Natural Resources News
Eyes on the Bay: Looking Back at Winter (February) 2021
Eyes on the Bay Resumes for 2021
Oscar the Osprey by J. Sal Icaza (2020 Natural Resource Photo Contest entry)
Whether you like to boat, fish, swim or just enjoy Maryland’s amazing seafood, we know there are many folks out there who have bay waters running through their veins and like to keep their finger on the pulse of bay conditions. Read more…
Maryland’s Recreational Crabbing Season Now Open
Photo by by Christine Edwards, First Place winner in the Summer category, 2018 Maryland Natural Resources Photo Contest.
The recreational crabbing season in Maryland officially opens April 1 for the Chesapeake Bay and tidal tributaries as well as in the Atlantic Ocean, coastal bays and their tributaries. Read more…
Maryland Fishing Report – March 31
Gracie Ray is all smiles as she holds up one of the larger rainbow trout that are stocked. Photo courtesy of Gracie Ray
Put-and-take trout anglers had a wonderful opening day, the weather cooperated, and there was plenty of room for anglers to spread out and enjoy a day of fishing with family and friends.
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources has issued the 2021 regulations for recreational striped bass fishing in the Chesapeake Bay, available on the DNR website. Striped bass regulation maps — showing the bay’s regions and their open and close dates — can also be found on the department website.
Regulations Issued for 2021 Chesapeake Bay Striped Bass Fishing
Conservation Measures Include Two-Week Midseason Closure in July
Photo courtesy of David Redden
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources announces new regulations for the Chesapeake Bay summer-fall striped bass season.
The 2021 summer-fall season in most areas of the Chesapeake Bay and its tidal tributaries will be open May 16 through July 15, and resume August 1 through Dec. 10. Anglers would be able to keep one striped bass per person, per day, with a minimum size of 19 inches. During a chartered fishing trip, the captain or mate would not be permitted to land or possess striped bass for personal consumption.
During the closure period from July 16 through July 31, anglers will be prohibited from targeting striped bass, which includes catch-and-release and charter boats. Read more…
Maryland Fishing Report – March 24
Photo by Tom Marble
To anglers and hunters, a traditional opening day can be described as Christmas and your birthday rolled into one. This Saturday, March 27, marks what many consider the opening of the spring trout season in Maryland. The trout hatchery and stocking program has worked hard under some tough conditions to bring the public the best trout possible so don’t miss the fun this weekend and for the next couple of months. This is a wonderful way for families and our younger anglers to enjoy fishing.
2021 Keep Maryland Beautiful Grants Total $312,500
Grants Supports Communities, Projects and Schools
Living Classrooms Foundation was a recipient of a 2021 Keep Maryland Beautiful Grant.
The State of Maryland and the Forever Maryland Foundation are proud to announce that 91 Keep Maryland Beautiful grants totaling $312,500 have been awarded toward environmental education, community cleanup, and beautification projects through the Keep Maryland Beautiful program.
These annual grants are funded by Maryland Environmental Trust, a unit of the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR); the Forever Maryland Foundation; the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD); and the Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT). Read more…
Hiring Licensed Tree Experts Helps Avoid Scams
DNR Advises Homeowners Check Tree Contractors
Photo by Stephen Badger/Maryland DNR
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources cautions homeowners to be alert for non-licensed tree contractors who take money for work that never gets done. The Maryland Forest Service and Natural Resources Police have been made aware of one such individual operating in Baltimore and Harford counties, specifically targeting senior citizens.
For anyone looking to have tree work done, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources offers a few important suggestions that homeowners should follow before hiring a contractor. Read more…
Pumpout Operations and Maintenance Grant Program Now Open
Applications Accepted from Marinas Through April 15
Photo by Stephen Badger/Maryland DNR
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 accepted now through April 15.
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…
Maryland Fishing Report – March 17
The picture reveals why the brook trout is one of the most beautiful trout species. Photo by Ryan Cooper
The brook trout is Maryland’s only native trout and because it demands cool, clear water its range has been greatly impacted by environmental changes, natural and manmade. It is now mostly found in the most pristine waters of western Maryland. Fishing for brook trout is restricted to catch and release only and fishing tackle is often limited.
Maryland Joins Cooperative Largemouth Bass Management for the Potomac River
Tagging Program to Help Regional Effort for Popular Fishery
Photo by Karin Dodge/Maryland DNR
Maryland, Virginia, and the District of Columbia have agreed to a cooperative management plan for Potomac River largemouth bass, one of the most popular sport fisheries in the mid-Atlantic region.
To help seek a unified assessment of the fishery, state agencies and the Potomac River Fisheries Commission — who share authority to manage the river system for largemouth bass — are jointly collaborating on monitoring and assessing the fishery with an update produced every three years. Work begins in March 2021, though planning for the project has been underway for more than a year. Read more…
Wildfire Danger Increases in Spring
Marylanders Urged to Take Precautions
Maryland DNR photo
Spring wildfire season has begun in Maryland, and the Maryland Department of Natural Resources urges residents across the state to prepare and help prevent wildfires.
Wildfire occurrence is highest in the spring and fall when forest fuels are the driest and weather conditions — warm, dry, and windy — are most conducive for the spread of fire. On days when this threat is most likely, the department will issue a “red flag” status. Read more…
Maryland Fishing Report – March 10
Photo by Montana Grant
Warmer weather has everyone thinking about getting outdoors, and fishing is often at the top of the list. The yellow perch spawning runs are starting in the upper sections of a number of tidal rivers, and this weekend is a wonderful time for everyone to get in on the action.
Maryland Fishing Report – March 3
Maria Ricasa is all smiles with her first rainbow trout. Photo by Czarlite Ricasa
Welcome to March! In a couple of weeks spring will be here, and the warmer periods will become longer than the cold stretches. There is plenty of good fishing out there now; the yellow perch runs will start soon and the trout program is stocking generous numbers of fish at a location near you.
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is recruiting participants for the shad volunteer angler survey. This brief online survey is smartphone compatible and provides valuable information for the restoration of these prized fish. Anglers are invited to log their shad fishing trips, even if you don’t catch any shad.
Also, please join us on March 11 at noon for a Maryland Fishing Roundtable webinar on the Maryland Artificial Reef Initiative, known as MARI. Coordinator Mike Malpezzi will discuss Maryland’s artificial reef program and its importance for the angling community. Details for joining the webinar are on the department’s online calendar.
Maryland DNR 2021 Photo Contest Now Open
Entries for Annual Contest Taken Until August 5
This photo of a kiteboarder at Assateague by Kevin Moore earned second place in the Fall category of the 2020 Photo Contest.
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is now accepting entries for its annual photo contest. Photographers, novice or professional, can enter for the chance to win cash, park passes, and other great prizes. Read more…
Acquisition Complete for 212-Acre Addition to Pocomoke River State Park
Two Parcels Add Conservation and Recreational Opportunities
Photo by Ranger Curtis Dale
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources has completed its acquisition of 212 acres in Worcester County for an addition to Pocomoke River State Park. This property includes the former Nassawango Golf Course with 1,400 linear feet of shoreline on the Pocomoke River. Read more…
Savage River State Forest Rolls Out Online Reservations
Customers Can Now Book Several Campsites at Big Run
Savage River State Forest
Campers looking to reserve a campsite on Maryland’s public lands can now use the Department of Natural Resources online reservation system to book one of 18 primitive sites at Savage River State Forest’s Big Run campground in Garrett County. Read more…
Maryland Wildland Firefighters Honored for Exemplary Efforts in 2020
Governor Hogan Addresses DNR Crews That Battled Fires in 11 States
Maryland’s wildland firefighter crews were deployed to Six Rivers National Forest in Northern California in October 2020. Maryland DNR photo.
Maryland’s wildland firefighters who served on interagency crews nationwide through the busy and challenging 2020 wildfire season were honored recently in a virtual recognition event. Governor Larry Hogan addressed the firefighters with a recorded greeting and Maryland Department of Natural Resources Secretary Jeannie Haddaway-Riccio presented the firefighters with a departmental citation.
Last year, 65 Maryland fire crew members participated in 103 assignments, working on 28 different incidents in 11 states. The 2020 Interagency Wildfire Season began early in the year, with new protocols developed to mobilize firefighters in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. Crews also served an exceptionally long season, serving in deployments as late as November.
“You worked long hours, spent weeks away from your loved ones, braved extremely dangerous conditions, and truly risked life and limb to save lives, homes, and precious natural resources,” Governor Hogan said. “When our fellow Americans face unthinkable natural disasters, Maryland stands ready to come to their aid … thanks to your bravery and dedication.” Read more…
Manokin River Oyster Restoration Public Comment Accepted
Input on Potential Sites Taken Through March 9
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is soliciting feedback on potential sites to receive substrate and seed restoration of oyster habitat in the Manokin River Sanctuary in Somerset County. Information about the sites proposed, including a video presentation, is available now on the department’s website. Public comment will be taken through March 9.
A virtual public meeting is scheduled at 5:30 p.m. Feb. 23; access information is available on the department’s website. Read more…
2021 Maryland Arbor Day Poster Contest Winners Announced
Carroll County Youth Awarded Grand Prize
Illustration by Luke Etter, winner of the Maryland Department of Natural Resources 2021 Arbor Day Poster Contest
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources announced winners of the annual fifth-grade Arbor Day poster contest. Three schools in Maryland that are home to the top winners will benefit with tree plantings this spring. The poster contest is judged annually by a panel of forestry experts and special guest judge, Maryland First Lady Yumi Hogan.
Luke Etter of Hampstead, Carroll County was awarded First Place, and his school will receive 15 trees for planting. Read more…
Maryland Hunters Harvest 81,000 Deer during 2020-2021 Season
Frederick County Leads State in Harvest Totals
Photo by Matthew Doged
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources reported that deer hunters harvested 81,729 deer during the combined archery, firearms, and muzzleloader seasons, from Sept. 11, 2020 through Feb. 3, 2021.
The statewide harvest included 29,242 antlered and 49,033 antlerless white-tailed deer, plus 1,500 antlered and 1,954 antlerless sika deer. The harvest was 3% higher than the 2019-2020 total of 79,457 deer. Read more…
Free Trees Available for Maryland’s ‘Backyard Buffers’
Waterfront and Streamside Landowners can Reserve Seedlings
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is offering free tree seedlings to landowners in several counties who have a creek, drainage ditch, stream, or other waterway on or near their property through the Backyard Buffers program. Read more…
Public Input Sought on Migratory Game Bird Hunting Seasons
DNR Soliciting Comment Now through Feb. 26
Photo by Larry Hindman/Maryland DNR
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources has posted the proposed 2021-2022 Migratory Game Bird Seasons for public review and comment through Feb. 26. Read more…
State Forest Work Plans Available for Public Comment
Maryland Forest Service Seeks Input on 2022 Proposals
Photo by Melissa Nash/Maryland DNR
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is seeking public comment on the proposed fiscal year 2022 annual work plans for the following state forests: Chesapeake/Pocomoke, Green Ridge, Potomac-Garrett, and Savage River. The comment period concludes March 5. Read more…
Lt. Governor Boyd K. Rutherford, Maryland Department of Natural Resources Announce 45 Percent Increase in Maryland State Parks Attendance in 2020
Record Visitation Reflects Growing Interest in Outdoor Recreation Amid Pandemic
Lt. Governor Boyd K. Rutherford joined a hike at Patuxent River State Park on Jan. 1, 2020, kicking off a record year for state park attendance. Photo by Joe Andrucyk
Lt. Governor Boyd K. Rutherford and the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) today announced a 45 percent increase in final attendance for Maryland State Parks in 2020 compared to the previous record-setting visitation attendance in 2019. In 2020, Maryland State Parks welcomed 21.5 million visitors, compared to 14.9 million in 2019. In addition, State Parks reported a record 292 capacity closures across 11 parks statewide last year. Read more…
Maryland Fishing Report – Feb. 3, 2021
Photo by Monty Hawkins
Despite cold mid-winter weather, anglers across Maryland are enjoying fun fishing experiences ranging from the preseason stockings of trout, to chain pickerel and blue catfish, to tautog in the offshore waters off our coast.
Youth, Veteran, and Military Waterfowl Hunting Day Feb. 6
Special Day to Share Maryland’s Time-Honored Traditions
Photo by Larry Hindman/Maryland DNR
Maryland’s youth hunters, veterans, and military personnel can experience the thrills of hunting fields and wetlands on a special waterfowl hunting day Feb. 6. Read more…
Winter Turkey Season Harvest Increases
Maryland Hunters Bag 89 Birds in January
Photo by Stephen Badger/Maryland DNR
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources announced that hunters reported taking 89 wild turkeys during the 2021 winter turkey season, which was open statewide Jan. 21-23. This year’s harvest was slightly higher than the 2020 total of 82 turkeys. Read more…
Maryland Park Service Superintendent Recognized for Distinguished Service
Ranger Nita Settina Honored by National Association of State Park Directors
Superintendent Nita Settina (center) stands with (from left) Maryland Department of Natural Resources Secretary Jeannie Haddaway-Riccio, Lt. Governor Boyd K. Rutherford, and Maryland State Park Rangers Donnie Oates, Johnny Stemple, and Christy Bright, celebrating the grand opening of Wolf Den Run State Park in 2019.
Maryland Park Service Superintendent Nita Settina was presented with the Distinguished Service Award by a premiere national association of state park professionals. The National Association of State Park Directors (NASPD), an organization dedicated to supporting and promoting state parks, presented the award at its annual conference last month. Maryland Department of Natural Resources leadership and Maryland Park Service staff were able to join Superintendent Settina via a virtual “viewing party.”
Superintendent Settina has led the Maryland Park Service since 2008, when she became the first woman to lead the state’s park system since its establishment in 1906. The Distinguished Service Award is presented to a state park director who has demonstrated a long-term, sustained record of professional accomplishment in the field of park and recreation management. Read more…
Maryland’s First Primitive Deer Hunt Runs Feb. 1 – 3
Photo by Brendan Wolf
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources announces the state’s first Primitive Deer Hunt will be open Feb. 1-3, 2021 statewide. Hunters with a valid hunting license, or those exempt from the hunting license requirement, may use primitive bows or muzzleloaders to hunt sika and white-tailed deer during these days.
Primitive hunting devices are defined as long bows, recurve bows, flintlock, or sidelock percussion muzzleloaders. Hunters may not use compound bows, crossbows, drawlocks, and telescopic or other electronic aiming devices. However, fiber optic sights are permitted on otherwise legal primitive bows or muzzleloaders. Read more…
Maryland Gears Up for Winter and Spring Trout Fishing
DNR Plans Stocking, Announces New Brook Trout Regulations
Photo by Stephen Badger/Maryland DNR
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources plans to stock about 300,000 trout, which includes rainbow, golden, and brown trout, for statewide distribution between now and April 30. Read more…
Maryland’s Winter Turkey Season Opens Jan. 21
Opportunity for Hunters to Bag a Bird This Season
Photo by Isaac Bonneville
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources announces the opening of the winter turkey season, which runs statewide from January 21-23 for hunters who did not harvest a turkey during the 2020 fall season. Read more…
Maryland Welcomes 16,000 Hikers to First Weekend of 2021
Annual First Day Hike Tradition Adapts and Grows
Lt. Governor Boyd Rutherford and Secretary Jeannie Haddaway-Riccio take a First Day Hike at Patapsco Valley State Park. Photo by Joe Andrucyk
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources estimates that 16,237 visitors took part in First Day Hikes in Maryland State Parks during the three-day period from January 1-3, 2021. Following safety provisions to prevent spread of COVID-19, and taking advantage of the long New Year’s weekend, hikers engaged in self-guided hikes over three days. Read more…
Elk Neck Rifle and Shotgun Range Upgrades Completed
Shooting Facilities Reopen Jan. 7 after One Month of Work
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources announces the reopening of the Elk Neck State Forest rifle and shotgun ranges starting Jan. 7, after completing substantial upgrades and repairs at the complex. Read more…
Cecil County Angler Catches Record Flathead Catfish
Invasive Fish Weighed 57 Pounds
Photo courtesy Joshua Dixon
A Cecil County resident has officially been recognized by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources as the first-ever state record holder for the invasive flathead catfish. Joshua Dixon caught the 57-pound, 50-inch long flathead catfish (Pylodictis olivaris) on Dec. 27, 2020 fishing near the Lapidum Boat Ramp on the Susquehanna River.
High-tech Tools Map Out Green Space Equity
More than ever, local parks have become an essential part of everyday life for many people and critical space for communities. They provide a place to unwind after a long day, an alternative classroom for kids, a place to safely gather with family and friends, or just that special place to recharge one’s mental and physical energy. Parks and green infrastructure also play a key role in protecting communities from the harmful effects of climate change and enhancing community resilience. Read more…
Rutherford’s Travels: Taking a Boyd’s Eye View of Maryland’s State Parks
Lieutenant Governor Rutherford tours Smallwood State Park. Photo by Patrick Siebert.
Since beginning my bucket list quest to visit all 75 of Maryland’s state parks, I’ve had the opportunity to visit some of the most remote corners of our state, witnessing its magnificent beauty far off the beaten path. Other times, I’ve encountered natural oases a mere stone’s throw from a busy highway, quietly hidden in plain view. Read more…
Leave It to Beavers: Keystone Species Provides Nature-based Restoration
Photo by Angela Genito
The North American beaver (Castor canadensis) was once ubiquitous throughout the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Mostly trapped out by the close of the 19th century, beavers have been making somewhat of a comeback, and that is great news for the Chesapeake Bay. Read more…
Tools of the Trade: Marine Law Enforcement Information Network
Is it possible for police officers to be in two places at the same time? Although the Maryland Natural Resources Police is at a near-record size force and operates more than 100 patrol boats, it can be challenging to keep an eye on a large body of water such as the Chesapeake Bay. In inclement weather and low visibility areas, officers may have trouble pinpointing boating activity. However, there is a tool that gives patrol officers a clear view of boat traffic from the Port of Baltimore to the Potomac River. Read more…
Outside Perspective
If we have ever looked forward to a new year, it has to be this one! 2020 was difficult, but Maryland’s amazing natural resources provided us with the safe recreation, solace, and quality time together that many of us needed to stay “Maryland Strong.” Read more…
Get a Taste of Wild Maryland
Snakehead etouffee by Peter Turcik
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is proud to offer a sneak peak of its new cookbook, which will soon be available online. Wild Maryland includes recipes submitted by Maryland residents, featuring Maryland species. Recipes include waterfowl, seafood, deer, and other wild game. A section of recipes also features ingredients found while foraging in the wild. Read more…
Governor Hogan Announces COVID-19 Relief for Agriculture and Seafood Producers
State Has Now Provided More Than $9 Million For Farmers, Watermen, and Producers;
Part of More Than $600 Million In Emergency Economic Relief
Photo by Pete Worch
At the direction of Governor Larry Hogan, the Maryland Departments of Agriculture (MDA) and Natural Resources (DNR) have now provided more than $9 million in COVID-19 relief funding to farmers, watermen, and producers. Read more…
Deer Firearm Season Reopens Jan. 8 in Maryland
Last Opportunity of the Season for Most Firearms Hunters
Photo by Jan Branscome
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources announces the January firearm deer hunting season opens Jan. 8, 2021, in Deer Management Region B, which includes all of the state except the westernmost counties. Hunters with a valid hunting license may use firearms to harvest sika and white-tailed deer during this season.
The season is open Jan. 8-9 in all of Region B. The season is open Sunday, Jan. 10 on private and designated public lands in Cecil and St. Mary’s counties, and on private lands only in Calvert, Caroline, Carroll, Charles, Dorchester, Frederick, Harford, Kent, Montgomery, Queen Anne’s, Somerset, Washington (Zone 1), and Worcester counties. Shooting hours end at 10:30 a.m. in Kent and Montgomery counties. Read more…
Maryland Environmental Trust Offers Land Steward Training Classes
Volunteer Opportunity to Protect Natural Areas and Landscapes
Volunteer Land Stewards visit and monitor conservation easements like this one in Harford County.
Maryland Environmental Trust (MET), a unit of the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, is looking for volunteers who are passionate about land conservation to work in the field as Volunteer Land Stewards. Two virtual training classes are being offered in January and February. Read more…
First Day Hikes to Ring in the New Year for 2021
Weekend Of Self-Guided Walks on Maryland Public Lands
Merkle Natural Resources Management Area in Prince George’s County
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources invites everyone to take a First Day Hike, Maryland’s annual tradition for a fun, healthy way to welcome the New Year.
This year, the Maryland Park Service will offer self-guided hike opportunities across the state from January 1-3, 2021. As always, Maryland’s state parks, state forests, and wildlife management areas will be open for trekking hundreds of miles of trails. However, due to the pandemic and physical distancing guidance, hikes will be self-guided and park staff will not be leading the hikes this year. Read more…
Maryland Natural Resources Police Cite for Deer Poaching
Charges Filed During Two-Week Deer Firearms Season
Maryland Natural Resources Police charged several individuals throughout the state for illegal hunting practices during the two-week deer firearm season, Nov. 28- Dec. 12. Read more…
Deer Harvest up 16% during Maryland Firearms Season
Hunters Harvest Over 31,000 Deer during the Two-Week Season
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources announced that hunters harvested 31,571 deer during the two-week firearms season from Nov. 28 – Dec. 12. The harvest was 16% higher than last year’s official count of 27,121. Hunters enjoyed good weather compared to the 2019 season, which was hampered by rain, wind, and fog on key days.
Wolf Den Run State Park Opens Additional 1,375 Acres
Expanded Recreation Includes Off-Road Vehicle Trails
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources announces that Wolf Den Run State Park has now opened two additional areas, adding 1,375 acres of land and 25 miles of multi-use trails, including off-road vehicle (ORV) use. Read more…
Maryland Fifth-Graders Invited to Submit Arbor Day Posters for 2021
Annual Contest Taking Submissions until Jan. 15, 2021
Lola Lugard of Carroll County won first place honors for the 2020 Arbor Day Poster Contest.
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources and Forest Conservancy District Boards invite all Maryland fifth-graders in private and public schools to participate in the annual Arbor Day Poster Contest.
The theme for 2021 is: “Trees Are Terrific…and Forest Products are Too!”
All entries must be delivered to a local Maryland Forest Service office by noon, Jan. 15, 2021. Read more…
Migratory Game Bird Stamp Design Contest Winner Announced
Hen and Drake Redhead to Adorn 2021-2022 Hunting Stamps
Scott Calpino’s rendering of a hen and a drake redhead will adorn Maryland’s 2021-2022 migratory game bird hunting stamps.
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is pleased to announce Scott Calpino has won the 47th Annual Migratory Game Bird Stamp Design Contest with his lifelike rendering of a hen and a drake redhead, complete with a beautiful reflection in the water Read more…
Trio Charged with Illegal Deer Hunting in Garrett County
Following an extensive investigation, Maryland Natural Resources Police charged three men with illegally hunting multiple deer in Garrett County.
In November and December, Natural Resources Police investigated reports of deer illegally killed near the Blakeslee community. On December 3, officers learned of an additional incident where an antlerless albino deer was illegally hunted, and received information from concerned citizens. After investigating, police identified three suspects: Jeremy Hoalcraft, 18, of Oakland; David Georg, 29, of Swanton; and Jordan Dawson, 22, of Deer Park. Read more…