Natural Resources News
Maryland Fishing Report: June 6
Photo courtesy of Andy Fox
Note: If you’re looking for the June 13 report, please click here.
The northern snakehead has gotten a lot of press attention and has been called “Frankenfish.” It inspired a movie called “Snakehead Terror” about 8-foot long fish terrorizing a lakeside community, which helped create a common belief that snakeheads can walk on land.
In reality, snakeheads are an invasive species that is spreading quickly through the Chesapeake Bay watershed. They eat anything that moves within their watery environment and they grow large. One saving grace is they make excellent eating and are often what’s for dinner for many fishermen.
The use of any legal recreational gear is considered eligible for a Maryland state record in the invasive division of state records. A Virginia angler currently holds the world record for a hook-and-line snakehead at 17 pounds, 12 ounces. Maryland anglers have taken several larger than that with bow and arrow, including our new state record of 19.9 pounds set on May 24 by Andy Fox in Charles County.
Now we need someone to top these records with hook and line and bring Maryland the bragging rights for the world record – so here’s a tip: Northern snakeheads are aggressive predators and nothing seems to drive them crazier than a buzzbait over or near grass beds.
Maryland Conservation Corps Now Recruiting Young Adults
Award-Winning Program Provides Practical Experience and Skills Training
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 five to seven teams for an 11-month period, beginning in September 2018.
In an average year, Maryland Conservation Corps members will:
- Conduct interpretive state park programming
- Help preserve rich historical heritage sites
- Improve park nature centers
- Maintain hundreds of miles of trails
- Plant thousands of trees
- Provide environmental education programming for Maryland students
- Restore wildlife habitat
- Support the improvement of the Chesapeake and coastal bays
- Work with schools to plant bay grasses
Hispanic Outreach Program Kicks Off at Sandy Point State Park
“Es Mi Parque” Focuses on Conservation, Regulation and Safety
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is endeavoring to keep the conversation going with the growing Hispanic population at state parks with the start of this season’s “Es Mi Parque” or “This is My Park” program.
Sandy Point State Park is hosting the first of a series of events this year June 9, beginning at 9 a.m. Family friendly activities will include aquatic wildlife pastimes, watershed protection games, interactions with “Splash, the Water Safety Dog,” Scales and Tales live animal presentations and programs, Junior Rangers photo booth with props, and hands-on fishing lessons.
Severn River to Receive Boatloads of Water-Filtering Oysters this July
Oyster Recovery Partnership and Severn River Association Seek Community’s Support to Boost Planting to 50 Million Oysters
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Robert Lee of the Oyster Recovery Partnership. Photo by: J. Henson
- The Oyster Recovery Partnership (ORP) and the Severn River Association (SRA) are seeking the community’s support to plant a total of 50 million water-filtering oysters in the Severn River this summer. The fundraising campaign, Operation Build a Reef, presents a unique opportunity for the public to purchase bushels of juvenile oysters to further boost already-scheduled oyster reef restoration efforts taking place this July.
“Operation Build a Reef serves as an exciting opportunity for residents to make a real, tangible difference in the health of their local waterway,” said ORP Executive Director Stephan Abel. “With the help of Severn River friends and supporters, we can take advantage of the resources already being devoted this large scale oyster reef project and maximize the amount of oysters the river will receive.”
Earlier this year, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources contracted ORP to produce and plant 40 million oysters onto a carefully selected oyster reef in the Severn River, a 13-acre protected sanctuary between the Naval Academy and Severn River bridges.
Maryland Land Conservation Conference Focused on Future
Annual Event Unites Multitude of Stewardship Partners
The Maryland Environmental Trust recently welcomed more than 140 people from 83 organizations – land trusts, conservancies, governmental organizations, heritage organizations, members of the agricultural community and other partners – to its 2018 Maryland Land Conservation Conference.
The event, held May 17 at the Maritime Conference Center in Linthicum Heights, explored land conservation and stewardship, using science and technology to further conservation goals, attracting the next generation of conservation and community stewards, and enhancing organizational development and sustainability.
Secretary’s Message: June 2018
Resilience Favors the Prepared State
June marks the beginning of hurricane season, but unfortunately we have already seen the devastating effects that torrential rain and storms can cause in our communities, most recently in Baltimore City, Catonsville, Ellicott City and Washington County. My thoughts and prayers are with all the communities and citizens affected by the recent flooding there.
Maryland is a state built around our waterways and we are uniquely susceptible to flooding and storm surge, especially in those communities at or near our 3,100 miles of coastline. For that reason, adaptation and resilience against climate-related weather threats is an ongoing priority for the Maryland Department of Natural Resources and our many partners.
Governor Larry Hogan Congratulates Students at Green Schools Youth Summit
Cheers On Students’ Efforts to Become Stewards of Maryland’s Environment
Governor Larry Hogan today attended the 9th Annual Maryland Green Schools Youth Summit, held at Sandy Point State Park in Annapolis, where he greeted more than 2,750 students and educators from across the state.
The governor congratulated the students and schools on achieving the Maryland Green Schools Award from Maryland Association for Environmental and Outdoor Education, and presented a Governor’s Citation to the organization’s Executive Director, Laura Johnson Collard.
“To the students here today – your understanding of conservation, and your role in creating a green and healthy environment will be important for any job or career you choose to pursue,” said Governor Hogan. “To all of the teachers and schools represented here today – thank you for ensuring that Maryland students have opportunities to participate in these important and educational stewardship projects.” Read more…
Grant Money Available for Maryland Volunteer Fire Departments
Funds Provide Financial and Technical Assistance to Enhance Capabilities
In Maryland, about 5,000 wildfires are reported each year, and more than 300 volunteer fire departments across the state respond to these blazes, which, on average, burn less than 10 acres.
To assist local fire departments, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources is once again offering critical grant funding through its Volunteer Fire Assistance Program to help fortify and strengthen wildland firefighting capabilities statewide. Read more…
Maryland Fishing Report: May 30
Photo by Letha Grimes
Memorial Day weekend is now behind us – an important pause to remember and reflect on those who gave their lives for the freedoms and rights that we all enjoy. It also means the “summer” season has begun.
The fishing rodeo season is in full swing. For those not initiated, these are free youth fishing events held around the state by civic organizations and partners for the enjoyment of children and families. The sites are usually well stocked with fish and it is great fun with a little bit of a competitive edge tossed in for the kids, with prizes and trophies.
Gather up your kids – or perhaps a group of neighborhood kids – and head out to one of these fun events near you.
Mechanicsville Man Catches Record Snakehead in Charles County
Invasive Fish Tipped Scales at 19.9 Pounds
Andy Fox with his record-breaking northern snakehead
It was a long, memorable Memorial Day weekend for 41-year-old Andrew “Andy” Fox of Mechanicsville. Fox, along with two of his closest friends headed to Indian Head, Mattawoman Creek, in Charles County for a little overnight bowfishing for northern snakehead.
The trio was out on the water for a few hours the night of May 24, waiting for low tide, but despite the favorable tides, recent rains made visibility nearly impossible. Read more…
Deep Creek Lake Water Quality Monitoring Data Now Online
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources has released a new online resource to help residents and visitors of Deep Creek Lake stay up to date on water quality data and information.
Eyes on Deep Creek Lake is a new interactive feature on the department’s Eyes on the Bay page, and places the Garrett County lake’s comprehensive water quality data readily available to the public.
Spring Turkey Hunters Harvest 3,861 Gobblers
Five Counties Report Record Harvests
Photo by Erik Yetter
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources announced today that hunters reported harvesting 3,861 wild turkeys during the 2018 regular spring and junior hunt turkey seasons. This year’s harvest was 8 percent lower than the record 2017 harvest, but well above the 10-year average of 3,406.
“Turkey populations continue to grow in a few areas of the state, but several years of below-average reproduction has reduced numbers in most regions,” Wildlife and Heritage Service Director Paul Peditto said. Read more…
Work2Live WELL Job Skills Program Graduates First Class
18 Participants Complete Program for Green Careers
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources, in partnership with the Maryland Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation, this week presented certificates to graduates of a new workforce development, skills and training program, Work2Live WELL.
Participants engaged in eight weeks of professional and personal development designed to provide access to the emerging ‘green’ careers fields in the environment and natural resources. Read more…
Point Lookout State Park Looks Back on the War Between the States at Annual Blue and Gray Days
Living History Program Featured June 9 and 10
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources welcomes the public to Point Lookout State Park in St. Mary’s County as they look back on the War Between the States and the historic sites within the park that were impacted in the conflicted that divided North and South.
The annual Blue and Gray Days living history program will take place 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. June 9, and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. June 10.
During the annual Blue and Gray Days, living historians will show what life was like during this time period in the fort and the prisoner of war camp as well as perform infantry drills and musket demonstrations. Read more…
Fort Frederick Hosts Pollinator Planting June 2
Help Sought in Effort to Bring Monarch Butterflies
The public is invited to help Fort Frederick State Park and the Monarch Alliance place 500 plants in the park’s new pollinator habitat June 2. Registration starts at 8:30 a.m, with planting beginning at 9 a.m.
“The 500 native plants provided by the alliance will allow the park to create a way station for a wide variety of pollinators,” said Maryland Park Ranger Jeremiah Corbin.
The five-acre pollinator habitat is located at the park’s visitors center.
Junior Hunter Field Day Set in Multiple Locations June 2
Budding Outdoor Enthusiasts Can Get Expert Guidance
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources invites young Marylanders with an interest in fishing, hunting, shooting sports or wildlife management to Junior Hunter Field Day events June 2 in Anne Arundel, Baltimore and Queen Anne’s counties. The free events are designed for those aged 8 to 16.
Certified hunter safety instructors along with wildlife experts and professionals will provide instruction in a safe, mentored setting with all equipment being provided. Read more…
Maryland Fishing Report: May 23
Photo by Letha Grimes
Many of us found ourselves fishing in the rain last week. I was with a friend on the lower Choptank River last week enjoying some striped bass topwater action — the fishing was fun and the overcast weather showed us one of nature’s many moods to be enjoyed.
Often less-than-perfect weather gives us a unique perspective on the world around us. As we all know, the fish do not care if it’s raining and low light conditions can be beneficial.
Heading into Memorial Day weekend it looks like we’ll have a little respite from the rain. Whether you will be heading to the mountains of Maryland, to the coastal areas, or staying closer to home, be sure to spend close-up time with those dear to you. There is no better way to do that than fishing together.
Maryland Waterway Improvement Fund Awards $12.5 Million
Projects Funded Statewide for Better Boating Access, Navigation and Safety
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is providing $12.5 million in Waterway Improvement Fund grants to enhance and improve public boating access, facilities and navigation throughout the state.
This critical Fiscal Year 2019 funding will go toward 57 projects in 18 counties, from Garrett to Wicomico counties as well as Baltimore City.
Wild Turtles Should Never Be Taken as Pets
Lovable Maryland Reptiles Belong in their Natural Habitat
It’s that time of year when turtles may be seen more frequently. Irresistible as turtles may be, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources urges people to resist the temptation and to leave these reptiles in the wild.
Helpful Marylanders do sometimes move turtles off roads to protect them from traffic. This should only be done with extreme caution, and the turtle should only be removed far enough to be out of danger. That should be the extent of human interference.
There are no good outcomes to removing a turtle from the wild. Baby turtles are cute but they become big, can live for decades, and may outgrow their aquariums or other artificial habitats. Captive turtles often do not survive being released into the wild and released pet turtles may introduce diseases into wild populations, especially if they were kept in a home with other animals. Read more…
Fort Frederick State Park Hosts Summer Discovery Weekend
Special Events Include Children’s Fishing, Geology Program and Night Hike
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources welcomes the public to enjoy Memorial Day weekend at Fort Frederick State Park May 26-28 during their Summer Discovery Weekend program. Activities will take place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. Saturday night will feature a unique nocturnal hike starting at 8 p.m.
Please ask for the day’s schedule when arriving at the park. Activities are located within the fort, at the nature center and along the trails. Food, gifts, and souvenir items will be available for sale at Captain Wort’s Sutler Shop.
Maryland Announces First State-Led Climate Leadership Academy
Effort to Support Communities in Sustainability Planning
Maryland is launching the nation’s first state-sponsored Climate Leadership Academy to help local governments, critical infrastructure organizations and state agencies effectively plan, prepare and implement climate change initiatives.
At a launch event on the first day of Maryland’s inaugural State of the Coast conference, senior state and local officials and decision-makers developed a vision for the academy, which will be an important resource to help public and private sector incorporate the impacts of climate change into their decision-making and planning. Read more…
26 Maryland Parks and Playgrounds Receive $2.5 Million in Funding
Now Accepting Grant Applications for Next Year
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources announced the awarding of 26 Community Parks and Playgrounds Program grants – totaling $2.5 million – to local municipalities across Maryland.
From new playground equipment in Bowie and softball field lights in Delmar to tennis court repairs in Friendsville and new basketball courts in Vienna, the program provides essential state funding for the creation, enhancement and renovation of local recreational amenities and facilities in Maryland’s incorporated cities and towns.
“Through this dedicated funding stream, Maryland’s communities and towns can build, maintain and upgrade local playgrounds and parks, improving the quality of life of children and families,” Maryland Natural Resources Secretary Mark Belton said. “The program enhances accessibility and outdoor recreation while encouraging youth to play outdoors.”
Swim Healthy—Stay Healthy
Maryland’s Departments of Health, the Environment, and Natural Resources Raise Awareness for National Healthy and Safe Swimming Week
Ocean City Beach by Joseph H. Soares Jr
National Healthy and Safe Swimming Week runs May 21-27, the week leading up to Memorial Day, the unofficial start of summer. The Secretaries of Maryland’s Departments of Health, the Environment, and Natural Resources encourage all Marylanders to take note of swimming safety tips to ensure a safe and healthy swimming experience—no matter where they swim. Read more…
New Tool Provides Conservation Report Card for Every Land Parcel
Rates Conservation Benefits and Values Across Maryland
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources launched an innovative new tool to evaluate the conservation benefits and ecosystem “value” of every parcel of land across the state.
The Parcel Evaluation Tool was designed to identify and prioritize the conservation and protection of ecologically important, sensitive, and valuable land and watershed resources in Maryland for use by the department, land conservation organizations and trusts, local and state planners, and individual property owners. Read more…
Maryland Fishing Report: May 16
Rodney Butler got to spend a fine day with his brother Derrick while fishing at Piney Run Park. Photo by Derrick Butler
Most anglers know we had been going through a bit of a dry spell for several weeks, but, oh boy, did that come to an end. The heavy rains and stormy conditions moving through the state the past few days are expected to last through the weekend.
But the sun will shine again and it will be time to share the outdoors with family and friends. Fishing offers family time – catching up or reminiscing about growing up together – like no other activity.
There are some free fishing days coming up June 2, 9 and July 4. If you can think of someone you might like to introduce to fishing, this is a great opportunity for someone to try the sport without buying a license.
Board of Public Works Approves Fair Hill Funding
Design Work to Begin as Facility Prepares to Host International Equestrian Competition
The Board of Public Works unanimously approved a Maryland Department of Natural Resources item that will authorize $1 million for design improvement services at Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area in anticipation of the Cecil County site hosting a newly-designated, international equestrian event.
The venue is slated to become only one of seven sites to host a premier 4-star or 5-star three-day eventing competition.
“The state is committed to bringing this world-renowned equestrian eventing competition to Cecil County and Fair Hill,” Maryland Natural Resources Secretary Mark Belton said. Read more…
Horseshoe Crab Migration Begins on Maryland Beaches
People Can Help Protect Species on Ancient Spawning Run
In the coming weeks, visitors to Maryland’s coastal bays and beaches can experience one of the world’s oldest migrations – horseshoe crabs emerging to spawn, as they’ve done here for the last 350 million years.
Massive numbers of these “living fossils” will come out of the depths of the Atlantic Ocean in May and June to lay their eggs on shore. The greatest number of horseshoe crabs can be found on Maryland beaches during the full moon, May 29 and June 28, and new moon, June 13 and July 12. Read more…
New Striped Bass Regulations Effective May 16
Enhanced Conservation Rules on Use of Bait and Hooks; Minimum Size Reduced to 19 Inches
Fishing at Thomas Point Lighthouse; photo by Kim Cover
The opening of regular striped bass season May 16 coincides with new conservation-minded regulations pertaining to the use of bait, gear and hooks.
The Maryland General Assembly Joint Committee Administrative, Executive and Legislative Review Committee recently approved Maryland Department of Natural Resources regulations, which will be effective through Oct. 12, 2018.
Beginning May 16, 2018, in Chesapeake Bay and its tidal tributaries:
- Anglers must use non-offset circle hooks when live-lining or chumming;
- Anglers must use circle hooks or “J” hooks when using fish, crabs or worms as bait, or when using processed baits; and
- The minimum size for striped bass is 19 inches.
‘VenomMan20’ Guilty of Possessing Illegal, Venomous Snakes
Police Handle Oyster and Striped Bass Violations
A Washington County man known on social media as “VenomMan20” was found guilty Tuesday on two counts of illegal possession of venomous snakes.
Brandon Joseph Boyles, 29, of Cascade, was prohibited from owning “dangerous animals” in Maryland and was required to perform 20 hours of community service by District Judge Marc G. Rasinsky. Boyles also received one year of unsupervised probation.
Billing himself as “VenomMan20” on YouTube, Boyles had six Western diamondback rattlesnakes, one seven-foot-long forest cobra, one Cape Coral cobra and two boomslang snakes when Maryland Natural Resources Police officers searched his apartment Feb. 22. Read more…
Maryland Offers License-Free Fishing Days in June and July
Statewide Opportunity to Give Angling a Try
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources invites new or experienced anglers to enjoy Maryland’s License Free Fishing Days June 2, 9 and July 4.
This is a unique opportunity for Marylanders to test their fishing skills without the need to obtain a fishing license, trout stamp or registration.
Maryland Fishing Report: May 9
Nick Long had some topwater catch and release fun while fishing with his mom and dad on the Chesapeake Bay this past weekend. Photo by Travis Long
Those who fish know that the waters they love have many moods, and perhaps one of our favorites is when they are quiet and calm.
This past weekend with overcast skies and little wind was one of those times that the waters we fish seem to talk to us – from the bubbling mountain streams, to the calmer waters of ponds, lakes and Chesapeake Bay.
Fort Frederick Rallies Troops To Garrison the Fort
Historic Reenactments May 12-13
Living historians will occupy and re-enact daily life at the centuries-old fort on the grounds of Fort Frederick State Park May 12-13 and the public is invited to attend.
Activities will take place 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 12, and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. May 13.
Volunteer re-enactors will demonstrate how the military encampment was established and operated, also known as garrisoning, when Fort Frederick was an important military stronghold during the French and Indian War. Events will include musket firing presentations, hearth cooking, artillery demonstrations and military drills. Read more…
Survey Shows Chesapeake Bay Blue Crab Population Healthy
Despite a Cold Winter, More Young Crabs are in the Bay
Photo by Katie Macdonald
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources today released the results of the 2018 Blue Crab Winter Dredge Survey, which shows that the population of blue crabs remains healthy and sustainable.
While this year’s cold weather and ice cover took a toll on the adult crab population, causing an estimated 35 percent mortality of adult females wintering in state waters, the number of young crabs that returned to Chesapeake Bay this year increased 34 percent. Blue crabs spend the first part of their lives in the Atlantic Ocean before returning to the bay to grow and mature.
“Despite the cold, hard winter, which extended well into the spring, the blue crab population remains healthy, resilient and sustainable,” Maryland Natural Resources Secretary Mark Belton said. “Even with the erratic weather, which included snow in April, the blue crab population remains well within parameters, showing that the state and our partners are managing the species well.” Read more…
Conservation Corps Plants Native Trees in Prince George’s County
Nearly 700 Trees Planted at Merkle Wildlife Sanctuary
The Maryland Park Service recently completed an important environmental restoration project, planting hundreds of native trees at Merkle Wildlife Sanctuary in Prince George’s County. It is the only wildlife sanctuary managed by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.
Last week, members of the Maryland Conservation Corps and Veterans Conservation Corps planted 691 trees in an old agricultural field along the 2-mile section of the Chesapeake Bay Critical Area Driving Tour located in the sanctuary.
Marylanders Reminded to Keep Fawns Wild
Removing Wild Animals is Unnecessary, Dangerous and Illegal
Photo by Christine Boltz
Late spring is the prime birthing time for white-tailed deer and the Maryland Department of Natural Resources reminds anyone who encounters a fawn to avoid disturbing it. While young deer often appear to be orphaned, in most cases, the doe is nearby feeding and will return to care of her young.
Too often, people find and remove fawns from the wild, believing they are helping an orphaned animal, when in fact they may be causing great harm.
Natural Resources Police Celebrates 150th Anniversary at Sandy Point
“Great Outdoors Maryland” 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 12
To recognize the 150th anniversary of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources invites the public to a free open house 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 12, at Sandy Point State Park.
The celebratory event, “Great Outdoors Maryland,” will showcase the missions of law enforcement agencies and affiliated conservation partners.
Maryland Fishing Report Now Available as Amazon Alexa Skill
Innovative Partnership Enhances Communications and Customer Service
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources announced today that it is expanding its communications channels and services to include Amazon Echo.
Through an innovative partnership with NIC Maryland, the department will now offer the Maryland Fishing Report, which provides anglers with the latest fishing hotspots, catch of the week, water and weather conditions and more, as an Alexa Skill.
Anglers can use the new Skill on a desired Amazon device by simply saying “Alexa, open Maryland Fishing Report.” Then they can choose to hear the entire fishing report or information for specific areas or regions, including the upper, middle or lower Chesapeake Bay, freshwater fishing or Atlantic Ocean and coastal bays.
Fort Frederick Hosts Western Maryland Rail Trail Bike Tour
Guided Ride May 5
All are invited to a free guided bike tour along the Western Maryland Rail Trail beginning at 10 a.m. May 5.
The 20-mile round trip will begin at at the C&O Bicycle Shop, located at 9 South Pennsylvania Ave. in Hancock.
Fort Frederick State Park naturalist Ellen Kinzer will lead the group at a leisurely pace, highlighting the historical ruins marked by interpretive signs along with the spectacular wildflower-laced trail. Read more…
Junior Hunter Field Day Set for May 19
Registration Open to Budding Outdoor Enthusiasts
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources invites young Marylanders with an interest in fishing, hunting, shooting sports or wildlife management to a free Junior Hunter Field Day at the Western Maryland 4-H Center in Garrett County May 19. The event is designed for youth aged 8 to 16.
Participants will have the opportunity to learn about and try activities such as aerial archery, mentored fishing, rifle marksmanship and turkey hunting practice.
New Combined Licensing and Registration Service Center Opens in Cumberland
Centralized Location Becomes “One-Stop Shop” for Services
Cumberland residents and those living in the surrounding area now have one central location to complete their Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration and Maryland Department of Natural Resources transactions.
As part of Governor Hogan’s Customer Service Promise to make services more accessible to Marylanders, the Department of Natural Resources has opened a service center in the Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration Cumberland branch office. Read more…
Maryland Fishing Report: May 2
Violet Sisler spent a fun time with her mom using her Barbie fishing rod to catch her first trout. The smiles say it all! Photo by Rebecca Sisler
Warmer and more seasonable weather has finally descended upon the Maryland landscape, offering a wonderful time to enjoy the outdoors. The warm air temperatures and sunny weather, along with relatively cool water temperatures make for perfect fishing conditions in many local waters.
Community ponds, trout management waters and lakes offer fun shoreline fishing adventures that are particularly tuned for children. Many are stocked with bluegills, and some are stocked with trout and set aside for youth fishing. There are also fishing rodeos and other youth events held all over the state.
Park Quest Kicks Off Outdoor Adventures for 2018
Registration for Popular Annual Program Now Open; 1,000 Slots Available
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources has opened registration for Park Quest, the beloved family-based outdoor adventure program in state parks throughout Maryland.
Park Quest aims to engage families in outdoor activities throughout the summer and fall by encouraging them to experience Maryland’s vast cultural, historical and natural resources on public lands and parks.
Through this annual program, 1,000 qualifying teams (usually families) will get an opportunity to complete outdoor excursions at 20 different sites, June 1 through Dec. 1. Read more…
Bird Safe Windows
Bird window strike; photo by Jon D. Anderson, Flickr CC by NC ND 2.0
BAM! Have you ever had a bird hit one of your windows?
Nearly a billion birds collide with windows each year, half of which happen with home windows.
Unfortunately, the majority of birds die as a result of their injuries; even those that may be able to fly away often sustain life-threatening injuries. The good news is that window collisions are easy to reduce at many houses. Read more…
Flower Flies
Syphrid flies; photo by Judy Gallagher, Flickr CC by 2.0
It’s a bee! No, it’s a fly!
Have you ever seen a fly masquerading as a bee in the garden? If so, then you may have encountered a flower or syrphid fly.
More than 130 species of flower flies are found in Maryland, and these animals serve both as important pollinators as well as predators in the garden. Read more…
Moss Phlox
Wild moss phlox; photo by Fritz Flohr Reynolds SA 2.0
Are you in need of a good, native groundcover?
Moss phlox (Phlox subulata) is a creeping groundcover in the Phlox family (Polemoniaceae). This herbaceous perennial grows up to 9 inches tall and forms mats across the ground. It prefers full sun, but it can grow in sandy or rocky soil just as well as loamy soil. However it cannot tolerate wet conditions.
In Maryland, wild populations can be found throughout the Piedmont and in the western region. Cultivated populations can grow throughout the state. Read more…
Deer Resistant Plants for Pollinators
A doe munches on a butterfly garden; photo by Kerry Wixted
In sections of Maryland, high concentrations of white-tailed deer have created a demand for “deer proof” plants. In reality, though, there is no such thing. Deer may nibble on anything once, especially when hungry, but they do dislike aromatics, prickly leaves and thorns.
Unfortunately, many of the “deer proof” plants offered at stores include invasive species, such as the commonly planted Japanese barberry (Berberis thunbergii). The lack of browsing by deer aids barberry in its spread into natural areas where it outcompetes native plants and fosters habitat for ticks.
A better alternative to planting invasive species is to look for Maryland native plants that are deer resistant. Read more…
Secretary’s Message: May 2018
Commission Hits the Ground Running
Recently the Maryland Outdoor Recreation Economic Commission held its first meeting – and we’re ready to hit the road.
Created by Governor Larry Hogan last fall, this commission will develop innovative strategies to market Maryland’s unique outdoor and heritage recreation brand, as well as recommend initiatives to attract and retain outdoor recreation companies and revenue.
With 17 commissioners set to meet through December 2019, plus Commerce Secretary Mike Gill and me as co-chairs, we’re tasked to help ensure that our state’s natural heritage is strengthened, bringing about new businesses, increased visitation and tourism, and ultimately enhance and preserve our natural resources for this and future generations. Read more…
Natural Resources Police Handle Oyster, Striped Bass and Turkey Violations
A Dorchester County man caught illegally harvesting oysters inside a state sanctuary November by Natural 1, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources helicopter, was found guilty and fined $1,000.
Jody Daniel Jackson, 18, of East New Market pleaded guilty in Dorchester County District Court to a single count of harvesting oysters about 2.5 miles inside a sanctuary in the Little Choptank River. Read more…
Hogan Administration Brings New Licensing and Registration Service Center to Annapolis
Combined Center includes Driving, Fishing, Hunting, Boating and Crabbing Licenses
Residents of Annapolis and the surrounding area are now able to complete Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration and Maryland Department of Natural Resources transactions in one convenient location. As part of Governor Hogan’s Customer Service Promise to make services more accessible to Marylanders, a new combined service center has opened at 160 Harry S. Truman Parkway in Annapolis.
“Since taking office in 2015, one of my top priorities has been to provide Marylanders with the highest level of customer service and to reshape the image of state government being slow and inefficient,” said Governor Larry Hogan.
Over the past year, several combined service centers have opened across the state in Bel Air, Essex, Frederick, Salisbury and now Annapolis. Since April 26, 2017, nearly 30,000 transactions have been completed at these combined service centers. Read more…
Weekly Fishing Report: April 25
Gregory Martin was fishing the area where Nanticoke River striped bass exit into the bay and caught this beautiful 51-inch, 48-pound striped bass. Photo by Brad Martin
Patience is supposed to be the hallmark of an angler, but many had theirs strained this past opening weekend for trophy striped bass season. Most understand it has been a chilly spring, and low water temperatures have delayed striped bass spawning in the tidal rivers.
In the past couple of days we have seen water temperatures finally reach acceptable temperatures for the fish. There was a big spawn on the Choptank River, and the Nanticoke, Patuxent and Potomac rivers should be on the same general schedule.
The striped bass that have spawned in the past few days will make their way down the tidal rivers and should hit bay areas in a few days. There is warmer weather predicted so there will be more spawning action – meaning the 2018 trophy striped bass season should kick into gear this weekend and for the next couple of weeks. Good luck out there and remember fishing is supposed to be fun.
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