Natural Resources News
First Shot: Freshly minted turkey hunters help keep tradition alive
A group of participants; staff photo
The morning was crisp and unusually cool for April; perfect for a morning hunt. As they trekked to their stations, pairs of hunters were enveloped in a darkness intensifying the sounds and smells of the sleeping woods. As the sun began its slow creep into the morning sky, some were greeted by wildlife they had never seen in person—bald eagles, sika deer and skunks, all stirring at the first signs of dawn.
The excitement and nerves were palpable, ratcheting higher as the sounds of the woods came alive. Hunters listened intently to the eerie sika bugle in the distance, the everpresent scratching of squirrels, birds fluttering between branches and finally, the reason they all woke up early: that first morning gobble.
For 14 individuals, this was their first early morning walk into the woods with one task in mind: to hunt wild turkey. Read more…
Secretary’s Message: October 2018
Positive Grades for Maryland’s Coastal Bays
The Maryland Coastal Bays Program recently unveiled the 2017 Coastal Bays Report Card, a snapshot assessment on the health and resiliency of the coastal bays surrounding Ocean City and Assateague Island. The bays’ collective health received a “B-,” its highest grade ever reported! Nutrient reductions have shown a positive trend in many locations since 1999.
Maryland’s Coastal Bays are a unique ecological treasure in the landscape of the Eastern Shore. They make up one of the richest, most diverse estuaries on the East Coast. For more than a century, agriculture, fishing, forestry, hunting – and more recently – tourism have sustained ways of life built on the land and water resources in this coastal community.
The ongoing effort to preserve and protect our five coastal bays and the St. Martin River is showing signs of success thanks to our engaged communities and partners.
Oyster Season Opens Oct. 1
Minimum Size for Harvested Oysters is 3 Inches
Patent Tonging by Jay Fleming
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources announced the 2018-2019 public oyster harvest season will open Oct. 1 and run through March 31, 2019. Opening month is reserved for divers and watermen using patent and shaft tongs, as well as recreational oystering.
During the season, recreational oyster harvesting is open to any Maryland resident and does not require a license. Each harvester may take up to one bushel of oysters per day as long as they are only for personal use. Recreational oyster harvesting is only permitted from sunrise to 3 p.m. weekdays and from sunrise to noon Saturdays.
Enrollment Opens for Maryland Climate Leadership Academy
First Cohort Kicks Off in November
State of the Coast Conference
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources today opened enrollment for the Maryland Climate Leadership Academy, the nation’s first state-led program aimed at helping community leaders, critical infrastructure, local governments and state agencies effectively plan for and implement climate change initiatives.
The Maryland Climate Leadership Academy’s first cohort will kick off in November with a three-part series offered at community college and university campuses across the state. Each course will provide participants with critical training on climate preparedness, economic impacts, energy and water management, entrepreneurship, governance and risk management. This series of courses is designed for executive and senior staff in both the private and public sectors. Read more…
Fall Foliage and Festival Report: Sept. 29-30
Welcome 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…
Volunteer Fire Assistance Grants Announced
49 Fire Departments in 17 Counties Receive $104,099
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources announced the 2018 Volunteer Fire Assistance grants to 49 volunteer fire departments. The projects, distributed throughout 17 counties, aim to assist volunteer fire companies and departments enhance wildland fire protection in rural areas and communities.
The Maryland Forest Service awarded $104,099 in match funding to complete $245,907 in total projects. The maximum grant awarded was $3,000 per department. The funds are provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service. Read more…
Wolf Den Run State Park Open House
Share Your Thoughts Oct. 20 in Kitzmiller
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources will hold an informational open house for Wolf Den Run State Park from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Oct. 20 at Kitzmiller Elementary School.
Maryland Park Service staff will be available to answer questions about the new state park and provide comments and feedback on topics such as camping, hunting and trails. The public event will conclude with a roundtable discussion.
Maryland Fishing Report: September 26
As the sun sets in all its glory over the Tred Avon River, it seems to say goodbye to summer. Photo by Keith Lockwood
With the fall equinox behind us, the days are getting noticeably shorter. There’s no sweeter time of the year – or place to be — than late September and October in Maryland, whether you are a fisherman or a hunter or just someone who likes to enjoy the sights and sounds of autumn.
Maryland Motorists: Stay Alert for Deer!
Wildlife More Active in Fall
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…
Board of Public Works Approves Expansion of Two State Parks
Acres Added to Merkle Natural Resources Management Area and New Germany State Park
Merkle Natural Resources Management Area
The Board of Public Works today approved two Maryland Department of Natural Resources items that seek to expand two existing state parks, one in Southern Maryland and the other in Western Maryland.
Program Open Space funds will go toward the purchase of 33 acres adjacent to Merkle Natural Resources Management Area in Prince George’s County and five acres adjoining New Germany State Park in Garrett County.
The acquisitions will expand educational and recreational opportunities, and protect important watersheds. Read more…
Fort Frederick Hosts Colonial Militia Muster
“Once a Year They March” on Sept. 29
Fort Frederick State Park invites visitors to experience life for a citizen-soldier in the Maryland militia during the French and Indian War. The event takes place 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sept. 29, beginning with a flag raising ceremony over the historic fort built in 1756.
The militia was an essential part of colonial society. Mustering days, though martial in practice, were a day where entire communities could come together for a day of military drill, sport and eating and drinking – and now modern-day Marylanders can experience it for themselves. Read more…
Tree-Mendous Maryland Orders Being Accepted
Free Pickup Available at Several Sites in October
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources aims to expand tree cover on public lands across the state by offering affordable and attractive trees for planting on public lands and open space through its Tree-Mendous Maryland program.
Church, civic, community and school groups, homeowners associations, local governments, nonprofits, and others are eligible to purchase shrubs and trees for planting on community and public lands. Order today! Read more…
Bewitching Butterflies and Moths with Fall and Winter Habitat
Common buckeye by Judy Gallagher Flickr CC by 2.0
As the weather begins to cool, many species begin to prepare for fall and winter. What happens to butterflies, and how can we help them with our gardens? Read more…
Common Questions for Fall Backyards
Hummingbirds by Kerry Wixted
Five often-asked questions answered here! Read more…
Paw-Paw (Asimina triloba)
Paw-paw flower by Judy Gallagher, Flickr CC by 2.0
What in the world is a paw-paw? Paw-paws (Asimina triloba) are America’s forgotten fruit. These trees with mango-like fruits can be found throughout moist woods and along streams in Maryland. There are even a few local farms that grow paw-paws! Read more…
Potter Wasp (Eumenes fraternus)
Potter wasp by Dan Mullen, Flickr CC by NC ND 2.0
Oftentimes, the word wasp incites fear and anxiety. However, many of Maryland’s 1,200+ wasp species are relatively small and docile in nature. One neat group is potter wasps; they serve as both pollinators and predators in the garden. Read more…
Fall Foliage and Festival Report: Sept. 22-23, 2018
Welcome 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.
Maryland Forest Service Seeks Black Walnuts
Collection Sites in Frederick and Washington Counties Open Until Oct. 26
Every year, about 6 million tree seedlings are grown at the John S. Ayton State Tree Nursery, located near Preston in Caroline County.
About 47 different conifer, hardwood and shrub species, most native to Maryland, are grown each year, many of which are planted along creeks, rivers and streams as part of state’s tree planting program aimed at enhancing habitat and water quality throughout the Chesapeake Bay Watershed. Read more…
Maryland Fishing Report: September 19
La’Tanya Demory recently had a favorable day of fishing at Perry Point on the lower Susquehanna River. Photo courtesy of La’Tanya Demory
For those who work hard, a day off is a precious opportunity to spend time the way we want. Few activities afford us the peace to be had dangling a line in the water and being with our thoughts. Sometimes fate smiles on us and we actually have one of those days where everything works in our favor.
Some upcoming events offer some opportunities for anglers of all ages.
National Hunting and Fishing Day will be celebrated from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sept. 22 at the Washington County Izaak Walton League in Clear Spring. Maryland Department of Natural Resources staff will be there to run a casting clinic and answer questions about fishing around the state, along with shooting sports demos and hunter safety clinics.
The Second Annual Rod and Reef Slam Tournament will be held Sept. 22 at various artificial and restored oyster reef sites along the Eastern Shore. This is a catch, release and photo tournament.
Note to anglers: The Talbot County section of Bill Burton Fishing Pier State Park will be closed to the public until further notice while the staff installs new lighting fixtures. The trails and parking lot will remain open.
State Announces Blue Catfish Purchasing Initiative
Program to Provide Quality Nutrition, Reduce Impact on Chesapeake Bay
The Maryland Department of General Services (DGS)—in partnership with the departments of Agriculture and Natural Resources—has awarded contracts to Jessup-based Reliant Fish Co. and Congressional Seafood Co. for a program that will create sales of Maryland-harvested blue catfish to state institutions providing food services. The program also helps the state reduce the blue catfish’s negative impact on the Potomac River and Chesapeake Bay ecosystems by creating a reliable market for the non-native species. Read more…
Maryland Hunter Safety Education Course Offered
Sessions Held in Garrett County
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is offering a Hunter Safety Education Course Oct. 2, 4 and 6, 2018 at Herrington Manor State Park in Oakland.
The course will go from 6 to 9 p.m. Oct. 2 and 4, and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Oct. 6. Participants must attend all three sessions to successfully complete the course.
Space is limited to 30 students. Registration required. Read more…
2018 Photo Contest Winners Selected from 4,300 Entries
Baltimore County Photographer Kevin Moore Earns Grand Prize
2018 Photo Contest Grand Prize Winner, “Little Blue Heron Ready to Pounce” by Kevin Moore
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources has announced the winners of the 2018 Natural Resources Photo Contest, with the grand prize going to Kevin Moore of Perry Hall for his colorful autumn photo of a little blue heron.
This year’s grand prize package includes $500, a 2019 Maryland State Park and Trail Passport, a five-year subscription to Maryland Natural Resource magazine and five copies of the 2019 calendar with the winning image displayed on the cover. Read more…
Point Lookout State Park Hosts Artillery Weekend
Living History Happens Sept. 29-30
The Friends of Point Lookout are hosting a U.S. Civil War weekend Sept. 29-30 at Point Lookout State Park in St. Mary’s County. Programs run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday.
The program features artillery demonstrations and other programming. Tours of Fort #3 and the prison pen site will also be offered along with living history programs involving the military garrison of the fort along with civilian exhibits and impressions. Read more…
Youth Fishing Rodeos Reach Thousands of Anglers
Sponsors Should Sign up Now for 2019
Despite record rainfall throughout much of the state, more than 3,500 aspiring anglers participated in Youth Fishing Rodeos this spring and summer, reports the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.
These free events were held throughout the Old Line State, with more than 30 different nonprofits organizations and partners from 11 counties participating this year. Read more…
Eastern Shore Trapping Bid Packets Now Available
Sealed Bids Due Mid-October
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is currently accepting bids for the 2018-2019 trapping season at several wildlife management areas on the Eastern Shore.
For each location, the individual with the highest bid will be awarded annual trapping privileges for the chosen site. Bidding for specific locations is done through different locations with different deadlines, as follows: Read more…
One Fort, Three Wars at Fort Frederick State Park
Take a Closer Look at the Life of the Common Soldier Sept. 15-16
Historic Fort Frederick State Park will give visitors a look at life in the 18th century fort as volunteers exhibit the varied roles the fort played during the French and Indian War, American Revolution and Civil War.
While not a turning point in history for any specific conflict, the program will provide the public a closer look at the life of the common soldier serving their nation during wartime. The programs takes place 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sept. 15 and 16. Read more…
Maryland Fishing Report: September 12
Young Isaac rose to the occasion when grandad asked if he wanted to go fishing in the rain, and he loved every minute of it. Photo by Eric Packard
Living close to the water gives one an interesting perspective on impending storms. At ports all-around the bay and coastal areas, boat owners have been lining up at boat ramps and moving their vessels to safer areas. Low-lying areas can expect flooding and it sounds like we may in for some more rain, which is nothing new. Please pay close attention to the forecast and any safety advisories issued for Maryland waters before fishing this weekend.
The fact is most fishermen seem to have a disdain for fishing in the rain but others just make the most of it — the fish don’t care, since they’re already wet.
Upper Potomac River Advisory
Issued for Boating and Recreational Activities
The Maryland Natural Resources Police has issued a safety advisory to avoid boating and other recreational activity on the Upper Potomac River until further notice.
High water, debris and weakened shoreline have combined to make the river and its tributaries, from Harpers Ferry to Little Falls, hazardous for recreational use. Read more…
Open Space and Forestland Conserved in Baltimore County
Landowners Donate Easement near Historic District
The Maryland Environmental Trust, a unit of the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, has partnered with The Manor Conservancy to permanently protected 12 acres in Baltimore County.
Landowners John and Renae Olver donated a conservation easement to protect open space and forestland in the historic My Lady’s Manor area. Read more…
Fall Trout Stocking Begins in September
Thousands of Trout Heading for Maryland Waters
Brown trout courtesy of Michael Eversmier
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources will stock thousands of brown, golden and rainbow trout in select creeks, lakes and rivers from mid-September through the end of October.
Depending on location, anglers can expect this year’s trout to range in size from one-half pound to 1 pound.
This year, anglers can also claim bragging rights if they catch some of the larger trophy-sized trout – about 3 pounds – that will also be stocked. Read more…
Wildlife Education Trunks Available for Loan
Free Resource for Hands-On Learning
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is offering a variety of wildlife education trunks for use by classroom teachers, home-school educators, naturalists, scout leaders and other instructors.
These unique, interdisciplinary teaching tools designed to educate and engage students about local wildlife while building on fundamental disciplines like art, language arts, math, physical education, science and social studies. Read more…
Maryland Continues Commitment to ‘Every Kid in a Park’
Fourth Year of Providing Fourth-Graders with Free Park Admission
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is once again partnering with the U.S. Department of the Interior’s Every Kid in a Park program to provide fourth-grade children and their families free admission to national public lands and state parks.
This marks the fourth year the Maryland Park Service will honor the federal passes, valid through Aug. 31, 2019, at all 75 state parks. The passes are also valid at 16 national parks, six national natural landmarks, five national wildlife refuges and two federal heritage areas in Maryland. Read more…
Police Cite Three Men for Illegal Fishing Activity
Maryland Natural Resources Police officers on patrol near a Queen Anne’s County waterfront park this week charged two men with illegal fishing activity and seized 47 fish and six female crabs.
Bernardo Salvador Rivera Palma, 52, of Gaithersburg, received citations for exceeding the daily limit of striped bass, possessing 32 undersized striped bass, possessing nine undersized white perch caught by illegal means and possessing three female blue crabs. Read more…
August 2018 Hypoxia Report
Sunset Sailing on the Chesapeake Bay by Toni Quigley
Dissolved oxygen conditions for Maryland’s portion of Chesapeake Bay returned to near average for the month of August, reports the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. The department tracks hypoxia throughout the summer during twice monthly monitoring cruises.
Low dissolved oxygen volume was at a record low (0.26 cubic miles) in late July, due to sustained winds and high flows from torrential rainfalls in mid-to-late July. As stormy weather subsided, and warmer days returned, hypoxic water volume (areas with less than 2 mg/L oxygen) rose to 1.08 cubic miles in early August, and 1.26 cubic miles in late August. Warmer waters hold less oxygen, and as freshwater flows subsided, water column stratification increased, making it more difficult for oxygen to mix into lower depths.
The hypoxic zone appeared to recede northward from early-to-late August, but it should be noted that the station at the Maryland/Virginia line was not sampled in late August due to high winds, which could result in a lower estimate of hypoxic volume for bay waters. Read more…
Maryland Fishing Report: September 5
Photo by Meredith Bradshaw
Labor Day weekend is a fleeting memory now and although we are under an intense heat wave cooler weather is anticipated as we move through September.
There is still plenty daylight at the end of the day to spend some time in the outdoors with family and friends.
Children love adventure and when Vincent Casagrande of Frederick went crabbing for the first time with his grandfather in the South River, it was a time he’ll never forget. They managed to catch a bushel using collapsible crab traps. Vincent even got to drive the boat under grandad’s supervision.
You can read their story and others in the Angler’s Log.
Frederick County Easement Protects Water Quality
Board of Public Works Approves Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program Acquisition
The Board of Public Works today approved a Maryland Department of Natural Resources item that will grant more than $468,000 to acquire a 77-acre Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program easement in Frederick County.
Program Open Space funds will be used to purchase a permanent conservation easement on property located north of Unionville.
“Through our partnership with Frederick County, we can preserve agriculture and farmland while benefiting the environment and water quality,” Maryland Natural Resources Secretary Mark Belton said. “This voluntary program is a win-win for our bay and our farmers, and is essential to protecting the state’s 134 unique watersheds.” Read more…
535 Acres Protected in Cecil County
Board of Public Works Approves Conservation Easement
The Board of Public Works today approved a Maryland Department of Natural Resources item that authorizes a $1.7 million grant to the Cecil Land Trust to acquire a 535-acre conservation easement.
Rural Legacy Program funds will be used to protect productive agricultural and forestland along Northeast Creek as part of the Fair Hill Rural Legacy Area.
“Preserving and protecting productive and valuable farm and forest land is at the heart of the Rural Legacy Program, and our broader land acquisition and conservation efforts,” Maryland Natural Resources Secretary Mark Belton said. “Partnering with local governments and nonprofits is an effective and efficient way to conserve our limited and precious resources.” Read more…
Pocomoke River State Park Expands by 212 Acres
Board of Public Works Approves Program Open Space Acquisition
The Board of Public Works today approved the Maryland Department of Natural Resources acquisition of 212 acres along the Pocomoke River as an expansion to Pocomoke River State Park. The former golf course will be repurposed to provide access to the Pocomoke River Water Trail as well as additional recreation opportunities.
“This acquisition will benefit Pocomoke River State Park as well as the Lower Eastern Shore watershed,” Maryland Natural Resources Secretary Mark Belton said. “By utilizing Program Open Space we can enhance and expand our state park, providing even greater public access and recreation, while shoring up the rivers now and into the future.” Read more…
Manokin River Selected for Large-Scale Oyster Restoration
Eastern Shore Tributary Provides Best Possibility for Success;
State to Maximize Oyster Restoration in Anne Arundel County Tributaries
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources today announced its intention to recommend the Manokin River in Somerset County as the fifth and final tributary for large-scale oyster restoration as per Maryland’s commitment to the Chesapeake Bay Watershed Agreement.
The recommendation will be sent to federal partners, including the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers before a management plan is finalized and restoration work can commence. Read more…
Bloede Dam Removal Begins
Partnership Effort Restoring Patapsco River, Improving Public Safety
Conservation leaders, federal and state officials, and other partners gathered today on the Patapsco River to celebrate the removal of Bloede Dam – an effort that has been a decade in the making, and will have major benefits for fisheries, public safety, recreation, and the health of the Chesapeake Bay.
Natural Resources Police Respond to Boating and Swimming Accidents
Two people died in swimming accidents and five boat accidents were reported across Maryland during the extended Labor Day holiday weekend.
In all, Maryland Natural Resources Police officers were in contact with 8,354 citizens and visitors where they conducted 1,446 boat safety inspections and arrested four people on charges of boating while intoxicated.
The five boat accidents – none of which resulted in serious injuries or property damage – were down slightly from last year, when seven accidents were reported.
Officers issued 386 citations for violations and 625 written warnings. Read more…
Secretary’s Message: September 2018
Help Celebrate and Preserve Maryland’s Historic Beauty
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…
Maryland Deer Archery Season Opens Sept. 7
Hunters May Now Claim a Tax Credit for Donated Processed Venison
Bucks by Reinhardt Sahmel
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources announced that archery hunting for white-tailed and sika deer opens statewide Sept. 7, and continues through Jan. 31, 2019.
“Archery hunting remains an effective and important part of our deer management strategy,” Wildlife and Heritage Service Director Paul Peditto said. “Archery hunters harvest over 25,000 deer each year, many from urban and suburban areas where excessive deer numbers are especially problematic. The early archery season is also a great time to be in the woods with friends and family, enjoying the autumn weather.” Read more…
Janes Island Hosts International Coastal Cleanup Day
Volunteers Sought for Beach Cleanup Sept. 15
The annual International Coastal Cleanup at Janes Island State Park begins at 9 a.m. Sept. 15.
This event provides volunteers the opportunity to learn more about the Somerset County park, have a boat ride and earn community service hours while cleaning beaches and marshes. Read more…
Maryland Fishing Report: August 29
Photo by Eduardo Marte
Labor Day weekend approaches and many of us are wondering, “How did we get here so soon?”
The kids will be going back to school and we will slowly start to see cooler temperatures in September. If you’re trying to fit in some family fishing time, remember who your audience is – kids just want to have fun. They will enjoy the action fishing for bluegill sunfish in a local pond or for white perch in a nearby tidal river. Leave your own fishing rod at home and give them your full attention, and just enjoy the smiles.
Free Trees at Corsica River Day in Queen Anne’s County
Landowners Can Reserve Native Seedlings by Sept. 13
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources will give away native tree seedlings Sept. 16 at Corsica River Day at Corsica River Yacht Club in Centreville. The event is sponsored by the Corsica River Conservancy, Corsica River Yacht Club and Queen Anne’s County.
Available species include mixed oak (pin and white), with a limited number of redbud, river birch, eastern red cedar and bald cypress.
About 50 trees are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Tree species cannot be reserved but can selected at time of pickup. Read more…
Park Exploration Weekend at Fort Frederick State Park
Participate in Historical and Outdoor Activities Sept. 1-3
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources welcomes the public to enjoy Labor Day weekend at Fort Frederick State Park Sept. 1-3 during the annual Park Exploration Weekend.
Activities will take place 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day; Saturday night will feature a unique nocturnal hike at 8 p.m.
Programs will be held within the fort, at nature center, on the trails and at the visitor center. Food, gifts, and souvenirs will be available for purchase at Captain Wort’s Sutler Shop.
Special events include: Read more…
Early Migratory Game Bird Hunting Seasons Announced
Mourning Dove Season Opens Sept. 1
Winter Worm Hunting by Joseph Soares
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources has announced the state’s 2018-2019 early migratory game bird hunting seasons. Bag limits, season dates and shooting hours can be found in the 2018-2019 Maryland Guide to Hunting and Trapping.
“The opening of dove season marks the traditional start of hunting activity in Maryland,” Wildlife and Heritage Service Director Paul Peditto said. “We wish all hunters a safe and successful year.”
Season dates are as follows: Read more…
Woodmont Lodge Open House Set for Sept. 9
Learn About Conservation at Historic Property
Woodmont Lodge by Lori Jenkins
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources invite the public to attend an open house 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sept. 9, 2018, at the Woodmont Lodge in Washington County.
The annual event at the Woodmont Natural Resources Management Area allows guests to tour the 18,785-square foot lodge, a building rich in architecture and history, and its picturesque surroundings while hearing vivid stories of its past.
Staff and volunteers will be on hand throughout the day to speak about the early days of conservation and wildlife management in Maryland, and animals from the Maryland Park Service Scales and Tales program will be present to educate and entertain patrons.
Wicomico County Man Charged for Illegal Fishing Guide Service
Nicholas George Ager
A Wicomico County man who billed himself as “OCSharkHunter” on social media was charged Sunday with guiding fishing trips without a license.
Nicholas Ager, 43, of Willards, was cited after a two-month investigation of complaints about offers of paid shark fishing excursions on Assateague Island.
Maryland Natural Resources Police officers were able to identify Ager as the unlicensed guide and administrator of “OCSharkHunter” social media accounts on Facebook and Instagram. Those accounts had been reported for displaying pictures of Ager with illegally beached species of sharks taken from waters off Worcester County. Read more…
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