Common Pests in Cromwell Valley and the History of Loch Raven Reservoir

The Hampton/Cromwell Valley areas in Baltimore County nearing Towson are full of rich history, including the Hampton National Historic Site. The established housing in the community features large yards and great parks, and is located right next to the Loch Raven Reservoir. Since most homes in the area were built in the 1950’s, and many are adjoining/backing forest or watershed areas, it’s not uncommon to run into pest problems fit for a professional.

The History of Loch Raven Reservoir and Baltimore Drinking Water

The Loch Raven Reservoir was originally built in 1881 as a dam to channel water to Baltimore City lakes and increase the city’s water supply. In 1914, a 51-foot dam was built, allowing 1.5 billion gallons of water from the Gunpowder River to fill up behind it. In 1923, the upper dam was increased to 240 ft. and became the reservoir we know now. The construction annexed nearly 50 square miles in 1918, forcing residents and pests alike to relocate.

Today, the Loch Raven Reservoir is fed by the Big Gunpowder Falls River and holds 23 billion gallons of water (enough to sustain all of Maryland for approx. 50 days). With hundreds of forest acres surrounding our watershed, the reservoir makes Baltimore drinking water some of the best in the country. It is also home to 50-70 miles of hiking trails and various recreational activities.

The History of Cromwell Valley Park

Cromwell Valley Park is a beautiful 460-acre stream valley park that was acquired in 1993 and primarily features open fields, cultivated gardens, orchards, woods and pasture. Known in the early 1700’s as the Minebank Run Stream, the valley is said to have acquired its current name from William Cromwell, who married Elizabeth Raven and inherited her father’s land in 1773.

Today, Cromwell Valley Park is home to hiking trails, a Children’s Garden, a Nature Education Center, and various community events. There is a diverse habitat of birds and a healthy population of rabbits, deer mice and meadow voles. White-tailed deer and red foxes are also plentiful in the area.

Common Pest Problems in Cromwell Valley/Hampton

The most common pest problems we encounter in Cromwell Valley/Hampton housing involve mice and rat snakes. Older homes in the area tend to have gaps and cracks from the foundation settling, and we often run into poorly constructed additions. When plumbing and HVAC lines are not sealed correctly, it allows field mice to invade homes from the surrounding woods. Do you know who loves to eat field mice? Snakes! Mice are great climbers and so are rat snakes. Customers are often surprised when we remove a large rat snake from an attic. Treating an attic for rat snakes requires not only getting rid of the snake, but removing and sealing out the field mice for good.

Need Help With Pest Control in Baltimore County? Call the Brody Brothers!

At Brody Brothers Pest Control, we don’t provide temporary solutions – we take a proactive approach to IPM to halt pest issues at the core and help customers like you maintain a pest-free environment for years to come. Pest control is a necessity for society and a great way to help mankind when done responsibly. Give us a call at ​410-653-2121 for an estimate.