Natural Resources News
Maryland Fishing Report: August 1
Photo by Kevin McMenamin
Recent heavy rains caused a lot of changes to our Chesapeake Bay waters. Large volumes of water coming down from Pennsylvania necessitated the opening of more than 20 gates at Conowingo Dam, causing high water levels in the lower Susquehanna River and floating debris entering the bay.
Boating will be difficult in the upper and middle bay, and water contact should be kept to a minimum. Boaters should report any navigation hazards to the Maryland Natural Resources Police at 410-260-8888, or the U.S. Coast Guard at 410-576-2693.
One positive side effect of the water release is that the striped bass in the upper bay got a break with cooler temperatures and mixing of oxygenated water.
Belvedere Yacht Club Certified as Clean Marina
Marks 150th Clean Marina and Partner in Maryland
Mark and Diane Hagerty of Belvedere Yacht Club
An Anne Arundel County yacht club recently passed inspection by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources to earn the Maryland Clean Marina Partner Award.
Belvedere Yacht Club in Arnold has met the criteria, which brings the total number of clean marinas and partners to 150, or roughly a quarter of the marinas in the state. In Anne Arundel County, 50 of the estimated 165 marinas are certified.
“It is inspiring to see the dedication and passion these boatyard and marina operators and owners bring to achieving and maintaining this ‘green’ certification,” Program Manager Donna Morrow said. “Belvedere Yacht Club is a great example of Maryland’s boating community stepping up for the bay and their customers.”
Secretary’s Message: August 2018
A Bright Future for Conservation
Secretary Mark Belton addresses Conservation Jobs Corps graduates at North Point State Park.
For many Marylanders, August means last-minute vacations, season-ending camps, and – of course – the dreaded yet wonderful back-to-school preparations.
At the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, class has been in session all summer long for our next generation of environmental advocates and stewards.
Three recent ceremonies capped off a season of hard work for hundreds of young people in three of our premier conservation programs – the Conservation Jobs Corp, Maryland Conservation Corps and Natural Resources Careers Camp. Read more…
Conservation Jobs Corps Celebrates Graduation
Program’s Largest Class Recognized for Public Service and Stewardship
More than 400 young Marylanders celebrated their graduation from the Conservation Jobs Corps Friday after six weeks of job training, conservation education, hard work and fun.
The ceremony was held at North Point State Park in Baltimore County with Maryland Department of Natural Resources Secretary Mark Belton featured as the keynote speaker.
“Not many teenagers get to be quite so immersed in conservation work as these young people,” Maryland Natural Resources Secretary Belton said. “As the next generation of environmental stewards, a passion for protecting and preserving the natural world will follow these graduates wherever they may go.”
Public-Private Partnership to Prevent Invasive Species at Deep Creek
Maryland Natural Resources, Deep Creek Watershed Foundation and Brookfield Renewable Partner
An initiative was announced today to assist with efforts in keeping the troublesome invasive species known as zebra mussels out of Deep Creek Lake.
The unique partnership between the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, Deep Creek Watershed Foundation and Brookfield Renewable will bring forward a robust zebra mussel monitoring plan, which will utilize a combination of water quality sampling to assess zebra mussel suitability and visual surveys to look for the possible presence of zebra mussels at Deep Creek Lake. Read more…
Fort Frederick Presents ‘The American Soldier through the Ages’
History Falls into Formation Aug. 4-5
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources invites everyone to Fort Frederick State Park 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Aug. 4 and 5 to experience what life was like for the American soldier through history, from the founding of Maryland to the 20th century.
The military history of Fort Frederick spans the 18th and 19th centuries. Building upon that legacy, “The American Soldier through the Ages” program will provide visitors with an up close and personal look at historical military gear, uniforms and weapons. Read more…
Early July 2018 Hypoxia Report
Dissolved oxygen conditions in Maryland’s portion of the Chesapeake Bay mainstem improved in early July, according to the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. The department tracks hypoxia throughout the summer during twice monthly monitoring cruises.
The hypoxic water volume (areas with less than 2 mg/l oxygen) was 1.05 cubic miles, nearly 0.6 cubic miles less than in late June, and 0.33 cubic miles less than the early July average. No additional hypoxic volume was observed in Virginia’s portion of Chesapeake Bay, and no anoxic zones (areas with less than 0.2 mg/l oxygen) were detected in the mainstem. Read more…
Cambridge Man Charged under Poaching Restitution Act
Hagerstown Woman Charged with Burglary at Greenbrier State Park
A Cambridge man faces fines in excess of $10,000 on charges he illegally killed six white-tailed bucks in a single evening.
Acting on complaints of gunfire in the area July 16, Maryland Natural Resources Police officers found Bryan Edward Nabb Sr., 53, in a field with a rifle and other hunting equipment. Read more…
Department Actively Monitoring Situation at Conowingo Dam
Record Water Flow to Impact Chesapeake Bay Health and Marine Life
Photo of Conowingo Dam from Susquehanna State Park
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is advising commercial and recreational anglers, boaters and watermen to avoid the Susquehanna River and Upper Chesapeake Bay over the next few days due to the heavy water flows and swells downstream of Conowingo Dam.
Recent summer rain storms in the mid-Atlantic region have dumped record amounts of rain in the watershed producing historic flows at the dam ( over 300,000 cubic feet per second) not seen since Tropical Storm Lee in 2011.
“It is vitally important that anglers and boaters avoid the area downstream of the dam as heavy flows and accompanying marine debris – both submerged and superficial – can pose a serious threat to people and vessels,” Maryland Natural Resources Secretary Mark Belton said. “We expect the issue to continue through the weekend and ask that people steer clear of the Upper Bay until it is safe to navigate and recreate.” Read more…
Maryland Fishing Report: July 25
Jane Millman made time to go fishing with friends off Ocean City and holds up a beautiful blueline tilefish she caught. Photo by Kevin Thomas
We all face daily challenges that tug at how we spend the dear time that is given to us. All anglers and outdoor enthusiasts know how hard it is to follow their favorite pursuits.
Summer is fleeting, make time.
Fishing Loaner Program at Janes Island State Park
New Opportunity to Enjoy Lower Eastern Shore Destination
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources now offers visitors to Janes Island State Park in Somerset County free use of fishing gear and tackle as part of a new pilot project between Fishing and Boating Services and the Maryland Park Service.
The state park in Crisfield is a well-known fishing destination on Maryland’s Lower Eastern Shore, and provides boating and fishing access to Annemessex River, Daugherty Creek and Tangier Sound. The park also has a fish cleaning station in its marina, making it an ideal location for this innovative department program. Read more…
Hogan Administration Announces Additional Funding for Bay Oysters
Dedicates $2 Million a Year for Oyster Fishery and Recovery
Governor Larry Hogan signs the new oyster funding agreement. Photo by Joe Andrucyk.
Governor Larry Hogan announced today that the Maryland Department of Transportation and Maryland Department of Natural Resources have entered into a new agreement that will provide millions of dollars for ongoing oyster activities in Chesapeake Bay.
“Our administration has invested more than $4 billion to enhance, protect, and restore the health and vitality of our cherished Chesapeake Bay,” said Governor Hogan said. “As the chair of the Chesapeake Executive Council, I am proud the progress we’ve made and our shared commitment to take on tomorrow’s challenges.”
The new four-year agreement will provide $2 million annually from the Transportation Trust Fund to the Department of Natural Resources for ongoing and future industry efforts, including dedicated funding for equipment, labor, material, supervision and support. Read more…
Black Bear Lottery Applications Now Open
Apply by Aug. 31, Drawing Sept. 4
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is now accepting applications for this year’s black bear hunting lottery.
Successful applicants will receive a permit valid for the five-day hunting season, taking place Oct. 22-26 in Allegany, Frederick, Garrett and Washington counties. The department will issue 800 hunting permits that can be used anywhere in those four counties.
Anglers Urged to Help Protect Maryland’s State Fish
Rockfish Face Added Stress in Summer
Photo by Roy Julie
Fishing for striped bass in Maryland is an annual rite of summer, but anglers are advised to follow a few basic measures to help protect the iconic species during the hottest part of the season.
Seasonal high water temperatures and low oxygen can cause fish to become sensitive and stressed, with increased mortality during catch-and-release. Larger striped bass – 24 inches or larger – will have the most difficulty with these conditions.
Waterfowl Blind Site Licensing Dates and Locations Announced
Applications Taken and Lottery Begins Aug. 7
Resident hunters will be able to apply for a 2018-2019 waterfowl blind site license starting Aug. 7. On opening day, applicants will be entered into a lottery for a chance to select their sites.
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources assigns each blind site license to a designated location in state waters where hunters can anchor their boats to hunt waterfowl. Read more…
Charles County to Manage Section of Chapel Point State Park
Lease Agreement Enhances Public Access and Recreation Opportunities
The Board of Public Works today unanimously approved a lease agreement between the Maryland Department of Natural Resources and Charles County Department of Recreation, Parks and Tourism allowing the county to manage approximately 50 acres of Chapel Point State Park for public recreation.
The area includes access roads and approximately 3,000 linear feet of shoreline, extending from the existing boat ramp and parking area north of Deep Point southward to Chapel Point.
The 25-year lease agreement will enable the county to oversee the area along Port Tobacco River, while providing for enhanced collaboration with the department on the development of a master plan and implementation of various projects that will enhance recreational access, opportunity and services. Read more…
Maryland Fishing Report: July 18
Sandy Point State Park
We’ve all learned in our lives that nothing ever stays the same, and this certainly holds true for the Chesapeake Bay. She started out as a river valley and became flooded after the last ice age to become the largest estuary in the United States.
The view from a drive across the Chesapeake Bay Bridge shows how much this treasure means to so many people — bulk carrier ships anchored and waiting to pick up their cargo, fleets of sailboats off the mouth of the Severn River, commercial crab boats tending their strings of traps, anglers fishing near the piers and throngs of people enjoying Sandy Point State Park.
More than 18 million people live in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed. The bay has had a difficult time putting up with us, but she always promises hope and keeps showing us that she is resilient.
Police Arrest 14 Impaired Boaters During Independence Day Holiday
Cite Somerset County Man for Illegally Dumping Dead Crabs on Wildlife Management Area
The extended Independence Day holiday resulted in the arrest of 14 people on charges of operating a boat while impaired by alcohol or drugs. The largest number of arrests – 10 – occurred on the first holiday weekend, which coincided with Operation Dry Water, a nationwide campaign against impaired boating. The highest blood alcohol content registered was 0.22, nearly three times the legal limit.
Blue Catfish a Prize Catch for Anglers and Scientists
Department Biologists Learning More about Voracious Invasive
Reaching up to nearly a hundred pounds, blue catfish is the largest species of catfish in North America, and due to its size and strength has quickly become a favorite catch for anglers.
A native of the Mississippi River basin, blue catfish were introduced to the mid-Atlantic in the 1970s. Since then it has exploded in population and range, and can now be found throughout Chesapeake Bay and Potomac River watersheds. “Blue cats” are considered an invasive species in Maryland as they threaten the local ecosystem.
McKee-Beshers Sunflower Fields at Peak Bloom
Thirty Acres Planted for Wildlife Nourishment
The sunflower fields at McKee-Beshers Wildlife Management Area in Poolesville are now in “peak bloom,” following the wet spring, and recent hot and sunny summer weather conditions.
The Montgomery County area is just one of many sunflower fields the Maryland Department of Natural Resources plants each and every spring as a food source for pollinators, songbirds and other wildlife, particularly mourning doves, as part of its conservation and management programs.
Visiting and photographing (department’s photo contest ends Aug. 31) the spectacular sight is encouraged and welcomed, but visitors are reminded that damaging, disturbing or picking the sunflowers is strictly prohibited. Read more…
Maryland Fishing Report: July 11
Photo by Mike Eversmier
If you spend enough time hanging around seasoned commercial or sport fishermen, you’ll often hear that it’s impossible to figure out why finfish and blue crabs are in certain places at certain times.
These thoughts came to mind this week as I spoke to some of the most respected captains on the Chesapeake about how this season’s fishing is shaping up. There is not enough space to share all of the classic statements, but many captains repeated the two that I have heard throughout my life on the water: “No two years are the same,” and “Just when you think you have them figured out, they make a fool of you.”
Freshwater Mussels Return to the Patapsco
Biologists Transplant Hundreds of Filter-Feeders
Freshwater mussels have been absent from the Patapsco River for decades. Now thanks to the collaborative efforts of the Maryland Department of Natural Resources and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, hundreds of mussels have returned to this scenic Maryland river.
Over the span of a few days hundreds of individual mussels have been given unique identification numbers and radio tags then carefully placed – one-by-one – into the silty bottom of the Patapsco River in Howard County. Read more…
Junior Hunter Field Days Scheduled
Events for Young Outdoor Enthusiasts in Cecil and Frederick Counties
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources invites youth, ages 8 to 16, with an interest in fishing, hunting, shooting sports, wildlife conservation and management to participate in upcoming Junior Hunter Field Day events in Cecil
The event in Frederick County will be held 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Aug. 18 at the Thurmont Conservation Sportsman Club. Activities will include archery, trap shooting, target shooting with .22 rifles and trapping demonstrations. Lunch will be provided, at no cost, for all participants. Space is limited to the first 100 registrants; deadline to register is Aug. 13.
In Cecil County, the Junior Hunter Field Day will be held 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sept. 8 at Elk Neck State Park and Elk Neck State Forest. Activities will including archery, fishing, shooting sports (.22 rifles and muzzleloaders), sporting clays, and tree stand safety demonstrations. Presentations featuring the Scales and Tales program will also be given. Registration is required and will be limited to the first 125 participants. The deadline to register for this event is Sept. 7. All equipment, as well as lunch, will be provided.and Frederick counties. Read more…
Campers Pull Invasive Plants at New Germany
Volunteers, Staff Battle Botanical Bullies
Teams of young women joined forces with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources and Maryland Conservation Corps to remove more 700 pounds of invasive plants from New Germany State Park.
These volunteers, members of the Washington, D.C. Stake of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, devoted much of June 20, working in the park as part of their annual summer camp.
The teams targeted coltsfoot, crown vetch, exotic bush honeysuckles, garlic mustard and Japanese stiltgrass, among other invasives. Read more…
Maryland Fire Crew Mobilized to Combat Wildfires Out West
Department Deploys First Crew of 2018 Season
Maryland has dispatched a 20-person fire crew to battle wildfires in the western United States. Maryland State (MDS) #1 mobilized July 6 at the Madonna Ranger Station in Harford County.
The unit will join five other crews from the mid-Atlantic at the National Interagency Fire Center in Boise, Idaho, where they will receive their assignments.
Art in the Park Returns to Deep Creek Lake State Park
Visitors Will Enjoy Art, Food and Fun July 14-15
Deep Creek Lake State Park hosts its nineteenth annual Art in the Park festival July 14 and 15. Visitors to the park’s beach area can enjoy food, entertainment and educational activities while more than 45 artists display and sell their work.
Sponsored by the Western Garrett County State Park Volunteers, the event takes place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. All displayed artwork—including chocolates, furniture, jewelry, native wildflowers, photography, pottery and more—is available for purchase. Read more…
Boating Safety Enforcement Kicks into High Gear
Simple Steps Save Lives
This year, the Fourth of July celebration falls midweek, giving many people an extended holiday. The goal over the next few days for the Maryland Department of Natural Resources is simple: fewer boating accidents.
The game plan is direct: the Natural Resources Police will be going all-out on the state’s waterways, from Deep Creek Lake to the Atlantic Ocean, to ensure an enjoyable and safe boating experience.
Late June 2018 Hypoxia Report
by Peter Zitta
As anticipated, dissolved oxygen conditions in Maryland’s portion of the Chesapeake Bay mainstem worsened in late June.
During its twice monthly monitoring cruises, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources found that hypoxic water volume (areas with less than 2 mg/L oxygen) was 1.63 cubic miles, which is 42 percent greater than the late June average of 1.15 cubic miles, and an increase of 0.63 cubic miles from early June. Read more…
Maryland Fishing Report: July 4
Ryan Bishop is all smiles as he holds a big jimmy destined for some crab picking. Photo by Sherry Bishop
The Fourth of July is upon us, and although it falls on a Wednesday — missing that three-day weekend luster – it’s still a little extra time off to enjoy family and friends. Here in Maryland a lot of activities will focus on a nearby body of water, from Deep Creek Lake to the Atlantic Ocean and everywhere in between.
For those living near the bay or coastal waters, the Fourth of July often means crabs and sweet corn. Judging by early observations of recreational crabbers, there were a lot of crab feasts promised, and hopefully the gatherers will be able to deliver.
Recreational crabbing continues to slowly gain momentum as more crabs enter the legal fishery after shedding – and most likely last week’s full moon was a big shed.
Those crabbing in less than 12 feet of water tend to be catching the most crabs in the lower and middle bay. Razor clams tend to top the list as the best bait.
Aboveboard: Summer 2018
We’ve always known the lands, waters and wildlife of Maryland to be unique treasures waiting to be discovered. Now more people are realizing that stewardship and conservation of our natural resources can go hand-in-hand with economic benefits.
Recognizing that potential, the Department of Natural Resources works in partnership with the Department of Commerce on efforts to promote nature-based tourism in our state. Read more…
Ask an Expert: Summer 2018
Do you know what it takes for land to become a state park? Have you heard about Maryland’s first Climate Leadership Academy? Our experts have the answers! Read more…
Short Takes: Summer 2018
In this issue, a reader shares a unique experience at Assateague and the department explores new technology. Read more…
Natural Getaways: Hidden gems within vast network of state parks
Pond at Cedarville; by Terry Thomas
Maryland is often celebrated as America in Miniature for its widely-varied landscape, which is unusual for such a small state. From the rolling hills of the western panhandle to the tidal creeks of the Eastern Shore to the crashing waves of one of the nation’s finest beaches, Maryland offers something to delight everyone.
Among our prized possessions is our network of 75 state parks, each one a sanctuary of stunning beauty that highlights the unique diversity of our environment and natural resources.
All of our parks provide visitors with the opportunity to unplug from day-to-day life and connect with nature through a variety of activities—biking, boating, camping, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, hunting, swimming—the list is virtually endless. Read more…
What’s Cooking? An introduction to outdoor cuisine
Campfire; by Stephen Badger
Hot Dogs? Hamburgers? Those are for amateurs! A great outdoor experience can be made much more enjoyable by a simple shift in table fare. Read more…
Falling Out of Step and Running Out of Time? A closer look at the life of Maryland’s declining state insect
Baltimore checkerspot; by Scott McDaniel
Signs of spring were late to arrive in Maryland this year. Still, as temperatures slowly rose and days lengthened throughout April, leaves grew on trees and plants sprouted into flower. Birds and spring peepers made their presence known through trilling song and chirping call, and insects began to take wing. Later this year, frosty mornings and honking skies of migrating geese will hint that winter is once again on its way. These familiar seasonal changes signal the passage of time for humans, but for plants and animals in nature, seasonal change is essential for survival—it triggers growth and new life stages, feeding and mating activities, migration, hibernation and other natural phenomena.
How do animals emerge from an egg, find a mate or head south for winter at the right time? And how are plants cued to unfold from the soil, send flowers into bloom, produce fruit or go dormant come autumn? Read more…
Behind the Beauty: Sunflower fields impress and nourish
McKee Beshers; by Mohib Ahmad
In Greek mythology, a nymph emerged from the sea to dance on the shore. Catching a glimpse of Apollo in his golden chariot, she became infatuated and returned every morning to see him break day. The sun god smiled upon her, until his interests turned elsewhere. She sat on a rock for nine days, watching and hoping for his favor. Pitied by the other gods, they transformed her into a flower that followed the path of the sun.
We too chase the sun, and many of us, its namesake flower. It evokes joy and friendship and entrances us in the fading summer light. A popular family activity and many a photographer’s dream backdrop, we flock to the endless fields of helio-worshipping plants to bask in and capture their beauty. But it’s not all about looks. Read more…
Feed a Bee: Grant program helps restore pollinator food sources
by Cecilia Wright
There’s a buzz about local woodlands. The Maryland Forest Service is taking part in Feed a Bee, a national program to increase food sources for pollinators by planting wildflowers and establishing additional forage acreage across the nation. Read more…
From the Field: John Wilson
Youghiogheny River; staff photo
After 33 years with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, John Wilson considers himself “the old man” of land planning. He came on board in 1985 fresh from the National Park Service Rivers and Trails Program. He began writing plans for state parks.
His first project was to develop a plan for the south cell of Hart Miller Island. “Ranger Ross Harper took me out there on a Boston Whaler,” he said. “Four-foot waves were smacking the boat. I thought I was going to die.” Read more…
Wye Island by Boat: Paddlers gain new access
Wye Island; by Connie Cremidis
A new public access site on Wye Island in Queen Anne’s County opens the scenic island to new recreational opportunities. With support from outdoor gear manufacturer REI Co-op, whose generous funding matched a grant from the Maryland State Highway Administration’s National Recreational Trails Program, the Chesapeake Conservancy successfully completed the installation of a new canoe and kayak launch. Read more…
Living Proof: Kayaker’s survival validates safety measures
From left: Mark Marra, Bill Walls, Sean Danielson, Lana Lohe, Robert Lohe; by Candy Thomson
With darkness approaching and the numbing cold of the Chesapeake Bay invading his bones, Sean Danielson knew his chances of seeing another dawn were slim.
Bobbing in the bay next to his swamped kayak, his eyes swept the horizon. Freighters on their way to Baltimore were too far away to hail and the pleasure boats that normally swarm the mouth of the West River in summer like bees around a hive were still swaddled in their winter shrink wrap.
“The sun was still above the horizon, but I knew it wouldn’t be long before it disappeared,” recalls Danielson of his predicament April 18, 2018. “I don’t know how much longer I could have gone on.” Read more…
Below the Surface: Identifying unique fish species
Lizardfish; by Andrew David
As a coastal fisheries biologist in Ocean City, I frequently receive a text or an email asking, “What is this fish?”
They typically come from a recreational angler or fellow scientist who has come across something beyond their experience or expertise. Read more…
Top 10 Places to Go Fishing and Hunting in Maryland
Fly fishing; by Matt Shevland
From the rugged Allegheny Mountains to the shores of the Chesapeake Bay to the mid-Atlantic canyons, Maryland has it all for sportsmen and women. Whether you’re a novice going on your first trip or a seasoned sportsman on a getaway with some buddies, you’ll find what you’re after right here. Start planning today with one of these top places to go hunting and fishing in Maryland. Read more…
Maryland Rocks: Amateur mineral hunters find treasure
Map of Maryland provinces
Rockhounding: it’s a passion shared by amateur geologists who hunt for and collect rocks and minerals out in the wild for their study and enjoyment.
It’s a hobby anyone can begin simply by exploring within their own backyard, then expanding to the neighborhood and beyond.
To get started, you’ll need some tools: a rock hammer and magnifying glass, a notebook, eye protection, geology references, sample bags and a backpack if you plan to collect. Read more…
Secretary’s Message: July 2018
Chesapeake Bay Health Earning High Marks
The change is real.
The health of Chesapeake Bay is improving, according to the 2017 Chesapeake Bay Report Card issued by our partners at University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science, which used data from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources and our counterparts in Virginia.
The report card is just one of many indicators of bay progress as we continue marching toward 2025. While the overall grade of “C” has remained steady since 2012, this marks the first year that experts have seen what they call a “statistically significant” positive trend for the entire bay. Read more…
Funding Supports Local Green Infrastructure Projects in Bay Watershed
Partnership Grants Nearly $700,000 to Improve Communities and Provide Jobs
Baltimore City was awarded funding for three projects in the 2018 Chesapeake Bay Green Streets-Green Jobs-Green Towns Grant Program.
The Chesapeake Bay Trust, in partnership with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Maryland Department of Natural Resources, and the City of Baltimore Office of Sustainability announce $693,791 in funding for the Chesapeake Bay “Green Streets, Green Jobs, Green Towns” Grant Program. These grants help communities develop and implement plans that reduce stormwater runoff, increase the number and amount of green spaces in urban areas, improve the health of local rivers, streams, and the Chesapeake Bay, create “green jobs,” and enhance livability in cities and communities. Read more…
Seismometer Installed in Garrett County
Sensor Will Provide Better Data on Earthquake Activity
The Maryland Geological Survey installed a new seismometer on the Garrett College campus in McHenry. The state-of-the-art sensor uses a suspended weight to detect vibrations in the Earth and feeds that signal into a nationwide monitoring system.
Since 2002, the Maryland Geological Survey has maintained a single seismometer at the Soldiers Delight Natural Environment Area in Owings Mills. The additional sensor in Garrett County will help reveal more about formations and faults beneath the eastern United States.
Fishing Rod Loan Program Expanded
Library Patrons Can Check Out Gear and Tackle in Four Counties
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources has partnered with libraries in four counties to enable their patrons to borrow fishing gear free of charge.
The Aquatic Resources Education Program has provided five libraries in Anne Arundel, Carroll, Frederick and Harford counties with rods and reels, tackle, and fishing books, specifically geared toward children.
The following libraries are currently participating in the department program: Eastport-Annapolis Neck Community Library and Mountain Road Community Library in Anne Arundel County; Westminster Branch Library in Carroll County; Brunswick Branch Library in Frederick County; and Joppa Branch Library in Harford County. Read more…
Maryland Fishing Report: June 27
Nick Pirchio caught this striped bass fishing with his dad in Chesapeake Bay, when they tried some jigging after spotting some bait. Photo courtesy of Nick Pirchio
We’ve all heard it – 10 percent of anglers catch 90 percent of the fish. Good fishermen are often able to anticipate or adjust to changes in conditions or fish behavior. This trait lies deep in that hunter-gatherer instinct of those who can read the signs that Mother Nature provides them.
This kind of savvy and experience is usually part of what you’re paying for when hiring a charter or guide. Of course it is all the more exciting and certainly more rewarding when we can figure it out by ourselves.
In this first full week of summer, our freshwater fisheries have settled into a predictable pattern. Chesapeake Bay and ocean fisheries are usually in a state of flux and that is especially evident at the moment.
Don’t forget there is one more free fishing day coming up July 4. If you can think of someone who might like fishing, this is a great opportunity for someone to try the sport without buying a license.
Glen Burnie Marina Certified as Maryland Clean Marina
Nabbs Creek Marina Met Voluntary Criteria
Patrick Riordan of Nabbs Creek Marina
An Anne Arundel County marina recently earned its Maryland Clean Marina Award and certification following an inspection from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.
Nabbs Creek Marina in Glen Burnie met all the department’s environmental regulatory requirements as well as voluntary criteria, bringing the total number of clean marinas and partners in the state to 149. Twenty-nine percent of Anne Arundel County marinas are certified as clean. Read more…
Hogan Administration Awards $22 Million for Chesapeake Bay Restoration Projects
18 Chesapeake and Atlantic Coastal Bays Trust Fund Grants Announced
New Year’s Eve Sunrise by Wendy Crowe
The Hogan Administration has awarded funding to 18 recipients through the Chesapeake and Atlantic Coastal Bays Trust Fund to improve the health of Maryland’s waterways. The “Trust Fund” allows Maryland to accelerate Chesapeake Bay restoration and improve water quality by focusing targeted financial investments and resources on the most efficient and cost-effective non-point source pollution control projects.
Trust Fund grants will provide funding to stream and wetland restoration, innovative stormwater management practices, riparian tree buffer plantings and more in multiple counties across the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Read more…
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