Natural Resources News
Waterfowl Hunting Permits Available for Deal Island, Fairmount Wildlife Management Areas
Applications Taken for Somerset County Impoundments
Hunters can now submit applications for the annual permit-only waterfowl hunting days on Deal Island Wildlife Management Area and Fairmount Wildlife Management Area impoundments, located in Somerset County on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. Permits will be issued through a lottery drawing, with assignments based upon a hunter’s stated preference for each area and/or date. Applications must be received by Sept. 9.
Waterfowl hunting within the impoundment is by permit only on the opening days of each of the three separate splits of duck season. After that, hunting is restricted to certain days and/or holidays through the remainder of each split season. Read more…
Campers Join Fight Against Invasive Plants at New Germany
Annual Young Women’s Camp Helps Protect Native Species
New Germany State Park has a few less “botanical bullies” thanks to an ambitious group of young women from the Washington, D.C. Stake of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
During their annual camp in June, the group teamed up with park staff and the Friends of New Germany State Park to remove more than 900 pounds of invasive plants from park grounds. Targeted species included garlic mustard, crown vetch, coltsfoot, Japanese stiltgrass, and exotic bush honeysuckles. Read more…
Public Meetings to Discuss ‘No Discharge Zone’ Application
Anne Arundel County Seeking Federal Approval for Designation
The public is invited to a series of information sessions about a proposed No Discharge Zone for Anne Arundel County. Maryland Department of Natural Resources staff and local partners will be on hand to explain the process for this designation.
A No Discharge Zone (NDZ) is an area in which both untreated and treated sewage discharges from vessels are prohibited. Discharge of untreated sewage from vessels is illegal anywhere within 3 miles of the United States coast.
Within NDZ boundaries, vessel operators are required to retain their sewage for disposal onshore at a pumpout facility and must disable “treat and release” marine sanitation devices.
Severn River Association, with the support of Anne Arundel County and the City of Annapolis, has prepared a draft NDZ application for the waters of Anne Arundel County. Read more…
Easton Angler Sets Maryland Record for Florida Pompano
Youth Claims Species’ First Entry
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources has officially recognized 14-year-old Scott Hartzell Jr. of Easton as the first official state record holder for a Florida pompano. Hartzell caught the 3.375-pound fish on Stone Rock near Tilghman Island. Read more…
Allegany County Recreation Projects Receive Funding
Land and Water Conservation Fund Grants Total $59,750
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources announces the award of two Land and Water Conservation Fund grants totaling $59,750 to two local recreation projects in Allegany County.
The Land and Water Conservation Fund is a federally funded program that provides up to 50 percent matching grants to state and local governments toward acquiring and/or developing public outdoor recreational areas and facilities.
To access program funds, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources submits projects on behalf of local applicants, which are then approved by the National Park Service. Read more…
Visitors Can Experience “The American Soldier Through the Ages” at Fort Frederick
Living History Events August 3-4
Fort Frederick State Park invites visitors to view life through the eyes of America’s soldiers from the founding of Maryland through the 20th century.
The military history of Fort Frederick spans the 18th and 19th centuries. Building upon that legacy, this program will provide visitors with an up-close and personal look at weapons, uniforms and military gear from the 1600s colonial militia, French and Indian War, American Revolution, War of 1812, Civil War, 1870s Native American wars, Spanish-American War, World War II, and Desert Storm. A special program will show how soldiering changed over time — and how it stayed the same. Read more…
Maryland Fishing Report – July 24
Jeffery Peregoy shows us what can be pulled from the depths of the Atlantic Ocean with this large golden tilefish. Photo courtesy of Jeffrey Peregoy
Maryland offers a wide variety of fishing adventures right now, from the western mountains to the deep ocean waters of the Atlantic.
Underwater Grasses Show Resilience Despite Record Rainfall
2018 Saw Slight Decline, But Less Severe Than Expected
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources reports that Chesapeake Bay underwater grass abundance fared better than expected in 2018, despite extreme rainfall causing a spike in nutrients and sediments. An estimated 50,015 acres of underwater grasses were mapped in Maryland’s portion of the Chesapeake Bay.
Baywide, about 91,559 acres of underwater grasses were mapped in 2018. However, more than 20% of the region was not fully mapped in 2018 because of highly turbid water, weather, and security restrictions near military facilities — meaning the actual acreage could be significantly higher.
In 2017, a record-breaking 62,357 acres were recorded in Maryland, and about 105,000 acres were recorded baywide. Since 2012, Maryland has seen a net gain of more than 25,500 acres of underwater grasses and has achieved 63% of the state’s 2025 restoration goal. Read more…
Natural Resources Police Nab Boater Fleeing Coast Guard
Impaired Boating, Theft of Rental Boats, Illegal Harvesting Top Police Blotter
A Pennsylvania man faces numerous charges after Maryland Natural Resources Police caught him fleeing the U.S. Coast Guard in the waters near Ocean City. Two Natural Resources Police patrol vessels answered a call for assistance June 29 after the vessel allegedly sped away from federal authorities trying to board it.
The patrol boats were able to catch and stop the fleeing vessel, which was travelling approximately 35 knots northbound in the Assawoman Bay, but Natural Resource Police say the operator remained uncooperative. Police boarded the vessel and detained the operator, identified as Anthony Gerard Campisi of Lansdale, Pa. Read more…
Maryland Climate Leadership Academy Enrolling Fall Cohorts
Programs Held at Johns Hopkins, College of Southern Maryland
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources announces open enrollment for Maryland Climate Leadership Academy courses starting this September at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore and the College of Southern Maryland in Charles County. Registration is open until Aug. 15, but classes are capped at 75 participants.
The Maryland Climate Leadership Academy, which kicked off in fall 2018, is the nation’s first state-sponsored institution providing continuing education and executive training programs specifically designed for state and local government officials, infrastructure executives, and business leaders. Read more…
Waterfowl Blind Site Licensing Dates and Locations Announced
Application Process Begins Aug. 6 Throughout State
Photo by Larry Hindman
Beginning Aug. 6, Maryland resident hunters can apply for a 2019-2020 waterfowl blind site license. On opening day, applicants will be entered into a lottery for a chance to select their sites.
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources assigns a license for each blind site, a designated location in state waters where a hunter can anchor a boat to hunt waterfowl.
On Aug. 6 from 7:30 a.m. to 8 a.m. applications for licenses will begin being accepted at the various locations listed below. Anyone arriving after 8 a.m. will be ineligible. Read more…
Maryland Fishing Report – July 17
Young Isaac had a great day fishing for white perch in his own kayak. Photo by Eric Packard
Summertime fun is settled in throughout Maryland. It’s great to see children whose parent, relative or guardian can take them fishing or crabbing, enjoying all that the Maryland outdoors has to offer.
Peak Bloom Arrives at McKee-Beshers Sunflower Fields
Fields Planted Statewide for Wildlife Benefit
The sunflower fields at McKee-Beshers Wildlife Management Area in Poolesville are now in “peak bloom,” with about 30 acres planted in three fields, providing a spectacular view and serving an important conservation purpose.
The Montgomery County area is just one of many sunflower fields the Maryland Department of Natural Resources plants each spring as a food source, primarily for mourning doves, as part of the department’s conservation and management programs. Mourning doves are hunted at the fields during the traditional fall season, which runs Sept. 1 through early January. Read more…
Maryland Black Bear Lottery Now Open
Application Deadline Aug. 31; Drawing Sept. 3
Painting: “Moving Through” by Larry Smail
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is now accepting applications for the 2019 black bear hunt lottery. Successful applicants will receive a permit valid for the five-day hunting season, taking place Oct. 21-25 in Allegany, Frederick, Garrett, and Washington counties. The department will issue 800 hunting permits this year.
The annual bear hunt is an important management tool used to slow the increase of Maryland’s black bear population and limit expansion of Maryland bears into the eastern suburbs and cities.
Read more…
Late June 2019 Hypoxia Report
Maryland Department of Natural Resources monitoring shows that dissolved oxygen conditions in the state’s portion of the Chesapeake Bay mainstem were better than expected in late June. The hypoxic water volume — areas with less than 2 mg/l oxygen — was 0.69 cubic miles, which is well below the late June 1985-2018 average of 1.15 cubic miles, and an improvement from the 1.13 cubic miles of hypoxia observed in early June. No anoxic zones — areas with less than 0.2 mg/l oxygen — were observed. Read more…
Fourth of July Weekend Sees Boating Incidents Decrease
Natural Resources Police Vigilance and Education Yields Results
Maryland Natural Resources Police stayed busy with heightened vigilance during the holiday weekend July 4-7, and are pleased to report a significant reduction of serious boating incidents.
During one of Maryland’s busiest times on the waterways, officers were out to prevent unsafe boating, conducting 1,860 boat safety inspections. Officers made nine arrests for boating under the influence, plus one for driving under the influence. Additionally officers conducted 4,434 recreational fishing checks and 184 commercial fishing checks. Read more…
Maryland Fishing Report – July 10
Brothers Andrew, Nikolaus and Nathan Vogel enjoyed some crabbing off their grandparents’ dock on Rock Creek in Pasadena, and pose with a jumbo 8.5-inch crab. Photo by Josh Vogel
Few things in Maryland speak of summer more than Chesapeake Bay blue crabs, although local sweet corn might be a close second.
Comment Deadline Extended on Chesapeake Forest Hunting Leases
Public Input on Proposed Changes Now Accepted Through Aug. 19
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources has extended the time in which staff will accept public comment on a proposal for restructuring the Chesapeake Forest Lands lease program for hunting clubs. Following requests from the department’s active and engaged stakeholders, comments will be accepted online through Aug. 19, a one-month extension.
Maryland Forest Service staff hosted a public meeting on June 18 to present the proposal and begin the public input process. To be considered, all comments they must be entered through the department’s website.
NOAA Designates New National Marine Sanctuary in Maryland
Mallows Bay-Potomac River National Marine Sanctuary to Protect World War I-era Shipwrecks
NOAA, the state of Maryland and Charles County today announced the designation of a new national marine sanctuary to protect the remains of more than 100 abandoned steamships and vessels built as part of America’s engagement in World War I.
Mallows Bay-Potomac River National Marine Sanctuary, about 40 miles south of Washington, D.C., will be the first national marine sanctuary designated since 2000. Read more…
Secretary’s Message: July 2019
Fifty Years Young, The Department’s Mission Continues
July 2019 marks exactly 50 years since Governor Marvin Mandel replaced the former Board of Natural Resources with a cabinet-level Department of Natural Resources and our operations began. As we celebrate this milestone, DNR is really proud of the fact that our work is making a difference in every county and community across Maryland. Read more…
Maryland Fishing Report – July 3
This confident angler among the larger boats reminded fishing report author Keith Lockwood of an old verse. Photo by Keith Lockwood
Anyone who has ventured to the Bay Bridge in the past few weeks knows you will see all kinds of boats fishing the bridge piers. Some remind one of the opening verse of the Fisherman’s Prayer, which President John F. Kennedy kept inscribed on a block of wood on his desk in the Oval Office, and Admiral Rickover was rumored to present it to every new submarine captain: “Oh Lord thy sea is so great and my boat is so small.” Whatever means you have, it’s a great time to get out fishing.
July 4 is the last free fishing day of the 2019 season. This is a great opportunity to take someone who has shown some interest in fishing but has been hesitant to give it a try. It’s a golden opportunity to take someone fishing without them worrying about buying a fishing license.
Operation DryWater Underway to Keep Boaters Sober
Aiming to keep our waterways safe this holiday weekend, Maryland Natural Resources Police will again join the nationwide effort by local, state, and federal agencies in the tenth annual Operation DryWater. Officers will be on the water providing heightened enforcement and awareness about the dangers of drinking while boating.
Boating under the influence continues to be a leading factor in accidents and deaths on our nation’s waterways. With more than 170,000 registered boats enjoying our bays, rivers, and the Atlantic Ocean, Maryland is one of the country’s busiest boating destinations.
Early June 2019 Hypoxia Report
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources Research Vessel Kehrin is used for summer hypoxia monitoring.
Dissolved oxygen conditions in the Maryland portion of the Chesapeake Bay mainstem were slightly above the long-term average in early June. The hypoxic water volume — areas with less than 2 mg/l oxygen — was 1.14 cubic miles, which is slightly above the early June 1985-2018 average of 0.93 cubic miles and similar to levels in 2017 and 2018.
A significant amount of hypoxia was also observed during May. Hypoxia was not observed in Virginia’s portion of the bay, and no anoxic zones — areas with less than 0.2 mg/l oxygen — were detected in the mainstem bay in either Maryland or Virginia.
The observed early June and May hypoxia conditions are likely attributable to near record high flows in 2018 that continued into the spring of 2019.
Species of Carnivorous Plant Found in Maryland
Dwarf Sundew Expands its Range North
Photo by Chase Howard
Botanists from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources and The Nature Conservancy recently confirmed the discovery of a new plant species in Maryland — the dwarf sundew (Drosera brevifolia). Local volunteer botanist Chase Howard discovered and reported the plant growing in open areas with wet, peaty sand in Worcester County.
This is the first record of this species growing in Maryland. Prior to this discovery, Virginia was the northern range limit.
Dwarf sundew is an insectivorous plant with a unique way of catching its prey. The paddle-shaped leaves of the sundew form a rosette at the base and are densely covered with hairs that exude a clear, sticky liquid, which attracts and traps various kinds of insects. It then uses the nutrients from the prey animals as fertilizer. Read more…
Maryland Fishing Report – June 26
Bob Bruns was fishing at the Bay Bridge recently and found this beautiful striped bass at the end of a rainbow. Photo by Travis Long
We’ve all heard the saying about finding a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. In the past couple weeks, fishermen on the bay and freshwater areas have been dodging passing rain clouds, but were blessed with the sight of a pretty rainbow.
A serious problem that pains any fisherman to see is dead striped bass floating in the bay, and the scene becomes more common as air and bay water temperatures rise. This time of the year some of these fish are dying not so much from hook injury, but the stress of being brought to the boat. Studies have shown that decreasing the time one takes to bring a fish to the boat can improve fish survival. Use heavy tackle, flattening the barbs on your jigs or lures to quicken your release, and also release the fish without removing it from the water.
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is launching a new awareness campaign to reduce striped bass mortality during the summer fishing season. A color-coded recommendation system will advise of fishing conditions, allowing anglers to plan their striped bass fishing trips up to seven days in advance.
Maryland Awards $30.9 Million to Improve Water Quality and Increase Resilience
Department’s Grants Gateway Opens Door for 96 Projects
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources today announced the awarding of $30.9 million in grants to local communities to implement projects that will restore local waterways, increase climate resilience, and develop the next generation of environmental stewards.
“We are pleased to support these innovative projects that will help us achieve our environmental goals,” Maryland Department of Natural Resources Secretary Jeannie Haddaway-Riccio said. “In addition to improving the resilience of our communities, these projects will protect our local streams, rivers, and the Chesapeake Bay in measurable ways.”
Read more…
Striped Bass Advisory System Helps Anglers Protect Species
Alerts Will Advise of Fishing Conditions
Photo by Roy Julie
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is launching a new awareness campaign to reduce striped bass mortality during the summer fishing season. A color-coded recommendation system will advise of fishing conditions, allowing anglers to plan their striped bass fishing trips up to seven days in advance.
Seasonal high water and air temperatures as well as low oxygen can cause fish to become sensitive and stressed, with increased mortality during catch-and-release fishing. Larger striped bass – 24 inches or larger – have the most difficulty with these conditions.
Read more…
Fort Frederick Brings American Revolution to Life
Go Colonial to Celebrate Our Independence
Fort Frederick State Park invites Marylanders to experience what life was like at the fort during the American Revolution as it presents its annual program, “The Fort is Pretty Full,” June 28 through July 7. Events take place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day.
Built in 1756 to protect English colonists during the French and Indian War, Fort Frederick was pressed back into service in 1777 by the Continental Congress as a prison camp for captured British troops. Read more…
Maryland Fishing Report – June 19
Five year old Vinny Spilker caught this white perch while visiting his uncle recently. Photo by Herb Floyd
When introducing young children to fishing, it’s important they see action to keep their attention. Go after species such as bluegills and white perch, which are always ready to step up to the plate.
One more license-free fishing day is scheduled this year on July 4. It’s a perfect opportunity to get someone started on their own fishing adventures!
Public Input Sought on Chesapeake Forest Hunting Leases
Comments Taken on Proposed Changes Through July Aug. 19
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is accepting public comment on a proposal for restructuring the Chesapeake Forest Lands lease program for hunting clubs. Read more…
Market Cited for Selling Egg-Bearing Female Crabs
Tip Leads to Inspection of Montgomery County Business
Police charged Lotte Plaza Market in Germantown with offering three bushels of egg-bearing female blue crabs — known as sponge crabs — for sale in violation of the state’s conservation laws.
After receiving a tip, Maryland Natural Resources Police officers conducted an inspection of the market June 5. Store employees told police the crabs came from North Carolina, but were unable to produce a bill of lading. Sponge crabs can be legally imported from other states at certain times of the year (between May 11 and July 20 this year), but proof of their origin is necessary.
It is always illegal to harvest female egg-bearing crabs in Maryland waters. Read more…
Native Plant Profile: Mountain Mint (Pycnanthemum spp.)
Clustered Mountain Mint by Doug McGrady CC by 2.0
I first learned about mountain mint (Pycnanthemum spp.) several years ago, as a Penn State Extension study found it to be one of the top pollinator plants in their common gardens. Out of the 86 native plant species and cultivars tested, clustered mountain mint (Pycnanthemum muticum) ranked number one for the diversity of pollinators that visited. I had to try it out for myself, and it hasn’t disappointed. Read more…
Native Animal Profile: Eastern Ratsnake (Pantherophis alleghaniensis)
Adult Eastern Ratsnake by Richard Orr
At one time, I was deathly afraid of snakes, often screeching and running through the forest whenever I encountered a scaly friend. In college, my desire to be a field biologist, coupled with exposure to and knowledge of snakes, helped soften my feelings for them. Over the years, one snake species I have grown particularly fond of is the eastern ratsnake. Read more…
Lawn Alternatives
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…
Northern Snakeheads Caught in Conowingo Dam Fish Lift
Invasive Species Stopped at Dam But Spiked in Numbers
A partnership overseeing fish passage at Conowingo Dam reports that 81 northern snakeheads were caught in the dam’s fish lift this spring, a dramatic increase after only one snakehead was found there the past two years. While all known snakeheads were stopped and dispatched before reaching the dam’s reservoir, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources and its partners warn of a possible northern expansion by the aggressively invasive species into the Susquehanna River.
Two fish lifts were installed on the east and west sides of the Conowingo Dam decades ago to allow passage of migratory fish such as American shad and river herring. The fish lifts are critical for migratory species restoration and a requirement by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.
These fish lifts operate during the spring migration, which is also when snakeheads are known to travel longer distances in the watershed. All snakeheads captured this year were in the western side of the dam. Read more…
Maryland Fishing Report – June 12
Photo by Keith Lockwood
This is a special weekend for sons and daughters to celebrate their love for the fathers – or father figures in their lives — who help them to appreciate the gifts of the outdoors. No doubt many will take out the gear this weekend and share that special time together that fishing provides. Happy Father’s Day!
Loaner Tackle Program Available at Rocky Gap State Park
Western Maryland Fishing Destination Offers Free Use of Gear
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is expanding its popular loaner tackle program to Rocky Gap State Park, offering park patrons free use of fishing gear and tackle. Eight youth-sized fishing rods have been refurbished and several tackle boxes have been donated to help promote youth fishing at the popular Allegany County park.
Rocky Gap is home to Lake Habeeb, one of Western Maryland’s most fishing-friendly destinations. The 243-acre lake is routinely stocked with trout and has sustaining populations of catfish, panfish, and largemouth and smallmouth bass. Lake Habeeb also has a public boat ramp, and canoe and kayak rentals are available during the summer months.
Read more…
Maryland Waterway Improvement Fund Awards $13.5 Million
Projects Funded Statewide for Better Boating Access, Navigation, and Safety
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is providing $13.5 million in Waterway Improvement Fund grants in Fiscal Year 2020 to enhance and improve public boating access, facilities, and navigation throughout the state.
This funding will go toward 58 projects in 16 counties, including grants for statewide projects and emergency needs such as ice-breaking. Projects include new public boating access, amenities, and facilities; dredging of navigable waterways; emergency vessels and equipment for local first responders; and other important infrastructure and initiatives.
“Maryland is committed to expanding boating opportunities so that our citizens and visitors can appreciate all that our waterways have to offer,” Maryland Secretary of Natural Resources Jeannie Haddaway-Riccio said. “These grants will enhance safety, improve access, and maximize enjoyment for all boaters.” Read more…
Maryland Conservation Corps Recruiting for September Class
Stewardship and Real-World Job Training for Young Adults
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is now recruiting members for the Maryland Conservation Corps, an award-winning AmeriCorps program that engages young adults aged 17-25 in extensive conservation, environmental, and natural resources management projects across the state.
The department seeks to hire 35 full-time members who will work on seven teams for an 11-month period, beginning in late September 2019.
Read more…
Maryland Fishing Report – June 5
Photo of boy with several trout he caught
There is a special bond between grandparents and their grandchildren, and some children are lucky enough to have a grandpa or grandma to take them fishing. Lothar Weber recently took his 5 year old grandson Dexter trout fishing near Little Falls. Grandpa brought his fly fishing outfit, Dexter dug up his mom’s garden to collect some worms for bait. The results of their trout fishing trip together was described as: Dexter 5, trout and Grandpa 0.
Two more license-free fishing days are scheduled this year on June 8 and July 4. These are perfect opportunities to get someone started on their own fishing adventures!
Marine Wildlife Return to Maryland’s Waters
Marine Mammals and Sea Turtles Should be Reported
Marine wildlife — dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, whales, and others –are making their seasonal return to both the Chesapeake Bay and its tidal tributaries, as well as the coastal bays. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources reminds anyone who has seen either a marine mammal or sea turtle in Maryland waters to report it to the state Marine Mammal and Sea Turtle Stranding program at 1-800-628-9944. Read more…
Meeting to Discuss Chesapeake Forest Hunting Leases
Forest Service to Review Proposed Changes June 18
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources will host a public meeting June 18 to present a newly developed proposal for restructuring the Chesapeake Forest Lands lease program for hunting clubs. Maryland Forest Service staff will be on hand to answer general questions about the proposal and provide access for public comment. Read more…
Secretary’s Message: June 2019
Maryland Was Made for Great Outdoors Month
Splash the Water Safety Dog, Governor Larry Hogan and Natural Resources Secretary Jeannie Haddaway-Riccio gear up for summer activities!
June marks the official start of summer — although it feels like it really began weeks ago — and June also marks National Great Outdoors Month. While this is a national celebration, no one does outdoors better than Maryland!
The State of Maryland features a unique array of landscapes from mountains to beaches and everything in between. To preserve those landscapes, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources oversees more than a half-million acres of public lands, including state forests, wildlife management areas, and 75 state parks. These areas provide quality outdoor recreation experiences through 900 miles of trails for biking, hiking, horseback riding, fishing, hunting, kayaking, camping facilities, and more. Our goal is to allow everyone to experience these recreational opportunities and to connect all people with nature. Read more…
Elk Neck State Park Shooting Range Reopens
Upgrades Completed for Sept. 6 Opening
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is pleased to announce the rifle and shotgun ranges at Elk Neck State Forest in Cecil County will re-open at 9 a.m. Sept. 6, following completion of a critical maintenance project this summer.
During the six-week project, the department’s contractor enhanced numerous safety and comfort features. Upgrades include a new concrete slab with new pavilion posts aligned with the shooting range baffles. The contractor also constructed and installed new shooting stations, lane partitions, and pavilion back rests.
Spring Hunters Harvest 4,002 Wild Turkeys
Four Counties Report Record Harvests
Photo “Spring Gobbler Time” by Ronald Lutz
Maryland hunters reported harvesting 4,002 wild turkeys during the 2019 regular spring and junior hunt turkey seasons, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources announced today. This year’s harvest was the second-highest on record, and reflects a 4% increase compared to the 2018 harvest of 3,861 birds.
Read more…
Teens Face Animal Cruelty Charges over Video
Police Say Duo Taunted Injured Deer
A 19-year-old Allegany County woman and a juvenile face animal cruelty charges over a social media video showing them taunting and throwing objects at a deer that was immobilized with two broken legs.
Maryland Natural Resources Police were notified May 23 of a Snapchat video showing two female individuals throwing beverage containers at a deer that had been struck by a vehicle. After investigating, police charged Alexa Storm Crabtree of Oldtown with animal cruelty, littering, and underage possession of an alcoholic beverage.
Police also referred a 16-year-old female to Allegany County Juvenile Services for the same charges. Read more…
Marylanders Reminded to Leave Wildlife Alone
Observe from a Safe Distance; Never Feed or Pet Wild Animals
Photo by Joseph Soares Jr.
Each year during the spring and summer months, the Maryland Department of Health and the Maryland Department of Natural Resources receive reports of residents attempting to care for or possess wild animals. These attempts are often made with good intentions, but pose serious risks to both the animals and humans involved.
Any wild animal, especially young wildlife, should be left alone in their natural environment. It is safe to observe wildlife from a distance, but do not attempt to feed, pet, or rescue any wild animal. Maryland law prohibits residents from possessing certain wild animals, including deer, raccoons, and foxes.
Attempting to “rescue” any young wild animal, even those that appear to have been abandoned, risks interfering with the animals’ natural adaptation to their environment and the development of their basic survival skills. Read more…
Maryland Fishing Report – May 29
Kenny Wampler found solitude while fly fishing on the Savage River in Garrett County. Photo by Alan Klotz
Summertime temperatures are settling in this week and many will be looking for some relief from the heat — water provides that and fun as well. Many will be headed to Maryland’s state parks, the Chesapeake Bay or Ocean City, while others will seek the solitude and cool temperatures of western Maryland.
Also, the state is hosting three license-free fishing days on June 1, June 8 and July 4. These annual events allow everyone the chance to test their fishing skills or reinvigorate their love of fishing without needing a license, trout stamp or registration.
Maryland Offers License-Free Fishing Days
Anyone Can Fish June 1, June 8 and July 4
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources invites anglers to experience our state’s myriad waterways during license-free fishing days on June 1, June 8 and July 4. These annual events allow everyone the chance to test their fishing skills or reinvigorate their love of fishing without needing a license, trout stamp or registration.
Maryland hosts this opportunity annually on the first two Saturdays in June and on the Independence Day holiday. An individual may catch and possess finfish in any tidal and nontidal waters of Maryland, as long as it’s for recreational purposes. Read more…
Western Maryland Rail Trail Extension Opens June 1
Ribbon Cutting Ceremony Celebrates the Completion of Phase IV
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources will hold a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 11 a.m. on June 1 to celebrate the completion of the Phase IV extension of the Western Maryland Rail Trail.
The event will be held in the western terminus parking lot, 12719 High Germany Road, Little Orleans. A brief ceremony will be followed by the cutting of the ribbon, then light refreshments will be available. Read more…
1-888-373-7888
233733