Natural Resources News
Chesapeake Bay Hypoxia Report – August 2023
Early August dissolved oxygen conditions best on record for time period
Data collected by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources and Old Dominion University show that August 2023 dissolved oxygen conditions in the Chesapeake Bay mainstem of Maryland and Virginia continued to be much better than average.
The results are from samples collected during regular, twice-monthly monitoring cruises conducted by research vessels. Throughout the summer, the cruises have recorded hypoxic areas of the Bay – water with low enough dissolved oxygen to harm marine life – that have been smaller than those recorded in previous years. Read more…
Fall 2023 Trout Stocking to Begin Across Maryland
Maryland Department of Natural Resources photo.
Fishing spots to receive trout allotments in October
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources will begin fall trout stocking in early October. Department crews will transport thousands of state hatchery-raised brown, golden, and rainbow trout and release them in select creeks, rivers, lakes, and ponds across the state.
Due to several variables that can alter schedules, stocking sites and times are not announced in advance, but are available immediately afterward. Anglers are encouraged to sign up for email updates to receive the latest stocking information. Read more…
Maryland Fall Foliage Report – September 21, 2023 – Autumn Colors Beginning to Pop
“When summer gathers up her robes of glory, and, like a dream, glides away.”
– Sarah Helen Whitman
Photo of Sideling Hill State Park, by Ranger Kendra Bree.
Most of Maryland’s tree canopies are still vibrant green, but there are pops of color to be found, even in southern Maryland, one of the last regions to reveal fall color change. The western portion of our state remains very dry with drought conditions ranging from abnormally dry to moderate, but a system off the coastline promises to bring gusty winds and downpours over the weekend.
Will this much needed rain benefit fall leaf change? According to Maryland Department of Natural Resources Forester Aaron Cook, this system “could help offset drought conditions but will likely not reverse the course on drought stress impacts to fall color from an entire growing season of drought conditions.” Read more…
Maryland Fishing Report – September 20
Peter and Camile Schwarb enjoyed some fun fishing for white perch recently at Loch Raven Reservoir. Photo courtesy Peter and Camile Schwarb.
September weather makes for comfortable fishing, and cooler water temperatures often mean better fishing opportunities.
Read more…
Wicomico County Angler Catches Record Florida Pompano
The warm water species was added to Maryland record books in 2019 after becoming more common in state waterways
Bobby Graves of Salisbury as the third official Maryland state record holder for the Florida pompano in the Chesapeake Division. Photo courtesy Bobby Graves, used with permission.
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources has officially recognized Bobby Graves of Salisbury as the third official state record holder for the Florida pompano (Trachinotus carolinus) in the Chesapeake Division.
Graves caught the record-breaking 6.44-pound fish in the Chesapeake Bay near Bloodsworth Island, Dorchester County, on September 17. He caught this impressive pompano while fishing for spotted sea trout using soft crab for bait. The fork length of the fish was 20.25 inches, and the total length to the tip of the tail was 22 inches. Read more…
2023-2024 Trapping Bid Packets Now Available for Eastern Shore Public Lands
E.A. Vaughn Wildlife Management Area in Worcester County is among the 20 state public lands on the Eastern Shore accepting bids for trapping privileges. Maryland Department of Natural Resources photo.
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is currently accepting bids for the 2023-2024 trapping season at several Wildlife Management Areas and other public lands. Deadlines for submitting bid packages are in October. The individual with the highest bid for each area will be awarded annual trapping privileges. Read more…
New State Fishing Record Set for Sheepshead
Record fish caught in Tangier Sound, breaks record held for three years
Angler Brian Summerlin with his state record Sheepshead. Photo courtesy Brian Summerlin, used with permission.
A Somerset County resident has officially been recognized by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources for a new state fishing record in the Chesapeake Bay Division for sheepshead (Archosargus probatocephalus).
Brian Summerlin, of Princess Anne, caught the 16.6-pound fish September 17 in Tangier Sound off Crisfield in about 15 feet of water. Summerlin was targeting sheepshead using soft crab rigged on a sliding sinker “fishfinder rig” with an 8/0 circle hook, and a spinning rod with 60-pound braid and a 60-pound fluorocarbon leader. He had been catching a mix of black drum, striped bass, bluefish and other species before encountering the eventual record-breaker. Read more…
Maryland Migratory Game Bird Stamp Design Contest Now Open
Original artwork can be submitted until November 3, 2023; this will be final year of contest
Gerry Putt won the 49th Annual Maryland Migratory Game Bird Stamp Design Contest in 2022 with his stunning painting of three American wigeon
Artists are invited to submit their original works for the 50th Maryland Migratory Game Bird stamp design contest through November 3, 2023. This will be the last migratory bird stamp contest hosted by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, as a physical stamp is no longer required for hunting waterfowl. Read more…
Maryland Fall Foliage Forecast 2023
“Life starts all over again when it gets crisp in the fall.” -F. Scott Fitzgerald
Fall officially kicks off Saturday, September 23, 2023—the same day as the autumn equinox—in the Northern Hemisphere. Many of us in Maryland are looking forward to leaving behind the days of record-breaking heat and welcoming clear, blue skies, cooler evenings and autumnal tree canopies. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources once again will present its weekly Fall Foliage Report, posted online and sent by email bulletin to subscribers.
What can we expect from fall foliage this year and when can leaf peepers catch a glimpse of fall’s best colors? Read more…
2023 Maryland Natural Resource Photo Contest Winners Announced
Fan Favorite Winner to Be Chosen on Facebook
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources has announced the winners of the 20th annual Maryland Natural Resource Photo Contest, with the grand prize going to Dallin Johnson of Huntingtown for his photo of a gray tree frog.
This year’s grand prize package includes $500, a Maryland State Park and Trail Passport, free entry into next years contest, and five copies of the 2023 calendar with the winning image displayed on the cover. In addition to the overall grand prize winner, the judges selected first through third place winners in four seasonal categories—winter, spring, summer, and fall.
This year’s contest received over 1,300 photos. Read more…
Secretary’s Message: September 2023
Providing education resources for the emerging green workforce is a natural fit
Maryland Conservation Corps members at their graduation ceremony August 3, 2023, at Wye Island Natural Resource Management Area. Maryland Department of Natural Resources photo
The beginning of the school year always brims with promise and excitement. For many who are close to graduating, it’s time to explore their options in the workforce.
I hope they’ll consider a career in natural resources and conservation.
Right now, there is a great need in Maryland and around the nation for workers skilled in managing natural resources and building resiliency into the landscape as we confront challenges ranging from climate change impacts to the spread of invasive species. Read more…
Maryland Fishing Report – September 13
This large red drum was caught and released recently. Photo by Travis Long
Hopefully we have endured the last heat wave of the 2023 summer season. Cooler weather is predicted in the coming days and soon cool nights will begin to lower water temperatures. In the meantime, there is plenty of fun and exciting fishing to be had.
Read more…
Maryland 2023 Black Bear Hunt Lottery Results Announced
Illustration by Larry Smail for the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources has announced the lottery results for the 2023 black bear hunt. Having been selected by random drawing, the 950 successful applicants will receive a permit valid for the six-day hunting season open from October 23-28 in Allegany, Frederick, Garrett, and Washington counties. Read more…
Maryland Fishing Report – September 6
Matheo Korin and his dad teamed up recently on this nice cobia. Photo courtesy of Chris Korin
Although schools are now open and vacation season is mostly done, good summer fishing continues across Maryland. Take some time on the weekends and after-school hours to enjoy fishing together. Read more…
Applications Being Accepted for 2024 Keep Maryland Beautiful Grants
In 2021, Keep Maryland Beautiful grant recipient Montgomery Parks Foundation Program engaged 2,185 volunteers and 75 volunteer groups in 126 cleanup events. Maryland Department of Natural Resources photo.
The Maryland Departments of Natural Resources, Transportation, and Agriculture, along with the Chesapeake Bay Trust, are partnering to accept applications for this year’s Keep Maryland Beautiful Grants program.
These grants are offered annually to volunteer groups, nonprofit organizations, communities, and land trusts in Maryland to support environmental education projects, community stewardship, and the protection of natural resources in urban and rural areas. The deadline to apply for funding is November 15, 2023. Awards will be announced in March 2024. Read more…
Archery Deer Hunting Season Opens Sept. 8 Across Maryland
Photo by Patricia Neal, submitted to the 2021 Maryland Natural Resource Photo Contest
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources announced the archery hunting season for white-tailed and sika deer opens statewide Sept. 8 and ends Jan. 31, 2024.
Archers may also use vertical longbows and vertical recurve bows Feb. 1-3, 2024 during the second annual Primitive Deer Hunt Days. Read more…
Chesapeake Bay Hypoxia Report – July 2023
Dissolved oxygen conditions continue to be much better than average
Data collected by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources and Old Dominion University show that July 2023 dissolved oxygen conditions in the Chesapeake Bay mainstem of Maryland and Virginia continued to be much better than average.
The results are from samples collected during regular, twice-monthly monitoring cruises conducted by research vessels. Read more…
Maryland Begins Migratory Game Bird Hunting Seasons for 2023-2024
Mourning dove, early resident Canada Goose seasons begin Sept. 1
Canada geese, photo by Larry Hindman, Maryland Department of Natural Resources
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources has announced the state’s 2023-2024 migratory game bird hunting seasons, the first of which begin Sept. 1.
Bag limits, season dates, and shooting hours can be found in the 2023-2024 Maryland Guide to Hunting and Trapping. Read more…
Maryland Fishing Report – August 30
Logan Zupancic got to go fishing with his dad recently and is very happy to hold up his first Spanish mackerel for the camera. Photo by Marty Zupancic
As we go into the Labor Day weekend, there is still plenty of summer fishing action to be shared with family and friends.
Remember that while you are fishing, you can also be a citizen scientist! Take a few minutes to help Department of Natural Resources biologists monitor our various fish populations by filling out a volunteer angler survey on the species you’re catching. On the department website, just search for volunteer angler surveys to find your fish and enter the requested data. For ease of use, you can also access the surveys through the free AccessDNR app.
Maryland Awards $34.6 Million in Rural Legacy Program Grants
Funding will protect 7,400 acres statewide with largest appropriation in program’s history
Manor Rural Legacy Area in Baltimore and Harford counties is among 21 grant recipients. Maryland Department of Natural Resources photo.
Maryland will provide more than than $34.6 million in Rural Legacy Program grants to county governments and land trusts to purchase conservation easements in designated Rural Legacy Areas throughout the state. The Board of Public Works unanimously approved the funding on August 23.
“From Mountain Maryland to the coastal plains of the Eastern Shore, the Moore-Miller Administration is committed to maintaining the character of our state’s rural landscapes,” said Maryland Department of Natural Resources Secretary Josh Kurtz, who serves as the chair of the Rural Legacy Board. “This record amount of funding will enable us to protect and preserve Maryland’s farms and forests with local nonprofit land trust partners, willing landowners, and county governments. The program allows us to work in partnership with these local sponsors to support rural economies while at the same time enhancing water quality and wildlife habitat.” Read more…
Maryland Department of Natural Resources Offers Mentored Deer Hunts in Dorchester County
‘First Shot’ program is designed for first-time adult hunters
Photo by Earl Blansfield, submitted to the 2020 Maryland Natural Resource Photo Contest.
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is offering novice adult hunters an opportunity to hunt for deer at Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge and surrounding areas in Dorchester County this October.
The First Shot Mentored Deer Hunt introduces first time adult hunters (18 and older) that do not otherwise have the skill set or knowledge to hunt deer on their own, and would like to learn and hunt with skilled veteran hunters. The department runs the program in partnership with the National Wild Turkey Federation Maryland State Chapter and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Read more…
Maryland State Fair Kicks Off for 2023
Maryland Department of Natural Resources highlights outdoor recreation in exhibits at the Mosner Miller Building beginning Aug. 24
The Maryland Forest Service is among the Department of Natural Resources units with displays and activities at the Maryland State Fair. Photo by Megan McGinn-Meals, Maryland Department of Natural Resources
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources and partners will bring displays, exhibits, and programs themed around Outdoor Recreation to the 2023 Maryland State Fair in Timonium.
Fairgoers are invited to visit the exhibits located in the Mosner Miller Building, to talk with field experts and learn more about fishing and hunting, wildlife found in Maryland, and recreational opportunities in our state forests and parks. This year, visitors can try out a boating simulator, enjoy interactive games, and explore a kids’ camping cabin. Information will also be available for those interested in learning more about careers with the department. Read more…
Maryland Fishing Report – August 23
This young angler caught a Spanish mackerel, photo by Travis Long
As we approach the end of August, fishing in Maryland could hardly be better, so be sure to get outside with friends and family.
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources has developed an online striped bass habitat conditions mapping tool on our website, applying newly developed water temperature and dissolved oxygen-based thresholds for Maryland’s resident striped bass. This tool will help you identify current conditions at your local fishing hotspots so you can fish at the most suitable locations.
Maryland Fishing Report – August 16
Photo by Rebecca Krampf
Fishing is good this week in all parts of the Chesapeake Bay, the Atlantic Ocean and Coastal Bays, and the many freshwater areas throughout the state.
Maryland Department of Natural Resources’ biologists are looking to better understand the striped bass recreational fishery in the Chesapeake Bay and are asking for your help. Biologists have set up an online survey site where anglers can enter fishing data from a smartphone or computer. All you need to record is the length of the striped bass you catch and whether you kept or released them. On the department website, search for volunteer angler surveys to find the striped bass survey and others that may interest you. For ease of use, you can also access the surveys through the free AccessDNR app.
Secretary’s Message – August 2023
It’s a new day for Maryland’s Bays
Lt. Gov. Aruna Miller, Gov. Wes Moore, and Secretary Josh Kurtz plant an oak tree at Wye Mills Natural Resources Management Area for “Bay Day,” July 20, 2023. Photo by Joseph Andrucyk, Maryland State House
Governor Wes Moore recently announced a new strategy for how Maryland will deploy state resources to improve water quality in our waterways by better aligning our ongoing Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic Coastal Bays cleanup efforts with the latest science.
A major study released in May by leading Chesapeake Bay scientists continued to show watershed states struggling to reduce nonpoint sources of pollution – the runoff being washed from our farms, cities, and suburbs. This challenge continues to prevent residents and visitors in parts of our state from having access to clean water. In response, we’re shifting Maryland’s waterway cleanup efforts to more effectively tackle nonpoint source pollution. The associated work will also help build resiliency for communities facing threats from a changing climate. Read more…
Maryland Fishing Report – August 9
Jake Prior holds up a big northern snakehead he caught in an upper Bay tidal river. Photo courtesy of Jake Prior
Fishing is good this week in all parts of the Chesapeake Bay, the Atlantic Ocean and Coastal Bays, and the many freshwater areas throughout the state.
Maryland Department of Natural Resources’ biologists are looking to better understand the striped bass recreational fishery in the Chesapeake Bay and are asking for your help. Biologists have set up an online survey site where anglers can enter fishing data from a smartphone or computer. All you need to record is the length of the striped bass you catch and whether you kept or released them. On the department website, search for volunteer angler surveys to find the striped bass survey and others that may interest you. For ease of use, you can also access the surveys through the free AccessDNR app.
Maryland Creates New Black Bass Conservation Fund
Outdoor enthusiasts can donate when buying their licenses
Smallmouth bass, along with largemouth bass, are collectively known as black bass. Photo by Brett Poffenberger, submitted to Maryland Department of Natural Resources’ Angler’s Log.
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources now has a dedicated source of funding for conservation of Maryland’s largemouth bass and smallmouth bass—collectively called black bass—to which the state’s anglers, boaters, hunters, and others can contribute when purchasing their licenses.
Governor Wes Moore signed legislation on May 8 to create the Black Bass Conservation Fund, establishing a voluntary donation program through the Department of Natural Resources’ online COMPASS licensing system to help conserve the species and protect the fishery. Donations will be used to procure bass for remediation stocking in freshwater waterways, install structures for enhancing aquatic habitat, purchase supplies that promote conservation during bass tournaments, and support scientific research related to conservation of the resource. Read more…
Chesapeake Forest Hunting Tract Leasing Lottery Now Open
Deadline for hunt clubs to enter the lottery is August 23
Hunt clubs interested in obtaining a hunting lease agreement on Chesapeake Forest Lands can enter a lottery for available tracts in Wicomico and Worcester Counties.
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources will accept online entries until August 23.
Winning clubs will have the right to obtain a ten-year lease agreement, at the price listed on the department website, for the upcoming hunting seasons 2023-2024 through 2032-2033. Read more…
Governor Moore Tours Mountain Maryland with Cabinet Officials to Mark the Moore-Miller Administration’s First Six Months in Office
Governor Wes Moore tours Deep Creek Lake State Park with Maryland Park Service Acting Superintendent Ranger Angela Crenshaw. Photo by Patrick Siebert, Maryland State House.
Governor Wes Moore this past weekend embarked upon a two-day tour of Mountain Maryland to mark the Moore-Miller administration’s first six months in office. Governor Moore was joined by Lieutenant Governor Aruna Miller for a convening of the administration’s cabinet at Rocky Gap Casino Resort and community engagement events in Allegany and Garrett Counties. Read more…
Conservation Jobs Corps Graduates Class of 2023
Maryland Teens Complete Outdoor Jobs Skills Program
Conservation Jobs Corps Class of 2023 at Sandy Point State Park. Maryland Department of Natural Resources photo.
The Maryland Park Service graduated 33 young Marylanders from the Conservation Jobs Corps after four weeks of job training, conservation education, hard work, and fun. Read more…
Department of Natural Resources Graduates Maryland Conservation Corps Class of 2023
Program helps launch careers for environmental stewards
Maryland Conservation Corps Class of 2023 at Wye Island Natural Resources Management Area. Photo by AJ Metcalf, Maryland Department of Natural Resources
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources honored 35 members of the 2022-2023 Maryland Conservation Corps during their graduation program at Wye Island Natural Resources Management Area.
The August 3 ceremony capped the members’ completion of 10 months of job training, conservation work, and stewardship with the Maryland Park Service. Read more…
Maryland Department of Natural Resources Acquires Old South Mountain Inn Property
The 3-acre land and building acquisition will expand public access and wildlife habitat in the South Mountain Recreation Area
Old South Mountain Inn, photo by Peter Morrill, Maryland Department of Natural Resources
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources recently purchased a parcel of land adjoining South Mountain State Park to bring additional recreational opportunities to residents in Washington and Frederick counties. Formerly the location of the Old South Mountain Inn, this 3.15 acres of mostly forested and historic land will be managed by the Maryland Park Service. Read more…
Maryland Fishing Report – August 2
This young angler caught a spot. Photo by Tom Cole
Spend your time enjoying family and friends, as the end of summer now looms on the horizon. Before they go back to school, load up your young’uns and take them on some summer fishing adventures. There is plenty of fun to be had out there and plenty of fish to keep them busy and build lasting memories.
Striped bass fishing has resumed in Maryland’s portion of the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries. The July two-week closure, in place to protect the resource during the hottest part of summer, has ended but the Department of Natural Resources still advises you to take caution when targeting striped bass. Please check our weekly Striped Bass Advisory Forecast to make sure weather conditions are safe for the fish you catch and release.
Maryland Awards More Than $200,000 Outdoor Learning Grants to Six Local Partners
Maryland Department of Natural Resources photo
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources announced the award of more than $200,000 in competitive grants to support learning experiences and educational opportunities focused on environmental issues. Funding for the educational programs is provided by the state’s Chesapeake Bay Implementation Grant and Aquatic Resources Education Program, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Read more…
Maryland Awards $3 Million in Climate Resilience Grants to 13 Community Projects
Deal Island’s living shoreline and marsh enhancement work was supported by a past climate resilience grant. Photo by Nicole Carlozo, Maryland Department of Natural Resources.
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources today announced the award of more than $3 million in competitive grants for 13 climate resilience projects. The grants will help communities design and construct solutions to withstand flooding and other weather-related events.
The projects selected will reduce risk for vulnerable communities, incorporate climate change data and information into existing plans and policies, and develop nature-based or natural solutions to help control flooding. Read more…
Maryland Department of Natural Resources Awards $22.9 Million for Chesapeake and Coastal Bay Restoration Projects
Restoration of tidal marsh at Deal Island is one of numerous projects funded by the Chesapeake and Atlantic Coastal Bays Trust Fund. Photo by Anthony Burrows, Maryland Department of Natural Resources
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources today announced the award of $22.9 million from the Chesapeake and Atlantic Coastal Bays Trust Fund to 24 ecological restoration projects encompassing 95 sites throughout the state. The projects were selected to improve water quality and habitat in the Chesapeake Bay watershed while building local resilience to climate impacts. Read more…
Maryland Fishing Report – July 26
This huge bluefish is an example that you never know what can happen when you cast a line. Photo by Travis Long
Summertime fishing is in full swing, and anglers have been finding many adventures with other species of fish during the two-week striped bass closure in the Chesapeake Bay.
Chesapeake Bay Hypoxia Report – June 2023
Dissolved oxygen conditions among the best recorded
Data collected by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources and Old Dominion University show that June 2023 dissolved oxygen conditions in the Chesapeake Bay mainstem of Maryland and Virginia were much better than average. The results are from samples collected during regular monitoring cruises conducted by research vessels.
The hypoxic water volume — waters with less than 2 mg/l oxygen — was 0.22 and 0.33 cubic miles during the early and late June monitoring cruises, compared to early and late June averages of 0.87 and 1.30 cubic miles since 1985. This year’s data from early June ranks as the second smallest volume of hypoxic water volume on record and late June was the smallest volume for their respective time periods. No anoxia – areas of water with less than 0.2 mg/l oxygen – was observed in either June monitoring cruise. Read more…
Department of Natural Resources Awards Captain Monty Hawkins with Maryland Sport Fisheries Achievement Award for 2023
Photo courtesy Monty Hawkins
The Maryland Sport Fisheries Advisory Commission and Maryland Department of Natural Resources are proud to announce Captain Monty Hawkins as the 2023 recipient of the annual Maryland Sport Fisheries Achievement Award.
The Maryland Sport Fisheries Achievement Award was established by the commission in 2019 to honor individuals who have provided sustained efforts in habitat management, conservation, education, research, or other meaningful contributions that benefit recreational fishing in Maryland. Read more…
Governor Moore Announces More Than $100 Million in Local Grants to Expand Public Access to Outdoor Recreation and Open Space
Department of Natural Resources now accepting grant proposals for the FY25 Community Parks & Playgrounds Program
This Charles County regional park was a past project funded by Program Open Space. Photo by Margaret Lashar, Maryland Department of Natural Resources
Governor Wes Moore today announced the availability of more than $100 million in local grants from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources to expand and enhance public access to outdoor recreation and open space throughout Maryland. Through Program Open Space and Community Parks & Playgrounds programming, Maryland is continuing to meet the challenges of land conservation and recreation for our citizens across the state. Read more…
Maryland Black Bear Hunt Lottery Now Open for 2023 Season
Applications are due August 31; drawing held Sept. 6
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is now accepting applications for the 2023 black bear hunt lottery. Successful applicants will receive a permit valid for the 6-day hunting season open October 23-28 in Allegany, Frederick, Garrett, and Washington counties.
The annual bear hunt, now in its 20th year, is an important management tool used to slow the increase of Maryland’s black bear population and limit expansion of Maryland bears into the eastern suburbs and cities. The department will once again issue 950 hunting permits this year. Read more…
Governor Moore Announces New Chesapeake and Atlantic Coastal Bays Improvement Strategy
Governor Wes Moore, Lieutenant Governor Aruna Miller, and Maryland Department of Natural Resources Secretary Josh Kurtz plant an oak tree at Wye Mills Natural Resources Management Area as part of ‘Bay Day’. Photo by Joseph Andrucyk
During an Eastern Shore “Bay Day” tour, Governor Wes Moore on Thursday announced a major policy shift in how Maryland will deploy state resources to improve water quality in the Chesapeake Bay and other waterways to restore the Chesapeake and Atlantic Coastal Bays. The governor signed two executive orders and outlined plans to provide more places for people to safely swim, better protect coastal areas from climate change, and increase fish and crab populations to improve economic opportunities for watermen and the state’s seafood industries.
“Our administration is focused on working in new and collaborative ways to reduce the pollution reaching our bays and providing our local communities and farmers with the opportunities and resources they need to succeed,” said Gov. Moore. “Now is the time to embrace the lessons we’ve learned in the Chesapeake and Coastal Bays over the past 40 years and evolve our strategy to reflect that.”
Under the Moore-Miller administration, Maryland will become the first state in the Bay watershed to embrace the latest scientific recommendations to improve our land and clean our waterways, taking a proactive healthier waterways that are more accessible for Maryland’s communities, more resilient to climate change, and benefit the important industries that depend on the Chesapeake and Coastal Bays. The governor was joined by EPA Region 3 Administrator Adam Ortiz, Lieutenant Governor Aruna Miller and state, local, and federal officials. Read more…
Maryland Fishing Report – July 19
Summer vacations are in full swing, the perfect time for fishing trips such as this father and son on a charter boat off Ocean City. Part of their catch was this delicious triggerfish. Photo by Monty Hawkins
There is plenty of fishing to entertain anglers during these hot summer days. As a reminder, all areas of the Chesapeake Bay will be closed to any targeting of striped bass from July 16 through July 31 to protect the species during this hottest part of the year.
Fishing for a variety of species can also earn you an award. Congratulations to Maryland’s two new FishMaryland Master Angler award recipients, David McCollum of Bel Air and David Moore of Salisbury. Each angler caught ten different species that all met the minimum size requirements in the Department of Natural Resources fishing award program. An award presentation by Fishing and Boating Services was held at Bass Pro Shops in Hanover, which presented each Master Angler recipient with a $250 gift certificate, and included a behind the scenes tour and fish feeding session at the large aquarium. Dave Mccollum, also known as the “Conowingo Fish Whisperer” does a lot of casting for both walleye and striped bass below the Conowingo Dam in the Susquehanna River. David Moore is an avid surfcaster that catches striped bass, red drum, and various shark species from the beach at the Assateague National Seashore. He also participates in the NOAA volunteer angler shark tagging program. More information on the FishMaryland awards is on the Department of Natural Resources website.
Maryland Department of Natural Resources Opens Grants Gateway for Fiscal Year 2025
Maryland Department of Natural Resources photo
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources announced the Grants Gateway application is open for local governments and organizations for Fiscal Year 2025, which begins July 1, 2024. Through this process, funding is available for projects that restore local waterways, increase communities’ resilience to climate change and storm impacts, strengthen local economies, develop the next generation of environmental stewards, and foster sustainable development and use of Maryland waterways with projects that benefit the general boating public. Read more…
Secretary’s Message – July 2023
Maryland is making more outdoor space accessible to more people
Indigo bunting at McKee-Beshers Wildlife Management Area, photo by Laura Frazier submitted to a previous Maryland Natural Resource Photo Contest.
Governor Wes Moore recently unveiled a new summer tourism campaign for Maryland – “You’re Welcome” – to welcome visitors to experience our great state’s spectacular natural beauty.
Most people are familiar with our vast Maryland state park system, but did you know that great hiking, biking, birdwatching, camping, water access, and other recreational opportunities are found in our state forests, wildlife management areas, and other lesser-visited public lands? If you really do want to get away from it all, I encourage you to check out the array of natural areas managed by the Department of Natural Resources. Read more…
Maryland Natural Resources Police Remind Marylanders to Practice Water Safety
Maryland Department of Natural Resources photo
Maryland’s boating and swimming season is in full swing and the Maryland Natural Resources Police is urging Marylanders to take proper precautions to ensure safe enjoyment of Maryland’s waterways this summer. Read more…
Maryland Fishing Report – July 12
Caroline White is all smiles with her first fish. Photo by David Storr III
It is time for summer fun and taking a youngster fishing is always a joy for parents, especially when the kids are excited about catching their first fish. Bluegill sunfish and white perch are often ready to oblige.
As a reminder, all areas of the Chesapeake Bay will be closed to any targeting of striped bass from July 16 through July 31. As we advise anglers every year, high summer air and water temperatures increase catch-and-release mortalities in striped bass. This closure takes place in the hottest part of the year.
Waterfowl Blind Site Licensing Process Now Available for 2023-24
Online lottery, virtual appointments available to secure hunting locations
Maryland Department of Natural Resources photo
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is offering an online process for Maryland hunters to apply for a 2023-2024 waterfowl blind site license, which reserves a location for a landowner or authorized individual to place a hunting blind.
From July 12 through July 25 at 11:59 p.m., hunters may enter the annual lottery for the opening days of blind site licensing through the department’s Compass licensing portal. Read more…
Governor Moore Announces $13.5 Million in Maryland Waterway Improvement Funds
Projects Funded Statewide for New and Improved Public Boating Access, Waterway Dredging, and Safety Equipment
Maryland Department of Natural Resources photo
Governor Wes Moore today announced that the Maryland Department of Natural Resources is providing $13.5 million in Waterway Improvement Funds. The funds will support new and improved public boating access facilities, dredging of navigable public waterways, emergency vessels and equipment for local first responders, and other important infrastructure and initiatives. Read more…
Eastern Shore Angler Catches Maryland State Record Snakehead
Record 21.0-pound fish caught in Dorchester County
Angler Damien Cook with his state record Northern snakehead. Submitted photo, used with permission
Damien Cook of Rhodesdale has been recognized by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources as a new state record holder for Northern snakehead – Channa argus — in the state’s Invasive Division. Cook caught the 21.0-pound fish on July 5 while fishing in a Dorchester County river. Read more…
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