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maryland department of natural resources $2tnhMe atuararlyrelsaounrcde Vol. 19, No. 1 I Winter 2016 ON THE COVER Photo Contest Results IN THIS ISSUE... Garrett County Trails Secret Saw-Whet Wild Turkey Management

tnhMe atuararlyrelsaounrcde Cover photo by Jennifer Solpietro contact us Contents photo by Wes Bunton The Maryland Natural Resource subscribe at shopdnr.com 580 Taylor Avenue, D4 Annapolis, MD 21401 DNR 01-12162015-792 1/16 [email protected] 410-260-8021 n 877-620-8DNR Larry Hogan, Governor Mark Belton, Secretary

CONTENTS features in every issue 6Trailblazing 2The Nature of Change & Aboveboard Expanding paths in Garrett County 3Ask an Expert 8The Secret Saw-Whet 4Short Takes Hiding in plain sight 5Department News 10Talkin’ Turkey 12A Walk in the Park Wildlife success story The Bay Game 24 25From the Field 132015 Photo Contest Winners22Through an Educator’s Eyes Explore and Restore Maryland streams staff contributors Communications Director Stephen Schatz Steve Carr, Dorcas Coleman, Sr. Manager of Strategic Communications Kristen Peterson Lauren Mitchell, Kristen Peterson, Creative Services Manager; Design & Layout Lauren Mitchell Amanda Sullivan, John Taylor, Subscriptions & Distribution Stephen Badger CandSpyriTnhgo2m01s5onI 1 Editorial Support Karis King, Candy Thomson, Darlene Walker Winter 2016 I 1 The facilities and services of the Maryland Department of Natural Resources are available to all without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age,national origin or physical or mental disability. This document is available upon request in alternative format from a qualified individual with a disability. © 2016 Maryland Department of Natural Resources ISSN 1521-9984

THE NATURE OF CHANGE ABOVEBOARD Happy New Year! In December, the First As the days become even Lady and I spent four days visiting shorter and the tempera- western Maryland, or what I call “Mountain tures grow colder, we often Maryland.” Traveling just a few hours from neglect getting outside and Annapolis brought us to this beautiful, scenic enjoying nature. area of the state, rich with natural resources. But the Maryland outdoors My trip was centered on promoting eco- provide unique winter oppor- nomic growth in the region, touring local tunities. A few weeks ago, two businesses and engaging and talking with of my sons and I traveled to constituents—things leaders in Annapolis western Maryland to enjoy have neglected for far too long. Our administration is committed to a weekend exploring our state parks. I was heading in changing Maryland for the better and will work to ensure that our that direction to celebrate and recognize the latest park friends from all areas of the state have a seat at the table. rangers, who graduated at New Germany State Park. While there, we were able to announce progress on several top It is up to these fine men and women to manage priorities. Rocky Gap continues to be an important economic driver and protect our parks, and serve our citizens. Over the for Mountain Maryland, and we celebrated the completion of a new weekend, we had the opportunity to see first-hand just water treatment plant at Rocky Gap State Park. The state invested how picturesque some of our western parks are. $5.64 million to replace obsolete, unreliable technology with a fully Following the ranger school graduation, we visited automated, membrane ultra-filtration water system to accommodate Swallow Falls State Park. It was a fascinating time to visit the campground, park and resort. the area. We had the whole park to ourselves, which Employing 500 people, the state park and adjoining casino and my sons loved. Being alone in these places of natural resort are vital to the region’s economy. Redevelopment at Rocky beauty has an appeal all of its own, providing unique Gap has led to many new construction jobs and has drawn people interaction with nature. We felt like we were on the set to Allegany County hotels, restaurants and shops. By investing in the of the movie, “The Last of the Mohicans,” climbing over plant, we are ensuring that the current and future needs of visitors and rocks and taking in majestic waterfalls surrounded by businesses will be met. patches of green from the virgin hemlock trees. We also announced the reopening of Youghiogheny Welcome That evening, we stayed at the restored historic Center in Friendsville in Garrett County and participated in a ribbon- cabins at Herrington Manor State Park, located within cutting for Love’s Travel Stops in Cumberland in Allegany County. Once Garrett State Forest. open in the spring of 2016, the Youghiogheny center will again be a On Saturday morning, we visited four additional gateway into our beautiful state, benefiting the tourism industry and sites. We walked around Fort Frederick State Park. We businesses in western Maryland. Love’s Travel Stops’ new location will ran into thru-hikers on the Appalachian Trail, and ob- create 70 new jobs, and will be a tremendous benefit for the thousands served migrating raptors and birders at Washington of professional drivers, visitors and residents who travel the I-68 route Monument State Park. every day. We even took advantage of the vistas in the Knob In support of our ongoing effort to combat heroin and opioid Hill area at Gambrills State Park. We finished the day abuse in the state, we announced more than $200,000 in additional at Greenbrier State Park, which brought back mem- grant funding. These funds will provide additional support to ongoing ories for my boys of previous camping trips with our efforts to help addicts break free of their addiction, while strengthening whole family. western Maryland’s ability to track down and arrest drug traffickers. As we enter the New Year, why not make a resolution Our administration is committed to making Maryland the place in to get outside more often to take advantage of some America to live, work and raise a family. This commitment holds true in of Maryland’s most beautiful and treasured places—our all parts of our great state, and my trip to western Maryland was the first state forests and parks—this winter and beyond. of many I hope to make as governor. In 2016, I look forward to working On behalf of the Natural Resources family, we wish with you as we continue changing Maryland for the better! you a peaceful, joyous and adventurous 2016. Larry Hogan Mark J. Belton Governor Secretary2 I The Maryland Natural Resource

ASK AN EXPERTFrom who to call about a fallen tree to how to make a reservation at a state park, we are featuring a new section that answers YOUR questions on all things natural resources.I caught a snakehead; what should I do with it? TODD MURPHY(Charles in Charles County) Todd Murphy caught this record-breaking snakehead on Mattawoman Creek in August 2015.The northern snakehead is an invasive aquatic species that is avoracious predator of fish and crustaceans. It has spread rapidly All anglers who submit a report will be entered into a rafflein Maryland since its first discovery in 2002 and is now firmlyestablished throughout the Potomac River and other rivers of the drawing at the end of the year for a prize. Another winning possi-Chesapeake Bay. bility: break a state record. As of December 2015, the official Mary- If you catch one, we at the Department of Natural Resourcesask you to harvest the snakehead by putting it on ice and then land state record snakehead was 17.49 pounds. Any angler whokilling it to prevent its spread. catches a snakehead more massive than that could be the new Reporting the catch is critical too. Please report your snake-head (especially if it is caught outside of the Potomac River) by state champion! —JOE LOVE, TIDAL BASS MANAGERtaking a picture and sending it to the department’s Angler’s Log [email protected]. Fisheries will verify the pictureand report it to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and ultimately,the U.S. Geological Survey.Who do I call to repair a damaged buoy? How do I get rid of nuisance animals in my house or on my property?(Anne in Anne Arundel County)This is a seemingly simple question, with a not so simple answer. (Fred in Frederick County)Buoys are owned by different agencies and jurisdictions, includingthe U.S. Coast Guard, the state or even private communities and The Department of Natural Resources Wildlife and Heritagemarinas. The Coast Guard marks most of the main water channelswhile the Department of Natural Resources marks the smaller, less Service and the U.S. Department of Agriculture have teamedtraveled waterways. In some cases, a creek or entrance channel ismarked by a community or marina. Each entity is responsible for up to provide you with a toll-free phone number (877-463-their buoys, lights and markers. 6497) to report any nuisance, injured or sick animal. To report a damaged buoy that you believe belongs to theDepartment of Natural Resources, please call the Natural Re- The staff that answer these calls are experts on nuisancesources Police at 800-628-9944 or 410-260-8888. animals and can give you quick, practical advice to resolve Below are some photos of various buoys that may help youdetermine the best organization to contact. —JOHN GALLAGHER, your problem. The phones are staffed Monday through HYDROGRAPHICS OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Friday during the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. If you need assistance after hours or if you concern involves bear or deer, please call the Natural Resource Police at 800-628-9944 or 410-260-8888. The department has a list of licensed Wildlife Damage DNR PHOTOS Control Cooperators if you decide you need to hire a profes- sional. These companies will respond to wildlife problems for a fee and are listed by county at dnr.maryland.gov/wildlife. Important note: The department does not regulate the fees charged by these cooperators so we encourage you to obtain a few quotes. —KARINA STONESIFER, WILDLIFE AND HERITAGE ASSOCIATE DIRECTORState-owned daymark Coast Guard buoy Natural Resources buoy Have a question you would like answered by a Department of Natural Resources expert in an upcoming Natural Resource magazine? Submit it to [email protected]. Winter 2016 I 3

SHORT TAKES By Lauren Mitchell HOWARD SMITH Polar Bear Plunge Slow Cooker Deer Stew DNR PHOTOA previous plunge JENNY HA The 20th Annual Polar Bear Plunge will take place Serves 4-6; Submitted by Kathleen CataniaThe 2015 winning poster at Sandy Point State Park on Jan. 30. This popular Ingredients(L to R) Steve McAdams, Bill Basil, Chris Gleason- JOE ANDRUCYK winter event benefits children and adults with 2 pounds venisonSmuck, Yumi Hogan intellectual disabilities. Each participant’s $75 (or 1 can of beerGraduation at New Germany State Park CHRISTINA HOLDEN more) pledge enables more than 7,000 special 1 onion, chopped athletes to enjoy the life-changing benefits of part- 1 cup of frozen peas icipating in more than 24 sports through Special 3 potatoes, cut into 1-inch pieces Olympics Maryland. To form a team or sign up as 6 carrots, cut into 1-inch pieces an individual, go to plungemd.com. 1.5 cups of beef stock 1.5 cups of flour Arbor Day Poster Contest Salt and pepper Instructions The Maryland Forest Service and Maryland For- Coat meat with a flour/salt mixture: one est Conservancy District Boards announce the cup flour to one teaspoon salt. (Use more “Trees are Terrific…in Cities and Towns!” Arbor as needed.) Place coated venison in slow Day poster contest. Fifth graders across the state cooker. Add beer, peas, carrots, onion and may submit artwork to their local county Forest potatoes. Pour in just enough beef stock Service office by 4:00 p.m. on Feb. 26. Winners’ to cover vegetables. Add 1/2 cup flour (or teachers will be notified directly by March 25. 1 tbs. cornstarch mixed with 3 tbs. cold For complete information, go to dnr.maryland.gov/ water.) Add salt & pepper to taste. Cook forests and click on TREEMENDOUS Maryland. on low for 6-8 hours​. (If cooked on high, it gets too chewy.​) Park Ranger Honored in Annapolis To submit a recipe for consideration, email [email protected]. First Lady Yumi Hogan presented Maryland Park Ranger Chris Gleason-Smuck with the AmeriCorps Internships Available Alum Award for his significant contributions in helping others. He serves as a full-time ranger at Longing for a career promoting the welfare the South Mountain Recreation Area complex and of our natural resources, but green to the has volunteered more than 400 hours as a first re- business? The department’s office of com- sponder. Confident and calm in emergencies, he has munications has public relations, online helped bridge gaps in emergency response services services and video production internships between organizations in the region. available for college students and recent graduates. Those interested in applying New Rangers Join the Force should go to dnr.maryland.gov and click on internships for more information. Congratulations to Maryland’s 24 newest park rang- ers! During four weeks of classroom and practical instruction, candidates learned how to handle situational scenarios, resource management con- cerns, search and rescue missions, campground operations, park maintenance and more. A gradua- tion ceremony held this past November marked the ninth class of new rangers since the program was reinstated in 2009.Recycle Christmas TreesReal Christmas trees continue to hold purpose long after the holidays have passed. Theycan be recycled into mulch, sunk into private ponds for fish habitat or placed in backyardsas bird feeders and sanctuaries. Some trees may even be replanted. Various removaloptions also include nonprofit pickup, recycling centers and other programs. Explorelocal county resources, or go to realchristmastrees.org for more information.4 I The Maryland Natural Resource

DEPARTMENT NEWS DNR PHOTO Rail Trail Inducted into Hall of FameRail Trail Hall of Fame plaque DARYL BYRD In November, the Torrey C. Brown Rail Trail claimed its spot in the Rails-to-Kayaking at Mallows Bay Trails Conservancy Hall of Fame. Sharing the spotlight with its PennsylvaniaDelmarva fox squirrel THERESA WILTROUT counterpart—the Heritage Rail Trail County Park—it became only the 29th network to earn this honor out of 1,900 across the nation. Originally chartered in 1828, this stretch from Ashland north to the state line passes through many historically significant communities. Troops traveled the same path throughout the Civil War, as did President Lincoln en route to Gettysburg to give his famed address. For a combined total of 44 miles, these two trails serve as an important link in the proposed 300-mile Grand History Trail, which would connect Washington D.C., Annapolis, Baltimore, Gettysburg, Hanover and York. Mallows Bay: The Road to Designation In October, the National Ocean and Atmospheric Administration declared its intent to designate Mallows Bay as a National Marine Sanctuary. Located in Charles County on an area of the Potomac River called Nanjemoy, Mallows Bay features a host of archaeological, recreational, historical, cultural, educational and environmental qualities, and is home to one of the largest assemblages of historic shipwrecks in the Western Hemisphere. Known as the Ghost Fleet, this collection totals nearly 200 vessels dating back to the Revolutionary War and World War II. The Department of Natural Resources and the state of Maryland sub- mitted the nomination in 2014. Following the decision to move forward with the designation in October, partners held two public meetings to hear straight from citizens who voiced overwhelming support for the sanctuary. To keep up with the current status of the designation process, which may take up to two years, visit dnr.maryland.gov/mallowsbay. Delmarva Fox Squirrel Rebounds As of December 2015, the Delmarva Peninsula fox squirrel is no longer on the list of Threatened and Endangered Species thanks to efforts from the Department of Natural Resources and our partners. Development and agriculture, short-rotation timber logging and over- hunting began to drive the population into decline in the early 1900s. It was named an endangered species in 1967, and in 1971, hunting was banned. The species’ comeback has rested heavily on landowners’ willingness to provide habitat for the squirrels, loggers’ and developers’ commitment to maintaining mature forests, and conservation agencies’ ability to ensure appropriate habitat preservation. According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the current population of up to 20,000 squirrels now covers 28 percent of the Delmarva Peninsula, primarily in Maryland. Nearly 50 years after its original listing, the Delmarva Peninsula fox squirrel joins more than 30 other species, including the bald eagle, American alligator and peregrine falcon, which have recovered with the help of the Endangered Species Act. Winter 2016 I 5

Trails are changing the face of western Maryland. Towns network of high-quality trails that provide access to Garrett such as Hancock, Cumberland, McHenry and Oakland are County’s historic, municipal and environmental treasures, andpart of a trail expansion initiative that is pumping revenue into link to trails outside the county.local coffers and making the area a world-class destination forhikers and bikers alike. Garrett County is home to some of the finest outdoor activities around, and features trails that come in all shapes and This has not happened by accident or overnight. It is the re- sizes. Take the Youghiogheny River water trail, which has thesult of visionary advocates and organizations, such as Garrett wildest white water rafting on the East Coast.Trails, that steadily push state and local governments to helpbuild and promote a network of trails connecting natural The area also offers more than 80 miles of snowmobilewonders of western Maryland. trails on frozen Deep Creek Lake as well as a 22-mile long western Maryland Rail Trail (with another 4.5 miles opening Created in 1999, Garrett Trails is a non-profit, volunteer in 2017).organization dedicated to the development of a well-used There is something for everyone. GARRETT TRAILS Garrett Trails board treasurer Steve Green explains the beauty and challenges of building the completed phase 1 section of Meadow Mountain Trail to Natural Resources leadership and Garrett Trails staff.trailblazing Expanding paths of Garrett County By Steve CarrA route to economic growth The Department of Natural Resources currently under construction. This 14- is heavily involved in the investment and mile long (one-way) biker/hiker trail isGovernor Larry Hogan has made investing strategy behind a trail network. As an out- the linchpin of the proposed Easternin parks and trails a major part of his plan to door enthusiast and the department’s land Continental Divide Loop Trail. Supportersexpand sustainable business opportunities trails planner, I was asked to help lead envision it as a 150-mile, multi-surfacein rural areas, such as western Maryland, Secretary Mark Belton and the Governor’s trail, connecting state forest and parks withwhere tourism offers year-round economic Chief of Staff, Craig Williams, for a three- population centers, such as Grantsvillebenefits while also showcasing the beauty day trail tour arranged by Garrett Trails. and Deep Creek Lake, and the Greatof the state. Allegheny Passage. The weather was perfect and the fall Chairman Paul Clayton Edwards, a colors were in all of their glory as we hiked Our first day ended at the historicGarrett County commissioner, is a strong through the rugged trail. Casselman River Bridge, where Garrettsupporter of trails. “Areas such as Garrett Trails is devising a route that will followCounty have to use the resources available Day one an abandoned rail line beside the rainbowto grow economically,” he explains. “The trout-stocked Casselman River, just southnatural beauty is already here and if we We spent our first day learning about the of the Meadow Mountain Trail. The trailcan capture just 10 percent of that eco- new Meadow Mountain trail on Savage will run north through “Amish Country,”nomic impact, it is a game changer for our River State Forest. The department made following old Route 219 to Salisbury,county, and ultimately the state.” the land available for the trail, which is6 I The Maryland Natural Resource

GARRETT TRAILS INK BYERSSwallow Falls State Park We next explored the Fishermen’s Trail Herrington Manor State Park that runs through the spectacular Yock After three days in western Maryland,and then the rail line to Meyersdale that Gorge, ending at a magnificent vista over-connects to the Passage. looking Muddy Creek Falls, the largest Secretary Belton went home with a few blis- single-drop waterfall in Maryland. ters and a firm resolve to help make Garrett As Mike Dreisbach, the president of County the “Trail Capital” of the state.Garrett Trails, showcased the projects, he Later on, we hiked some of the rockystressed the importance of partnerships. single-track mountain bike trails in the Belton called the trip an eye-opening“It was a great pleasure for Garrett Trails Fork Run area being built by Garrett Trails. experience. “Together with Garrett Trails,to host the secretary and his staff and give When completed, there will be more than we are providing exceptional recreationalthem a taste of what this area has to offer 10 miles of trail, running from the top of opportunities for Maryland citizens on ourto hikers, bikers, paddlers and outdoor Wisp Mountain all the way to Sang Run. public lands,” Belton says. “We are con-enthusiasts. It will take a lot of effort and necting with and engaging our citizens oncooperation on everyone’s part to bring Day three the importance of natural resource con-this exciting eco-tourism destination to servation, and enabling economic expan-Garrett County and Maryland.” Sang Run is the place where the Yough- sion—a focus of the Hogan administra- iogheny River trips begin. It’s 10 miles tion—by creating and enhancing tourismDay two of incredible chills and thrills to the little destinations.” n town of Friendsville. Rafting or kayakingThe following day we began with a hike through each of the “Class V” rapids is a dnr.maryland.gov/landthrough the state’s largest hemlock forest pinball ride as you drop and bounce yourto Swallow Falls, a breathtaking waterfall way through a maze of snaggletooth rocks. Steve Carr is the state Land Trails Planner.that flows into the Youghiogheny River (af- Several professional white water raftingfectionately referred to as the Yock, like companies operate out of Friendsville and Winter 2016 I 7rock), the state’s only designated scenic will guide enthusiasts through a land vir-and wild river. tually untouched. Under Maryland’s Scenic and Wild In Friendsville, we walked up the Ken- Rivers program, which was enacted dall Trail, along the edge of the Youghiogh- more than 20 years ago, the entire eny River where float trips went zooming Maryland portion of the Youghiogheny by. We hiked through a world of giant ferns River has been declared “scenic.” A and granite walls that most people would 21-mile segment is also the state’s only never imagine existed in Maryland. “wild” river, meaning it is protected from development to remain in near- natural condition.

The Secret Saw-Whet Hiding in plain sight Painting and article by John Taylor8 I The Maryland Natural Resource

The northern saw-whet owl disappears caused many to wonder, what prompted SAM MAY Founded in by simply staying still. Flapping its this tiny nomad to fly such a distance in 1994, Project Owlnet started as anwings would give it away, so it remains the wrong direction. BRANDON LALLY effort to link owl researchers in Northmotionless—a behavior developed throughthe ages. Rather than fleeing from danger, “When we started Project Owlnet 25 America. It facilitates communication,it uses its cryptic coloration and physiol- years ago, we had very little information cooperation and innovation among aogy as natural camouflage. on the saw-whet owl,” Maryland Natural Resource Ecologist Dave Brinker says. “We rapidly growing network of hundreds of While relatively rare in Maryland, started with about 10 banding stations and owl-migration researchers in the U.S. andthey are common but seldom-observed now have 125 across the country. Since ourbirds across North America, from south- start in 1985, volunteers have banded more abroad. The project was the brainchildern Alaska through the central provinces than 10,000 saw-whet owls in Maryland of Maryland Department of Naturalof Canada to the Atlantic Coast and south alone and 217,434 across the country.” Resources Ecologist Dave Brinker.in the Appalachians to the Great SmokyMountains. Yet it is only by chance that “A lot of people didn’t understand the Visit projectowlnet.org to learn more.even a practiced observer spots one. impetus for the project—they didn’t realize the magnitude of the saw-whet population,” do not think the owl ever soundedA hooter’s home Brinker says. “We really surprised them. It anything like a saw being whetted. What has turned this little known owl that people this owl does sound like is a “toot.” TheThe preferred nesting habitat of the saw- seldom see into the most banded owl in same note, monotonously repeated, all onwhet owl is heavy coniferous forest, usually North America.” the same pitch. Often the sound has a bell-where it is wet and swampy. During mig- like ring to it. At other times it is flatter inration and in the winter, it may be found Juvenile saw-whet owls tone. Less often heard is a series of shrillin deciduous woods, but retains a decided squeaking sounds.preference for evergreens and thick brushy Adult saw-whet owltangles of vegetation. It was apparently Audubon who first Branding the bird used the name “saw-whet.” He did not Because of its preference for northern name it as such, but noted in his Birdforest habitats, in Maryland, it breeds only The etymology of the word “saw-whet” Biographies (1839) that in Massachusettsin western counties such as Garrett, using has led to a tangle of confusing rhetoric. the bird is known as “saw-whet.” He thennatural cavities or abandoned woodpecker Ever since the days of famed ornithologist goes on to describe in detail the similarityholes. It does not build a nest, but lays its John James Audubon, reams have been of the owl’s call to the sharpening of a saw.eggs in the chips or debris on the floor of written to explain how the call of the owlthe cavity. sounds like the whetting, or sharpening, of Now, after 150 years, a more plausible a saw. Many books and publications have explanation for the name has been ad- The plumage of the young bird is quite offered lengthy explanations. vanced. It could be called the Frenchdifferent than that of its parents. It has Connection. In France and in the Frenchunmarked cinnamon-orange breasts and The saw-whet owl may have been parts of Canada, the word for owl is “lachocolate brown on the head and neck. A named for giving a call that sounds like a chouette.” An Anglicized pronunciationwhite “V” decorates its forehead. saw being sharpened on a whetting stone, would certainly sound like “saw-whet.” but there is no consensus as to which of its Further, if one considers that many FrenchRoaming research several calls gave rise to the name. Many Canadians use an “s” sound for the initial “ch,” the derivation becomes more likely.The saw-whet owl has a strong migratoryinstinct, which has been well documented It seems puzzling that Audubon, whoacross the northeast. In October and is of French descent and who travelledNovember, exceptionally large flights take much of Canada and New England, didplace along the Great Lakes and in the not notice the use of the word “chouette”Delaware Valley. In Maryland, the owls by the people there.regularly winter in the forests of the EasternShore and on Assateague Island. It is one of many mysteries surrounding this stealthy little owl. n At concentration points, departmentstaff and volunteers who are passionate dnr.maryland.gov/wildlifeabout studying the migration of the owlshave established banding stations. Here, John Taylor is a local artist and wildlife enthusiast.the birds are fitted with numbered legbands. Much can be learned about itshabits and wanderings. Of special interestwas the capture of a saw-whet owl,originally banded in California in 2008. It Winter 2016 I 9

LORI R. BRAMBLETurkeys in Cambridge wildlife success story By Candy ThomsonYou want to talk turkey? Talk to Frank through careful management as well as As a Natural Resources Police officer, he Ryan. The Reisterstown resident has public involvement. protected those new flocks from poachers.seen them at their lowest point, when thestate’s wild turkey population hovered “Wild turkey lack the charismatic ap- And as a hunter, Ryan reaped the ben-near 2,000. And he’s watched with pride peal of deer, bears and geese, but the re- efits of those efforts, harvesting a turkey inas their numbers puffed up like a tom covery of this great bird remains one of the each of Maryland’s 23 counties—an ac-turkey in full strut to about 35,000 birds. greatest wildlife conservation success sto- complishment that could never have hap- ries in history,” says Paul Peditto, director pened 25 years ago. “It’s good to see the flocks thriving of the department’s Wildlife and Heritageand prospering. If people take care of Service. “The annual strut and gobble of Natural resources devoteethem, they’ll continue to be around for an adult tom signals the arrival of springa long time,” says Ryan, who spent 40 and reminds us of the remarkable work of Ryan’s enthusiasm for the Department ofyears as a Maryland Park Service ranger our wildlife management team.” Natural Resources and wild turkeys cameand Maryland Natural Resources Police naturally. He grew up hunting small gameofficer. “They are a testament to the good As a park ranger, Ryan helped that effort and fishing near his family’s home justwork the agency does.” by trapping wild birds on state lands and north of Annapolis, where many of his neighbors worked at the department. Indeed, wild turkeys join black bears, relocating them to places where scientistsstriped bass and others on the endangeredlist that have been revived in Maryland predicted they would blossom.10 I The Maryland Natural Resource According to the National Wild Turkey Federation, turkey hunters spend more than $4 billion a year on calls and other gear. In Maryland, they add nearly $5 million to the economy annually.

“I was a DNR groupie by the time I DNR PHOTOwas 8 years old,” he says. Frank Ryan displaying his infamous robo turkey barriers between his chosen hunting spot His dad was an avid hunter and fisher- and his potential prey.man, who subscribed to the Pennsylvania Wily white meatGame News, a publication Ryan devoured “The best part of the sport is callingas a youngster. He was especially drawn to As he hunted, Ryan marveled at the them in close,” explains Ryan, who stillthe stories about wild turkeys and the men comeback. After harvesting turkeys in uses a small, battered box call. “It’swho hunted them. five counties, he challenged himself and something about the call that gets the his skills to take a bird in each of the 18 senses humming like a Stradivarius.” Just before his 20th birthday in the remaining counties.fall of 1969, the pages of that Pennsyl- However, the wild turkey recoveryvania magazine became reality when It’s not as easy as it sounds. Contrary to won’t remain successful without vigi-Ryan killed his first turkey at Indian myth, turkeys are wily and easily spooked. lance and more hard work. ExpertsSprings Wildlife Management Area in They know the lay of the land and can estimate that 6,000 acres of habitatWashington County, Maryland. disappear like a wisp of smoke in a breeze. disappear nationally each day. Hunters, who fund many conservation efforts “It’s not much of a story,” he says, “Their brains are the size of a walnut, through license fees, are dwindling inchuckling. “I was sitting on a rock at the but they’re tough and many times they’ve number and are now less than 10 percentedge of a ravine and it flew by.” outfoxed me,” Ryan says. of the American population. That next spring, Maryland held its In 2006, he took his largest bird—a “We can continue the success story.first limited spring gobbler season, and 25 pounder—in Prince George’s County. Wise wildlife management, sportsmenas the population grew and spread, so Mounted by a taxidermist and animated and landowners who were knowledgeabledid the season. by a battery pack, it became a robo-turkey enough and generous enough got us to this decoy for the Natural Resources Police to point,” Ryan says. “Now we have to keepGrowing gobblers catch poachers. public opinion on our side. With positive public opinion, we can do anything.During that time, Ryan, who was work- On May 22, 2014, he ended his quest Without it, we can do nothing.” ning as a ranger at Cunningham Falls State with a gobbler in Harford County.Park, began teaching hunting seminars. dnr.maryland.gov/wildlife Laying the groundwork was the secret “It was slim pickings at that time, so to Ryan’s success: scouting the hunting Candy Thomson is the Natural Resources Police publicthe seminars weren’t about killing turkeys, area the year before; getting written per- information officer.they were about getting people to appreci- mission from the landowner; walking theate them,” he says. area to familiarize himself with the habitat and turkey behavior; and noting physical The bird’s revival got a major push in1973 with the formation of the NationalWild Turkey Federation, which beganpromoting more efficient ways to expandthe flocks. To that point, Maryland andother states were failing in their efforts torelease farm-raised birds into the wild,where lacking survival instincts or defen-sive mechanisms, they quickly perished. The federation urged local biologists totrap wild birds with nets and relocate them.It also encouraged species conservationand habitat protection. Armed with that new strategy, “Wetransferred turkeys all throughout thestate,” Ryan says. Those trapped near Fort Frederickwere relocated to Patapsco Valley StatePark. Some from Muddy Creek in GarrettCounty found new homes at Morgan Runin Carroll County. Once established, someof the Morgan Run flock was trapped andsent to Aberdeen north of Baltimore andNanticoke on the Eastern Shore. Winter 2016 | 11

DNR PHOTOTUCKAHOE: AN ADVENTURER’S OASIS By Dorcas ColemanIn the heart of the mid-shore, inland and turned-abolitionist, Frederick Douglass, Challenge course miles away from the Chesapeake Bay’s was born in a log cabin along the creek open waters, lies a park unlike most of just south of the state park. A picturesque paddle those that dot the Eastern Shore. Tuckahoe State Park—located along Tuckahoe Creek, Abundant amusement Tuckahoe Creek travels the length of the the dividing line between the agricultural park’s 3,800 acres and provides recreation landscape of Queen Anne’s and Caroline The area’s unique composition of fields, for anglers and paddlers. counties—is a stream-and-valley park pro- forests and wetlands provides habitat for viding a welcome diversion from the miles a tremendous diversity of fauna and flora, One of the most tranquil—and unex- of surrounding corn and soybean fields. making it an inviting destination for out- pected—places to canoe or kayak is the door adventures. More than 18 miles of upper portion of the creek. This stretch Created in 1962, Tuckahoe became a trails cover the mid-shore’s gentle terrain passes through thickly-wooded, gentle quiet little gem that travelers bypassed for and are open to hikers, mountain bikers banks in the middle of miles of unbroken years, heading instead for campgrounds and equestrians. A campground welcomes parcels of farmland. and outdoor opportunities along the Atlan- more than 15,000 campers each year, and tic Ocean. Today, the park attracts 73,000 a 60-acre lake offers boating and fishing. As one leaves the lake and ventures up- visitors annually. stream, the forest slowly begins to close in Home to a popular Scales & Tales pro- and takes on the appearance of a flooded History and heritage gram—that affords visitors the opportu- woodland. The stream continues to nar- nity to see live wildlife up close and per- row and become more shallow until gently An area rich with history, the creek was sonal—the park also features an aviary, worn pebbles and schools of small darting once lined with villages established by the which houses injured birds of prey that fish appear. Algonquin Indians. Although officially un- cannot be released back into the wild. documented, it is widely believed that the Skilled rangers handle these creatures Here, the attentive paddler is likely to creek valley later served as a route along and educate thousands of people around get a glimpse of some of the animals that the Underground Railroad, the secret net- the region. make their home along the waterway. work of safe houses that welcomed run- Turtles are the most commonly sighted— away slaves on their journeys north. A group challenge course encourages dozens of painted and red-bellied terrapins team building through activities like sun themselves along exposed sections of Maryland’s own Harriet Tubman freed wall climbing, zip lining and swinging. The fallen trees. Bullfrogs, migrating songbirds herself from slavery in nearby Dorchester park also hosts a variety of environmental and the occasional croak of a great blue County and returned to the area numerous education programs, including day camps heron can be heard. A sharp eye might spot times to lead more than 300 other slaves as well as youth and adult nature programs, a muskrat swimming along the shoreline, to freedom. Another famous former-slave- throughout the year. its head barely breaking the water.Scales & Tales SAKI Even natives of the area remark at howKayakers STEPHEN BADGER surprising it is to find a water trail of this kind on the Eastern Shore, as so many are accustomed to paddling the salt water marshes and tidal flats that line the many bay tributaries. Anyone looking for a new adventure should consider a visit to Tuckahoe State Park to take in all that it offers. They will not be disappointed. n dnr.maryland.gov/publiclands Dorcas Coleman is the office manager at Tuckahoe State Park.12 I The Maryland Natural Resource

2015PHOTOCONTESTWINNERS Winter 2016 I 13

3 1 first place and grand prize winner 2 Female Red-winged Blackbird BIRDSby Santosh Shanmuga at Swan Harbor Farms second place Bald Eagle with Rockfish by Stephen Hayes at Conowingo Dam third place Tundra Swans by Mitch Adolph in Arnold 14 I The Maryland Natural Resource

FLORA 1 3 first place Glorious Mushrooms by Annette Conniff in Parkville second place Unfurling by Nick Becker at Gunpowder Falls State Park 2 third place Milkweed by Tim Ray at Centennial Lake Winter 2016 I 15

3 1 first place Busy Busy Busy 2 by Stefan Kaben at McKee-Beshers second place Monarch Caterpillar INSECTS by Laurie Brice at Jug Bay third place Pollen Faced by Cindy Ellis at Piney Point16 I The Maryland Natural Resource

1NATURE IN ACTION 3 first place Ice After the Storm by Jennifer Solpietro in Columbia second place Pine Trees in Snow by Addison Likins at Wheatley Lake third place Bmore Ivy by Erika Sneeringer in East Baltimore 2 Winter 2016 I 17

13 first place Hay Bale Stretch 2 by Nick Becker at Susquehanna State Park OUTDOOR RECREATION second place Sunrise Hunt by Michael Parsons in Wye Mills third place Crossing Waterby James Corbett at Patapsco Valley State Park 18 I The Maryland Natural Resource

1 3 first place Fishing Bay Jetty by JH Soares at Elliott Island second place The Best Farm by Tammy Walla in Frederick third place Point Lookout by Andy Padden at Point Lookout State Park 2SCENIC LANDSCAPES Winter 2016 I 19

3 1 first place Call of the Wild 2 by Marie-Ann D’Aloia in Ellicott City second place Snapper from the Deep WILDLIFEby Robert Geary at Fountain Rock Park third place Sleepy Raccoonby Melissa McCeney in Germantown20 I The Maryland Natural Resource

fan favorite Halloween Pennant Dragonfly by Alper Kerman at Black Hill Regional ParkA NOTE FROM THE JUDGES...Year after year, the photos submitted to our annual contest continue to impress department staff and leadership.Approximately 200 people entered more than 1,100 photographs for consideration in 2015, which set a new record.As it becomes increasingly difficult to select just a few photographs from each category, we decided to let you, ourreaders, chose an additional image to include amongst our selections. The photo of the dragonfly above gained more than480 Facebook likes in early September, claiming recognition as our first ever Fan Favorite.We hope you share our congratulations to all participants and winners, and that you enjoy these images as much as wedo! For information on how to enter in 2016, please visit dnr.maryland.gov/photocontest. —LAUREN MITCHELL2016thenMatuararlyrcelaasloenundrdcaer immersedSPEND 2016 & BEYOND in maryland’s beauty! 14-month calendars are available at shopdnr.com Winter 2016 I 21

Through an Educator’s Eyes Explore and Restore Maryland streams By Amanda Sullivan DNR PHOTOSTeachers learn how to measure the cross-section of the stream to monitor how big storms impact streams (L) and collect fish to measure the biodiversity of an ecosystem to compare to historical findings (R).Modeling practices used by Depart- A teacher’s tale equipment or resources to incorporate most ment of Natural Resources scientists, of the activities into the classroom or leadadventurous teachers and their inspired stu- Suzanne Hughes—a recent workshop par- students through studies of nearby streams.dents have been heading out of the class- ticipant—from Reservoir High School ravesroom to monitor streams across the state. over the Explore and Restore Maryland “Through Explore and Restore, the stu- Streams program. dents gain a deeper appreciation for their Their mission: to determine the health surroundings,” Hughes says. “When youand conditions of the waterways near their “It’s always nice to attend meetings for get them to turn off the TV and go outsidelocal schools. professional development and actually get without their phones for a couple of hours, out and do something meaningful that the it makes a huge difference in how they see Conducted through the Explore and Re- students are going to use and find helpful,” everything around them.”store Maryland Streams program, depart- Hughes says.ment biologists host one-day professional The program uses the diversity of life Taking the classroom outsidedevelopment workshops covering topics within a stream—fish, salamanders, mac-such as stream ecology, how land use influ- roinvertebrates—as an indication of its over- Hughes found that through these outdoorences streams and which animals call these all health. Students use current scientific experiences her students got a chance toecosystems home. practices to arrive at a conclusive water engage and connect with concepts dis- quality assessment, and ultimately use their cussed in the classroom. They prepare teachers to facilitate bio-logical, chemical and physical assessments findings to take appropriate action to im- After students investigate their streamof stream health, allowing them to grow prove the stream’s health. and analyze their data, they are asked toboth their content knowledge and their con- Hughes and others in the workshop propose and carry out a plan of action tofidence working in outdoor environments. found they did not need a lot of high-tech improve the conditions: perhaps building22 I The Maryland Natural Resource

Explore and Restore started in 2013 as a partnership Educators at 77 schools are slated to receive training through- out the 2015-2016 academic year, with a between environmental educators and scientists to connect students with streams. The collaboration led reach of more than 12,000 to the development of a workshop and accompanying students. resources that show teachers how to use streams as a living laboratory. The program is expanding through funding provided to partners to work with additional schools statewide. Since its onset, the program has reached more than 150 schools and 283 teachers in 22 counties and Baltimore city.DNR PHOTOS a rain garden or developing a plan for person. I’ve had kids look around intro- a daily basis and they start to realize change community outreach. spectively and say ’Jeez, it’s really beautiful can start with them.” out here,’ as if they just had never thought “You can do a lab, but that doesn’t re- about it before.” Hughes has even given other teachers ally connect with anything beyond the within her school some tools to use with classroom,” Hughes says. “This experience Empowering students their students to introduce some program links everything together for the kids— concepts. Her fellow educators have intro- they aren’t looking at disjointed pieces. It’s In the wake of such a practical lesson, duced their own students to water moni- wonderful to see everything fall into place students take away a new appreciation for toring, reinforcing how the health of the for them.” how important it is to tread lightly in the stream impacts the fate of the Chesapeake environment—to be more conscious of Bay and, equally, how everyone affects An added bonus for teachers, students what they put down a storm drain, to think the environment. love the experience and exposure to na- about where trash ends up, to recycle. ture. Even if they aren’t excited in the be- “I’d recommend this program to any ginning of the project, they eventually get “The biggest takeaway for students that teacher,” Hughes concludes. “I will use keyed up. I can see is an understanding that what they my training for years to come, and I’m do has an impact on a lot of other things,” confident it will continue to have a big “I’ve had students say ’I’m not touch- Hughes says. “When they throw trash on impact on my students, who are the future ing any bugs’ and yet, they can’t not do the ground, for example, it’s not just a stand- of Maryland.” n it,” Hughes says. “They’re wading in the alone event when everybody else does the water, even in cold water. They’re picking same thing. They get a better grasp for the dnr.maryland.gov/ccs up leaves and rocks, trying to find some- impact of many actions that might occur on thing…trying to find more than the next Amanda Sullivan is the Streams Education Coordinator with the department’s Chesapeake & Coastal Service. A teacher investigates microhabitats. Students gather and collect data. Winter 2016 I 23

januaryBay Game DNR PHOTOBreak the ICe Blow Frozen Bubbles!During cold months, bodies of water—even those as big as the Have you ever seen liquid freeze? Observe how quicklyChesapeake Bay—can freeze into thick sections of ice. This can it can happen, what it looks like, and which factorshave a big impact on those who rely on the bay for transporting (such as blowing through a straw instead of a wand)goods and harvesting fish. Some Marylanders even live on cause different effects!islands only accessible by boat! What you’ll need: Luckily, expert crews aboard four department of natural • ¼ cup liquid dish soapresources boats break up the ice and maintain clear paths all • ¾ cup waterwinter long, so that boats can navigate, watermen can fish and • 1 ½ tbs light corn syrupresidents don’t get stranded. • Bubble wand or straw • A cold night (below freezing!) with no windWord Scramble What you’ll do:Rearrange the 10 groups of letters to the right to spell • Mix the detergent, water and syrup, and refrigeratethem correctly! until cold _ _ _ _ • Go outside _ _eeezrf • Blow bubbles and be amazed!rwtine _ _ _ _ _ _ o Can you catch one before it freezes?_rekeicbaer _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ o Do they freeze before they hit the ground?_nmetwrae _ _ _ _ _ _ _ o Do they fill up with fog from your breath?levess _ _ _ _ _ _ dsinal _ _ _ _ _ _ _vgnaionita _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _blbebus _ _ _ _ _ _ wcer _ _ _ _ _ptnrsaort _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ answers (1) freeze (2) winter (3) icebreaker (4) watermen (5) vessel (6) island (7) navigation (8) bubbles (9) crew (10) transport play all year at dnr.maryland.gov/baygame

natural resources police Corporal Mike Berry By Candy ThomsonIn addition to law enforcement duties, DNR PHOTO ice safety q&a the Maryland Natural Resources Policeis charged with teaching residents about How did your ice education role develop?boating and hunting safety. It started as part of the Maryland Park Service outreach programs offered in western In western Maryland, the agency spear- Maryland about 26 years ago. I was an Emergency Medical Technician and when I wentheads an education program that goes into to the police academy in 1991, my instructor in first-responder training said, “I’m going toschools to teach youngsters about being make you an assistant this instant.” The next year, I was back as the teacher.safe on the ice. My mom was a teacher and I was a substitute teacher, so it was a natural fit. I began Cpl. Mike Berry, who goes from school teaching ice safety in schools and getting more and more requests in Garrett County.to school in Garrett County to spread thesafety message, knows first-hand that this When is a good age to start with ice safety education?is an important lesson. Starting with students who are 5 or 6 years old is appropriate, but I don’t think it’s Three years ago in late January, he was ever too early. You don’t want to scare them, but you want to teach them respect forone of a group of officers who raced to the the elements.scene of a 911 call on Deep Creek Lake tofind two ice fishermen flailing in the water How do you get young students to engage?about 250 yards from shore and a thirdstranded, surrounded by thin ice. It’s pretty easy. They’re inquisitive. I bring along my exposure suit, we call it the Gumby suit, and put a kid in it. We bring in the rescue gear we use and let them handle it. They Corporals Bob Mayles and Bill Thomas really like that.donned exposure suits and lifelines andwent in after them. Cpl. Berry helped an- For the most part, we lay out a scenario, one they’re likely to be familiar with, and wechor a human rescue chain that resulted in walk through how to stay out of trouble. They’re pretty sharp and they get it. We stress tosaving all three men. them that no ice is safe ice, but they should make sure that any ice they step on is at least two-inches thick. The fishermen, who had been in thelake for about 20 minutes, said that with- And if they get into trouble?out the officers’ help, they would not havelasted another two minutes. n It’s the same thing we tell adults. We tell them to always have an escape plan, to know how close to shore they are, and how to get out if they fall in. They should carryNatural Resources Police officers and dive team performing something that they can jam in the ice to help pull themselves up and out, then roll onan annual drill in western Maryland the ice surface—distributing their weight—until they are away from danger. They don’t really have a lot of time to act, right? Right. That’s why wearing a life jacket when you walk on the ice or ride a snowmobile on a lake is so important. If you can keep your head and upper chest above water, you’ve got an hour. If you can’t, you’ve got 15 minutes. When the water is that cold, it doesn’t matter how strong a swimmer you are. You hit that water and everything seizes up on you in a matter of six to eight minutes and you lose the ability to get yourself out. In those cases, you won’t die of hyperthermia, you’ll drown. dnr.maryland.gov/nrp Candy Thomson is the Natural Resources Police public information officer. Winter 2016 I 25

Presort Standard U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 62 Annapolis, MD580 Taylor Avenue, D-4 n Annapolis, MD 21401 department directory dnr.maryland.gov boating 410-260-8456 lands 410-260-8424 fishing 410-260-8325 parks 410-260-8186 forests 410-260-8531 police 410-260-8880 hunting 410-260-8540 water 410-260-8706 licensing & registration dnr.maryland.gov/service annapolis 410-260-3220 southern prince frederick 410-535-3382 bel air 410-836-4550 central dundalk 410-284-1654 salisbury 410-713-3840 eastern centreville 410-819-4100 rocky gap 301-777-2134 western stay connected news.maryland.gov/dnr shop & subscribe shopdnr.comWhen snow falls, nature listens. -ANTOINETTE VON KLEEF