In 1942, Bethlehem Steel drained the water in this area to sink and burn the World War I ships anchored there. This created the Burning Basin that is now surrounded by wetlands. Today, it is a popular recreational fishing spot because of its calm and slow waters. The area also serves as a transition from the Potomac River to the calmer, upstream waters of Marlow Creek. Many freshwater marsh plants can be found by the water’s edge, which are important habitats and food sources.