Monday, September 24, 2012

National Wildlife Refuge Week Maryland Events

In Maryland, a number of activities will be held in celebration of National Wildlife Refuge Week 2012.

Patuxent Research Refuge will host a variety of activities Saturday, October 13 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The event will feature live animals, kids’ crafts, tram tours ($3), scientific demonstrations, and behind-the-scenes research tours of the USGS Patuxent Wildlife Research Center. Participants will learn how endangered whooping cranes and sea ducks are raised and studied.

On Sunday, October 14, Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge will participate in the "The Big Sit!" bird count.

The activity will be held at the Tubby Cove Observation Platform, from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. During the event, teams count and report bird species seen or heard from a 17-foot-diameter circle.

Each year in October, The Big Sit! bird count is held at a number of refuges across the USA.

source: USFWS

Wednesday, September 12, 2012

Ocean City Maryland Free Fishing Areas

In 2012, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) designated two popular Ocean City saltwater fishing spots as license-free fishing areas.

Northside Park is located where 125th Street meets Assawoman Bay, and features a fishing pier, concessions, playgrounds, a picnic area, walking paths, playing fields and a sports center.

The Chicago Avenue Boardwalk (2nd Street Bulkhead) has metered parking, wheelchair access, and a fish cleaning station.

Anglers ages 16 and older, who would like to utilize free fishing areas without a license, must register with the State (at no cost) by calling 855-855-3906 or online at https://compass.dnr.maryland.gov/dnrcompassportal.

The registration enters anglers into a national database, which is used to help assess recreational fishing activity in tidal waters.

source: MD DNR