

  • Conservation and Interpretation of 475 acres of land, forest, stream, and historically significant Civil War sites.

    • Celebration of Agriculture through live demonstrations and interpretation of the area’s rich agricultural history.

    • Environmental Education via an outdoor laboratory/classroom and research hub in collaboration with Poolesville High School’s magnet Global Ecology Program to provide hands-on environmental research and learning.

    • Trail Access and Recreation with improved amenities for hikers, bikers, and equestrians.

To bring this vision to life, we are launching a $100,000 fundraising campaign to enhance park facilities and expand educational programming—support that goes beyond the standard Parks budget.

Interested in contributing to this amazing project? Give your gift today at Royce Hanson Conservation Park Campaign – Montgomery Parks Foundation.

Click HERE for additional information about the campaign.