Natural Resources News
Fall Foliage Report October 26, 2023
“I wish that every day was Saturday and every month was October.”
– Charmaine J. Forde
The treetops of Sword Mountain awaken as the sun rises in Clear Spring. Photo by Forester Aaron Cook.
With colors intensifying across the state this week, parts of Maryland are right on the cusp of peak leaf change. The mountains of western Maryland are seeing bold shades of amber, crimson and gold, while other regions of our state are reporting marked increases in autumnal hues, spreading further along the tree canopies in central, northern, and southern Maryland. This weekend’s weather promises to bring warmer than average temperatures to the region, and we’re embracing the shift – and the burst in fall color – by including some of our best locations to enjoy a walk in the woods at one of our state parks and forests.
Join us as we follow Maryland’s changing autumn landscape each week – subscribe to the Fall Foliage Report email newsletter to have it arrive in your inbox!
Public Input Sought on State Forest Work Plan Update
Additional silviculture operation proposed for Potomac-Garrett State Forest in FY24
Potomac-Garrett State Forest, photo by Scott Campbell, Maryland Department of Natural Resources
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is seeking public comment on an additional silvicultural operation proposed as an inclusion to the Potomac-Garrett State Forest Annual Work Plan for fiscal year 2024. The comment period concludes November 17, 2023.
The proposed harvest is being added to the current FY24 plan to take advantage of favorable regeneration conditions for white oak, and to permit the operation to avoid disturbance to the nearby campground during the winter months. The operation was originally proposed for the FY25 Annual Work Plan. Read more…
Maryland Fishing Report – October 25
Eric Packard enjoyed a day fishing for snakeheads in his kayak. Photo courtesy of Eric Packard
Recent chilly temperatures are causing anglers to replace their sneakers and T-shirts with rubber footwear and flannel shirts. Cooler water temperatures have fish in a very active feeding mode, which makes for great fishing.
Maryland State Tree Nursery Now Taking Orders for Spring 2024 Planting
This year marks the return of Wye Oak clone seedlings
Maryland DNR photo
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources announces that its online tree seedling catalog is now open and accepting orders for spring 2024 planting from the John S. Ayton State Forest Tree Nursery.
This year’s catalog features more than 55 species, with a few different choices from last year. Also the nursery is excited to announce the return of Wye Oak seedlings for sale for the first time since 2018. This special offering of seedlings grown from clones of Maryland’s historic Wye Oak is now available for ordering from the Department of Natural Resources online store. Read more…
Major Improvements Completed at Morgan Run’s Accessible Fishing Platform
New accessibility features make it easier for anglers with disabilities to cast a line at popular fly-fishing destination
The ribbon is cut at Morgan Run’s accessible fishing platform. Photo by AJ Metcalf, Maryland Department of Natural Resources.
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has completed significant improvements to the fly-fishing platform at Morgan Run Natural Environment Area to enhance accessibility for Maryland’s anglers with disabilities.
After several months of work, the area is now open and accessible for all to enjoy. Today, DNR Secretary Josh Kurtz, Maryland Department of Disabilities Assistant Secretary John Brennan, and project partners held a ribbon cutting ceremony to officially open the upgraded fishing area.
Working with the Maryland Department of Disabilities and other state and local partners, DNR upgraded the fishing platform at the Eldersburg park to make it ADA-compliant. The upgrades included reconfiguring the slope of the existing pathway, paving the parking lot, and creating a more favorable instream habitat to hold trout closer to the fishing platform. These improvements allow anglers with mobility disabilities to easily and safely access the fishing platform and provide a better fishing experience at Morgan Run. Read more…
DNR Fall Foliage Report – October 19, 2023
“Two sounds of autumn are unmistakable … the hurrying rustle of crisp leaves blown along the street … by a gusty wind, and the gabble of a flock of migrating geese.” —Hal Borland
A Department of Natural Resources drone captured this patchwork of autumnal beauty over the Burkholder off-road vehicle trail area of Potomac-Garrett State Forest. Photo courtesy of Melissa Nash, forester.
Peak leaf change is right around the corner in the western half of the state, evident in the russet leaves of the oaks, bronze and yellow hickory canopies, and the dazzling ruby red maples. The weather conditions remain ideal during the weekdays when Marylander’s are experiencing crystal blue, sunlit skies during the day, winding down with star-filled skies and chilly temperatures at night. Weekend weather systems have been a regular feature, bringing us wind and rain across much of the region, resulting in premature leaf loss in some areas of our state. However, there is plenty of fall color to be found if you know where to look. And this week, Western Maryland steals the show. Read more…
Maryland Fishing Report – October 18
Marty Zupancic fished the lower Bay recently for bluefish on his jet ski and cradled one while taking a selfie. Photo by Marty Zupancic
The middle of October is upon us and there are wonderful fishing opportunities throughout Maryland. The fall trout stocking program is underway and Chesapeake Bay anglers are enjoying good fishing for a variety of species.
New state records were set recently for two southern species, a barracuda and a pompano dolphinfish, which decided to wander north. This infrequently happens towards the end of summer when southern species catch a ride on the northbound Gulfstream and wind up a lot farther north of their normal range. Scientists and anglers alike are observing some changes in fish species’ range as water temperatures are generally getting warmer.
Read more…
Warm Winters, Low Water Flow Are Leading Factors in Poor Striped Bass Spawn
Environmental conditions are likely influencing reproduction in Chesapeake Bay, scientists say
Juvenile striped bass counted during the 2018 young-of-year survey. Photo by Stephen Badger, Maryland Department of Natural Resources.
Environmental factors such as warmer, drier winters and decreased spring water flow rates are likely driving forces behind the diminished spawning success of striped bass in the Chesapeake Bay, according to Maryland Department of Natural Resources scientists.
Striped bass, or rockfish, have had low spawning success numbers for five consecutive years. DNR’s juvenile striped bass survey released Thursday found a 2023 young-of-year index of 1.0, compared to a long-term average of 11.1. The juvenile index, which measures the number of first-year striped bass per sample area, has been below 3.6 since 2019.
Maryland scientists say that these juvenile numbers are concerning, but that continued study and management can help provide for a better chance for a successful spawn in years that present the right environmental conditions. Read more…
New Maryland State Records Established for Pompano Dolphinfish and Great Barracuda
Angler Chris Stafford of Cherry Hill, N.J. caught a pompano dolphinfish (Coryphaena equiselis) weighing 2.0 pounds on September 20, 2023. Photo courtesy of Chris Stafford.
Ellicott City resident Stephen Humphrey caught a great barracuda (Sphyraena barracuda) weighing 13.0 pounds on October 6, 2023. Photo by Erik Zlokovitz.
Two new records for new species have been established in the Atlantic Division of the Maryland state fishing records program. Angler Chris Stafford of Cherry Hill, N.J. caught a pompano dolphinfish (Coryphaena equiselis) weighing 2.0 pounds on September 20, and Ellicott City resident Stephen Humphrey caught a great barracuda (Sphyraena barracuda) weighing 13.0 pounds on October 6. Both fish were caught off the coast of Ocean City. Read more…
Fall Hunting for Small Game and Turkey Offers Abundant Opportunities
Photo by Stephen Badger, Maryland Department of Natural Resources
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources reminds hunters that squirrel, rabbit, fall turkey, and other small game seasons are either underway or set to open in the coming weeks. Some of these species offer generous seasons and bag limits and are abundant throughout Maryland. Read more…
Fall Foliage Report – October 12, 2023
“If I were a bird, I would fly about the Earth seeking successive autumns.”
– George Eliot
We’re feeling a drop in temperatures across the state, with parts of Western Maryland dipping into the low 30s. Cooler temperatures and sunny days bode well for leaf change. According to the U.S. Forest Service, trees are continuing to produce sugars in their leaves, but the cool nights and the gradual closing of veins in leaves prevent these sugars from moving out. These conditions – lots of sugar and light – spur production of the brilliant anthocyanin pigments, which tint leaves with a variety of reds, purples, and crimson. However, optimal fall weather conditions cannot entirely undo the effects of this year’s summer drought, which is amounting to delays in leaf change and subdued color in the forest canopies. Read more…
Chesapeake Bay 2023 Young-of-Year Striped Bass Survey Results Announced
During the annual survey, Maryland Department of Natural Resources fishery managers examine 22 sites located in four major striped bass spawning areas. Maryland Department of Natural Resources photo
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources today announced results of this year’s juvenile striped bass survey, which tracks the reproductive success of Maryland’s state fish in the Chesapeake Bay. The 2023 young-of-year index is 1.0, well below the long-term average of 11.1. Read more…
Maryland Black Bear Activity Increases Throughout Fall
Photo by Mitch Adolph, submitted to the Maryland Department of Natural Resources 2023 Photo Contest. Used with permission.
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources reminds residents that black bears are beginning a period of increased feeding activity in preparation for winter hibernation. As the leaves change and the weather cools, bears become more active as they search for food.
During this time, bears will travel across roads more frequently. They also can become more attracted to human-provided food sources and lose their natural fear of people, which can be dangerous for both people and bears.
Residents and visitors should note that keeping bird feeders, pet food and trash in a place where bears can’t get to them is the best way to avoid problems. Marylanders should also delay filling songbird feeders until the winter months to avoid attracting bears. Read more…
Maryland Fishing Report – October 11
Mike Biskup holds up a whopper-sized largemouth bass he caught and released from a Chestertown pond recently. Photo courtesy of Mike Biskup
Fall’s cooler weather is driving many of our freshwater and marine fisheries into increased activity. The fall trout stocking program is underway, providing fun put-and-take trout fishing.
Warming Temperatures Bring Different Animals to Maryland
Climate change makes region more hospitable to some newcomers—and more difficult for native species
White ibises have started to nest at Martin National Wildlife Refuge.
A Salisbury man fishing for spotted sea trout Sept. 17 in the Chesapeake Bay pulled in a tall, silvery fish with a striking yellow underside.
It turned out to be the largest Florida pompano recorded in the state. It was also a living indication of a warming climate.
The Florida pompano is just one of multiple species of animals, largely fish and birds, that are appearing in the state more frequently at least partially as a result of climate change. Though these newcomers can increase biodiversity and generate excitement among residents and fishermen, scientists caution that they are also warning signs of a changing ecosystem.
Governor Moore Announces New Annual Record for Chesapeake Bay Oyster Planting
Governor Wes Moore. Lt. Gov. Aruna Miller, DNR Secretary Josh Kurtz, and other guests toured the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science’s Horn Point Laboratory in Cambridge to observe oysters grown for restoration this summer. Photo by Anthony Burrows, Maryland Department of Natural Resources
Governor Wes Moore today announced that more than 1.7 billion new juvenile oysters have been planted on sanctuary and public oyster fishery sites in Maryland’s Chesapeake Bay this year, surpassing an ambitious 2023 planting goal and setting a new annual record. The milestone means that the state has planted almost 7 billion oysters since launching its large-scale oyster restoration strategy in 2014 with the help of numerous partners.
“Planting 1.7 billion oysters this year shows the success of the broad partnership of watermen, scientists, academics, nonprofits, and state and federal government officials dedicated to this vital natural resource and economic driver for Maryland,” said Gov. Moore. “I’d like to thank the partner organizations and our dedicated Department of Natural Resources staff who enabled the state to achieve this significant accomplishment.” Read more…
Secretary’s Message – October 2023: DNR to Showcase Science This Month
Science is the foundation of the department’s conservation efforts
Maryland Geological Survey scientists at work, photo by Stephen Badger, Maryland Department of Natural Resources
When I took the helm as Secretary of the Department of Natural Resources at the beginning of this year, one of my primary goals was to reaffirm the importance of science throughout the agency. I want to ensure the department’s conservation work, ranging from fisheries management to flood mitigation, is rooted in science and evaluated through real-world testing.
The Department of Natural Resources employs scientists and technicians in numerous fields, all of whom are committed to this goal. Every day they compile and analyze information across several subject areas with a wide range of partners. To recognize their work, this month DNR will celebrate our first Science Week, from Oct. 16 to 20. During this week, I and other senior DNR leaders will be traveling across the state to observe and highlight this important work. Read more…
Chesapeake Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve Celebrates 30th Annual Wetlands and Wildlife Field Day
Somerset County fourth graders participate in outdoor learning event
Maryland Department of Natural Resources photo
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources’ Chesapeake Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve recently celebrated its 30th annual Wetlands and Wildlife Field Day, an environmental education event that provides fourth graders in Somerset County with the opportunity to engage in environmental stewardship activities and interact with natural resources professionals.
Over the course of two days in September, students visited the Deal Island Wildlife Management Area where they released banded waterfowl, engaged in stewardship and art projects, and learned about the mammals, fish, reptiles, and amphibians that call the marsh home. The fourth graders cycled through six stations, including hands-on learning experiences and exhibits about wetland resilience and invasive species. Read more…
Maryland Department of Natural Resources Fall Foliage Report – October 5, 2023
“In the entire circle of the year there are no days so delightful as those of a fine October.”
Alexander Smith
Fall days are here – blue skies, clouds like giant marshmallows, and gobs of sunshine. The only thing missing is the cooler daytime temperatures characteristic of fall weather. Crisp autumn air causes leaves to stop making food or stop the process of photosynthesis, which turns the leaves green during warmer months. When the temperature drops, chlorophyll breaks down and the green color begins to disappear, revealing yellows, oranges and in some tree species, purple tones. Although daytime temperatures across the state have been in the 80s this week, nighttime temperatures are dipping into the low 50s and 60s, giving us the cooler conditions necessary for leaf change. Next week, temperatures drop across Maryland, setting the stage for fall’s colorful show. Read more…
Maryland’s Early Muzzleloader Deer Season Begins Oct. 19
Photo by Mary Pat Bozel, submitted to the 2021 Maryland Department of Natural Resources Photo Contest.
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources announced that the first segment of Maryland’s muzzleloader deer season runs from Oct. 19-21 statewide.
Hunters in Region B — the state’s central, southern, and eastern regions — can also use muzzleloaders from Oct. 23-28 for antlerless deer only.
The popular season typically coincides with pleasant fall weather and is one of many deer hunting opportunities offered in the state. Read more…
Maryland Fishing Report – October 4
Ivanna Harshman enjoyed a nice day fishing from her kayak and caught this summer flounder. Photo courtesy of Ivanna Harshman
Pleasant weather returns this week, making it a wonderful time to go out and do some fishing – don’t miss the opportunity while so many species are available and active.
Pheasant Hunting Opportunity Available in Maryland Via Lottery
Photo by Ranger Elena Gilroy, Maryland Department of Natural Resources
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources invites all junior license holders, apprentice license holders, and lapsed hunters to apply to participate in this year’s stocked pheasant hunt.
The stocked pheasant hunts are do-it-yourself hunts that will take place on state-owned land throughout the state on November 18 and 19.
All applicants must have a DNR ID number to apply and will need to possess a valid hunting license to participate in the hunt, should they be selected. Applications for the stocked pheasant hunt will only be accepted through the department’s Compass online portal by Oct. 6. There is no charge to apply and no charge for selected applicants to participate. Read more…
Fall Foliage Report September 28, 2023
“I cannot endure to waste something as precious as autumn sunshine by staying in the house.”
– Nathaniel Hawthorne
Most of us are rejoicing after seeing the sun for the first time in days. Tropical Storm Ophelia brought drenching rain to Maryland’s coastal region last weekend, with additional rain stretching into the western portion of our state. The rainy days and cloudy skies continued for much of the week, providing much needed moisture to areas experiencing drought conditions. While this last batch of rain won’t be enough to offset the previous weeks of dry weather, it has made an impact on foliage in the region. Read more…
Maryland Fishing Report – September 27
Alvin Holland Jr. recently caught this huge northern snakehead in the lower Susquehanna River. Photo courtesy Alvin Holland Jr.
The winds, rain, and cool temperatures of Tropical Storm Ophelia set the stage for a transition to fall fishing. Those scorching summer days will mostly be a memory as a new season of exciting fishing in Maryland begins.
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.
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