Coastal Conservation Association Asks Government Agencies to Create Equitable Funding for Fisheries

     Annapolis, Md. -- The Coastal Conservation Association Maryland has called upon the State of Maryland to develop a comprehensive process for recovering the costs of managing its commercial fisheries, including the commercial gill net fishery that saw a number of significant violations of marine resources law last year.
     All fishing in Maryland—both commercial and recreational—is supported by a combination of license and permit fees, federal angler taxes and direct grants, and state revenue. DNR has determined that 93 percent of the cost to manage recreational fishing is supported by license fees and federal angler taxes. However, only 20 percent of the cost of managing commercial fisheries is covered by license and permit fees, with an additional 23 percent covered by direct federal grants. The rest comes from Maryland taxpayers in the form of General Funds.
     As the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is facing a budget shortfall of $3.2 million beginning in October, 2013, and the cost of managing commercial fisheries continues to rise because of illegal activities, it’s imperative that new ways be found to fund this fishery,” said Tony Friedrich, CCA MD executive director.
      Last winter and spring more than 13 tons of striped bass were captured in illegally placed nets, resulting in DNR closing the season for a period of time. In developing new regulations to better monitor and enforce the commercial striped bass fishery, DNR identified the massive shortfall and inequity in the amount of money contributed by commercial fishermen towards the resource as compared to recreational anglers.
      CCA MD’s Government Relations Committee adopted a position last fall calling for the commercial gill net fishery to support itself or be closed. The position stated, “CCA Maryland strongly believes the user and financial beneficiary of the fishery should bear the responsibility for its management costs. If that can’t be done and taxpayers or recreational anglers are asked to continue covering that shortfall, then we believe the gill net fishery must be ended in favor of other fishing methods that can be shown to be manageable, accountable and enforceable.” Given the massive inequity identified in all commercial fisheries, CCA Maryland believes the same concept must be applied to all commercial fisheries.
      “So far, we have not seen any indication that the fishery wants to sustain itself,” Friedrich said. “It’s time to stop asking Maryland’s taxpayers to subsidize this fishery, stop talking about the issue, and start acting in a manner that provides results. The state has a responsibility to all its citizens to assure that costs for the commercial fishery are borne by that industry.”
     The Coastal Conservation Association Maryland (CCA MD) is one of 17 state chapters of the Coastal Conservation Association, which has 100,000 members nationally. CCA MD is an organization of recreational anglers fighting for Maryland’s marine resources and believing the sustainability of the resource must be the priority in any fishery management decision.

DNR, ORP And Mid-Atlantic Restaurants Partner To Help Rebuild Oyster Population

"From the Bay, For the Bay" dine-out raises more than $20,000
     Annapolis, Md. -- Governor Martin O'Malley has announced the results of the Maryland Department of Natural Resources' program "From the Bay, For the Bay" dine-out." Through a collaborative partnership among regional restaurants, DNR and the Oyster Recovery Partnership, the week-long celebration raised $20,240 to support Chesapeake Bay oyster restoration.

     "The first annual From the Bay, For the Bay dine-out proved to be a huge success for everyone involved," said Governor O'Malley. "Not only did the event raise funds to help us rebuild our native oyster population, it showcased our terrific Maryland seafood and our ongoing efforts to restore the Bay."

     More than 170 restaurants in Maryland, Washington D.C., Delaware, Pennsylvania and Virginia participated in the promotion, which took place October 2-9, 2011. The restaurants donated $1 from every Maryland seafood dinner sold during the week; the money is being donated to ORP to support oyster restoration efforts.

     Top participating restaurants included the Boatyard Bar & Grill in Annapolis, Woodberry Kitchen and Ryleigh's Oyster Bar in Baltimore, and Matchbox Restaurants in Washington, DC. Together they donated $5,626.

     "We are grateful for the enthusiastic response from our From the Bay, For the Bay partners," said Stephan Abel, Executive Director of ORP. "The funds that were received will enable us to recycle over 300 bushels of oyster shells and then plant 1.5 million baby oysters back into the Bay."

     ORP's oyster restoration activities include collecting, aging, cleaning oyster shells and planting spat (baby oysters), on the oyster shells. The spat is produced by the University of Maryland, Center for Environmental Science Horn Point Hatchery.

     Over the past decade, the Oyster Recovery Partnership has replanted hundreds of millions of oysters in the Bay. Oysters are a critical species to the Bay's long term recovery. A healthy oyster reef not only filters the Bay's waters, but also provides habitat for other marine life such as blue crabs and striped bass. Restoration efforts for the 2012 season will begin in February.

     The Oyster Recovery Partnership's most publically-recognized program - the region's oyster Shell Recycling Alliance - is made up of nearly 100 restaurants, caterers and seafood distributors from the mid-Atlantic region, as well as citizen volunteers who collect donated used oyster shells from these businesses to aid in restoring the Chesapeake Bay. The Shell Recycling Alliance has quickly grown to provide 15 percent of Maryland's shell needs at current oyster production levels, prolonging the State's limited shell reserves. For more information on the Oyster Recovery Partnership, visit oysterrecovery.org.

DNR Certifies 222 Severn as New Clean Marina In Annapolis

     Annapolis, Md. -- One of Annapolis’ oldest marine properties, 222 Severn/W&P Nautical, is the newest Clean Marina to be certified by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR). The marina is home to a variety of marine businesses, including charter companies, yacht brokers and the Chart House restaurant. The marina is the 145th facility to adopt a significant portion of clean marina recommendations and pass a site inspection.

     “We are thrilled to have earned our Clean Marina status,” said Cardie Templeton, 222 Severn’s co-owner and manager. “Over the past few years, we have consistently worked hard toward making this goal a priority, and our tenants have been helpful by joining us in the effort. As integral members of the Annapolis community, we all know the value of being good neighbors -- to both the area and the Chesapeake Bay.”

     222 Severn covers an entire city block in the Eastport area of Annapolis. The property has been the site of boat building operations, including the famed Trumpy Yachts, since the early 1900s. The Templeton family has owned and managed the marina since 1974.

     In 2007, 222 Severn added strategically-placed, small garden beds to capture and filter stormwater runoff, clearly marked storm drains to prevent unwanted dumping and upgraded to fluorescent bulbs to save energy.

     As part of the Clean Marina certification, Templeton worked/works closely with her tenants and slip holders to ensure they prevent pollution and properly handle all onsite waste. The marina also provides easy recycling for all tenants and visitors. All Clean Marina contracts provide marinas with clear rules and helpful environmental information.

     “The impact of one business implementing environmental policies, such as 222 Severn/W&P Nautical, reaches many more people and has a bigger impact in helping restore our waterways,” said Clean Marina Program Manager Donna Morrow. “We’re ready to help more marinas achieve this prestigious Award.”

     Marinas, boatyards, and yacht clubs of any size in Maryland are encouraged to participate in the program. For more information and free program materials call 410-260-8773 or visit dnr.maryland.gov/boating/cleanmarina.

NSHOF to Host 2nd Annual Marine & Maritime Career Fair

     Annapolis, Md. -- For a second year the National Sailing Center & Hall of Fame and the Eastport Yacht Club Foundation have joined with Anne Arundel County Public Schools to create a unique career education experience for youth in grades 7-12 by hosting a Marine & Maritime Career Fair.

     This year's career fair is scheduled for Feb. 25.

     The goal of this industry-specific career fair is to demonstrate the diversity of careers that impact our oceans, bays, lakes, rivers and streams. The event is open to students in public and private schools, including homeschooled students, and registration is free. Representatives will be on hand not only from industry employers, but also from trade schools and colleges that offer industry-specific curriculum, such as marine architecture.

     New features for the 2012 Career Fair include a Summer Internship and Employment Bulletin Board and dedicated career webpages where exhibitors can post internship and job openings.

     Last year's event at Annapolis High School drew well over 500 students and parents, who interacted with 26 exhibitors, including businesses, schools and government agencies.

     In addition to offering career opportunities to area students, NSHOF's goal in hosting this fair is also to provide a model for others to use in hosting similar Marine & Maritime Career Fairs around the country.

     For more information, contact NSHOF at 410.295.3022 or email Susan Nahmias.

Click here to go to the Career Fair Page on the NSHOF website.

Click here to register online.

Two Shipping Corporations Plead Guilty, Sentenced in Maryland for Obstruction of Justice, Environmental Crimes

Sentenced to pay $1.2 million each including $550,000 to benefit Chesapeake Bay

     Baltimore, Md. -- Two corporations pleaded guilty Wednesday in separate hearings in Baltimore for their role in managing and owning a ship engaged in deliberate discharges of waste oil and plastic garbage.

     The companies were each sentenced by U.S. District Judge Marvin Garbis to pay $1.2 million and serve three years of probation during which they will be required to implement a government approved environmental plan that includes audits conducted by an independent firm and review by a court appointed monitor.

     Efploia Shipping, a Marshall Islands corporation based in Greece, was the technical manager of the Aquarosa, a 33,005 ton newly built cargo ship, constructed in China and registered in Malta. Aquarosa Shipping, a company based in Denmark, was the owner of the vessel. Both corporations pleaded guilty today to four felony counts: obstruction of justice, making material false statements, the environmental crimes of knowingly failing to maintain an accurate oil record book and knowingly failing to maintain an accurate garbage record book, both in violation of the Act to Prevent Pollution from Ships.

     According to papers filed in court, senior ship engineers started dumping oil contaminated bilge waste on the ship’s very first voyage after it was completed in June 2010 in China. One method involved removing the blocking mechanism inside a valve so waste could be pumped overboard. Another method involved a so-called magic pipe consisting of a long rubber hose and metal flanges welded together onboard to bypass required pollution prevention equipment.

     The investigation began after an engineer complained to the Coast Guard when the ship arrived in Baltimore February 2011. The crew member provided the Coast Guard with his cellphone containing 300 photographs showing how a magic pipe was being used to discharge sludge and oily waste overboard and to bypass the ship’s oily water separator, a required piece of pollution prevention equipment. Plastic garbage bags containing oil soaked rags were also dumped overboard. Under MARPOL, an international treaty to which the United States is a party and which is enforced by the APPS, ships must maintain an oil record book and a garbage record book in which all such discharges are recorded. Both defendants admitted to deliberately falsifying these required logs. 

     The ship’s chief engineer, Andreas Konstantinidis, is currently incarcerated for his role. He pleaded guilty in December to obstruction of justice charges and was sentenced to three months in prison. 

     Both Efploia Shipping and Aquarosa Shipping were sentenced to pay a total of $1.2 million. Of that amount, each defendant was ordered to pay $275,000 in organizational community service payments to the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, which will receive a total of $550,000 earmarked for projects involving Chesapeake Bay. 

     At the hearing, the United States requested the court issue an award to the whistleblower whose information led to the conviction of the defendants. The court did not rule on the matter today.

     “The Justice Department will continue to vigorously prosecute the intentional dumping of oil and plastic from ships and falsification of ship records because they are serious crimes that threaten our precious ocean resources,” said Ignacia S. Moreno, Assistant Attorney General for the Environment and Natural Resources Division of the Department of Justice. 

     “The defendants dumped pollution into the ocean and falsified records to prevent the Coast Guard from learning about it,” said Rod J. Rosenstein, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland. “More than $500,000 of the penalty proceeds will fund conservation efforts for the Chesapeake Bay, our nation’s largest and most diverse estuary.”

     “The Coast Guard's objective when investigating violations and supporting these prosecutions is to ensure environmental stewardship is not optional and that deliberate violators are held accountable,” said Coast Guard Capt. Mark O'Malley, Captain of the Port of Baltimore. “This sentence includes a requirement that these defendants develop and implement a comprehensive environmental compliance program that will be monitored by third-party auditors. Our inter-agency efforts are not just aimed at punishing misconduct, they are aimed at fostering a safe, environmentally conscious and professional marine industry.”

     “This case was resolved through excellent partnership between the regulatory and enforcement divisions of the Coast Guard, and also the dedicated pursuit of justice by the U.S. Attorney's Office, Department of Justice and EPA-CID,” said Otis E. Harris Jr., Special Agent in Charge, Coast Guard Investigative Service Chesapeake Region. “The Coast Guard Investigative Service is fully committed to investigating and resolving all criminal allegations of violations of environmental and regulatory statutes.”

     “The oceans must be protected from those who circumvent laws by dumping wastes improperly,” said David G. McLeod, Special Agent in Charge of EPA’s criminal enforcement program in Maryland. “The defendants in this case directed the discharge of oily waste and garbage from their vessel into open water, ordered ship records to be falsified and lied to conceal these crimes. Today’s guilty pleas and sentences should send a strong message that we do not tolerate the flagrant violation of environmental laws and will work closely with our partners to vigorously prosecute those who despoil our environment.”

     This case was investigated by the Coast Guard Investigative Service and the EPA Criminal Investigation Division, with assistance from Coast Guard Sector Baltimore, and the Coast Guard 5th District Staff Judge Advocate’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Senior Trial Attorney Richard A. Udell and Trial Attorney David O’Connell of the Environmental Crimes Section of Department of Justice Environment and Natural Resources Division, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Cunningham.

Maryland DNR Certifies Record Tautog Fish

     Ocean City, Md. -- Charles Donohue of Philadelphia caught a 23-pound tautog on January 11, setting a new Maryland state record. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) confirmed the catch, naming Donohue the new record holder, breaking the previous record of 20-pounds, 11-ounces set by Sam Beauchamp in 2007.

     “The fish slammed the bait and the rod went straight down in a tough fight,” said Donohue. “I had no idea it was going to be such a big deal. Everyone on the boat was congratulating me and wanting a picture with me and the fish.”

     Donohue caught his record 33-inch fish aboard Captain Monty Hawkins’ boat, Morning Star, over an artificial reef about 12 miles east of Ocean City. He was using a whole green crab as bait. Captain Hawkins said he felt the fish was a new record. The other anglers and crew agreed they should return to shore to get the fish weighed on a certified scale at AKE Marine. DNR biologist Steve Doctor met the crew at the dock to witness and certify the weight and species.

     “It was a beautiful fish,” said Captain Hawkins. “The whole crew limited-out by 9:30, showing that the habitat work and reef building efforts have taken this fishery to new heights.”

     “Tautog fishing is excellent on the near-shore artificial reefs and wrecks off of Maryland’s coast,” said DNR biologist, Keith Lockwood. “The winter months provide some of the best action for trophy tautog. Several headboats are running out of Ocean City when the weather permits.”

     For more information on where to find a fishing charter visit, ocfishing.com

Maryland NRP Charge Five Watermen for Oyster Fishing on Sanctuary

     Deale Island, Md. -- The Maryland Natural Resources Police (NRP) have charged five watermen, on three boats, power-dredging for oysters in the Tangier Sound Oyster Sanctuary.

     On January 20, at 7:30 a.m., an NRP Officer aboard a Maryland State Police helicopter saw eight commercial boats power-dredging for oysters within the sanctuary. The officer was able to identify and plot locations of three of the boats before they scattered among the other commercial vessels working outside the sanctuary.

      NRP charged the following individuals with oystering in an oyster sanctuary:

John Earhart III, 32, and Jason Abbott, 30, both of Princess Anne, aboard Miss Terry.
David Wheatley, 47 from Deale Island, and Stephen Webster, 58 from Wenona, aboard Just Faith.
Daniel Benton, 49 from Deale Island, aboard Chantilly Lace.

     Under Governor Martin O’Malley’s leadership, increased law enforcement is part of an overall effort to deter poaching and toughen penalties for those who violate fishing laws in Maryland, under the Fisheries Management Reform Act of 2007. A noteworthy part of this effort is the launch of fresh enforcement initiatives and enhancements including the installation of a network of radar and camera units to assist the NRP in monitoring sensitive areas that are prone to poaching. DNR, the Office of the Attorney General and the District Court of Maryland have also expanded a successful program that sets aside specific days to try only cases dealing with natural resources violations.

Coast Guard to Establish Security Zone for State of the Union Address

     Washington, D.C. -- The Coast Guard will establish a temporary security zone in designated waters of the National Capital Region for the State of the Union address Tuesday.

     During this period, security zone enforcement may limit or prohibit navigation by commercial and recreational waterway users.

     The security zone will include the Potomac River from the Francis Scott Key Bridge, south between the Virginia shoreline and the District of Columbia shoreline along 38 degrees 51 minutes north latitude. The security zone will also include the Georgetown Channel Tidal Basin as well as the Anacostia River from the 11th Street Bridge to its confluence with the Potomac River.

     The waterways will be closed to recreational boaters from 4 p.m. until 11:59 p.m., Tuesday. Entry into or remaining in the security zone is prohibited unless authorized by the Captain of the Port of Baltimore. Vessels already at berth, mooring, or anchor at the time the security zone is implemented are not required to depart the security zone.

     Persons desiring to transit the area of the security zone must first obtain authorization from the COTP or his designated representative. To seek permission to transit the area, call 410-576-2693 or use marine band radio via VHF-FM channel 16.

Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum Will Offer Free Admission on President’s Day

     St. Michaels, Md. -- In recognition of President’s Day on February 20, the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum in St. Michaels, Maryland is offering free admission to its 18-acre waterfront campus and 12 exhibit buildings.

     The museum features an authentic working boat yard, a floating fleet of historic vessels, the 1879 Hooper Strait Lighthouse, and many hands-on exhibits that share the stories of the Chesapeake Bay and the people who have shaped their lives around it.

     The museum is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. seven days a week, with admission regularly at $13 adults, $10 seniors, $6 kids 6-17 and free admission for kids five and under. For more information, visit the museum in St. Michaels, online at http://www.cbmm.org, or call 410-745-2916.

Coast Guard Responds, Suspends Search for Possible Downed Aircraft near Deal Island

     Baltimore, Md. -- The Coast Guard suspended its search at 1:38 p.m. Sunday for a possible downed aircraft in the Wenona area of Deal Island, Md., Saturday.

     Neighborhood residents contacted Coast Guard Sector Baltimore watchstanders at approximately 6 p.m., reporting to have heard an aircraft engine and a big splash in the water but were not able to see anything due to darkness and weather conditions.

     "We treat all reports of this nature as a probable distress until we believe otherwise," said Coast Guard Lt. Cmdr. Randall Brown, Sector Baltimore chief of response. "If anyone has more information or knows of a missing person that could be involved please contact the Coast Guard."

    Crews aboard a 25-foot Response Boat - Small and a 41-foot Utility Boat from Coast Guard Station Crisfield, Maryland Natural Resources Police boatcrews, a crew aboard a Maryland State Police helicopter, a crew aboard an MH-65 Dolphin helicopter from Coast Guard Air Station Atlantic City, N.J., along with other local agencies responded to search for the possible downed aircraft.

     The Coast Guard searched a total of 20 square miles for approximately 18 hours.

     There have been no confirmed reports of an overdue aircraft.

More Scenes from the Baltimore Boat Show

     Baltimore, Md. -- The Baltimore Boat Show continues today and tomorrow. Here are some scenes from the show. Find out more at http://www.baltimoreboatshow.com

Baltimore Boat Show Under Way at the Convention Center

     Baltimore, Md. -- Scenes from today's Baltimore Boat Show at the Baltimore Convention Center. The show runs through Sunday.

Baltimore Show Opens Today after Shrink-Wrap Parade

     Baltimore, Md. -- It is not everyday that hundreds of shrink-wrapped boats line West Pratt Street and parade around the Baltimore Convention Center in 25-degree weather. Tuesday, boats convened in downtown Baltimore as they cruised into the Baltimore Convention Center for the 2012 Progressive Insurance Baltimore Boat Show. Show organizers loaded thousands of pounds of fiberglass into the convention center Tuesday and Wednesday using marine lifts and cranes, creating an impressive sight for live shots and photo opportunities.

SHOW DATES/TIMES: January 19-22
Thursday and Friday, January 19-20: 11:00 a.m.-9:00 p.m.
Saturday, January 21: 10:00 a.m.-9:00 p.m.
Sunday, January 22: 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.

WHERE: Baltimore Convention Center
1 West Pratt Street (at Charles Street)
Baltimore, MD 21201

     Find out more at http://www.baltimoreboatshow.com

Maryland Saltwater Sportfishermen's Association Annual Convention Feb. 3-5

     Annapolis, Md. -- The Maryland Saltwater Sportfishermen's Association will host its annual convention Feb. 3-5 at the Princess Royale Hotel in Ocean City, Maryland.

     Accommodations for the convention start at $350, which includes a two night stay for 2, speakers, dinner, a show and a hospitality suite. The cost is $100 for the seminars and the dinner and show or $75 for those wishing to attend only the show and dinner.

     Find out more at http://www.mssa.net or call 410-255-5535 to make reservations.

     Guest speakers include Dr. Julie Ball, World Class Angler with 16 IGFA World Records & Virginia’s Only Level 7 Master Angler Title; Mark Melnyk, World Fishing Network’s Host of Reel Fishy Jobs and Reel Road Trips; Captain Chuck Fisher, Bass Pro Shops Seminar Speaker, Owner of BFG Tackle, Captain of The Sarah J and more.

Mariners Advised to Stay Clear of Dredging Operations in Southern Bay

     Cape Henry, Va. -- The Hopper Dredge B.E. LINDHOLM will be conducting dredging operations in the Cape Henry Channel and Southern Approach to the Chesapeake Bay from 17 January until 30 April, 2012.  A mooring barge and temporary submerged pipeline will be in position outside of the channel in the Elizabeth River west of Elizabeth River Channel Lighted Buoy 18 (LLNR 9600) for spoil transfer to the Craney Island Dredge Material Management Area.
The dredge and assisting tugs with barges will monitor VHF-FM Channels 13 and 16. Mariners are cautioned to stay clear of dredge, booster, floating (pontoon) and submerged pipelines, barges, derricks and operating wires associated with dredging and marine construction operations.
     Operators of vessels of all types should be aware that dredges and floating pipelines are held in place by cables, attached to anchors some distance away from the equipment. Buoys are attached to the anchors so that the anchors may be moved as the dredge advances and the location of the submerged pipelines are marked by buoys on each side of the channel. Mariners are cautioned to strictly comply with the Inland Rules of the Road when approaching, passing and leaving the area of operations, and remain a safe distance away from the dredge, booster, buoys, cables, pipeline, barges, derricks, wires and related equipment.  Owners and lessees of fishnets, crabpots and other structures that may be in the vicinity and that may hinder the free navigation of attending vessels and equipment must be remove these from the area where tugs,
tenderboats and other attendant equipment will be navigating.
     Dredging projects are usually conducted twenty-four (24) hours a day seven (7) days a week, all fishnets, crabpots and structures in the general area must be removed prior to commencement of any work.  A NO WAKE transit is requested of all vessels passing the dredge and if necessary to clarify a SAFE PASSAGE contact the dredge on the appropriate VHF-FM channels. Chart: 12245.

Watermen Charged for Oyster Sanctuary Violations

     Annapolis, Md. -- On January 10 at 9:30 am, the Maryland Natural Resources Police charged three people for oystering with in the Tangier Sound Oyster Sanctuary. The officers were on patrol in an 18-foot Boston Whaler in the fog on Tuesday morning and found five commercial workboats in the oyster sanctuary. The foggy conditions enabled the officers to get within about 200 yards of the vessels before the officers were spotted. Upon seeing the patrol boat, the five vessels attempted to flee the area. Officers were able to stop two of the vessels and identify the occupants.

     Officers identified the two occupants of the commercial vessel Lady Victoria as Thomas L. Ford, 51 and Ryan S. Ford, 32 both from Princess Anne. The second vessel was identified as the Miss Emily II and was operated by Albert Hoffman, 37 from Princess Anne. All three individuals were charged with oystering within an oyster sanctuary and face a $3,000 fine and a suspension of their tidal fish license. Five bushels of oysters were seized from each vessel and returned to the sanctuary. A trial date of March 13 has been set in the District Court of Maryland in Somerset County.

River Herring Harvest Moratorium in Effect in Maryland

     Annapolis, Md. -- The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has confirmed that there is now a statewide moratorium on the harvest of river herring ─ including blueback and alewife herring.

     “This fishery closure was implemented on December 26, 2011, in response to a coast-wide concern regarding the depressed stock levels of blueback and alewife herring,” said DNR Fisheries Service Director Tom O’Connell. “This is evident by a 93 percent drop in commercial river herring landings along the Atlantic Coast since 1985.”

     The Maryland commercial harvest of river herring has been falling since the early 1970s when the yearly average was about 700,000 pounds. Between 1990 and 1999 the yearly average was roughly 164,000 pounds. From 2005 to 2010 the average was just 35,200 pounds.

     River herring contribute greatly to the dynamics of food chains in freshwater, estuarine and marine habitats, and at one time supported fisheries of significant socio-economic value. Maryland is not alone in taking action to restore river herring.

     River herring and other fish species that travel between Atlantic Coast states from Maine to Florida are managed cooperatively by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC). Every state from Maine to Florida was required to implement a harvest moratorium by January 1, 2012, unless sustainability of their fishery was demonstrated through State-specific management plans.

     “With few exceptions, it is now illegal to possess river herring in Maryland,” said Mike Luisi, DNR Fisheries Service Assistant Director for Estuarine and Marine Fisheries.

     Bait shops with leftover river herring in storage that were harvested prior to December 26, 2011 may possess the fish until June 30, 2012 by notifying DNR and having their inventory approved by February 6. Dealers wishing to declare their river herring inventory should contact DNR river herring coordinator Harry Rickabaugh at 410-643-6801 ext. 2109 or Karen Capossela at 410-643-6801 ext. 2116.

     Anyone in possession of river herring as bait will need to have a receipt indicating where the herring was purchased. This will allow bait shops to sell, and fishermen to possess, river herring for bait that was harvested from a State whose fishery remains open, as an ASMFC approved sustainable fishery. States with open river herring fisheries include New York, Maine, New Hampshire, South Carolina and North Carolina.

     For more information, visit dnr.state.md.us/fisheries.

Hinckley Yachts Announces Winter Open House, Sunday, February 26

     Easton, Md. -- The Hinckley Company has announced a Winter Open House to showcase Hinckley Yacht Services and the Hinckley pre-owned yacht collection on Sunday, February 26 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at their Easton storage facility, 8600 Brooks Drive, Easton, Maryland.

     Approximately 50 Hinckley Yachts will be available for viewing and several pre-owned sailboat and jetboat models will actually be open for boarding at the Hinckley Yacht Services storage facility in Easton.

     “Our Winter Open House presents a rare opportunity to see practically every Hinckley model built” commented Jennifer Richards, Brokerage Director for Hinckley Yachts Annapolis. “In addition, our Hinckley Yachts Services craftsmen will also be on hand to give you a bird’s eye view into their world class projects and refits at our upcoming Open House.”

      The family event will include face painting and bounce houses for children and grilled food and refreshments for all.

Coastal Conservation Association Announces New Pickerel Tournament

     Annapolis, Md. -- The Coastal Conservation Association Maryland (CCA MD) today announced its first CCA MD Pickerel Tidal Fishing Championship, which begins Saturday and runs through March 15. The catch and release event is being held in conjunction with four local tackle shops—Alltackle, Anglers, Shore Tackle and Custom Rods, and Tochterman’s.

     “Pickerel reside in many of the tidal streams feeding the Chesapeake Bay during the winter,” said Tony Friedrich, CCA MD executive director. “They also provide exciting light tackle and fly opportunities for recreational anglers.”

     Anglers can register for the event at any of the four shops. They will then compete for awards for themselves and the shop they represent in two categories, most total inches and biggest individual fish. Anglers must take photos of their fish on approved CCA MD rulers which will be available at the shops. Photos should be submitted to pickerel@ccamd.org, and complete rules can be found at http://www.ccamd.org/?p=1043. There is a $25 entry fee which includes a one-year CCA membership. Fishermen under 16 years of age and CCA life members are free.

     Questions can be answered at info@ccamd.org or 410-280-8770.

Ferry Bar Channel Buoy to be Relocated

     Baltimore, Md. -- According to the Coast Guard, on or about January 21, Ferry Bar Channel Lighted Buoy 3 (LLNR 21215) will be relocated to approximate position 39-15-16.198N, 076-34-59.917W.  Chart:  12281.

Junkin Lecture, Film Screening Wednesday at CBMM

     St. Michaels, Md. -- On Wednesday, January 11 at 12:30 p.m., Midshore Riverkeepers Conservancy Executive Director Tim Junkin will show the short film “Let Our Rivers Flow,” followed by his commentary in the Steamboat Building at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum (CBMM) in St. Michaels. The lecture and slide presentation are open to the public and free to CBMM members. Other participants can attend the lecture with regular museum admission, which includes entrance to the museum’s waterfront campus and 12 exhibit buildings.

     The Midshore Riverkeepers Conservancy is an Easton-based non-profit organization dedicated to the restoration and protection of the Choptank River Watershed, Eastern Bay and the Miles and the Wye Rivers. The Conservancy is also a part of the Waterkeepers Alliance, an international group of conservation guardians who advocate for the bodies of water they represent.

     The film was shot by Tom Horton and is narrated by Tim Junkin. Junkin is an attorney and the author of three books,Good Counsel, The Waterman and Bloodsworth. He is a graduate of Easton High School, The University of Maryland and the Georgetown University Law Center.

     The lecture is sponsored by The Garden Club of the Eastern Shore. For information, please call Samantha McCall at 410-770-9695.

Recreational Fishing Group Says Survey Indicates Striped Bass Fishery in Distress

Statement from Brad Burns

President of Stripers Forever

2011 Striped Bass Anglers Survey

January 7, 2012 –Stripers Forever 9^th Annual Angler Survey. 

“The results of our survey completed by more than 1000 anglers and guides from all along the East Coast were not good.” said Brad Burns, President of Stripers Forever. “The reports on striper fishing in 2011 were even a little more negative than the responses we received in 2010.  Once again, 74% described the quality of fishing as worse or much worse, and 77% - up from 76% in 2010 – reported catching fewer, or many fewer fish per hour of fishing.” 

“Perhaps most distressing,” says Burns, “is the reality that guides in some areas along the coast are losing their jobs due to the poor fishing.  Striped bass are a school fish, and there have been hot spots here and there along the coast where the quality of fishing for large fish is good during peak periods.  For the most part, though, the poor spawning years that stripers have experienced since 2003 have taken their toll, and there are very few small or “schoolie” stripers to be found, and this does not bode well for the future.”

In November a deeply divided Atlantic States Marine Fishery Commission bowed to commercial interests and voted to continue unabated the recreational and commercial harvest of striped bass. 

 

Stripers Forever is a non-profit, internet-based organization advocating for the conservation of wild striped bass by designating them as game fish and managing the resource for the estimated 3 million recreational striper fishermen and the vast industry that they support on the Atlantic coast. In-depth studies show that the game fish approach would yield the greatest financial and social benefit for everyone involved in the fishery.  Stripers Forever has more than 16,000 members.

The complete survey results are available on the Stripers Forever website at this address: http://www.stripersforever.org/Info/Stripers_BBoard/I01913948

For further information, contact Brad Burns at stripers@whatifnet.com.

Lighthouse Overnight Adventure Reservations Now Accepted at Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum

Kids ages 8-12 travel back through time to explore the adventurous, exciting, and sometimes dangerous life of a late 19th-century lighthouse keeper while staying overnight in the 1879 Hooper Strait Lighthouse at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum in St. Michaels, Maryland. Lighthouse Overnight Adventures take place Fridays and Saturdays in the spring and fall, and include two days of free exhibit admission and a scenic river cruise aboard the replica buyboat, Mister Jim for all participants. More info can be found at www.cbmm.org.

     St. Michaels, Md. -- The Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum (CBMM) in St. Michaels, Maryland is now accepting reservations for its spring Lighthouse Overnight Adventures program. Under the guidance of a museum educator, youth group participants experience the rustic life of a lighthouse keeper while spending the night in the historic 1879 Hooper Strait Lighthouse, located on the museum’s 18-acre campus along the St. Michaels Harbor.

     The program is offered Fridays and Saturdays, April through June and again in the fall, with advanced reservations recommended. Up to 12 children and their chaperones can participate in the program.

     Kids ages 8-12 travel back through time to explore the adventurous, exciting, and sometimes dangerous life of a late 19th-century lighthouse keeper. Through educator-led activities, participants try their hand at the keeper's traditional duties, listen to stories, and discover facts and clues about living in a lighthouse, navigation, and Bay history through games and puzzles.

     Built in 1879, the screwpile, cottage-style lighthouse once lit the way past Hooper Strait, nearly 39 miles south of St. Michaels. Slated for demolition in 1966, the museum purchased the building and moved it to its current location—opening it to the public in 1967. The lighthouse is one of only three still in existence on the Chesapeake.

     The program fee is $40 per participant, with 12 children and three adult chaperones participating, or $600 as a flat fee for any group size. Fee includes a dedicated museum facilitator, the cost of program activities, two days admission to the museum, a souvenir patch, and a scenic river cruise aboard the museum’s replica buyboat, Mister Jim.

     Space is limited, with early, on-line registration encouraged at http://www.cbmm.org/l_families.htm or by calling the museum at 410-745-2916.

Maryland Well Under Quota For Summer Flounder

    Tom O'Connell, Director of Maryland Fisheries Service, has released the following memorandum:

As we wrap up our 2011 recreational Summer Flounder fishery, we know our stakeholders are interested in the progress of our fishery towards our Maryland target: 101,000 fish. The 2011 season was from April 22, through November 30, included an 18 inch minimum size, and 3 fish creel limit. Point estimates for Wave 4 were released much later than expected, and were only available to us recently. This week, Wave 5 estimates were expected and were released on time. This update includes estimates for harvest through October 31, 2011 (Wave 5).

The estimated Summer Flounder harvest for Maryland April through October is 29,038 fish. Each point estimate is accompanied with a Proportional Standard Error (PSE) as a measure of precision and represents the uncertainty in the point estimate. The PSE for through Wave 5 for Maryland Summer Flounder is 51.3. This translates into an estimated harvest that could be anywhere between 21,590 and 36,486 fish. The Marine Recreational Fisheries Statistic Survey (MRFSS) is undergoing a multi-year redesign that will change many procedures involved in estimating recreational harvest along the coast, and has been renamed the Marine Recreational Information Program (MRIP). This is the first year that some new procedures will be used. The changes to the procedure used to calculate the estimates have been approved by peer review. It was expected that estimates from Wave 3 would be the first estimates produced using the new procedure. However, NMFS is in the process of producing estimates for 2004-2011 using the new method. Revised final estimates using this new procedure are now expected sometime in 2012. This means annual and Wave estimates are expected to change for 2004-2011.

Additionally, the Mid-Atlantic Fisheries Management Council has changed the recommendation for the coastwide Summer Flounder recreational harvest limit in 2012. These changes were based on a new stock assessment that was not available when the harvest limits for 2012 were initially set this past summer. While the coastwide recreational harvest limit for
2012 is less than it was for 2011, Maryland’s harvest target in 2012 will be more than the projected landings for 2011. Therefore, we do not expect that additional harvest reduction measures will be needed for our 2012 Summer Flounder recreational fishery to stay at or below our 2012 harvest target. Fisheries Service staff will be putting together additional information to discuss with our sport fishing stakeholders by mid-February to obtain advice on management preferences.

Former Maryland DNR Staffer Named NOAA Fisheries Administrator

Eric Schwaab, former deputy secretary for Maryland's DNR, promoted

A statement from NOAA Administrator Dr. Jane Lubchenco on the selection of acting assistant secretary of commerce for conservation and management

January 5, 2012

Today, I’m pleased to announce that I’ve chosen Eric Schwaab, assistant administrator for NOAA Fisheries, to serve as NOAA’s acting assistant secretary of commerce for conservation and management, a position left vacant by the departure of Dr. Larry Robinson in November 2011. Eric’s official start date is January 17.

The assistant secretary of commerce for conservation and management drives policy and program direction for NOAA’s stewardship responsibilities, including ocean resource management, coastal management, and protected resources.

I’m pleased that Eric agreed to shoulder this new responsibility. I’ve been grateful for his leadership as the head of NOAA Fisheries, leading efforts with fishery councils and the fishing industry to meet deadlines to establish annual catch limits, fostering new, productive relationships with commercial and recreational fishermen and women and working to effect significant reform of NOAA’s enforcement program. Eric brings more than 25 years of experience in local, state and federal natural resource management to this new role.

Eric has also been working closely with David Kennedy, the assistant administrator for NOAA’s National Ocean Service, on a number of cross-line priorities — including the response and recovery effort for the Deepwater Horizon oil spill disaster, NOAA’s work in support of the president’s National Ocean Policy and recent NOAA wide efforts to better focus coastal and ocean habitat science and conservation effort. In addition to continuing to work closely with the fisheries team on priority fisheries issues, Eric tells me he is looking forward to further strengthening the connections among NOAA’s many coastal and ocean stewardship programs.

With Eric assuming this new NOAA role, Sam Rauch, currently NOAA Fisheries deputy assistant administrator for regulatory programs, will serve as acting assistant administrator for NOAA Fisheries. Since 2006, Sam has led efforts to ensure the long-term sustainability of our nation’s fisheries. He has also been instrumental in development of the new NOAA Habitat Blueprint and on a variety of critical protected resource issues. I am grateful to Sam for his willingness to shoulder broader responsibilities, and I look forward to his leadership.
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Museum Offering Docent Training Starting Feb. 2

     St. Michaels, Md. -- The Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum (CBMM) in St. Michaels, Maryland is offering training for new and existing docent volunteers at the museum beginning on February 2 and continuing on Tuesdays and Thursdays throughout February. The training is free and open to the public, with advanced registration needed.

     This training is offered once a year, and prepares participants to lead group tours, interpret the museum’s exhibits, and assist at special events. Anyone who enjoys interacting with people, has a curiosity about the Chesapeake Bay, and would like to help promote the Bay’s cultural heritage is encouraged to participate in CBMM’s volunteer docent training.

     The new volunteer orientation from 10 - 11am on Thursday, February 2 will provide the basic information for becoming a museum volunteer. The orientation is followed with a 6-part intensive training program led by CBMM’s Director of Education Kate Livie, with topics ranging from learning about the museum’s exhibits and collections to developing tour group management techniques. Sessions are scheduled for 10am-12:30pm in CBMM’s Van Lennep Auditorium on February 7, 9, 14, 16, 21, and 23. All sessions must be attended to qualify as a museum docent.

     CBMM docents provide invaluable support to the museum in its mission to promote a deeper understanding of the Chesapeake Bay region and its history. Docents are asked to commit to one, 4-hour weekly shift. Duties can include guiding museum visitors and providing a memorable and positive visit; staffing individual exhibitions and leading demonstrations, classes, and special events as needed; and promoting the museum and its mission to others.

     “Many docents express that volunteering at the museum is one of their most gratifying experiences,” commented CBMM’s Director of Events and Volunteer Program Melissa Spielman. “I often receive comments from volunteers who say that engaging museum visitors from across the country and around the world is inspiring and fulfilling work. That kind of feedback makes me feel the same about my work here also.”

     Pre-registration is required for the volunteer training. To enroll or to receive more information, contact Melissa Spielman at 410-745-4956 or at mspielman@cbmm.org.

Pocomoke River Bridge to be Closed Jan. 19-20

     Pocomoke City, Md. -- Mariners are advised that the Route 675 (lift) Bridge, at mile 15.6, over Pocomoke River in Pocomoke City, Maryland will be closed to vessels requiring an opening beginning at 7 a.m. on Thursday, January 19, 2012 through 5 p.m., on Friday, January 20, 2012 to facilitate an electrical outage for testing purposes. The available vertical clearance in the closed position is approximately three feet, above mean high water.  Mariners should adjust their transits accordingly. Chart :1222

First Landing Buoy Back Up and Running

     Cape Henry, Va. -- The First Landing buoy—the tenth buoy in the Chesapeake Bay Interpretive Buoy System—was deployed in mid-August, but it was soon damaged in the high wind and seas of Hurricane Irene at the end of August.
     The CBIBS field team has worked on multiple rounds of diagnostic tests and repair work to get the buoy back up and running again. To repair the buoy, approximately 75% of the sensors and electronics were replaced. Repair was made more challenging given the open-water weather the field team experienced in attempting to repair the buoy on site.
     Their work ultimately was successful; as of December 20, the buoy is back up and running and transmitting data.
     See the data and find out more at http://buoybay.noaa.gov

'Foodways of the Chesapeake' Lecture Series Begins Jan. 12

     St. Michaels, Md.-- The Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum (CBMM) begins a new lecture series entitled “An Abundant and Fruitful Land: Foodways of the Chesapeake, Now and Then” on January 12, with the four-part series continuing through March 14. Held on the museum’s waterfront campus in St. Michaels, Maryland, the series welcomes CBMM members and the general public’s participation, with pre-registration required.

     From 6 to 8 pm on January 12, “Spirits of the Chesapeake: Taverns, Tankards, and True Stories from 18th Century Maryland” will take place in the museum’s Van Lennep Auditorium and features Rod Cofield, director of interpretation at Historic Londontown in Edgewater, Maryland. Cofield will share his research into the history of tippling in the Colonial Chesapeake and how primary documents reflect the people, environment, and debauchery of 18th century life in the Tidewater. The lecture is followed by a presentation from Joe Dolce, manager of Chestertown’s Imperial Hotel, whose talk about the original colonial cocktail the “rum shrub,” will be highlighted with tastings and recipes. The cost is $15 for CBMM members and $18 for non-members.