The Briar Patch is a natural obstacle to what lies beyond....

Ships traveling through the Briar Patch to new trading ventures on the other side would be stranded with no help, and no chance of survival if they were to get lost in the Briar Patch. Starfleet has its answer:

With the resurgence of the Son'a, and other new enemies, Starbase 901 has become the first, and in some cases the last line of defense for the colonists of New Canada and other peaceful civilizations that could not stand up against their oppressors.

Welcome to the station...