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Fall Foliage and Festival Report – Sept. 14-15, 2019

Fall Foliage and Festival Report

Welcome to the Fall Foliage and Festival Report for Sept. 14 and 15, brought to you by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.

Soon the landscape will explode with vibrant colors of orange, red and yellow. Kids will be jumping into newly raked piles of leaves and we’ll all “fall” back to Eastern Standard Time and grab that extra bit of sleep. Although Autumn 2019 will not officially arrive until the early morning of Sept. 23, the full moon that falls nearest to the Fall Equinox, the Harvest Moon, is scheduled for its annual appearance on Saturday evening. Sometimes called the Full Corn Moon, it is so bright farmers could work by the light of it. Read more…


Fall Foliage and Festival Report: Nov. 17-18, 2018

Welcome to the Fall Foliage and Festival Report for the weekend of Nov. 17 and 18, brought to you by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.

Forester Rob Clarke succinctly wraps up the final report for 2018 with, “Let the raking begin!”  Read more…


Fall Foliage and Festival Report: Nov. 10-11, 2018

Fall Foliage Map for Nov 10-11, 2018

Welcome to the Fall Foliage and Festival Report for the weekend of Nov. 10 and 11, brought to you by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.

The good news is that leaf peepers have an excellent chance of catching fall foliage at its peak in many parts of the state. However, predictions are that this is a very small window of opportunity. So plan to get outdoors in the next few days and catch the best color for autumn 2018. Read more…


Fall Foliage and Festival Report: Nov 3-4, 2018

Map of fall foliage and festivals

Welcome to the Fall Foliage and Festival Report for the weekend of Nov. 3 and 4, brought to you by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.

There is hope for Maryland leaf peepers after all. This is the weekend to take in some brilliant autumnal colors. 

Read more…


Fall Foliage and Festival Report: Oct. 27-28, 2018

Welcome to the Fall Foliage and Festival Report for the weekend of Oct. 27 and 28, brought to you by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. Read more…


Fall Foliage and Festival Report: Oct. 20-21, 2018

Fall Foliage and Festimal Map

Welcome to the Fall Foliage and Festival Report for the weekend of Oct. 20 and 21, brought to you by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.

Read more…


Fall Foliage and Festival Report: Oct. 13-14, 2018

Map of fall foliage and festivalsWelcome to the Fall Foliage and Festival Report for the weekend of Oct. 13 and 14, brought to you by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.

Garrett County Forester Melissa Nash reports that most of the maples turned brown early and are already bare. “We did get some color last week, but most of those are now bare. Many of the oaks are still pretty green, but are starting to change.” While this is Autumn Glory Festival weekend in Oakland and typically peak season for fall foliage, Nash believe it may be a bit muted. Read more…


Fall Foliage and Festival Report: Oct. 6 and 7

Welcome to the Fall Foliage and Festival Report for the weekend of Oct. 6 and 7, brought to you by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.

Western Maryland 4-H Camp in Swanton, photo by Forester Melissa Nash

4-H Camping Center

What a difference a week makes! In Western Maryland, autumn began with a slow start; however, the most recent field reports are encouraging. Garrett County Forester Melissa Nash says things are starting to change more rapidly, as seen in her photo taken at the Maryland 4-H Environmental Education and Camping Center in Swanton. Read more…


Fall Foliage and Festival Report: Sept. 29-30

Map of fall foliage and festivalsWelcome to the Fall Foliage and Festival Report for the first full weekend of fall, Sept. 29 and 30, 2018, brought to you by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.

As September comes to a close, it appears the rain will diminish and we’ll have some partly cloudy to sunny days to look forward to this weekend. Reports out of Western Maryland confirm the first signs of the season, as the region’s early reds, yellows and oranges are starting to pop, particularly visible in Garrett County’s higher elevations above 2,500 feet. Read more…


Fall Foliage and Festival Report: Sept. 22-23, 2018

Map of MarylandWelcome to the Fall Foliage and Festival Report for the first weekend of fall, Sept. 22 and 23, brought to you by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.

Soon the landscape will explode with vibrant colors of orange, red and yellow. Kids will be jumping into leaf piles you just raked and we’ll all “fall” back, setting clocks back an hour and grabbing that extra bit of sleep.

Having sweated our way through a typically hot and humid Maryland summer – exceptionally wet as well – you might be looking forward to the autumnal equinox (also called the September equinox) happening Saturday at exactly 9:54 p.m. This is also the best time to view Mars as the planet will be at its brightest. Join the Westminster Astronomy Club at Cunningham Falls State Park Saturday night to see the stars!

 Sign up to receive weekly reports showcasing the Old Line State’s vibrant fall foliage and the best autumn festivals at dnr.maryland.gov.

Read more…


Fall Foliage and Festival Report: November 18-19

Map showing events with leaves

Welcome to the Fall Foliage and Festival Report for the weekend of Nov. 18-19, brought to you by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources and Maryland Office of Tourism.

Well the Maryland leaf peeper season is coming to a close. While there are some spots of red and yellow in St. Mary’s County and some oaks peaking in parts of central and southern Maryland, the consensus seems to be the leaves are falling very quickly.

Read more…


Fall Foliage and Festival Report: November 11-12

Maryland Map with leaves marking weekend events

Welcome to the Fall Foliage and Festival Report for the weekend of Nov. 11-12, brought to you by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources and Maryland Office of Tourism.

In western Maryland it appears that everything is happening at once, as eastern Allegany, Washington and Frederick counties are all reporting peak conditions, although muted. Weather has been a factor, especially around South Mountain. Washington County from Clear Spring west is just past peak.

How long the leaves will last is anyone’s guess…


Fall Foliage and Festival Report: November 4-5

Maryland Map with leaves marking weekend events

Welcome to the Fall Foliage and Festival Report for the weekend of Nov. 4 – 5, brought to you by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources and Maryland Office of Tourism.

In November we’re starting to think of oyster dressing, pumpkin pie and turkey dinners, despite the fairly mild temperatures and presence of still-green leaves on many Maryland trees. While the leaves are past peak and have even started to drop in western Maryland, the brilliant orange, scarlet and yellow foliage is coming on strong in central Maryland and the mid-Eastern Shore. Read more…


Fall Foliage and Festival Report: October 28-29

Maryland Map with leaves marking weekend events Welcome to the Fall Foliage and Festival Report for the weekend of Oct. 28 and 29, brought to you by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources and Maryland Office of Tourism.

Well, this is the weekend for ghosts, goblins and other fright-worthy tricks and treats, and there are lots of Halloween events for everyone to enjoy! Read more…


Fall Foliage and Festival Report: October 21-22

Map marking events with leaves

Welcome to the Fall Foliage and Festival Report for the weekend of Oct. 21 and 22, brought to you by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources and Maryland Office of Tourism.

The Mid-Atlantic region is basking in the glow of an Indian summer, and if you’re planning to head west this weekend, you should meet with good viewing conditions in Allegany County, where the leaves are holding at about 25 percent color change. Rocky Gap State Park reports that hickories, maples and poplars are lovely, providing a patchwork of colors, just in time for the some brisk autumn hiking. Read more…


Fall Foliage and Festival Report: October 14-15

Maryland map marking events with leavesWelcome to the Fall Foliage and Festival Report for the weekend of Oct. 14 and 15, brought to you by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources and Maryland Office of Tourism.

Garrett County’s biggest event of the year, the Autumn Glory Festival, is underway in Oakland and other locations throughout the county. Highlights of the festival include the Maryland State Banjo and Fiddle Championships, Tall Tale Storytelling and Book Festival, Western Maryland Tournament of Bands, parades, a 5K Run, and an authentic Oktoberfest celebration.

Read more…


Fall Foliage and Festival Report: October 7-8

Map showing Maryland fall festival locations

Welcome to the Fall Foliage and Festival Report for the weekend of Oct. 7 and 8, brought to you by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources and Maryland Office of Tourism.

In Garrett County, oaks are just starting to change and there are pockets of brilliant color, mostly maples, sassafras and sumac. The wet areas and swamps continue to show the most color. Read more…


Fall Foliage and Festival Report – September 30-October 1

Nice Weekend for the Calvert County Fair, National Public Lands Day and Apple and Pumpkin Festivals

Photo of Chimney Rock Trail by Tim Ray

Chimney Rock Trail, photo by Tim Ray

Welcome to the Fall Foliage and Festival Report for the weekend of Sept. 30 and Oct. 1, brought to you by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources and Maryland Office of Tourism.

October arrives this weekend and soon the full glory of the changing foliage will as well! Reports out of Western Maryland confirm the first signs of the season as the region’s early reds, yellows and oranges are starting to pop, particularly visible in Garrett County’s higher elevations above 2,500 feet.

Deep Creek Lake State Park is reporting that foliage is coming along with red maples starting to turn bright orange. The low areas, which are cooler and moister, have the most color.

Read more…


The Golden Season: Fall foliage and festivals

Photo of: Couple overlooking vibrant vista

Chimney Rock at Catoctin Mountain National Park; by Tim Ray

After the candy is eaten and the costumes are put away, our focus shifts to our natural world’s final glorious display of the year.

It’s official. It’s autumn in Maryland. Living in the Old Line State, you know how lucky we are. Although small geographically, the landscape is quite diverse and complex, often referred to as America in Miniature. Read more…


Fall Foliage and Festival Report: September 23-24

Map with leaves marking events

Welcome to the Fall Foliage and Festival Report for the weekend of Sept. 23 and 24, brought to you by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources and the Maryland Office of Tourism.

It’s official! It’s autumn in Maryland.

When this weekend rolls in, thoughts will begin to turn to the sights, sounds and scents of the season: fan-filled football stadiums, bright orange pumpkins, cinnamon and cider warming on the stove and the welcomed return of Canada geese.

Read more…


Fall Foliage and Festival Report: September 16-17

Burnside Bridge on Antietam National Battlefield, photo by National Park Service

Burnside Bridge, Antietam National Battlefield, photo by National Park Service

Welcome to the Fall Foliage and Festival Report for Sept. 16 and 17, brought to you by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources and Maryland Office of Tourism.

You know summer’s almost over when local county fairs fill up with farm animals, 4-H kids, arts and crafts, fall harvest exhibits, midways and cotton candy. This weekend, you can choose from the Anne Arundel County Fair (Sept. 13-17) in Crownsville, the Charles County Fair (Sept. 14-17) in La Plata, or the Great Frederick Fair (Sept. 15-23), which runs for nine days. Read more…


Fall Foliage and Festival Report: September 9 and 10

Defenders Day Celebration at North Point, Woodmont Lodge Open House

Lone man fishing from rock in early autumn

Solitude by Joseph Halpin

Welcome to the Fall Foliage and Festival Report for Sept. 9 and 10, brought to you by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources and Maryland Office of Tourism.

It’s been a long, hot summer in the mid-Atlantic but with just a handful of days left, Marylanders will begin to sense the changing season – shorter days, longer nights, fatter crabs, football, chirping crickets – and one of the most eagerly anticipated events of the autumn season, the appearance of fall foliage. Read more…


Natural Heritage Program Spotlight: Fall Swamps

Photo of Cranesville Swamp in fall color

Cranesville Swamp in fall by Matt Tillett

At this time of year, leaf watchers are enthusiastically traveling the region to catch the best show of color on our deciduous trees (and you can too—follow our Fall Foliage Reports here)! Nature certainly puts on a show of a bedtime routine before the winter snooze, but fall beauty does not only lie in the falling leaves. Smaller plants and conifers go through transitions of their own, or sometimes just provide an enduring and welcome carpet of green in an otherwise browning landscape. Wetlands in particular are enjoyable in the fall, having lost the crowds and blood-sucking bugs that may be a summer nuisance. Wetlands are often split into four types, each defined by its own set of soil, water, and vegetation characteristics. Here in Maryland we are fortunate to have all four to appreciate. Read more…


Fall Brings Heightened Risk of Wildfire

Marylanders Urged to Take Extra Precautions

Photo of brushfireFire Prevention Week begins Oct. 7, coinciding with the beginning of the fall wildfire season in Maryland.

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources urges residents throughout the state to take precautions as the changing foliage increases the risks of wildland fires spreading through brush and forests. 

Wildfires occur every month in Maryland, but peak in the spring and fall. During these two seasons the leaves fall off deciduous trees, allowing sunlight and wind to reach the forest floor drying out brush, leaves and vegetation and other debris that can catch aflame. The relative humidity of the air is also drier and, combined with a breeze, creates favorable conditions for wildfires to spread rapidly. Read more…


Aboveboard: Fall 2018

Mark Belton HeadshotFall is a great time to enjoy our state’s spectacular and diverse terrain and gain a better understanding of the role it plays in our culture, heritage and living history. Opportunities abound to immerse yourself in the scenic splendor, storied past and bright and prosperous future.

In this edition of the Maryland Natural Resource magazine, we learn more about the Piscataway, a Native American tribe in Southern Maryland that had lost their identity throughout colonization. This tribe recently gained official recognition by the state and has an agreement with some of our state parks, where they will host events to educate the public of our shared heritage. Read more…


Fall Trout Stocking Begins in Maryland

Stocking Adds to Plentiful Autumn Fishing Opportunities

Photo of Rainbow and Golden Trout for stocking into streams

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources will begin fall trout stocking in early October, introducing nearly 28,000 brown, golden and rainbow trout into select Maryland creeks, lakes and rivers by the end of the month. Read more…


Aboveboard: Fall 2017

Mark Belton HeadshotAs fall settles in across the Old Line State, we become a little more sensitive to the sounds of rustling leaves on the ground, the moan of wind through the trees, and the eerie sensation out in nature that we’re not alone.

In this edition of the Maryland Natural Resource, we investigate some fascinating phenomena around the state, most of which has a perfectly natural and scientific explanations. Read more…


Autumn Falls: A photo essay

Simply put, waterfalls are nothing more than rivers flowing over rocks but that doesn’t stop them from being among the most wondrous sights our natural world has to offer.

You may think the only way to enjoy such areas beyond social media is to travel to faraway states, but I’m here to show you the roars, and the whispers of Maryland’s falls—from blips in creeks to drops taller than the four-story office building in which I sit writing. Combine that with Maryland’s perfect mid-Atlantic positioning for idyllic flaming foliage, and I challenge you to find a sight more spectacular this autumn season. Read more…


Maryland’s Junior Deer Hunt Opens November 12

Prime Time for Adult Hunters to Pass On the Traditions of Deer Hunting

Photo of deer against backdrop of fall foliage

Photo by Mathew Doged

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources encourages experienced deer hunters to take advantage of the upcoming Junior Deer Hunting Days to introduce youth to this time-honored cultural and sporting tradition. 

The Junior Deer Hunt is open on private and designated public land in all counties on November 12. The season is also open on Sunday, November 13 on private land in all counties except Baltimore, Howard, and Prince George’s. Also on November 13, junior hunters in Allegany, Cecil, Garrett, St. Mary’s, and Washington counties, may hunt on designated public lands. Read more…


Secretary’s Message – October 2022

Find an October Treat in Maryland’s Outdoor Spaces

Photo of group of people on a trail in the woods

Photo by Patrick Siebert, Maryland State House

October is a time when the natural world puts on a spectacular show; and outdoor activities in Maryland provide a great opportunity to enjoy it! It is an ideal time to visit the public lands throughout our beautiful state. Lieutenant Governor Boyd K. Rutherford and I recently joined a group of veterans and staff from the Maryland Department of Veterans Affairs for a wellness hike at Patuxent River Natural Resource Management Area in Hughesville. The hike was organized to raise awareness for suicide prevention and the new Veterans Crisis Line, which can be accessed by dialing 988 (then pressing 1) or texting 838255.

Similarly, DNR participated again this year in Maryland’s multi-agency Walktober campaign to highlight the health benefits of walking – our official state exercise – and to remind everyone of the responsibility we share regarding pedestrian safety on our roads and in our recreational areas.  Read more…


Muzzleloader Deer Season Opens in Late October

First Segment of Season Starts October 20

Photo of two bucks against backdrop of fall foliage

Photo by Reinhardt Sahmel

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources announced that the first segment of Maryland’s muzzleloader deer season runs from Oct. 20-22 statewide. 

Hunters in Region B — the state’s central, southern, and eastern regions — can also use muzzleloaders from Oct. 24-29 for antlerless deer only.

The popular season typically coincides with pleasant fall weather and is one of many deer hunting opportunities offered in the state. Read more…


Maryland Fishing Report – September 21

Photo of boy holding a fish on a dock

Angler Philip Wyatt Wieland caught a 30-inch Spanish mackerel in the Chesapeake Bay. Photo courtesy Philip Wyatt Wieland

As summer fades into fall, anglers are enjoying milder temperatures and good fishing for a variety of species.

If you enjoy beautiful scenery to go with your fall fishing trips, check out the Maryland Department of Natural Resources Fall Foliage Report to find out where the trees are displaying their natural wonder. Sign up at the DNR website to receive the weekly report by email.

Read more…


Maryland Fishing Report – October 20

Boy on a lakeside dock holding a large northern pike

Bergen Kline certainly was thrilled to catch this 41-inch northern pike at Deep Creek Lake recently while fishing with his dad. Photo by Sean Kline

This week is an exciting time for family and friends to be out fishing and enjoying the outdoors, as daytime temperatures become more moderate and a wide variety of fish become more active as waters cool. 

 

Read more…


Maryland Fishing Report – October 13

Photo of boy on a boat wearing a lifejacket and holding a blue crab

Carson Hoffmaster seems to be all tied up with this large crab while sorting the catch with his dad. Photo by Brad Hoffmaster

Children always offer a different window into our world, certainly a simpler type of fun and excitement. This could not be truer when they accompany us on our fishing and crabbing adventures.

Right now blue crabs are heavy and laden with meat so do not put that crabbing gear away just yet.

Read more…


Maryland Fishing Report – October 6

Photo of young girl with her father, and a dog, holding a striped bass on a boat.

Lyla Jones went fishing last weekend with her dad and grandfather (along with a a furry friend) and they all had a wonderful time together. Photo by Joe Garrett

Early fall offers a wonderful opportunity to spend time outdoors with family and friends, especially our younger anglers. The fall trout stocking program has begun, offering excellent trout fishing at waters in most areas of Maryland. The Atlantic waters near Ocean City and Assateague Island, along with the Coastal Bays and the Chesapeake Bay all offer wonderful fishing opportunities before colder weather begins to move in next month.

Read more…


Secretary’s Message — September 2021

Maryland’s Outdoors Preparing a Cool Transition to Fall

Photo of group holding a citation in front of a table

The Maryland Geological Survey is honored for its 125th anniversary at the Maryland State Fair on Sept. 2. Photo by Patrick Siebert, Maryland State House

 

One of Maryland’s favorite summer pastimes is visiting the Maryland State Fair. Now in its 140th year, DNR was pleased to participate again this year and showcase the many ways we work to preserve, protect, and enhance our state’s natural resources. It was also a great opportunity to reach younger audiences with Smokey Bear and Splash who shared information about the importance of wildfire prevention and boater safety. Another highlight of the Fair was Governor Larry Hogan joining us to celebrate the 125th anniversary of our Maryland Geological Survey. For 125 years the Survey has served as a scientific-investigative organization that investigates the geologic and water resources of Maryland. They are also responsible for geologic, topographic, and geophysical mapping, environmental geology, mineral resources, and coastal and estuarine geology.

While the State Fair ended on Labor Day, and some traditionally view that as the end of summer, we are still days away from the Autumn Equinox and there are plenty of fair weather days left to enjoy outdoor recreation in Maryland which is year round!

Read more…


Native Plant Profile: Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum)

Photo of switchgrass

By Matt Levin CC by SA 2.0

Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) is a native, warm season grass that is an excellent replacement for invasive Chinese silvergrass (Miscanthus sinensis). This large, bunching grass grows 3-7 feet high and has a 2-3 foot spread. In addition, its extensive root system grows 5-6 feet deep, making it a great plant to assist with stabilizing banks. The roots also help it to tolerate droughts and floods too!  Read more…


Secretary’s Message: September 2019

September is a Great Time to Enjoy Nature and to Give Back

Photo of Secretary Haddaway-Riccio at Wolf Den Run State ParkFall is one of my favorite seasons, so while I am sad to see summer coming to an end, I am also looking forward to cooler weather and changing leaves. Autumn is a great time of year to experience outdoor recreation in Maryland; and there are many great events planned for the month of September that are the perfect excuse to get outside and assist us with our mission, starting with Day to Serve.

Governor Larry Hogan recently issued a proclamation declaring September 11 through October 10, 2019 as “Day to Serve” month in Maryland. As part of the announcement, Governor Hogan is encouraging all Maryland citizens and state employees to choose a day to participate in a volunteer activity. Read more…


Maryland Fishing Report: Nov. 7

Photo of Rainbow trout with fly rod.

Brian Morgan sent in this picture of a rainbow trout caught recently. Photo by Brian Morgan

Frosty mornings are now common, the Canada geese are arriving and the fall foliage is in various stages of color change throughout the state. Old man winter is beckoning off in the distance and soon will be knocking on our door. Colder weather will be here soon, so be sure to enjoy the outdoors during this special time of the year.

Anglers continue to enjoy the results of the fall trout stocking program. Many trout management waters have been stocked and offer quality fishing, often close to home.

Read more…


Secretary’s Message: September 2018

Help Celebrate and Preserve Maryland’s Historic Beauty

Photo of Secretary Belton presenting a governor's citation to the Harriet Tubman Organization.

Secretary Mark Belton presents a governor’s citation to the Harriet Tubman Organization in Cambridge.

Labor Day may be the end of summer vacation, but now is a time when outdoor recreation is getting ready to peak.

September is a month when the Maryland Department of Natural Resources highlights our state’s spectacular and diverse terrain, and the role it plays in our culture, heritage and living history. Opportunities abound to immerse yourself in the scenic splendor, storied past and bright and prosperous future. Read more…


Secretary’s Message: October 2017

Weather is Cooling, But Outdoor Activity is Just Warming Up

Photo of Maryland Natural Resources Secretary Mark Belton

Maryland Natural Resources Secretary Mark Belton

The summer has come and gone, and now it’s time to celebrate nature’s fall splendor. Comfortable days and temperatures, and spectacular scenery make October an exceptional month to enjoy the great outdoors.

Pick a forest, park or waterway and make a plan to bike, boat, camp, hike or hunt. Read more…


Black Bear and Migratory Game Bird Stamps Announced

Artwork to Support Conservation and Wildlife Initiatives

Autumn Color by Steve Oliver

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources announced that a Delaware resident won this year’s Maryland Black Bear Conservation Stamp Design Contest, while the award for top Migratory Game Bird Stamp Design went to a Wicomico County resident.

The winners were chosen by a panel of judges April 28 at the 47th Annual Ward World Championship Wildfowl Carving Competition and Art Festival in Ocean City.

Read more…


Secretary’s Message: October 2021

Positive Change for Maryland’s Outdoors

Photo of people walking on a bridge in a wooded area during fall

Cunningham Falls State Park in fall. Photo by Stephen Badger, Maryland DNR

Maryland’s landscape is starting to showcase the vibrant colors of fall. Along with cooler, more pleasant weather, it is a spectacular and inviting backdrop that signifies the changing of the seasons. Governor Larry Hogan has also given us a reason to enjoy Maryland’s outdoors by proclaiming October as “Walktober” month in recognition of Maryland’s official exercise—walking. We are pleased to join the Governor, the Maryland Department of Transportation, the Maryland Department of Health, and the Maryland Department of Planning in encouraging Marylanders to enjoy the benefits of walking. Whether it is a leisurely stroll through your community, wandering through a local orchard or pumpkin patch, or hiking on Maryland’s world-class trail system, it is a great time to get outside.

Read more…


The Cultivar Question

While searching for the best plants to include with a garden, you have likely come across cultivars for sale. The use of native cultivars (aka nativars) has been growing as the popularity of native plants surges. 

Photo of purple monarda flowers

In Mt. Cuba trials, Monarda fistulosa ‘Claire Grace’ was favored by butterflies. Photo by cultivar413 CC by 2.0

Read more…


Maryland Reminds Motorists to Stay Alert for Deer

Wildlife Activity Ramps up for Fall

Photo of two young bucks sparring in a field

Photo by Penny Ingles

Fall means cool weather and colorful foliage. It can also mean unpredictable wildlife. Deer mating season is right around the corner, and the Maryland Department of Natural Resources urges motorists to stay alert for deer and other wildlife as these animals seek food supplies and mates before winter. Read more…


Lawn Alternatives

Photo of lawn with trees

Upland oaks and poverty oatgrass (Danthonia spicata), parasol sedge (Carex umbellata), lichens, mosses and diminutive wildflowers in Arlington, Virginia. Photo by R.H. Simmons.

For many years, the American lawn has been viewed as a status symbol. Traditional lawns, described as a single warm season grass species like zoysia or bermuda, completely covering a yard space and maintained at three inches or shorter, are unfortunately often ecological wastelands that require excess water, nutrients, pesticides and maintenance. Traditional lawns also support few wildlife species. To help local wildlife, consider replacing non-native grass lawns with native alternatives. By selecting native plants suited for your site, you can reduce the time and supplies needed to maintain turf grass and can provide habitat for wildlife in the process. Read more…


Rethinking Spring with Native Plants

Photo of spring beauty and ant

Spring beauty; by Kerry Wixted

This winter felt like it was almost endless. When the crocuses finally popped in my yard, I was ecstatic. For me, crocuses and daffodils have always been harbingers of spring, but these non-native plants in our landscapes offer little benefit for our native wildlife. There are many native plants, however, which co-evolved with our local wildlife. Below is a list of some early blooming plants that can be used to provide spring nectar and pollen resources.

Read more…


Maryland Fishing Report: October 17

Photo of Boy losing his grip on a trout.

One of the first things any young angler learns is to get a good grip on that trout! Photo courtesy of Nathan Williams

This week offers some exciting fishing opportunities for Maryland anglers – the weather is just about right, the changing color of the leaves paints a beautiful backdrop to outdoor activities and there are plenty of eager fish to catch. 

For the next few weeks, state hatcheries are stocking most trout management waters throughout Maryland. The trout are providing quality fishing close to home and allowing success on a fishing adventure, especially for our young anglers. 

At the Atlantic coast, sea bass, flounder and dolphin are biting.

And in the Chesapeake Bay, autumn is one of the most anticipated times for striped bass fishing. Rockfish like the cooler water temperatures and begin to feed aggressively to build up lost body stores. Cooler water also forces baitfish in the form of bay anchovies, juvenile menhaden and silversides to exit the tidal rivers and head down the bay.

Read more…


Maryland Motorists: Stay Alert for Deer!

Wildlife More Active in Fall

Photo of deer on road by Tim Ward

Thirsty Sikas by Tim Ward

Cooling temperatures, colorful foliage and unpredictable wildlife – all signs that the fall season is upon us in the Old Line State. As such, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources urges motorists to stay alert for deer and other wildlife this time of year as these animals seek food supplies and mates before winter.

“Deer increase their movements significantly during the breeding season from mid-October through November as they search for mates,” Wildlife and Heritage Service Director Paul Peditto said. “Motorists should be especially cautious from dusk to dawn when deer are most active and likely to be encountered on the road.” Read more…


Weekly Fishing Report: November 29

Photo of angler Karon Hickman holding up a nice striped bass he caught

Karon Hickman holds up a nice striped bass he caught while casting in the Patapsco River. Photo courtesy of Karon Hickman

Water temperatures in Maryland continue to drop as the weather turns colder. In many areas, fish are seeking out warmer temperatures found in deeper waters. The tidal rivers of the Chesapeake Bay are seeing surface water temperatures in the mid-40s while the bay itself is around 50 degrees.

The upper bay region has been providing good fishing for a larger grade of striped bass, primarily by trolling along deep channel edges in the bay and lower sections of the region’s tidal rivers.

Read more…


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