Natural Resources News
Chesapeake Bay Underwater Grasses Increased in 2022
Annual aerial survey showed continuing recovery
Widgeon grass is now the most common submerged aquatic vegetation in the Chesapeake Bay. Maryland Department of Natural Resources photo
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources today reported a 6% increase in submerged aquatic vegetation, commonly known as SAV or underwater grasses, in Maryland’s portion of the Chesapeake Bay in 2022. Scientists mapped 37,297 acres of underwater grasses in Maryland during the annual survey. The results represent 47% of the state’s 2025 restoration target and 33% of the ultimate restoration goal of 114,065 acres. Read more…
Maryland Fishing Report – July 5
Taylor Ward went fishing with her dad and caught this large northern snakehead. Photo by Mike Ward
The summer season is now in full swing, and anglers are enjoying good fishing adventures with family and friends this week.
As we advise anglers every year, high summer air and water temperatures increase catch-and-release mortalities in striped bass. The Striped Bass Summer Fishing Advisory Forecast on the Maryland Department of Natural Resources website is an awareness campaign aimed to reduce striped bass mortality during times when conditions are most dangerous for the fish.
For that reason, all areas of the Chesapeake Bay will be closed to any targeting of striped bass from July 16 through July 31, statistically the hottest part of the year in Maryland.
Garrett County Angler Catches Maryland State Record Fallfish
Record 3.01-pound Fish Reeled in from Upper Potomac River
Angler Bryson Meyers with his state record fallfish. Submitted photo, used with permission
For the second time in a month, the state record for fallfish has been broken. Bryson Meyers of Oakland has been recognized by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources as a new state record holder for fallfish – Semotilus corporalis — in the state’s nontidal division.
Meyers caught the 3.01-pound fish on June 16 while fishing in the North Branch of the Potomac River, in the Westernport area. He was on a fly fishing float trip drifting the river for trout when he hooked the impressive fallfish, which measured more than 20 inches in length. Read more…
Maryland Department of Natural Resources Schedules Qualification Shoots for Managed Deer Hunts
Proficiency Tests Necessary to Participate in Managed Deer Hunts
Maryland Department of Natural Resources photo
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources has released the 2023 Shooter Qualification Schedule for managed hunts, which includes more than 20 sessions at 11 locations across the state. The events allow hunters to take the necessary proficiency test required to obtain a Shooter Qualification Card to participate in the state’s managed deer hunts scheduled in the fall and winter. Read more…
Maryland Fishing Report – June 28
Bryce Schmitt enjoyed some time on the middle River while fishing for largemouth bass and northern snakeheads. Photo courtesy of Bryce Schmitt
We wish you a safe and enjoyable Fourth of July holiday with family and friends. Many anglers will take advantage of a little time off to fish and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with fishing. As a reminder, July 4 is the last free fishing day being offered in Maryland for 2023.
As we advise anglers every year, high summer air and water temperatures increase catch-and-release mortalities in striped bass. The Striped Bass Summer Fishing Advisory Forecast is an awareness campaign aimed to reduce striped bass mortality during times when conditions are most dangerous for the fish. A color-coded recommendation allows anglers to plan their striped bass fishing trips up to seven days in advance.
Maryland Department of Natural Resources Purchases Former Bay Club Golf Course to Preserve Open Space in Worcester County
Partnership with Lower Shore Land Trust Adds to Chesapeake Forest Lands
The Chesapeake Forest Lands now comprise more than 76,000 acres n the lower Eastern Shore. Maryland Department of Natural Resources photo
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources, in partnership with Lower Shore Land Trust, today announced the purchase of the former Bay Club near Berlin, Worcester County, from Carl M. Freeman Companies. Formerly a golf club, this purchase will help conserve 672 acres in the headwaters of the Pocomoke River watershed with the objectives of restoring wetlands, reforestation, and providing public access. Read more…
Maryland Department of Natural Resources Announces Summer 2023 Schedule for ‘Es Mi Parque’
Photo by Ranger Melissa Boyle Acuti
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources today announced the summer schedule for ‘Es Mi Parque’ Spanish-language activity events at state parks throughout Maryland.
The Es Mi Parque program was launched by the Department of Natural Resources in 2016 as a pilot project to improve customer service and reduce access barriers for the Hispanic community. It has since evolved to be the umbrella term for all Spanish bilingual programs and events at parks, including annual summer events at different state parks, a bilingual Junior Ranger camp held at Patapsco Valley State Park, Hispanic Heritage Month celebrations, and much more. Read more…
Maryland Department of Natural Resources Announces Revised Hunting License Price Structure
New Changes Include the Creation of a Sika Deer Hunting Stamp
Sika deer, photo by Stephen Aprile, submitted to the 2017 Maryland Natural Resource Photo Contest
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources announced that legislation passed during the 2023 General Assembly will increase the price of hunting licenses and some associated stamps beginning with the 2023-24 hunting season. The existing structure and fees had been in place since 2002, and the price of a regular resident hunting license had remained unchanged for 35 years. Read more…
Maryland Fishing Report – June 21, 2023
David Springham and daughter Phoebe went fishing together after dad got off from work, and they caught this blue catfish near the Conowingo Dam pool. Photo courtesy of David Springham
Often it is those small moments spent together with our loved ones that turn out to be special and long remembered. Fishing together definitely provides those moments, especially with our youngest anglers.
July 4 is just around the corner and with it the last free fishing day being offered in Maryland for 2023. Think about taking a friend, neighbor, or relative on a holiday fishing trip and introduce them to this wonderful pastime.
Maryland Department of Natural Resources Certifies Two New Clean Marinas
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources has awarded Clean Marina certification to Hilltop Marina in Baltimore County and Bohemia Bay Yacht Harbour in Cecil County. There are now 147 certified Clean Marinas in Maryland, representing about 30% of the marinas in the state. Read more…
Maryland Fishing Report – June 14
Sydney Cochrane went fishing with her dad near Poplar Island when she caught this nice striped bass. Photo by Rob Cochrane
This weekend, fathers across Maryland will be celebrated and many will choose to go fishing with their sons and daughters on this special day. Parents who take their children fishing share the kind of intimate experience together that few other activities offer. Lifelong bonds are formed that will stand the test of time and help set an example for the time when they become parents in later years.
Secretary’s Message – June 2023
A Healthier Chesapeake Bay Means Better Quality of Life for All
Chesapeake Bay from Point Lookout. Maryland Department of Natural Resources photo
I was proud to represent the Maryland Department of Natural Resources recently at the release of the 2022 annual Chesapeake Bay and Watershed Report Card, compiled by the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science. In this annual scientific review of the Bay’s health, we saw an overall increase of the grade, continuing a trend over the past two years. This is an encouraging sign in the recovery of the Bay, considering climate change has made the job of improving water quality significantly harder due to increased rain and warmer water.
The Department of Natural Resources collects and analyzes most of the environmental water quality and living resource data from Maryland used in this report. We track and restore forests, wetlands, and natural areas that contribute to abundant wildlife and fisheries. But we must look beyond the numbers and data to achieve our goals. Report cards are critical for holding us accountable, but they are also important for communicating with the people the importance of the mission to restore the Bay. Read more…
Why Certify? An Overview of Garden Habitat Certifications
Gardening with native species is rife with challenges. One of the hurdles we hear about so often is that many of our neighbors just don’t like what we’ve done with our yards and gardens when we replace non-native plants with their native cousins. In this article we’ll examine why that is and how garden certifications can help. Read more…
A Wild Summer Reading List for the Young and Young at Heart
This past winter, we came up with a Cozy Winter Reading List for quiet reading breaks in a busy holiday season. With summer heat rapidly bearing down on us, sprawling on a hammock, a lawn chair, or the beach with a book, soaking up those rays like a lizard, is top on many of our to-do lists. Once again, with the help of coworkers, fellow naturalists and book nerds, we’ve compiled a list of beloved titles to inspire not just you- but the young readers in your life. Read more…
Native Plant Profile: The Latest for Lawn Lovers
Eastern cottontail rabbit by Alec Haskard
Perhaps one of the most common criticisms of the movement to fill our properties with native trees and gardens is that people miss lawns! There is something pleasing about the vista of a green lawn, or the smell of mowed grass in the summertime… Still, the benefits of replacing your lawn with more beneficial plantings cannot be denied. Read more…
Native Animal Profile: Wood Thrush
“I want to sing like the birds sing, not worrying about who hears or what they think.” ~ Rumi.
The arrival of summer in Maryland means the full orchestra of songbirds is back from winter migrations and treating our ears to a symphony of calls. Many naturalists and birders agree that one of the most beautiful songs in the deep woods is that of the wood thrush (Hylocichla mustelina). This small, brown and white bird in the same family as the American robin may not be the most colorful or showy, but they make up for it in musicality. According to the Cornell Lab:
The wood thrush’s easily recognized, flute-like ee-oh-lay is actually only the middle phrase of a three-part song. It learns the phrase from other wood thrushes and sings several variants with 2 to 10 loud, clear notes. Combining those with 1–3 variants of the low, soft notes of the introductory phrase and 6–12 variants of the final higher-pitched complex trill, a male can easily sing over 50 distinct songs.
Grants for Conservation, Education, and Recreation Awarded to 19 Projects in Maryland State Parks
Supporters Provide ‘Small Grants, Big Impact’
Patapsco Valley State Park received a ‘Small Grant, Big Impact’ award from Friends of Maryland State Parks to pay for fishing kits at three locations in the park. These kits will provide all of the basic equipment to catch fish at the park.
The Friends of Maryland State Parks Foundation recently awarded 19 grants totaling $31,280 to Maryland State Parks statewide, through the organization’s “Small Grants, Big Impact” initiative. These funds will provide resources to parks throughout the state for fishing education, bike repair stands, reforestation, and the purchase of kayaks and paddle boards. Read more…
Maryland Fishing Report – June 7
Kristen D’Amore-Benko caught and released this 40-inch striped bass in the surf on Assateague Island in mid-May. Remember that under new coastwide regulations, striped bass longer than 31 inches in length must be released. Photo courtesy Kristen D’Amore-Benko
Graduations and school dismissals are setting our younger anglers free to spend more time outdoors. Be sure to carve out time for some fishing adventures in Maryland’s varied waters.
Maryland will host the second of three license-free fishing days June 10. During a free fishing day, a person may catch and possess finfish in the tidal and nontidal waters of Maryland for recreational purposes without an angler’s license, Chesapeake Bay sportfishing license, or any fishing stamp normally required by the Department of Natural Resources. All other fishing laws and regulations will apply on those days. Maryland’s free fishing days are the first two Saturdays in June and the Fourth of July. Ask a neighbor or friend who doesn’t fish to join you and pick up this great pastime.
Maryland Spring Turkey Hunters Set New Harvest Record
Harvest Increases Reported in Every County
Photo by Stephen Badger, Maryland Department of Natural Resources
Maryland hunters harvested 5,356 wild turkeys during the 2023 spring regular and junior turkey seasons, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources reported. This year’s harvest was 27% higher than the 2022 harvest and surpassed the previous record harvest of 4,303, set in 2020. Read more…
Youth Angler from Cumberland Catches Maryland State Record Fallfish
Record 2.27-pound Fish Reeled in from Upper Potomac River
Crosby Abe caught this record fallfish in the upper Potomac River. Photo courtesy Crosby Abe.
An Allegany County youth has been recognized by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources as a new state record holder for fallfish – Semotilus corporalis — in the state’s nontidal division.
Crosby Abe, 14, caught the 2.27-pound fish May 29 while fishing on the North Branch of the Potomac River, near the Cumberland Industrial Park boat launch. Read more…
Maryland Department of Natural Resources Completes Shoreline Restoration in Dorchester County
Project Funded as Part of ‘Resiliency Through Restoration’
Goose netting was installed around new plantings along the Hurst Creek living shoreline project. Maryland Department of Natural Resources photo.
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources today announced the completion of shoreline construction at Hurst Creek in Dorchester County, the second of the department’s 24 Resiliency through Restoration Initiative pilot projects. In this project, nearly 1,200 linear feet of living shoreline was completed along the mouth of the Hurst Creek along the Choptank River. Read more…
A Home for the Herd: Conservation Easement Protects Unique Agricultural Property
The Wye River and its tributaries surround the conservation easement lands by Joe Streett
The preservation of natural areas and agricultural land often go hand in hand, or in some cases, hoof in hoof. This year, a treasured agricultural resource in Queen Anne’s County has been protected forever through the work of the Maryland Environmental Trust (MET). Read more…
The Canvasback Still Graces the Chesapeake
Male canvasback duck by Ilya Raskin
Science writer Cheryl Lyn Dybas and wildlife photographer Ilya Raskin visited Maryland DNR biologist Donald Webster along the Chesapeake in January 2020. Webster and his colleagues annually count canvasbacks and other wintering waterfowl on the Bay.
They came back,” says biologist Donald Webster. “This year.” His voice has a wistful note, wondering if the king of ducks, as the beautiful, crimson-headed canvasback is known, will return to rule Chesapeake Bay winter after winter. Read more…
From the Field: Colonel Adrian Baker, Former Maryland Natural Resources Police Superintendent
Colonel Baker delivers remarks at the 2022 Maryland Natural Resources Police graduation ceremony
On a summer day in 1984, Adrian Baker entered the Maryland Natural Resources Police (NRP) Academy excited to become a conservation police officer. He knew he had a passion for the outdoors and helping others. Now 38 years later, he has retired from NRP as its superintendent and is reflecting on the remarkable changes he has seen. Read more…
What’s New in Maryland State Parks?
With record levels of investment in recent years, Maryland State Parks are expanding, with new parks and facilities being opened and existing properties undergoing upgrades. Statewide, landscape restoration projects are also underway to improve wildlife habitat, restore streams and shorelines, and plant trees.
These efforts are designed to ensure that Maryland’s award-winning state park system serves as a model of natural resource conservation that will inspire all Marylanders to join along with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources’ mission to preserve, protect, restore, and enhance our environment for this and future generations. In this and upcoming editions of Natural Resource Magazine, we will take a closer look at what’s new in Maryland State Parks. Read more…
5 Million Trees, 5 Million Voices: A Tale of Two Trees at Coppin State University
Maryland’s 5 Million Trees Program is a historic state directive to plant 5 million native trees on public and private land by 2031. The 5 Million Trees, 5 Million Voices series will highlight some of the planting opportunities in which Maryland Forest Service engages as the state pursues 5 Million Trees goals.
A Maryland Forest Service employee, a university maintenance manager, and a sorority alumna meet in a parking lot. No, this is not the beginning of a bad joke! It was the start of Coppin State University’s 2022 Arbor Day planting event. As the Maryland Forest Service’s Urban and Community Forester for the Central Region, an important facet of my job is organizing tree plantings like this one at a public Historically Black University in Baltimore. Read more…
“Five Million Trees, Please”: Maryland Rolls Out ‘5 Million Trees’ Initiative
Students from the Northern High School Interact Club planted serviceberry, river birch, and American plum trees at the Oakland Rotary Park
For the next eight years the Maryland Forest Service will feature a familiar refrain: 5 Million Trees!
The 5 Million Trees Initiative was mandated by legislation, the Tree Solutions Now Act of 2021. Part of this legislation included a historic directive to plant 5 million native trees on public and private land by 2031. These trees are in addition to standard state planting levels–so with more than six million people living in Maryland, at least one tree will be planted for each resident by 2031. Read more…
Tools of the Trade: State Fish Hatcheries
Growing tanks at Albert Powell Hatchery
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources produces more than 20 species of fish for stocking, education, and restoration projects at several fish hatcheries across Maryland, as well as the Piney Point Aquaculture Center in St. Mary’s County. Read more…
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources Honors First Responders with Discounted Access to State Parks
Photo by Anthony Burrows, Maryland Department of Natural Resources
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources announced that beginning today, state resident first responders and law enforcement officers will receive a $40 discount for an Annual State Park and Trail Passport. The passport, which allows unlimited day-use entry for all of Maryland’s state parks and park facilities for one year, is otherwise available for $75 for in-state residents. Read more…
Maryland Fishing Report – May 31
Mike Popchak holds a beautiful smallmouth bass caught while fishing with his brother Joe at Loch Raven Reservoir. Photo by Joe Popchak
Fishing together can form strong bonds between family and friends. Twin brothers Joe and Mike Popchak began fishing together when they were 8 years old – even though their father wasn’t a fisherman, he would take them out while he read the newspaper. The two brothers have kept with it through the years and recently got together to fish at Loch Raven Reservoir.
Now is a perfect time to invite a neighbor or friend to this wonderful pastime. Maryland is hosting three license-free fishing days – June 3, June 10, and July 4 – during which a person may catch and possess finfish in the tidal and nontidal waters of Maryland for recreational purposes without a fishing license or stamp — you just have to follow laws and regulations on seasons, size, and catch limits.
Maryland Department of Natural Resources Announces Three License-Free Fishing Days Scheduled for 2023
Dates in June and July Opportune Time to Try Fishing
Photo by Nicki Strickland, submitted to the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. Photo Contest
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources offers license-free fishing days for all state residents and visitors on Saturday, June 3, Saturday, June 10, and Tuesday, July 4.
Maryland’s annual license-free fishing days offer anglers a unique opportunity to explore the state’s diverse fishing without needing a fishing license, trout stamp, or registration. On these days, any individual may catch and possess finfish for recreational purposes in any tidal and nontidal waters of Maryland. All anglers must follow current size and catch limits found in the department’s fishing and crabbing guide. Read more…
Annual Horseshoe Crab Migration Returning to Maryland
Citizens Can Help Scientific Survey of Ancient Creature
Maryland Department of Natural Resources photo
The annual spawning migration of horseshoe crabs – Limulus polyphemus – is now returning to Maryland beaches, providing an opportunity to view one of nature’s oldest wildlife phenomena and participate in citizen science.
The migration usually takes place from May through July, and its peak culminates with high tides on or around each full and new moon in June. Dating back an estimated 350 million years, this yearly event along the Atlantic coast is thought to be the world’s oldest and largest wildlife migration. Read more…
Maryland Fishing Report – May 24
Young angler Olivia Frantz (left) caught this rainbow trout on a day out with her sister Emily and their dad, Ricky. Photo by Kimberly Sizemore
Memorial Day weekend is a time to celebrate with family gatherings and also to reflect on those who gave all to protect the freedoms we enjoy. Fishing offers the time to do both – and this weekend is a perfect opportunity to take your youngsters out and collect some memories and smiles.
Maryland will host the first of three license-free fishing days June 3. During a free fishing day, a person may catch and possess finfish in the tidal and nontidal waters of Maryland for recreational purposes without an angler’s license, Chesapeake Bay sportfishing license, or any fishing stamp normally required by the Department of Natural Resources. All other fishing laws and regulations will apply on those days. Maryland’s free fishing days are the first two Saturdays in June and on the Fourth of July.
Maryland Department of Natural Resources Reports Encouraging Results from the Chesapeake Bay Blue Crab Winter Dredge Survey
Increases Recorded in Adult Crab Population, Juvenile Recruitment Still Concerning
Scientists and fishery managers from Maryland and Virginia visit 1,500 sites around the Chesapeake Bay to conduct the annual blue crab winter dredge survey. Maryland Department of Natural Resources phot0
The Chesapeake Bay Blue Crab Winter Dredge Survey, a cooperative effort between the Maryland Department of Natural Resources and the Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS), estimates 323 million blue crabs in the Chesapeake Bay in 2023, an increase from last year’s low of 227 million crabs.
The number of spawning age female crabs increased from 97 million crabs in 2022 to 152 million crabs in 2023, a substantial increase and well above the management threshold of 72.5 million crabs. Additionally, adult male crabs increased from 28 million crabs in 2022 to 55 million crabs in 2023. Read more…
Maryland Department of Natural Resources Announces Federal Funds Available for Outdoor Recreation Space
Land and Water Conservation Fund Provides Up to $1 Million
Maryland Department of Natural Resources photo
The Maryland Department of the Natural Resources is now accepting preliminary applications for the federal Land and Water Conservation Fund grant program. Through this program, local governments with qualifying projects are able to request $50,000 to $1 million to create new outdoor recreation spaces, reinvigorate existing parks, and create connections between people and the outdoors.
The department is accepting applications through July 31, 2023. Upon receipt, the Department of Natural Resources will review preliminary applications and invite the highest scoring applicants to create a final application package to be submitted to the National Park Service. Read more…
Maryland Fishing Report – May 17
Tyler Ferenschak was on a quest to catch a northern snakehead and he finally caught one on the Middle River. Photo by Matt Ferenschak
All kinds of fishing opportunities are available this week for anglers, from the mountains of western Maryland to the coastal waters of the Delmarva Peninsula. Seasons are open for striped bass season in the Chesapeake Bay and black sea bass in the Atlantic Ocean, and many other species of fish are active as water temperatures warm.
There are new striped bass regulations now in effect in the Chesapeake Bay and coastal waters. Anglers may keep one striped bass per person per day, with a minimum length of 19 inches and a maximum length of 31 inches. A smaller maximum size of 26 inches is in place in the Susquehanna Flats, Lower Susquehanna River, and North East River from May 18 through May 31, then the bay-wide size limits apply.
In Maryland’s portion of the Atlantic Ocean and its coastal bays, which are open to striped bass fishing all year, anglers may keep one striped bass per person per day, with a minimum length of 28 inches and a maximum length of 31 inches.
All other rules remain the same.
If you do take part in the Maryland striped bass season, please participate in our volunteer angler survey. The information received from anglers is a valuable resource for biologists to better understand recreational fishing for striped bass in Maryland. There are multiple species you can help with also – check the Department of Natural Resources website to search for all our volunteer angler surveys.
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources Gears Up for National Safe Boating Week, May 20-26
Natural Resources Police and Partners Remind All that Life Jackets Save Lives
Maryland Department of Natural Resources photo
As boating season kicks into high gear, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources is encouraging all waterway users – whether boating, kayaking, swimming, or fishing – to take proper precautions on the water. The department and its partners will provide opportunities to promote the use of personal flotation devices and other lifesaving habits and equipment throughout May and into the summer.
All waterway enthusiasts can participate in the worldwide Wear Your Life Jacket at Work Day on May 19, followed by National Safe Boating Week, a national awareness campaign that encourages waterway users to make the most of their adventure by being responsible. Given the importance of waterway recreation in our state, the Maryland Natural Resources Police is a long-time partner in these efforts. Read more…
Maryland Department of Natural Resources’ Annual Survey Confirms 38 Deer With Chronic Wasting Disease
Management Area Expanded into Additional Counties Following 2022 Report
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources reported today that 38 white-tailed deer sampled within Allegany, Carroll, Frederick, and Washington counties in 2022 tested positive for chronic wasting disease, a neurological disease found in deer and elk.
The Department of Natural Resources works with neighboring states to monitor chronic wasting disease in the deer population, and establishes management areas to help study the disease and hopefully curb its spread.
Of the positive samples, 34 came from within the existing Chronic Wasting Disease Management Area (Allegany and Washington counties), while three positive samples came from Frederick County and one positive sample came from Carroll County. Read more…
Maryland Summer-Fall Striped Bass Season Regulations Includes New Maximum Size to Conserve Spawning Stock
Regulations Take Effect May 16, Following Actions Approved by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission
Maryland Department of Natural Resources photo
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources announced regulations for the summer recreational striped bass fishing season beginning May 16, 2023, including a new maximum size of 31 inches that is being enacted in states throughout the Atlantic Coast. The department will continue other conservation actions – including a one-fish daily catch limit and a summer closure – that have been in place the past two seasons to protect the future of striped bass fishing.
The summer-fall season in most areas of the Chesapeake Bay and its tidal tributaries will be open May 16 through July 15. All areas of the Bay will be closed to any targeting of striped bass from July 16 through July 31, and will reopen August 1 through December 10. Anglers may keep one striped bass per person, per day, with a minimum length of 19 inches and a maximum length of 31 inches. A smaller maximum size of 26 inches is in place in the Susquehanna Flats, Lower Susquehanna River, and North East River until June 1.
In Maryland’s portion of the Atlantic Ocean and its coastal bays, which are open to striped bass fishing all year, anglers may keep one striped bass per person, per day, with a minimum length of 28 inches and a maximum length of 31 inches. This regulation also goes into effect May 16. Read more…
Maryland Fishing Report – May 10
Angler Faith Foelber caught a 24-inch rainbow trout in Cunningham Falls Reservoir on May 7. Photo by Paul Foebler
The glorious outdoors are waiting for all to come and enjoy some peace, contemplation from our busy world, and special time with those we love. There are few better opportunities for quality time with our children than fishing together on a quiet stream, pond, or reservoir.
Secretary’s Message – May 2023
Maryland’s Sustainable Forestry is Reason to Celebrate
On a tour of Maryland forest industry location on the Eastern Shore. Photo by Anthony Burrows, Maryland Department of Natural Resources
This past month we celebrated Arbor Day twice – a state commemoration the first Wednesday of April and then national Arbor Day on the last Friday. From the cleanliness of our air to the health of the Chesapeake Bay, the importance of forest conservation to every aspect of our natural environment cannot be overstated. When most Marylanders think of Arbor Day, they think of planting trees.
Trees are ecological wonders, sequestering carbon as they grow, nurturing wildlife, and filtering water. Thriving forests are essential to slowing climate change, and forest growth and expansion is supported across Maryland by several critical partners; the sustainable forest industry, private landowners, local governments, and the nonprofit sector. These partnerships allow us to put practices across the landscape that improve forest health, such as forest thinning and prescribed burns.
I was reminded of this fact during a recent visit to four active sawmills and a forest harvest site on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. Sawmills in Maryland are the nose-to-tail businesses of our forest industry. Every part of every tree is used in production. High quality woods create popular consumer products like fencing and flooring, while the byproducts of lumber production – sawdust and chips – are sold for animal bedding, mulch and paper. Maryland’s mills are largely family owned and operated, and provide a constant supply of wood products. They support generations of loggers and mill workers, along with a dynamic forest landscape for diverse wildlife habitat. Sustainable forest management can provide the ecological push-back to tip the balance in favor of our native forest communities. It relies on good data, good practices, and sound ecological understanding to support local jobs and local wildlife. Read more…
Maryland Fishing Report – May 3
This father and daughter teamed up to put a nice catch together that is destined for a fish fry. Photo by David Jones
Fishing in Maryland is a wonderful activity to share with family and friends and anglers are enjoying every bit of it. Another species of fish that is not often in the spotlight but is very important is the bluegill sunfish. This is often the first fish that young or new anglers catch and if the sunfish are large enough, they make excellent eating.
The Trophy Striped Bass Season is now open and although weather conditions have not been ideal so far this week, anglers are hopeful conditions will improve.
As a reminder, most individuals who fish in Maryland’s coastal and tidal waters are required to have either a valid Maryland Bay and Coastal Sport Fishing License or Maryland Saltwater Angler Registration, with a few exemptions. The registry was Maryland’s answer to comply with a federal requirement established more than a decade ago – it is an important part of protecting Maryland’s fishing opportunities, as data collected helps state and federal agencies sustainably manage U.S. fish stocks.
To make it even easier to obtain the state’s free saltwater registration, Maryland now provides a convenient online form that does not require you to create an account in the state licensing system. You can also register a Department of Natural Resources Service Center or sport license agent, through the state’s online COMPASS License and Registration System with an account and login.
For more information, visit the Department of Natural Resources website.
Maryland Department of Natural Resources Continues Snakehead Tagging Program, Providing Cash Incentive for Anglers
Partnership Program to Study and Reduce Invasive Fish Population
Maryland Department of Natural Resources photo
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is continuing a northern snakehead tagging program in an effort to spur removal of invasive fish from our waters. This spring, up to 500 tags will be put on snakeheads from Gunpowder River, upper Chesapeake Bay tributaries, and Mattawoman and Nanjemoy creeks of Potomac River. Read more…
Maryland Department of Natural Resources Certifies New Clean Marina in Anne Arundel County
Marina Overhaul Helps Local Water Quality and Chesapeake Bay
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources has certified Parish Creek Landing Marina of Shady Side, Anne Arundel County, as the newest Clean Marina in the state. The department awards this designation to marinas that comply with all applicable regulatory requirements and voluntarily adopt a significant portion of recommended best practices in the Maryland Clean Marina Guidebook. There are now 145 certified Clean Marinas in Maryland, representing about 30% of the marinas in the state. Read more…
When Marylanders Register Their Vehicles, They Can Now Support the Environment and Statewide Tree Plantings
Motor Vehicle Administration, Department of Natural Resources Partnership Provides Option for Tree-Mendous Maryland Donations
There is a new way for Marylanders to help restore tree cover and mitigate the harmful effects of pollution in the “Old Line State.” The Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration, in partnership with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, is offering state residents a convenient option to donate toward the planting of native trees on public lands, schools and community open spaces.
Maryland vehicle owners now have the option to make a voluntary $1 donation – or any denomination of their choosing – to the state’s Pamela J. Kelly Tree-Mendous Maryland Program when they register or renew their vehicle registration using the Motor Vehicle Administration webpage e-Store or a self-service kiosk. Read more…
Maryland Department of Natural Resources Introduces Streamlined Saltwater Registry for Anglers
Free Registry is Required Annually to Fish for Anadromous Species
Maryland Department of Natural Resources photo
Maryland has added a convenient option for anglers who are required to complete an annual saltwater registration to fish for striped bass and other species. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources has created a convenient form that does not require the angler to create an account in the state licensing system. Read more…
Maryland Fishing Report – April 26
This happy group helped celebrate an anglers’ notable blue catfish catch at the North Point State Park fishing pier. Photo by Badesh Latchman
The wonderful spring weather is inviting Marylanders to come outside and enjoy all the wonders nature has to offer – like walks through state parks, or fishing along an inviting shoreline or fishing pier.
Maryland Department of Natural Resources Announces Newly Created Venison Donation Grant Program
Money Available to Cover Processing Fees for Venison Donated to Charitable Causes
Maryland’s deer hunting seasons run from September to February. Photo by Reinhardt Sahmel, submitted to a previous Maryland Department of Natural Resources Photo Contest.
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources announced the creation of a venison donation grant program. Money is available to county governments, municipal corporations, and 501(c)(3)tax exempt organizations to assist with the direct costs of butchering and processing deer for venison to be donated to programs to assist Marylanders in need. Read more…
Maryland’s Office of Outdoor Recreation Welcomes Confluence of States
Nation’s Largest Outdoor Recreation Organization Comes to Annapolis
Secretary Josh Kurtz and Maryland Department of Natural Resources staff welcomed outdoor recreation officials from several states. Maryland Department of Natural Resources photo.
Maryland’s Office of Outdoor Recreation this week hosted colleagues from the Confluence of States, a nationwide bipartisan organization dedicated to the growth of the outdoor recreation industry, in Annapolis.
“The Confluence of States, Office of Outdoor Recreation, and the Maryland Departments of Natural Resources and Commerce have built an incredible partnership to expand outdoor recreation in Maryland,” said Maryland Department of Natural Resources Secretary Josh Kurtz. “This partnership raises awareness of all our state has to offer and will help provide Marylanders with outdoor opportunities for years to come.” Read more…
Maryland Fishing Report – April 19
This group of high school friends enjoyed some fun fishing together for blue and channel catfish near Pooles Island. Photo by Richard Hoenes
April continues to bring us the many splendors of spring and delightful weather for outdoor activities and fishing. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources trout hatchery program continues generous weekly stockings in many of the state’s waters. As many Chesapeake Bay anglers await the opening of the trophy striped bass season on May 1, others are enjoying fishing for catfish in the Bay and tidal rivers.
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