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Port of Chestertown Earns Maryland Clean Marina Status
Port of Chestertown Marina, photo courtesy of Town of Chestertown.
The Port of Chestertown Marina recently passed inspection by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources and will earn the Maryland Clean Marina Award. This award brings Maryland’s total number of Clean Marinas and Clean Marina Partners to 147 – about 30 percent of the marinas in Maryland. In Kent County, 22 percent of the estimated 31 marinas are certified as Clean Marinas. Read more…
Maryland Department of Natural Resources Certifies Two New Clean Marinas
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources has awarded Clean Marina certification to Hilltop Marina in Baltimore County and Bohemia Bay Yacht Harbour in Cecil County. There are now 147 certified Clean Marinas in Maryland, representing about 30% of the marinas in the state. Read more…
Maryland Department of Natural Resources Certifies New Clean Marina in Anne Arundel County
Marina Overhaul Helps Local Water Quality and Chesapeake Bay
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources has certified Parish Creek Landing Marina of Shady Side, Anne Arundel County, as the newest Clean Marina in the state. The department awards this designation to marinas that comply with all applicable regulatory requirements and voluntarily adopt a significant portion of recommended best practices in the Maryland Clean Marina Guidebook. There are now 145 certified Clean Marinas in Maryland, representing about 30% of the marinas in the state. Read more…
Clear Sailing: Twenty Years of Maryland Clean Marinas
Somers Cove Marina by Stephen Badger
For more than 20 years, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources’ Clean Marina Initiative has offered marina and boatyard operators an awards-based approach to protecting Maryland’s natural resources and the technical assistance needed to do so. Read more…
New Clean Marinas Certified in Kent County
Facilities in Rock Hall Meet Award Standards
Two marinas in Rock Hall recently passed inspection by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources to earn the Maryland Clean Marina Award. Gratitude Marina and Osprey Point Marina met the award criteria, bringing the total number of Clean Marinas and Clean Marina Partners to 151 — about a quarter of the marinas in Maryland. Read more…
Department Certifies Two New Maryland Clean Marinas
Facilities in Calvert and Queen Anne’s Counties Meet Standards
Boatel on Kent Narrows, Queen Anne’s County
Two facilities recently passed inspection by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources’ voluntary Clean Marina program, earning the Maryland Clean Marina Award. Solomons Landing Marina and Kent Narrows Boatel met the award criteria, bringing the total number of Clean Marinas and Clean Marina Partners to 147. This is roughly a quarter of the marinas in Maryland.
Department staff evaluate participating marinas or yacht clubs on areas such as emergency preparedness, waste containment/disposal, and stormwater management. To pass, the marina must score from 75 – 85% in each area of the award checklist by implementing practices from the Maryland Clean Marina Guidebook. Read more…
Clean Marina Seminars Scheduled for February
Events Share Best Practices for Boatyard, Marina Operators
“Boats at Rest at Eastport Yacht Club” by Susan Hale
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources invites marine facility managers to a series of free seminars in February. Staff will introduce the Maryland Clean Marina Initiative to participants, review commonly needed marina permits and provide resources for all operators and owners to improve their boatyards, docks and marinas.
Events are being held from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. the following dates and locations:
- Feb. 7 at Haven Harbour Marina, Rock Hall;
- Feb. 12 at Southern Maryland Sailing Association, Solomons; and
- Feb. 14 at Eastport Yacht Club, Annapolis.
Space is limited so advance registration is recommended.
Belvedere Yacht Club Certified as Clean Marina
Marks 150th Clean Marina and Partner in Maryland
Mark and Diane Hagerty of Belvedere Yacht Club
An Anne Arundel County yacht club recently passed inspection by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources to earn the Maryland Clean Marina Partner Award.
Belvedere Yacht Club in Arnold has met the criteria, which brings the total number of clean marinas and partners to 150, or roughly a quarter of the marinas in the state. In Anne Arundel County, 50 of the estimated 165 marinas are certified.
“It is inspiring to see the dedication and passion these boatyard and marina operators and owners bring to achieving and maintaining this ‘green’ certification,” Program Manager Donna Morrow said. “Belvedere Yacht Club is a great example of Maryland’s boating community stepping up for the bay and their customers.”
Glen Burnie Marina Certified as Maryland Clean Marina
Nabbs Creek Marina Met Voluntary Criteria
Patrick Riordan of Nabbs Creek Marina
An Anne Arundel County marina recently earned its Maryland Clean Marina Award and certification following an inspection from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.
Nabbs Creek Marina in Glen Burnie met all the department’s environmental regulatory requirements as well as voluntary criteria, bringing the total number of clean marinas and partners in the state to 149. Twenty-nine percent of Anne Arundel County marinas are certified as clean. Read more…
Orchard Beach Marina Named Maryland Clean Marina
Annapolis Marina Met Department’s Voluntary Guidelines
Karen Fenwick of Orchard Beach Marina
Orchard Beach Marina in Annapolis recently passed inspection by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources to become the latest Maryland Clean Marina, marking the 152nd marina to meet the state’s criteria.
Fourty-eight of the estimated 165 marinas in Anne Arundel County are certified as clean marinas. Read more…
Maryland Clean Marina Workshops Scheduled in February
Registration Now Open
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources will conduct a series of workshops in Anne Arundel, Dorchester and Harford counties to provide valuable information for marine facilities interested in learning about the Maryland Clean Marina Initiative.
Sessions times and locations are:
- 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Feb. 7 at Bush River Yacht Club, 4001 E. Baker Ave., Abingdon (please note this is a change from the original time.)
- 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Feb. 13 at Annapolis Recreation Center, 273 Hilltop Lane, Annapolis
- 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Feb. 15 at Holiday Inn Express, Cambridge, 2715 Ocean Gateway, Cambridge
Workshops will provide valuable information to anyone interested in Clean Marina certification. All marine facility managers are encouraged to attend even those already certified. Read more…
Two Anne Arundel County Marinas Certified as Maryland Clean Marinas
Horn Point Harbor Manager Andrew Rinna
Two Anne Arundel County marinas earned Maryland Clean Marina awards after passing a voluntary evaluation and inspection by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.
Horn Point Harbor in Annapolis and Pleasure Cove Marina in Pasadena both met the criteria checklist, bringing the total number of Maryland Clean Marinas and Partners to 152.
Clean Marina Tours Offered September 14
Boatyard Operators Can See Successful Water Protection Program in Action
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is offering a free tour of Annapolis-area marinas that participate in the Maryland Clean Marina Initiative, which recognizes and promotes marinas, boatyards and yacht clubs that voluntarily adopt pollution prevention practices.
New Clean Marina Certified in Anne Arundel County
Family-Owned Smith’s Marina Earns Statewide Recognition
Smith’s Marina in Crownsville has been certified as the newest Maryland Clean Marina by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. The Anne Arundel County business located on the Severn River earned the recognition after adopting practices from the Maryland Clean Marina Guidebook, meeting all department and environmental requirements, and passing a site inspection. Read more…
Newest Maryland Clean Marina in Harford County
Department of Natural Resources Certifies Bush River Yacht Club
Bush River Yacht Club has now been declared the newest Maryland Clean Marina by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.
The maritime establishment adopted practices from the Maryland Clean Marina Guidebook, met all environmental requirements and passed a site inspection before earning the designation. Read more…
Maryland Clean Marina Certified in Cecil County
The Hances Point Yacht Club in North East is the newest Maryland Clean Marina certified by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. The Cecil County facility earned the recognition after adopting practices from the Maryland Clean Marina Guidebook, meeting all environmental and regulatory requirements, and passing a mandatory site inspection. Read more…
New Maryland Clean Marina in Baltimore
Department of Natural Resources Certifies Harbor East in the Inner Harbor
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources has certified Harbor East Marina in Baltimore as the latest Maryland Clean Marina. The facility earned the recognition after adopting best management practices from the Maryland Clean Marina Guidebook, meeting all environmental and regulatory requirements, and passing a site inspection. Read more…
New Clean Marina in Anne Arundel County
Department of Natural Resources Certifies Harbour Cove Marina
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources has certified Harbour Cove Marina in Deale as the latest Maryland Clean Marina. The facility earned the recognition after adopting best management practices from the Maryland Clean Marina Guidebook, meeting all environmental and regulatory requirements, and passing a site inspection. Read more…
Family-Owned Baltimore County Marina Certified as Clean Marina
Charlie Gast and his daughter, Mary Carol Jacob, proudly display their Maryland Clean Marina Certificate
Chrismar Marina, a new, 38-slip docking facility at the head of the Middle River in Essex, has been certified a Maryland Clean Marina for meeting high environmental standards established by the Department of Natural Resources. Read more…
DNR Certifies 156th Maryland Clean Marina
Island View Marina on Kent Island joins the ranks
Island View Marine
Island View Marina, serving boaters of the Eastern Bay, has been certified as the latest Maryland Clean Marina.
Already recycling materials and providing a pumpout station, Owner George Ritter took it a step further, meeting Clean Marina criteria by educating customers on pollution prevention, as well as capturing all bottom wash water and improving stormwater management. Read more…
DNR Certifies New Clean Marina in Kent Island
Photo Credit: Kent Island Marine, www.kentislandmarine.com
Kent Island Marine Services in Stevensville is the latest Maryland Clean Marina certified by the Department of Natural Resources. The facility, which sells and services power boats, earned the award after taking steps to prevent pollution for more sustainable operations. Read more…
DNR to Host Clean Marina Workshops in January
“Shore Set” by Kristi Lynn Morris
The Department of Natural Resources invites marina operators to take part in a free workshop on the Maryland Clean Marina initiative, which recognizes and promotes environmentally-responsible marinas, boatyards and yacht clubs. Read more…
DNR Accepting Applications for Marina Pumpout Grants through April 15
Photo by Susan Hale, submitted to the 2019 Maryland DNR Photo Contest.
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is currently accepting applications from marinas for grants to support the operations and maintenance of marine sewage pumpout stations. Interested marinas can find the application form online. The deadline for submissions is April 15, 2024.
Marinas in need of a new or replacement pumpout system can apply for a separate grant throughout the year. Details are also found on the department’s website.
The Marine Sewage Pumpout Grant program aims to assist marinas in providing reliable pumpout services to local boaters. These pumpout stations offer boaters a proper and legally compliant method of disposing of their sewage, helping to prevent contamination of Maryland’s waters. The department actively supports the installation and operation of these stations as part of an overarching strategy to reduce nutrient levels in the Chesapeake Bay. Read more…
Free Environmental Seminars Offered for Maryland Marinas and Boatyards
DNR Provides Introduction to Clean Marina Initiative
The Maryland Clean Marina Initiative is hosting a series of seminars in February to introduce the voluntary environmental certification program to new participants. Managers of all types of marine facilities are encouraged to attend to learn about best management practices that result in a cleaner, safer workplace and environment.
Maryland Department of Natural Resource (DNR) staff will provide an introduction to the Maryland Clean Marina Initiative, its goals and benefits to businesses and the environment. Free Maryland Clean Marina Guidebooks, staff training guidance, and boater education materials will be provided. Staff from the Maryland Department of Environment will also explain the General Discharge Permit for Boatyards currently being drafted, and new oil control regulations that impact fuel dock operators. Read more…
Free Environmental Seminars for Maryland Marinas Offered in March
DNR Clean Marina Program Now Taking Reservations
Maryland DNR photo
Marinas, boatyards, and yacht clubs are invited to attend a free seminar to learn about becoming certified Clean Marinas, hear about stormwater management projects and funding, and learn about proposed Maryland regulations. Vendors of the latest environmental marina products will also be on hand.
Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) staff will discuss the 2022 reissue of the General Discharge Permit for Marinas as well as new fuel tank storage regulations. Additionally, Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) staff will explain grant funding available for pumpout stations, stormwater management and more. Read more…
Pumpout Grants Available for Maryland Marinas for 2020 Boating Season
Applications Due April 15
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources announces the availability of Pumpout Operations and Maintenance grants for the 2020 boating season. This program assists marinas in offering reliable pumpout service to Maryland boaters. Applications are due April 15.
State and federal laws prohibit the discharge of raw sewage from boats. Maryland law requires marinas with more than 50 slips, as well as any new or expanding marina, to have a pumpout station.
Pumpout Operations and Maintenance grants are made available through the federal Clean Vessel Act and state Waterway Improvement Fund, which are both funded by fees and taxes paid by boaters. Read more…
Department Offers Free Environmental Seminars for Marinas
Clean Marina Program Explained in February Meetings
Owners and managers of marinas, boatyards, and yacht clubs are invited to attend a free seminar to learn about becoming certified Maryland Clean Marinas. The program will provide details on commonly needed permits and plans, and an informative session on the impacts of plastic marine debris on Maryland’s waterways. Read more…
Pumpout Grants Available for Maryland Marinas
Deadline is April 15
Maryland marinas can now apply for Pumpout Operations and Maintenance grants through the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.
These grants reimburse marinas for the expense of operating and maintaining pumpout stations. Applications due April 15. Read more…
Somers Cove Marina: The front door to the bay’s bounty
Somers Cove; staff photo
Welcome to Somers Cove in Crisfield, Maryland—the largest single marina on the Chesapeake Bay and the only one owned and operated by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources!
We offer 515 magnificent slips that can accommodate boats up to 150 feet, as well as the best fuel prices and least expensive, annual, semiannual and transient slip rates on the Eastern Shore. Read more…
Grants Available to Marinas for Pumpout Operations
Program Funded by Boaters Helps Keep Maryland Waters Clean and Safe
Maryland marinas can now apply for Pumpout Operations and Maintenance grants through the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. These grants reimburse marinas for the expense of operating and maintaining pumpout stations.
State and federal laws prohibit the discharge of raw sewage from boats, so reliable pumpout stations at marinas are essential for the thousands of boats traversing Maryland waters.
A list and a map of pumpout stations across Maryland is available here. Read more…
What Anglers Can Do After Harvesting An Invasive Fish Species Such As Blue Catfish or Northern Snakehead
Anglers who catch invasive species in Maryland waters have multiple options to make use of the fish
Catch and release of blue catfish, flathead catfish, and northern snakehead is discouraged as they are harmful to native species. Maryland Department of Natural Resources photo.
Invasive species can have detrimental effects on ecologically and economically important native species. Once invasive species establish themselves in an ecosystem, they can reproduce in such numbers that it becomes hugely expensive, or even impossible, to eradicate all of them. For that reason, habitat and wildlife managers aim to minimize the harm caused by invasive species by reducing populations or containing them in a specific area.
Shrinkwrap Recycling Program Expands for Boaters in Select Maryland Counties
Maryland Department of Natural Resources photo
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources Clean Marina Initiative and the Marine Trades Association of Maryland are expanding their shrinkwrap recycling program directly to boaters in Queen Anne’s and Anne Arundel counties. This expansion will allow boaters who keep their boats at home in these counties to join the recycling effort . Previously, shrinkwrap recycling efforts were only targeted to boatyards and marinas, which continue to participate in the program. Read more…
Secretary’s Message – July 2022
Better Days Ahead in Maryland’s Waters
Upgrades at Chestertown Marina were funded by the Waterway Improvement Fund. Photo by Stephen Badger, Maryland Department of Natural Resources
Fifty-six years ago, Maryland’s Waterway Improvement Fund was established to fund waterway improvements, promote recreational and commercial boating, and improve the safety and navigation of Maryland’s waterways for the benefit of the general boating public.
Since its inception this important program has provided more than $300 million in funding for 4,500 projects at public boating access sites across Maryland. If you use a publicly owned boat ramp or marina in our state, there is a good chance that it was funded and is maintained with funding from this program. Read more…
Maryland Boaters Encouraged to ‘Think Before You Shrink’
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is encouraging owners of small boats to “Think Before You Shrink” this year, and convert to reusable materials for their winter covering. The goal is to reduce plastic waste and alleviate disposal issues caused by removing shrink wrap every spring.
Semi-custom, reusable covers are readily available for most small boats at about the same cost as two years of shrink wrap. The reusable covers last five to ten years and can be repaired or cleaned to extend their life. Read more…
Timeline: Our Story Begins
The units that make up today’s Department of Natural Resources mostly date back farther than 1969, many having gone through numerous names and structural changes before and even after becoming part of the department.
The earliest version of what is now a Department of Natural Resources function is the Maryland Geological Survey, which originated with a brief tenure from 1834-41 and resumed activity in 1896.
The oldest continuing unit is the Maryland Natural Resources Police, which was organized as the State Oyster Police force in 1868. Read more…
Secretary’s Message: January 2018
All Hands on Deck for Bay Restoration
Photo: “Bay Bridge Morning” by James Phelps
Happy New Year!
At the end of 2017, I reflected on the progress that we’ve made protecting and restoring our most precious natural resource and treasure, the Chesapeake Bay. Now entering 2018, I want to focus on partnerships and opportunities we have to build on in the coming year.
Maryland works in partnership with our fellow states and territories in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed Agreement, which set restoration goals for 2025. It’s been essential that we engage every community in the state – be it local governments, industry groups and scientific organizations – to address our priorities and to meet our goals. Read more…
Maryland Awarded $350,000 for Pumpout Boats and Stations
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources has been awarded more than $350,000 for the installation and maintenance of marine sewage pumpout stations across the state. The funding will go toward existing pumpouts as well as support pumpout boats operated by the City of Annapolis, the Midshore Riverkeeper Conservancy and the West and Rhode Riverkeeper.
Better Boating for All: Partnerships supporting recreation on the water
Fort Smallwood before (top) and after (below); staff photo
Maryland boasts a rich maritime history, a vast array of freshwater and saltwater venues and an enthusiastic constituency of recreational boaters who have more than 180,000 recreational vessels. Standing by to serve citizens and visitors alike are more than 600 marinas and 500 public boat ramps and launches.
Maryland Catfish Tournaments Offer Invasive Species Angling
Blue catfish caught at the 2022 Sharptown Catfish Tournament on the Nanticoke River and Marshyhope Creek. Photo by Stephen Badger, Maryland Department of Natural Resources.
With record catches around the country tipping the scales at more than a hundred pounds, blue catfish (Ictalurus furcatus) have become quite the draw for anglers in the Chesapeake Bay. Introduced in the 1970s as a recreational fishing target species in Virginia, invasive blue catfish populations have grown rapidly in Maryland waters.
As commercial harvests of blue catfish have risen exponentially, recreational fishing for the species is becoming more popular as a way to enjoy a day angling as well as bring plenty of fish home for dinner. Commercial landings of blue catfish have grown from 609,525 pounds in 2013 to 4.2 million pounds in 2023, more than a 500% increase in the past decade. The fish is increasingly showing up on menus and in grocery stores, helping it to become more appealing as table fare. Read more…
Maryland Fishing Report – Winter Preview 2023-24
Black sea bass are a popular cold-weather species, and can be caught in Maryland waters through December 31. Photo by Monty Hawkins
With the start of winter and the end of some fishing seasons, Maryland’s anglers can rest assured that there is plenty of good fishing to be found this season if you know where to look!
Maryland Fishing Report – October 25
Eric Packard enjoyed a day fishing for snakeheads in his kayak. Photo courtesy of Eric Packard
Recent chilly temperatures are causing anglers to replace their sneakers and T-shirts with rubber footwear and flannel shirts. Cooler water temperatures have fish in a very active feeding mode, which makes for great fishing.
Maryland Fishing Report – April 12
The “Victory Team” of Donizete, Miguel, Lucas, and Benjamin had a great time and formed some lasting memories while trout fishing together. Photo by Donizete Junior
Spring is breaking out all around us, and spending time outdoors with family and friends during this time of year is about as good as it gets.
Maryland Fishing Report – April 5
Christian Fritz caught this large rainbow trout and hams it up with his brother Everett for the camera held by a proud father. Photo by Craig Fritz
It seems spring has finally arrived with some very welcome weather. Now is a great time to get outdoors, and fishing together with family and especially children is a wonderful activity. The spring trout stocking program continues throughout Maryland. This presents an excellent time for our younger anglers where they can achieve success while fishing.
Maryland Department of Natural Resources Announces Pumpout Operations and Maintenance Grants Available for 2023 Season
Funding Now Available for Marinas to Support Clean Waterways
Pier with pumpout station at Pocomoke River State Park, photo by Maryland Department of Natural Resources staff.
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is now accepting applications from marinas for grants up to $2,500 for operations and maintenance of marine sewage pumpout stations. Applications are available online and will be accepted through April 15, 2023. Read more…
Maryland Fishing Report – November 16
Photo by Travis Long
Colder temperatures have anglers bundling up to enjoy the good fishing available for a variety of species that are still being caught this fall. Anglers can now be seen dressed in duck hunting garb, gloves, knee boots, or similar warm clothing. Be prepared and have fun!
Maryland Fishing Report – November 2
Photo by Rich Watts
There is a wide variety of fishing opportunities this week for Maryland anglers. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources has stocked trout in many put-and-take waters, including ponds that are ideal for our younger anglers. Striped bass fishing is at its zenith in the Chesapeake Bay, and extra-large crabs are being caught in the Bay and tidal rivers.
Maryland Fishing Report – June 22
Dominic Kronk spent Father’s Day fishing for white perch with his dad. Photo by Kenny Kronk
The arrival of summer provides plenty of opportunities for special family time in the great outdoors. This past Sunday was a wonderful Father’s Day for dads, grandads, and other father figures to spend fishing with sons and daughters.
Read more…
Maryland Fishing Report – June 8
Young anglers (left to right) Ronae’ Heard, Emily Jackson, and Lincoln Christopher proudly hold up their first catches. Photos by (left to right) Angel Renee Stewart, Adam Jackson, and Kristin Christopher.
Even if it’s not official yet, summertime is here and families are enjoying time fishing together. Bluegill sunfish, white perch, and catfish are some simple species that are easy for our younger anglers to catch and feel the excitement that fishing can provide. Read more…
Maryland Fishing Report – April 27
Reza Karimi was fishing Seneca Creek when he caught this trophy-sized rainbow trout. Photo courtesy of Reza Karimi
April has been a wonderful month for fishing, especially for our put-and-take trout anglers. Maryland Department of Natural Resources staff have been out each week stocking trout waters around the state.
The 2022 striped bass trophy season begins Sunday, May 1, and our Chesapeake Bay anglers will be out in force – be sure to check the DNR website for seasonal regulations in your area of the Bay.
Pumpout Operations and Maintenance Grants Available for 2022 Season
Funding for Marinas to Support Clean Waterways
Maryland DNR photo
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is now accepting applications from marinas for grants up to $2,500 for operations and maintenance of marine sewage pumpout stations. Applications are available online and are accepted now through April 15.
This program assists marinas in offering reliable pumpout service to area boaters. Pumpout stations give boaters a proper method of disposing of their sewage and thus prevent it from entering Maryland’s waters. The department supports their installation and operation as part of the overall strategy of reducing nutrients in the Chesapeake Bay. Read more…
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