EagleMan Triathlon June 10 on the Choptank River in Cambridge

     Cambridge, Md. -- Mariners are advised that the swim portion of the EnduraFit Ironman 70.3 EagleMan triathlon is scheduled to occur in the Choptank River on Sunday, June 10, from 6:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Approximately 2,500 participants will start in waves and swim along a marked, 1.2-mile rectangular-looped course, to and from designated locations between Hambrooks Bar and the shore at Great Marsh Park in Cambridge, Maryland.

     Participants will be accompanied and supported by sponsor-provided watercraft. Official patrol personnel on scene can be contacted via marine band radio VHF-FM channel 16. For any comments or questions contact Coast Guard Sector Baltimore, Waterways Management Division, at (410) 576-2674 or Ronald.L.Houck@uscg.mil. Chart 12266.

Coastal Conservation Association Kent Narrows Tournament Saturday, June 2

     Chester, Md. -- This year’s Coastal Conservation Association Kent Narrows Fly and Light Tournament is scheduled for Saturday, June 2, with three divisions—kayak, fly and light tackle. Registration is $40, which includes a one-year CCA membership and can be done online link.

     There will be a captain’s meeting at Shore Tackle (in Kent Narrows next to Fisherman’s Inn) at 5 p.m. Thursday, May 31. Refreshments will be served; the rules will be outlined; rulers for measuring fish and tournament shirts will be passed out. Those who can’t get to the captain’s meeting and live on the western shore may pick up rulers at Angler’s Sport’s Center after 9 a.m. on Thursday, May 31.

     Lines may go in no earlier than 5:30 a.m. Winners will be determined by photos only, and fish should be measured on the special rulers for the photo. Final time for having photos in is 3:30 p.m. (You must be in line at the judge’s computer station in the Jetty no later than 3:30 p.m.) Fishing boundaries are the Sassafras River to the north and Cedar Point to the south.

     Food and beverages will be served starting at 3 p.m. at the Jetty (the beer tap will no doubt be turned on before 3 p.m.) Shirts will be passed out for those not at the captain’s meeting.

     Prizes will be awarded for three divisions – fly, light tackle, & kayak (1st, 2nd &3rd places).

     Tournament sponsors are Under Armour, Shore Tackle & Custom Rods, Kent Island Kayaks, Annapolis Boat Sales, and Dvorak Electrical Contractors.

Bodies of Two Men Recovered After Boating Accidents

     Annapolis, Md. -- Two men from Maryland have died in separate boating incidents over the Memorial Day weekend. The bodies of the men were recovered about an hour apart Monday.

     Maryland Natural Resources Police report that at about 12:30 p.m. the body of David Whitlow, 43, of Hebron, was found. He died as a result of an apparent boating accident Sunday night in the Kent Narrows area.

     Shortly thereafter, police recovered the body of Brandon M. Greene, 21, of Edgewood. Greene disappeared Sunday afternoon after jumping off a boat and into the Chesapeake Bay near Howell Point.

     The deaths are less than a week after the end of national Safe Boating Week that raises awareness of the importance of life jackets.

     Maryland had 24 boating deaths last year, nearly double the state's average.

Tubman Tour May 31 on Skipjack Nathan of Dorchester

     Cambridge, Md. -- The Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Conference in Cambridge, June 1-2, is offering a two-hour guided excursion on the Skipjack Nathan on May 31, from 9 to 11 a.m. Cost is $30 per person.

     Harriet Tubman scholars John Creighton and Pat Lewis will provide insights into the Underground Railroad heroine's life and activities, with a unique on-the-water perspective.

Register for this sail only at the
conference website.
Space is limited.

     The Nathan's public sailing season runs from May through October. Regularly scheduled public sails depart from Long Wharf, at the end of High Street, in Cambridge, Maryland.

     Saturday Public Sails are two hours long and generally include an oyster dredging demonstration, conditions permitting. One Sunday each month, we offer two one-hour sails at a reduced price. While the Sunday sails do not include dredging, they still offer an unforgettable opportunity to experience sailing on a traditional Chesapeake Bay skipjack.

     All ages are welcome. Children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Life jackets are provided and must be worn by children 12 and under. No pets are allowed except service dogs. Passengers in wheelchairs can be accommodated, but it is advisable to let the ship know ahead of time. The onboard “head” (marine toilet) is not handicapped-accessible.

     Complete information is available at http://www.skipjack-nathan.org.

Thunder on the Narrows Power Boat Races June 9-10

     Chester, Md. -- Mariners are advised that the annual “Thunder on the Narrows” power boat races will be held in Prospect Bay, between Hog Island and Kent Island on Saturday, June 9, and Sunday, June 10, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. both days.

     The event consists of various classes of high-speed power boats operating on a marked racetrack-type course. Coast Guard special local regulations establish a regulated area for all waters of Prospect Bay enclosed by the following points: Latitude 38° 57′ 52″ N, longitude 076° 14′ 48″ W, to latitude 38° 58′ 02″ N, longitude 076° 15′ 05″ W, to latitude 38° 57′ 38″ N, longitude 076° 15′ 29″ W, to latitude 38° 57′ 28″ N, longitude 076° 15′ 23″ W, to latitude 38° 57′ 52″ N, longitude 076° 14′ 48″ W. 

     The regulated area will be enforced from 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. both days. The Coast Guard Patrol Commander may forbid and control the movement of all vessels in the regulated area. Coast Guard vessels enforcing this regulated area can be contacted on marine band radio VHF-FM channel 16 or 22A.

     When hailed or signaled by an official patrol vessel, a vessel in the area shall immediately comply with the directions given. Failure to do so may result in expulsion from the area, citation for failure to comply, or both.

     The Coast Guard may be assisted in the patrol and enforcement of this area by federal, State and local agencies. For any comments or questions contact Coast Guard Sector Baltimore, Waterways Management Division, at (410) 576-2674 or Ronald.L.Houck@uscg.mil. Charts 12270, 12272.

Maryland DNR Launches Seafood Marketing Logo Contest

     Annapolis, Md. -- Calling all artists ─ painters, sketchers, graphic designers! The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is looking for someone to create a new Maryland Seafood logo. The winning design will be used to in seafood marketing programs throughout the state.

     "As we develop new opportunities to promote the goodness and value of Maryland seafood, we want to update the campaign with contemporary artwork," said Steve Vilnit, DNR Fisheries marketing director. "Something more fresh, if you will."

     The new logo should be suitable for both online and printed promotional material and should work in both color reproduction and grayscale printing. All artwork must be converted to digital and should be no less than 300dpi.

     The creator of the winning design will enjoy a Chesapeake Bay trip for five where they will harvest their choice of Maryland’s three prime native seafood species ─ blue crabs, striped bass or oysters.

     Applicants must send their artwork digitally to Kelly Barnes at kbarnes@dnr.state.md.us.

     All entries are due by 5 p.m. on June 30. The winner will be chosen by the Maryland Seafood Commission and announced in July.

Keith Lockwood's Maryland Fishing Report

     Oxford, Md. -- The upcoming weekend will be an extended one for many families as folks get together to not only honor those who have sacrificed so much that we may enjoy the freedoms we have but to also get together for family outings such as fishing. The Ocean City area is hopping with all kinds of fishing opportunities, freshwater fishing for largemouth bass, chain pickerel, trout and bluegills is very good and striped bass, croakers and white perch will aim to please bay fisherpersons this weekend. Pack up the kids and give that local pond a try or fish the bay or ocean and enjoy some time together.

     Thursday May 24th, fisheries biologists will be out tagging the first group of striped bass for the 2012 Diamond Jim Fishing Tournament. Young anglers will be doing the catching throughout the bay and biologists will be tagging the fish with lime green colored tags. This first round of Diamond Jim fish will be eligible starting June 1st until June 30th and can be worth up to $25,000 if a lucky angler catches Diamond Jim. To find out more about Diamond Jim and the Maryland Fishing Challenge check out the following link.

     Fishermen are finding some striped bass action in the Susquehanna Flats area channels and the lower Susquehanna River up to the boundary line at the Susquehanna State Park boat ramp and enjoying the fact that they can keep a fish. Crankbaits, soft plastic jigs and swim baits worked close to the bottom have been a favorite choice. There is excellent fishing for white perch in the lower Susquehanna and most fishermen are using small jigs with good success. Channel catfish are abundant and some fishermen have been specializing in catching large flathead catfish in the dam hole on large gizzard shad baits and large swim shad lures.

     Fishermen farther down the bay are describing fishing for striped bass as a slow pick for those under 28" in length with a large one thrown in now and then. Fishing for striped bass seems to be in a transition at the moment; some fishermen are putting the blame on May worm spawns, others mention mahogany tides and others talk about bait. At this stage only the striped bass have the answer and it will take every trick in each fisherman's bag of tricks to cut down the odds in their favor.

     Many fishermen are trolling with 6" swim shads in tandem or umbrella rigs along channel edges or any good looking bottom structure. Chumming and chunking for striped bass is beginning to become more productive this week as many boats begin to make the switch. Light tackle fishermen have been checking out all their favorite locations such as sharp channel edges, the Bay Bridge piers, points and coveted ballast stone pile locations to jig for suspended fish. Many savvy fishermen or just lucky fishermen through trial and error are finding cooperating fish throughout the bay this week.

     Water temperatures in the middle bay region this week have crept over the 70-degree mark this week so many of our summer migrants should feel right at home. Fishermen have been catching croakers in the southern region of the bay in the shallower areas in the evenings and deeper waters during the day. The fishing for croakers in the lower Potomac has been good this week with white perch mixed in and lots of blue catfish in the 4lb to 6lb size range. Croaker fishing in the lower Patuxent and the Hooper's Island/Tangier Sound area has been steadily improving. Shore line fishermen have also been catching croakers from prominent points in the Somerset County area and around the mouth of the Patuxent. Croakers have been a bit of a mystery this year so far; especially those coveted 19" croakers; once again despite all kinds of theories only the croakers know what is going on. One very bright spot for fishermen in the Tangier Sound area continues to be the speckled trout fishing. Black drum are starting to show up at traditional locations and the soft crab dunking crowd will surely begin to scan the depths of shoal areas this weekend looking for those heavy blips on their depth finders that often resemble the sonar signature of a submarine.

Freshwater

     Freshwater fishermen are enjoying the aggressive nature of post-spawn largemouth bass over a wide area of Maryland this week. Many fishermen are reporting that the fishing hardly gets any better than this time period when bass are off the nests and looking for something to eat. Fishermen are targeting grass and spatterdock fields with chatterbaits and similar topwater lures as well as plastic craws. Soft plastics, spinnerbaits and crankbaits are good choices for docks, and any kind of submerged structure such as tree tops and sunken wood or rocks.

     Deep Creek Lake fishermen report good fishing for medium sized smallmouth bass and walleyes on crankbaits and minnows this week. Trout fishermen in the western and central regions are enjoying good fishing opportunities for trout in all of the management areas. Flows in some of the creeks have been elevated due to recent rains but should return to good levels by the end of the week.

At the Ocean
     Fishermen in the Ocean City area have a lot to look forward to this week; especially if you like to fish along the beaches. The striped bass migration of large fish is moving through the area and fishermen are making some memorable catches. Most fishermen are using stout surf gear and cut menhaden baits, sand fleas or clams on bottom rigs with good success. This wonderful fishing opportunity will not last much longer, so be sure to not miss it. Fishermen are also catching a few black drum in the surf, sandbar and sand tiger sharks (which must be released) and of course skates and dogfish. A few small bluefish and blowfish are also being caught when fishermen switch up to smaller rigs and offerings.

     Inside and around the inlet tautog are being caught off bulkheads and the south jetty. Small bluefish keep moving in and out of the inlet and are being caught on Got-Cha plugs and spoons. A few striped bass are being caught each night on swim shads and bucktails. Flounder are being caught around the inlet and back bay areas when water conditions are favorable.

     The party boats headed to the wreck sites are finding plenty of sea bass for their fishermen along with tautog and a few flounder. The federal sea bass season for areas beyond 3-miles is now open also. Boats heading out to the canyons are finding some yellowfin tuna and mako sharks.

Tea Party Returns to Chestertown This Weekend, May 25-27

     Chestertown, Md. -- “To the River!”

     The rallying cry of the Sons of Liberty of yore rings out again as once again the gem of the Eastern Shore opens its doors and welcomes celebrants to its annual Tea Party Festival. In an era that has seen so many radical ‘tea party’ political movements, the historic pageant in the tiny hamlet stands apart as a genuine slice of Americana, whose only aspiration is to remind its community of its storied past and celebrate being good neighbors.

     In response to British Parliament’s closing of the port of Boston, the citizens of Chestertown, met in May of 1774 and set forth “Resolves” forbidding importing, selling, or consuming tea, according to local legend, residents then gathered at the town center, marched down High Street to the brigantine Geddes, and tossed her cargo of tea overboard. The Saturday reenactment of that patriotic act is the centerpiece of the celebration. Beginning in 1975 and continuing each Memorial Day Weekend since, the festival has blossomed from a small local event to a major regional draw.

     A parade down main street, a classic distance run for early risers, an amazingly creative raft race, live demonstrations of colonial life, a dramatic historic reenactment, vendors of colonial craftsmanship and local musicians and food galore are all among the reasons that crowds are regularly estimated between 5,000 – 7,000 people attending the three day event.

     Now in its 37th continuous year, recent additions include the return of Revolutionary Theatre at the Garfield Center for the Arts, featuring local playwrights, Tia Glomb and Keith Thompson. In addition to the Vineyard Village on Saturday that was such a huge success last year, this year’s Sunday Wine Tasting event will add a special section of Craft Beers for those that enjoy hops as much as wine. Cow Plop Bingo makes its second appearance at the festival after last year’s fund raiser of for the KC Community Marching Band was so enthusiastically received.

     Also returning on Friday night, following the ever popular Cocktail Party at Wilmer Park, the Chester River Chorale will present and evening of patriotic songs at the Garfield Center. KCHS PTSA takes over the Toss the Tory contest and will raise funds for student scholarships by casting a local celebrity into the Chester on Sunday afternoon. These events, as well as stalwart favorites like Public Sails on the Sultana, the 20th Annual Great Raft Race and Classic Distance Run make the Tea Party Festival and event that all can find something fun to do.

     All festival events take place along the Chester River and in the historic district of 18th-century Chestertown. There is no admission charge to the festival, but certain events do require paid tickets. For more information please refer to our website at www.chestertownteaparty.org or call us at 215-431-6671.

Rock Hall Triathlon Scheduled for June 2 and 3

     Rock Hall, Md. -- Mariners are advised that the swim portion of the “Rock Hall Triathlon” is scheduled to occur in Rock Hall Harbor on June 2 and June 3 from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. both days. Approximately 400 swimmers will compete counter-clockwise on marked courses, along a 1500-meter course on Saturday and a 750-meter course on Sunday, at Rock Hall Landing Marina (Dock A) near Waterman’s Crab House.
     Bright yellow triangular buoys will mark course turns and orange buoys will mark course legs. Swimmers will be supported by sponsor-provided kayaks and lifeguard surfboards. Official patrol personnel on scene can
be contacted on marine band radio VHF-FM channel 16. For any comments or questions, contact Coast Guard Sector Baltimore, Waterways Management Division, at (410) 576-2674 or Ronald.L.Houck@uscg.mil.  Chart 12272.

Four Water Trails Added to Captain John Smith Trail

     Annapolis, Md. -- Joined by Maryland Governor Martin O’Malley and other leaders in a ceremony at Sandy Point State Park on Wednesday, Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar designated four water trails as new historic connecting components of the existing Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail.

     The Secretarial designation recognizes the significance of four connecting rivers– the Susquehanna, Chester, Upper Nanticoke and Upper James Rivers—to the history, cultural heritage, and natural resources of the 3,000-mile-long national historic trail in the Chesapeake Bay. The new river connecting trails are found in Delaware, Maryland, New York, Pennsylvania and Virginia.

     “These river trails, totaling 841 miles in length, are closely associated with John Smith’s exploration of the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries, including the American Indian towns and cultures of the 17th-century Chesapeake that he encountered,” said Secretary Salazar. “Incorporating these river segments into the national historic trail will increase public access, provide important recreation and tourism opportunities, and enrich exploration of the water routes in the entire Chesapeake watershed.”

     Designation of trail components of the Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail will enable the National Park Service, which administers the national trail, to work closely with state and local agencies and other partners--notably conservation and tribal organizations--to provide technical and financial assistance, resource management, facility enhancement, interpretive trail route marking and promotion along the connecting trails.

     Congress authorized the Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail in 2006 as “a series of water routes extending approximately 3,000 miles along the Chesapeake Bay and the tributaries of the Chesapeake Bay.” Secretary Salazar used his authority under the National Trails System Act to designate the connecting rivers as part of the national trail with the support of the five states.

     "Today, thanks to the leadership of President Obama and Secretary Salazar, we are blazing a new trail for America's great outdoors," said Governor O'Malley. "By linking our extraordinary landscapes and waterways to our country's history, the Captain John Smith National Historic Trail will support jobs and local economies across the region while providing unique opportunities for visitors to explore our cultural heritage while enjoying our natural resources."

     The event also drew participation from a number of other public officials and conservation and tribal leaders. Speakers included Jonathan B. Jarvis, Director of the National Park Service; Patrick Noonan, Chairman Emeritus of the Conservation Fund; and Joel Dunn, executive director of The Chesapeake Conservancy.

     The numerous American Indian leaders joining the ceremony included: Tadodaho Sid Hill, spiritual leader of the Haudenosaunee nations (Six Nation/Iroquois Confederacy); Sid Jamieson, Chief of the Mohawk Nation; Stephen Adkins, Chief of the Chickahominy Tribe; Dennis Coker, Chief of the Lenape Tribe; Rico Newman, Piscataway member and chairman of the Maryland Indian Tourism Association; Deanna Beacham of the Virginia Council of Indians and member of the Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail Advisory Council; and Virginia Busby of the Maryland Commission on Indian Affairs.

     The Chesapeake Conservancy funded and managed a professional evaluation of Chesapeake Bay tributaries to determine their potential for designation as historic connecting components to the Captain John Smith trail. Research teams included historians, tribal representatives and regional universities.

     Based on the study’s findings, the Chesapeake Conservancy worked with local watershed, tribal and water trail groups and state agencies to develop applications to the National Park Service to nominate the four rivers as connecting trail components.

     Each of the nominations was supported by the governors of the five states through which the connecting trails pass, and by local groups, including American Indian tribes and descendant communities.

      President Obama’s America’s Great Outdoors Initiative recognized the Capt. John Smith trail and the nominated historic connecting components as important parts of the 21st Century conservation agenda of the United States—an agenda that includes increasing access to water-based outdoor recreation, encouraging community connections to cultural resources, and promoting tourism that fuels local economies.

     “The Chesapeake Conservancy greatly appreciates the Secretary’s designations today, which are the culmination of years of research and planning by private and public partners in the Chesapeake Bay region,” said executive director Joel Dunn. “The four historic connecting river components of the national historic trail extend the framework for collaborative conservation of our region’s history, wildlife and special places on a large landscape scale.”

     “These designations do far more than create water trails and treasured lands that are a part of our history,” The Conservation Fund’s Noonan added. “They create opportunities for our children’s children to enjoy the natural beauty and bounty of the Chesapeake and her rivers and to experience their own Chesapeake journeys. Their gratitude will be thanks enough.”

     To read some of the many comments about today’s announcement from tribal leaders, governors and members of Congress who could not be present, click here.

     For a map of the water trails, click here.

     Salazar signed a document designating the following historic connecting rivers:
     The Susquehanna River Component Connecting Trail is a 552-mile system of water trails along the main stem and West Branch of the Susquehanna River in Maryland, Pennsylvania, and New York. Sections of the trail are managed by a variety of organizations and agencies, all of which support the component connecting designation. Overall coordination of the component is provided by the Susquehanna Greenway Partnership. The southern end of this trail links directly with the Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail at Conowingo, Maryland.

     The Chester River Component Connecting Trail is a 46-mile system of the Chester River and its major tributaries. The trail connects to the Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail at its mouth just south of Rock Hall, Maryland. This connecting component is managed by Sultana Projects of Chestertown, Maryland, in close consultation with the State of Maryland.

     The Upper Nanticoke River Component Connecting Trail is an existing state water trail managed by the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) along approximately 23 miles of the Nanticoke River, Broad Creek and Deep Creek. The western end of this trial links directly with the Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail.

     The Upper James River Component Connecting Trail is a 220-mile water trail that crosses nine counties and connects to the Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail at the Falls of the James in Richmond, VA. it is managed by by the James River Association.

     For more information about the Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail, contact John Maounis, Superintendent, at 410-260-2471 or john_maounis@nps.gov.

     For more information on the Chesapeake Conservancy’s John Smith Trails Program, contact Michael Shultz at 410-972-2470 or mshultz@chesapeakeconservancy.org.

     For more information about the Upper Nanticoke River Connecting Trail contact Michael Krumrine at 302-739-9243 or Michael.krumrine@state.de.us.

     For more information about the Susquehanna River Connecting Trail contact Trish Carothers at 570-522-7259 or tcarothers@susquehannagreenway.org.

     For more information about the Upper James River Connecting Trail contact Bill Street at 804-788-8811 X201 orbstreet@jrava.org.

     For more information about the Chester River Connecting Trail contact John Mann at 410-778-5954 or jmann@sultanaprojects.org.

Star Spangled Sailabration June 13-19 in Baltimore

     Baltimore, Md. -- Mariners are advised the Port of Baltimore will be hosting the Star Spangled Sailabration 2012, an international maritime festival that will launch Maryland's three-year War of 1812 bicentennial efforts, from June 13 until June 19. This event will bring dozens of Navy vessels and tall ships from the United States and international navies to the port. In addition to a parade of sail and fireworks, an air show featuring a demonstration from the U.S. Navy Blue Angels is planned to be held in the vicinity of Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine, which temporarily will close portions of the main navigation channels.

     It is anticipated the increased activity associated with this festival will result in some disruption in and potential delays to normal port operations. All entities conducting business in the port, including, but not limited to shipping lines, port operators, and vessel agents should plan accordingly. Specific details on Coast Guard established safety zones and other waterway closures resulting from planned festival activities will be provided in future Local Notice to Mariners publications. 

     For more information concerning the schedule of planned events, visit the Star Spangled 200 website at: http://www.starspangled200.com/events_list . 

     Questions concerning this announcement can be direct to Coast Guard Sector Baltimore Waterways Management Division at 410-576-2519. Charts 12278, 12281.

Maryland DNR Reminds Citizens To Practice Water Safety

     Annapolis, Md. -- With Memorial Day weekend and the start of summer right around the corner, many people will be heading outdoors to enjoy our state’s waterways and beaches. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) cautions that these areas will not be staffed with lifeguards until the Memorial Day weekend and urges everyone to be extra vigilant in and around the water.

     “We want everyone to be able to enjoy the wonderful outdoor recreational opportunities our state has to offer, but safety is always our first priority,” said DNR Secretary John Griffin. “We are asking everyone to research their activities before heading outdoors and exercise caution and good judgment when swimming, especially as State Park beaches are not yet guarded.”

     The Maryland Natural Resources Police offer the following swimming safety tips:
Pay special attention to small children and use safety devices such as life jackets on children or other individuals who cannot swim.
Obey all warning signs that alert swimmers to dangers and be aware of any surrounding signs or markers that indicate current water conditions.
Never swim alone or while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Carry a cell phone or have other ways of contacting emergency personnel if a situation arises.

     If an emergency occurs, immediately call 911 and remember to Reach, Throw, Row and Go:

REACH the person in trouble by extending a releasable item, such as a pole, line or rope to pull them to safety, but not by hand as the rescuer could quickly become another victim.

THROW an object that floats to the victim if they are unreachable. A life ring, PFD, cooler or plastic jug is suitable floating objects that can keep a troubled swimmer afloat until rescues arrive.

ROW to the victim, using a canoe or any other safe watercraft. The rescuer must wear a life jacket. Once the victim is nearby, a rope or paddle should be extended and used to tow the victim to shore if possible.

GO to the victim by entering the water as a last resort and ONLY if properly trained. The rescuer should bring an object to keep the victim afloat and to prevent being pulled under.

Maryland NRP Celebrates National Safe Boating Week

     Annapolis, Md. -- The Maryland Natural Resources Police (NRP) and local boat insurance provider, Jack Martin/Avon-Dixon, encourage the public to join them in wearing a lifejacket to work on Friday, May 18. The state initiative kicks off National Safe Boating Week, May 19 to 23, by raising awareness on the importance of these life saving devices.

     “The simple act of wearing a lifejacket could mean the difference between life and death during a boating accident,” said NRP Superintendent Colonel George F. Johnson IV. “If we can prevent one fatality on Maryland waterways by reminding the public to wear a lifejacket, we have accomplished our goal.”

     By encouraging everyone to wear a lifejacket in a non-typical setting, such as at work, NRP hopes to heighten public awareness and foster discussion on the importance of boating safety.

     Last year alone, Maryland had 24 boating deaths- nearly double the ten year average of 13. Nationwide, approximately 75 to 80 percent of boating deaths are due to drowning, many of which could have been prevented with the use of a life jacket.

     “We are pleased to have the opportunity to team up with the Natural Resources Police for this cause,” said Jon Horton of Jack Martin/Avon-Dixon. “We feel that this is a great way to remind everyone just how important these devices are. It has also been educational experience for all of us, giving our office a forum to discuss the different makes and models of lifejackets that each of us brought to work.”

     Jack Martin/Avon-Dixon and NRP will hold free, boating-safety vessel inspections at the following locations:
Newcomb, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on May 20 at the Oak Creek Boat Ramp
Stevensville, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on June 2 at the Matapeake Fishing Pier

     NRP and the Minor league Baseball team, the Bowie Baysox, will host Stay Safe on the Bay with the Baysox at the team’s May 24 home game at 7 p.m. NRP’s Boating Safety Unit, Color Guard and mascot, PFD Panda will be on hand to the share their boating safety message. NRP and the Coast Guard will also be at City Dock in Annapolis with displays and demonstrations raising awareness on safe boating in Maryland’s waterways on May 26.

     For more information on Maryland Boating Safety visit dnr.maryland.gov/boating/safety.

Blessing of the Fleet in Washington Channel Scheduled for Saturday

     Washington, D.C. -- Mariners are advised that the Port of Washington Yacht Club’s annual “Blessing of the Fleet” is scheduled to occur in Washington Channel on Saturday, May 19, from noon to 3 p.m. Approximately 100 vessels (various types and lengths) will transit in a counter-clockwise course with vessel staging occurring near Hains Point, in Washington, DC. Mariners are urged to use caution when transiting the area and remain clear of the parade route, and if necessary, contact parade officials on marine band radio channel 67 VHF-FM. Chart 12289.

Maryland DNR Certifies New Clean Marina In Hollywood: Blackstone Marina

     Hollywood, Md. -- Blackstone Marina, serving boaters of the Patuxent River on Cuckhold Creek since 1964, has been certified as the latest Maryland Clean Marina.

     “Following the recommendations of the Maryland Clean Marina Guidebook has enabled us to become a very clean marina,” said owner Les Gould. “We have found our boaters are eager to assist us in implementing sound pollution control practices.”

     To meet award criteria, Marina Office Manager Lois Canter created a stormwater pollution prevention plan, wrote marina rules and regulations and devised emergency response procedures. The marina also maintains a pumpout station and an emergency fuel spill response kit.

     “It was a pleasure working with Blackstone Marina to meet the award criteria. Their willingness to do what was needed made the whole process fun,” said Donna Morrow, coordinator of the Clean Marina Program. “We encourage more marinas to join the program with this spirit to help protect our waterways.”

     Blackstone Marina provides boat haul-out and repair services, pumpout service and dockage. In addition to regular slips, the marina also has covered and lift slips for boats from 20 to 40 feet long.

     This is the 123rd certified Maryland Clean Marina. There are a total of 148 certified facilities in Maryland, including 25 smaller Clean Marina partners. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) oversees the Clean Marina Initiative, a voluntary program that promotes and celebrates efforts of marinas, boatyards and yacht clubs to reduce their pollution.

     Each of the 148 certified facilities has adopted a significant portion of recommendations in the Maryland Clean Marina Guidebook and passed a rigorous site inspection. Certifications are good for three years, at which time DNR staff re-inspects the marinas. Marinas and boatyards of any size can participate.

     More information and free program materials are available by calling 410-260-8773 or visiting dnr.maryland.gov/boating/cleanmarina.

Missing Boaters Located in Marsh in Dorchester County

     Nanticoke, Md. -- A waterman found two boaters Monday morning, missing since Saturday night, on an isolated marsh in southern Dorchester County. Richard L. Moore, 41 and Daniel V. Graves, 49 both from Delmar became lost in Tangier Sound while returning from a fishing trip on May 12.

     Maryland Natural Resources Police, Coast Guard and Maryland State Police aviation were notified of the disappearance on Sunday evening and began searching for the missing boaters. They were found by a waterman Monday morning and taken to Hooper’s Island where they refused medical treatment.

     The boat ran out of gas and became stranded in a marsh as the men were trying to find their way back to the harbor. The boaters did not have a radio on board and their cell phone batteries died before they decided to call for help.

     NRP would like to remind boaters to always file a float plan with a friend or relative before they depart from shore, making sure to tell that person where they are going, how long they expect to be there and the time to expect them back. Please call authorities immediately if boaters fail to return on time so that appropriate action may be taken to locate them. It is also recommended that all boaters have a VHF radio on board their boat so that emergency workers can be notified when a problem arises.

Orr Wins Championship on the Chesapeake

     Annapolis, Md. -- Titled The Championship on the Chesapeake, the world’s largest rockfish tournament concluded on Sunday, May 6 as nearly 500 boats and 3,000 anglers competed for bragging rights and a big cash payout.

     For the past 29 years the Maryland Saltwater Sportfishing Association (MSSA) has hosted this event in Maryland waters of the Chesapeake Bay. MSSA is the largest sportfishing association in the region with over 6,000 members and 14 chapters.

     With 11 weigh stations scattered throughout the Bay, both Eastern and Western shores, the tournament is convenient and enjoyable for almost everyone in the state.

     Glenn Orr of Severna Park found this year’s tournament particularly enjoyable as he caught a 42.1 pound rockfish on Sunday, the last day of the tournament. Orr has been fishing this tournament for over a decade and his catch on Sunday finally paid off. Winning the main tournament, a guaranteed $15,000 cash prize, and all but one of the skill levels (11 total) brought his total earnings to $69,476. Orr’s payout marks the second largest payout in MSSA spring tournament history behind Lee Slagle in 2008 who won over $70,000. 

     Holding on for two and a half days at first place, ultimately finding himself taking second, Joe Klug of Glen Burnie weighed in a magnificent rockfish coming in at 36.65 pounds. Klug took second in the main tournament and placing in multiple skill levels bringing his total earnings to $13,100.

     Third place went to Karl Foster of Chesapeake Beach who nudged out the fourth place winner by one hundredth of a pound. Foster weighed his 33.15 pound rockfish at Rod N Reel on Sunday. His efforts and fish will bring him $7,429. Charles Wilson, also of Chesapeake Beach, came in fourth place with his 33 pound rockfish. Wilson also weighed in his fish at Rod N Reel on the first day not long after the scales opened. Wilson will be taking home $17,617 for his three days of fishing.

     In addition, Steve Smith of Hanover, PA took home $16,763 for his 5th and 8th place fish, along with 1st place in the four fish skill level. Smith won over $65,000 two years ago in the spring tournament.

     Among the numerous skill levels and main tournament prizes are the Ladies, Youth, and Pro divisions. New this year is the Ladies Division. This division awarded the top ten lady anglers who weighed in the heaviest fish all three days of the tournament. The winner of the first ever Ladies Division was Victoria Beard of Owings, Maryland. Victoria received $500 cash and merchandise from Reel Sassy fishing apparel. 

      The Professional Division was dominated this year by a few captains, proving that when they find the fish, they will catch the fish. William Goodermuth of Felton, PA took first place this year as he brought in a 35.05 pound rockfish. Goodermuth weighed in at the Rod N Reel docks in Chesapeake Beach on the second day of the tournament. He will take home $3,000 for his efforts. Second place went to Thomas Mills of North Beach. Mills was one of the big money winners in the pro division as he weighed in a 32.8 pound rockfish taking home $6,620. Donnie Scrivener of Huntingtown, Maryland took third overall with a 30.15 pound rockfish. Scrivener also placed in several skill levels bringing his total earnings to $5,371. 

     The Youth Division, which has become more popular over the past few years, awarded the top ten youth anglers ages 16 years and under. This year’s winner is Cory Lee Freeman as he weighed in a 20.5 pound rockfish. Cory was fishing on Captain James Watkinson’s boat of Chesapeake Beach. Second place went to Austin Garrison of California, Maryland. Austin caught a beautiful rockfish weighing in at 20.35 pounds. Austin and his father weighed this fish in at Point Lookout, both are longtime participants in the MSSA spring tournament. Third place went to Michael Linetty of Smithsburg, Maryland. Michael weighed in a 20.3 pound rockfish on the first day of the tournament. The top ten winners received a trophy, merchandise, and gift cards from Alltackle. Alltackle is a major sponsor of the MSSA and its tournament series as well as numerous other youth events.

     The tournament, always held the weekend before Mother’s Day, was particularly challenging this year. Captains were marking plenty of bait and big fish, but they were having trouble getting them to take their baits. There was a lot of talk going on about the moon, the weather, the tides, the wind, you name it. But at the end of the day that is fishing.

     For more information on the tournament or a full listing of results - Click Here

Bass Anglers to Ply Potomac Waters this Week

     National Harbor, Md. -- Anglers and boaters, parking may be congested at Marshall Hall Park (MD) and Gravelly Point Park (VA) on May 17-18 because of a Walmart FLW Bass tournament.
     Anglers may be pre-fishing earlier this week and launching from Smallwood State Park. At Marshall Hall Park, some non-tournament parking will be reserved for non-tournament anglers.
     The nationally televised weigh-in will occur at 2:30 p.m. May 17 and 18. For the last two days of the tournament, May 19 and 20, the weigh-in will occur at 4 p.m., just after the FLW Outdoors Expo held at the National Harbor Marina.
     The FLW has been hosting tournaments on the Potomac River since at least June 2001. The Potomac River and upper Chesapeake Bay has gained national attention for their prominent black bass fisheries. The Potomac River was recently ranked as 31st out of 100 as the Best Bass Lake in the U.S. by Bassmaster Magazine (2012).
      The FLW is only one of hundreds of black bass tournament organizations that stage tournaments on Maryland's parks and marinas each year. This year, MD DNR is drafting a regulation to permit tournament directors of 2013 to obtain better information on use of the fishery by largemouth and smallmouth bass tournaments.

Area Closed For Ocean City Boat Races On May 13

     Ocean City, Md. -- The Maryland Natural Resources Police (NRP) and the Coast Guard remind boaters that a section of the Atlantic Ocean off of Ocean City will be closed from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday, May 13 for the Offshore Powerboat Races.

     The closed area stretches between 3rd Street and 30th Street, extending one mile offshore. The area will be marked with buoys and patrolled by police boats. Designated race support boats will be allowed in the security zone to assist the competitors. For the safety of racers and spectators, all other boats and vessels are prohibited from entering the restricted area or interfering with the race.

     Boaters should expect delays and congestion at the West Ocean City Public Ramp during practice day on May 12, and on May 13, as race boats are loaded and unloaded. The boats will leave the ramp and continue through the Ocean Inlet to the race area.

     NRP reminds boaters to stay safe during boating season by remembering the Acronym “SAFE”
S – Survey or inspect the vessel for seaworthiness prior to leaving the dock. Inspect its hull, engine, navigation light and equipment to ensure proper working conditions.
A – Anticipate the weather conditions and match those conditions with the boats size and the driver’s ability and dress accordingly.
F – File a float plan. Boaters should tell a friend or relative where they’re going, their length of stay and time they expect to be back into port. This is important information to help in the search if someone goes missing.
E – Equipment. Inspect and have all the necessary items on board and ready for use, especially all life saving equipment. This includes fire extinguishers, visual distress signals, sound producing device, VHF radio and life jackets. NRP recommends all boaters wear life jackets while on the water.

Keith Lockwood's Maryland Fishing Report

     Oxford, Md. -- Most of the spring spawning runs of anadromous fish are about over as we continue to move through May and the large spawning striped bass are making their way down the bay. Water temperatures remain stable due to cooler weather and largemouth bass are busy on their spawning beds and carp can be seen thrashing about in the shallows of the state's tidal rivers and creeks.

     Fisheries survey crews reported this week that the hickory shad in the lower Susquehanna and Deer Creek area are showing diminished spawning activity. They also reported large numbers of white perch in the area while electro-fishing. Now that the striped bass catch and release season is over many fishermen have been focusing on white perch and channel catfish in the region.

     Fishermen in pursuit of trophy sized striped bass have been putting in a lot of time trolling the edges of the shipping channel from above the Bay Bridge to the Virginia line. Fishermen saw a pulse of large fish in the middle/upper bay region this weekend at Love, Bloody and Thomas Points. Most of the large fish being caught throughout the bay are running from about 32" to 36" in size and fishermen reported a lot of smaller male fish under 28" were caught over the weekend. Some expressed amazement that a 24" striped bass could manage to get those large parachutes and sassy shads in their mouths.

     Most of the spawning striped bass have left the Choptank and Nanticoke Rivers and fish from the Susquehanna Flats area are filtering down the bay this week. The Potomac River has been a hot ticket for the past week for large fish. Fishermen are reporting that the False Channel has been quiet but the western edge of the shipping channel below Breezy Point has been fair as well as Cove Point, Point No Point and Buoy 72A. Most fishermen have been reporting a slow pick for large striped bass this week and report plenty of bait being seen on depth finders. Tandem parachutes dressed with sassy shads in white or chartreuse has been the favorite presentation.

     Shore based fishermen continue to catch some of the larger striped bass moving down the bay but it is slowing down. Some of the better action has been coming from places like Deal Island where fishermen are also catching a few black drum and speckled sea trout. Shore based fishermen can find good fishing possibilities on prominent points with some deeper water or from fishing piers. White perch are spread throughout their normal summer range now and can be caught on small lures or bait. Speckled trout are being caught in the Hooper's Island to Pocomoke Sound region on swim shads such as the Gulp Mullet under a popping cork or just cast and retrieved. Soft crab baits are also a very good way to catch speckled trout and black drum. Croakers are here and pound netters have been catching large ones in their nets. There have not been too many fishermen fishing for them but that will change as interest in the trophy striped bass season begins to wane. A few reports of May worm hatches have come in from the southern region by charter boat captains this week.

Crabbing

     Recreational crabbing seemed to slow down this week as the season's first major shed is taking place. Reports from the Choptank River south reveal recreational crabbers catching less than a half bushel per outing and a lot of small crabs. They are also reporting that clear water has been making it difficult to keep crabs on a trotline and some have been doing better with collapsible crab traps.

Freshwater

     Freshwater fishermen are seeing largemouth bass in a spawning mode in all regions of the state this week and in some areas the spawning is over. Targeting shallow coves, grass and transition areas have a favorite strategy this week with spinnerbaits, plastic craws, chatterbaits and stickbaits. Fishermen are catching snakeheads in the Piscataway and Mattawoman Creeks by targeting grass with surface lures such as frogs, chatterbaits and buzzbaits.

     Trout fishermen are enjoying the generous stocking of trout in many of the state's trout management waters this week and stocking will continue in some areas till the end of May. More than a few trout fishermen have had the surprise of their life this season thanks to the efforts of the hatchery team at the Albert Powell Hatchery to raise large rainbow trout to sizes that fishermen could only dream about a few years ago. We received two reports recently from fishermen that leap into the water to wrangle trout in excess of 10 lbs. up on the bank because they were fishing with 4lb test line and a small landing net.

     Fishermen at Deep Creek Lake report that the smallmouth bass are spawning on rocky points and flats and that the fishing for walleyes and large yellow perch has been very good. Crappie are holding close to shoreline structure in many of the state's lakes and tidal rivers; fishing minnows or small tubes under a bobber can be a good way to catch them. Fishing for channel catfish in most of the bays tidal rivers is excellent this time of the year and most any kind of fresh cut bait such as white perch or gizzard shad makes for a good bait.

     Oceanside

     Ocean City fishermen are enjoying a great run of large striped bass this week along the beaches. Most fishermen are using fresh menhaden baits or fresh sand fleas on a conventional bottom rig with good success. Fishermen are also seeing a lot of skates and dogfish in the surf but also black drum and blowfish. Inside the inlet striped bass are being caught at night on swim shads and bucktails and tautog during the day on pieces of green crab or sand fleas. Flounder continue to be caught at the inlet and back bay areas on squid and minnow combos as well as larger baits such as Gulp baits. The boats fishing the wreck sites are finding good numbers of quality sized tautog for their anglers. Farther offshore fishermen are catching blue sharks, a few makos and an occasional bluefin tuna.

Ceremony Celebrates Opening of Rodgers Tavern Pier and Floating Dock

     Perryville, Md. -- Local officials and residents from Perryville, Port Deposit and Havre de Grace came out to show their excitement and support for the official opening of the Rodgers Tavern pier and floating dock at a ribbon cutting ceremony on May 1.

      “This project will greatly enhance water access, recreation, heritage, tourism and hopefully be the impetus for economic development of the town’s waterfront as well as the revitalization of the old downtown area,” said Town Commissioner Barbara A. Brown. “I am extremely happy that everyone who has worked with the town to make this project happen will see their efforts pay off. It will truly be an asset for Perryville.”

     The pier and floating boat slips provide access to the Susquehanna River and are a short walk to the Historic Rodgers Tavern and the Town of Perryville. Perryville is one of three towns along with Havre de Grace and Port Deposit that will benefit from this boating access site that links the towns to each other and to the Lower Susquehanna Heritage Greenway Trail. The new pier and floating dock not only provide a significant amenity to the boating public, but will also provide economic stimulus to local businesses. The mayor and Commissioners of Perryville have long supported this project.

The site features:
A 515-foot by 10-foot fully-lit walking pier
A 60-foot by 10-foot bridge
An 80-foot by 6-foot walkway
A 122-foot long floating pier with electrical service that includes 12 transient boat slips with an 86-foot T-head floating pier that provides dockage for large vessels.

     “We view this project as an enhancement to the Lower Susquehanna River trail system, an economic stimulus through increased tourism, and additional water access for this riverfront community,” said Perryville Mayor James L. Eberhardt.

     The Rodgers Tavern pier and floating dock are located behind Rodgers Tavern at 259 Broad Street, Perryville in Cecil County. The project, completed on March 30, was a joint venture with funding from the following sources: $1,159,901 from a Federal Grant to the Lower Susquehanna Heritage Greenway Trail, $478,379 from the Town of Perryville, and $554,950 from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources Waterway Improvement Fund, which includes $154,950 in 100 percent grants and $400,000 in matching 50/50 grants. Revenue for the fund comes from the one-time, 5 percent excise tax, paid when a boat is purchased and titled in Maryland.

Maryland Governor Signs Laws to Improve Fishery Management

     Annapolis, Md. -- Governor Martin O’Malley has signed into law several pieces of legislation to improve enforcement of our natural resource laws and further sustainable fisheries management and aquaculture businesses. The bills were supported by watermen groups, recreational fishing groups and environmental organizations.
     “Legislation signed by Governor O’Malley today sends a strong message about our mission to protect Maryland’s valued natural resources,” said Secretary John Griffin. “By adjusting our commercial fishing license structure, we are providing more flexibility to our watermen, while increasing individual accountability. Also, by expediting and expanding aquaculture permits and creating new free recreational fishing areas, we will expand opportunities for industry and recreational users.”
     “HB 1372 is a perfect example of the achievements that can be made when the Department of Natural Resources and the commercial fishing industry work together in a spirit of cooperation for the benefit of a sustainable fishery,” said Gibby Dean of the Chesapeake Bay Commercial Fisherman’s Association.
     Reflecting historical agreement to increase business flexibility and accountability in Maryland’s commercial fishing industry, House Bill 1372 removes some commercial fishing license transfer restrictions, while increasing the accountability on those transfers. Additionally, by providing billing authority to the Department for an individual harvester’s use of fish tags and the new hailing (call-in) system, the legislation will enable the Natural Resources Police to more effectively monitor daily fish harvest as well as begin to address cost recovery concerns.
     “This was a very comprehensive bill with very complicated and challenging issues regarding licenses, transfers, fees and so on. We are pleased that we now can work with the DNR’s staff through the summer so that the commercial fishing industry has time to further nail down the details,” said Larry Simns, Maryland Watermen’s Association President. “The watermen thank Secretary Griffin, DNR’s staff and members of the legislature for their support on this major piece of legislation for us.”
     “We applaud Governor O’Malley, Secretary Griffin and the entire Department of Natural Resources team for their efforts to improve the manageability, accountability and enforceability of Maryland’s fisheries,” said Tony Friedrich, executive director for Coastal Conservation Association Maryland. “We believe this legislation provides the necessary legal foundation to ensure that funds will be available and allocated in a manner that allows for the responsible stewardship of our shared fish, crabs and oysters.”
     House Bill 1306 expedites the shellfish aquaculture lease application process, allows for development of a process that could expand shellfish sales and market opportunities, and provides for the establishment of comparable application costs and lease rent for all shellfish leaseholders.
     “The provisions contained in HB 1306 are important in Governor O’Malley’s continuing efforts to establish Maryland as a leader in shellfish aquaculture production,” said Don Webster, vice-chairman of the Maryland Aquaculture Coordinating Council. “We are already seeing increases in economic activity and employment with benefits for the environment through the strong partnership that exists for this industry between our Governor and the Maryland General Assembly.”
     “This year’s passing of House Bill 1306 is one more step in the right direction toward developing a new and exciting oyster industry in Maryland,” said Johnny Shockley, vice president of Hooper’s Island Oyster Aquaculture. “The bill will allow for an expedited application process for leased bottom and water column processes and reduce the number of restrictions on off bottom culturist. Most importantly, this bill will allow oyster growers to market their product at less than 3 inches within the very lucrative half-shell markets and level the playing field with other states along the east coast. With growers, DNR and Maryland lawmakers working together, we can once again establish Maryland as a leader in oyster production.”
     House Bill 1305 will allow the Department to create free fishing areas in tidal and nontidal waters of the State where a person may catch finfish for recreational purposes without the otherwise required licenses or authorizations.

Chestertown Tea Party Scheduled for May 26

     Chestertown, Md. -- Mariners are advised that the annual Reenactment portion of the Chestertown Tea Party Festival is scheduled to occur along the Chester River on Saturday, May 26, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

     The key component of the event includes the movements and anchorage of the Schooner SULTANA off Chestertown, Maryland. As described in 33 CFR Section 100.501, special local regulations establish a regulated area, approximately 350 yards in length and 150 yards in width, on all waters of the Chester River, within a line connecting the following positions: latitude 39°12’27” N, longitude 076°03’46” W; thence to latitude 39°12’19” N, longitude 076°03’53” W; thence to latitude 39°12’25” N, longitude 076°03’41” W; thence to latitude 39°12’16” N, longitude 076°03’48” W; thence to the point of origin at latitude 39°12’27” N, longitude 076°03’46” W.

     This area will be enforced from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on May 26. Except for persons or vessels authorized by the Coast Guard Patrol Commander, no person or vessel may enter or remain in the regulated area. The operator of any vessel in the regulated area must stop the vessel immediately when directed to do so by the Coast Guard Patrol Commander or any Official Patrol and proceed as directed by the Coast Guard Patrol Commander or any Official Patrol. Coast Guard vessels enforcing this regulated area can be contacted on marine band radio VHF-FM channel 16 or 22A.

     For any comments or questions, contact Coast Guard Sector Baltimore, Waterways Management Division, at (410) 576-2674 or Ronald.L.Houck@uscg.mil. Chart 12272.

MarineMax Gunpowder Cove Earns Clean Marina Status

     Joppa, Md. -- MarineMax, the largest boat dealer network in America, has earned the Maryland Clean Marina award for their Joppa location.

     “By working with our service department and our customers, we now have all areas of the marina involved in the Clean Marina process,” said Manager Jennifer Keller. “We’ve gotten a lot of support from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) staff, which made the process pretty simple.”

     To meet award criteria, MarineMax Gunpowder Cove purchased a fuel spill response kit, educated their customers and outside contractors on green practices and implemented a recycling program for cans, bottles and shrink wrap.

     MarineMax Gunpowder Cove is Maryland’s largest Sea Ray Boat dealer and also serves as a service center. This full-service boating facility stores hundreds of boats both on and off the water, offers a marine sewage pumpout and sells fuel. The area also features play and picnic areas for marina customers and guests.

     This is the 122nd certified Maryland Clean Marina. There are a total of 147 certified facilities in Maryland, including 25 smaller Clean Marina partners. DNR oversees the Clean Marina Initiative, a voluntary program that promotes and celebrates efforts of marinas, boatyards and yacht clubs to reduce their pollution.

     Each of the 147 certified facilities has adopted a significant portion of recommendations in the Maryland Clean Marina Guidebook and passed a rigorous site inspection. Certifications are good for three years, at which time DNR staff re-inspects the marinas. Marinas and boatyards of any size can participate.

     More information and free program materials are available by calling 410-260-8773 or visiting dnr.maryland.gov/boating/cleanmarina.

Tall Ships, Visiting Vessels Coming to the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum

     St. Michaels, Md. -- The St. Michaels harbor will transform to an image of days gone by with several tall ships and visiting vessels docking at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum (CBMM) beginning this May and continuing throughout the month of June.

      From May 5-12, the schooner Sultana will be dockside at the museum, and open for boarding to all CBMM visitors from 2:30 to 4:30 pm on Tuesday, May 8. The schooner Sultana is a replica of a Boston-built merchant vessel that served for four years as the smallest schooner ever in the British Royal Navy. Using the British Admiralty’s documentation of the original Sultana, she has been recreated to offer a glimpse of 18th-century seafaring life. Launched in 2001 at her base port of Chestertown, MD, Sultana provides educational programs for more than 5,000 students each year.

     From June 4-7, the schooner Wolf comes to the CBMM, with free dockside tours offered from 1 to 3pm each day. The Wolf is a classic 74' topsail schooner built in the early 1980s in Panama City, FL and now home ported in Key West, FL. The Wolf sails the seven seas representing Key West and the Conch Republic, and is available for charters in Florida, Bahamas, Jamaica and other ports in the Caribbean and US.

     From June 15-17, the replica tall ship HMS Bounty will be harbor side at CBMM, offering tours to CBMM and Antique & Classic Boat Festival visitors at $10 for adults, $5 for children, and free for children five and under. A replica of the tall ship known for the infamous 1789 mutiny in Tahiti, the current HMS Bounty was built in 1960 for the movie, “Mutiny on the Bounty,” and was later featured in “Treasure Island” and “Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest.” Now touring the U.S. East Coast after a European tour, the tall ship offers dockside tours, sail training and youth educational programs.

     On June 22 and 23, the Pride of Baltimore II will be dockside at CBMM, with tours available to museum visitors. An 1812-era topsail schooner privateer reproduction, Pride of Baltimore II is Maryland’s working symbol of the great natural resources and spectacular beauty of the Chesapeake Bay region. Pride of Baltimore II was commissioned in 1988 as a sailing memorial to her immediate predecessor, the original Pride of Baltimore, which was sunk by a white squall off Puerto Rico in 1986. Both ships were built in the Inner Harbor as reproductions of 1812-era topsail schooners, the type of vessels, called Baltimore Clippers, which helped America win the War of 1812 and finally secure its freedom.

     From June 22-24, the Viking ship Norseman will be at the museum offering a real-life look at a Viking ship and the type of people who sailed them more than 1,000 years ago. Norseman is a 40-foot half-scale replica of the famous Gokstad ship that represents one of the many types of sailing vessels built and designed by Vikings. The Norseman's crew will wear authentic Viking attire at a small encampment, which will be complete with iron and woodworking tools, and period music. The ship is based in Wilmington, DE at the Kalmar Nyckel Shipyard.

      For more information about other upcoming events at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, visit www.cbmm.org, or call 410-745-2916.

Aerial Wire Performance May 9 at Baltimore's Inner Harbor

     Baltimore, Md. -- Mariners are advised that Ripley Entertainment Inc. will sponsor a “high-wire” solo walk over a portion of Baltimore’s Inner Harbor on Wednesday, May 9, scheduled to occur at noon. The angle of the wire will be rigged on an incline, between the Light Street Pavilion and the top of a crane mounted on a barge located near Inner Harbor Pier 1, Baltimore. The walk is expected to last approximately 15 minutes and the performer will be accompanied and supported by sponsor-provided watercraft. For any comments or questions, contact Coast Guard Sector Baltimore, Waterways Management Division, at (410) 576-2674 or Ronald.L.Houck@uscg.mil. Chart 12281.

Coast Guard to Restrict Vessel Traffic on Spa Creek on May 12

     Annapolis, Md. -- Mariners are advised that the swim segment of the “TriRock Triathlon Series” is scheduled to occur in Spa Creek and Annapolis Harbor on Saturday, May 12,  from 6:30 a.m. to 9:15 a.m. Up to 300 swimmers will operate on a 500-meter course located between the Annapolis City Dock and the confluence of the Spa Creek with the Severn River. The start and finish will be located  at the Annapolis City Dock. A portion of the swim course will impede the federal navigation channel.

     Coast Guard special local regulations establish a regulated area for all waters of Spa Creek and Annapolis Harbor, within lines connecting the following positions: from position latitude 38°58’34” N, longitude 076°29’05” W, thence to position latitude 38°58’27” N, longitude 076°28’55” W, and from position latitude 38°58’40” N, longitude 076°28’49” W to position latitude 38°58’32” N, longitude 076°28’45” W. The regulated area will be enforced from 6 a.m. to 11 a.m. on May 12. The effect will be to restrict vessel traffic on certain waters of the Spa Creek and Annapolis Harbor.

     The Coast Guard Patrol Commander may forbid and control the movement of all vessels in the regulated area. Coast Guard vessels enforcing this regulated area can be contacted on marine band radio VHF-FM channel 16 or 22A. When hailed or signaled by an official patrol vessel, a vessel in the area shall immediately comply with the directions given. Failure to do so may result in expulsion from the area, citation for failure to comply, or both. Mariners are urged to schedule their transits on this waterway beyond the enforcement times. 

     The swimmers will be supported by sponsor-provided watercraft. For any comments or questions, contact Coast Guard Sector Baltimore, Waterways Management Division, at (410) 576-2674 or Ronald.L.Houck@uscg.mil. Charts 12282, 12283.