5th Annual Marine and Maritime Career Fair

ANNAPOLIS — The 5th Annual Marine & Maritime Career Fair is scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 28, from noon to 3 p.m. at Annapolis High School.
The career fair is open to students from grades 6-12 from Maryland and the Chesapeake Bay region.
A registration link is available at eycfoundation.org.
Exhibitors and sponsors are welcome. Marine trades opportunities exist in electronics, carpentry, plumbing, engines, marina management, rigging, sailmaking, publications, boating equipment and supplies and more.
For more information, contact Pam Ray or Marty Lostrom at 2015careerfair@gmail.com or call 888-383-8777.

2014 Annapolis Yacht Club Races Scheduled

Mariners are advised that the 2014 Annapolis Yacht Club Regattas (17 sail racing events) are scheduled to occur on the Chesapeake Bay and/or Severn River, most held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., on the following dates during 2014:
April 26 (Spring One Design) and April 26-27 (AYC Overnight);
May 2-4 (NOOD Regatta), May 16-18 (J/22 North Americans) and May 17-18 (Lippincott Regatta);
June 7-8 (CRAB Cup in Annapolis Harbor), June 14-15 (Annual Regatta);
July 2 (Junior Annual Regatta) and July 26 (Summer OD Regatta);
August 30-31 (Labor Day Regatta);
October 4 (Fall Series 1), October 11-12 (Fall Series 2), October 18-19 (Fall Series 3) and October 25-26 (Fall Etchells-Stars and Halloween Howl);
November 1-2 (J/105 Ches Bay Champs) and November 15-16 (I 420 Atlantic Coast).
Most races will occur near the mouth of the Severn River and the adjacent Chesapeake Bay, south of the William P. Lane Jr. Memorial (Chesapeake Bay) Bridges and north of Curtis Point, Maryland.
For additional information, interested persons may link to individual events by contacting the AYC Regatta Manager at website www.race.annapolisyc.org or telephone number (410) 263-9147. Chart: 12270.

Dates Announced for Fall Annapolis Yacht Club Regattas

     Annapolis, Md. -- Mariners are advised that the 2012 Annapolis Yacht Club’s Regattas (15 sail racing events) are scheduled to occur on the Chesapeake Bay, most held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., on the following dates: October 20-21 and October 27-28; and November 3 and November 17-18. The races will occur near the mouth of the Severn River, between the William P. Lane Jr. Memorial (Chesapeake Bay) Bridges and Bloody Point (Kent Island), Maryland. For additional information, interested persons may link to individual events by contacting the AYC Regatta Management website at www.race.annapolisyc.org. Chart 12270.

Eastport Yacht Club Regattas Scheduled for the mid-Bay

     Annapolis, Md. -- Mariners are advised that the Eastport Yacht Club’s Regattas are scheduled to occur in the middle Chesapeake Bay, between Hackett Point and Thomas Point and in the Severn River, with seven individual sail racing events scheduled on the following dates in 2012: August 25, September 24, October 1, November 24.
     The Eastport Yacht Club’s Race Committee can be contacted on marine band radio, at (410) 263-0415 or race.committee@eastportyc.org. For any comments or questions, contact Coast Guard Sector Baltimore, Waterways Management Division, at (410) 576-2674 or Ronald.L.Houck@uscg.mil.  Chart 12270.

Sound Level Check Available at Rogues Harbor July 28

     Annapolis, Md. -- Maryland Natural Resources Police will be conducting courtesy sound level testing on July 28 from 10 am-3 pm at the Elk Neck State Park Rogues Harbor boat launch.
    The results of the courtesy sound level check are not official and will not be held against boaters. The purpose of the check is to educate boaters on sound level requirements and provide an unofficial idea of a vessel's decibel level.

Robert Gaudette Named Admiral Of The Chesapeake

     Annapolis, Md. -- Governor Martin O’Malley has designated Robert P. Gaudette Admiral of the Chesapeake for his outstanding leadership in public access and environmental initiatives and service to the State and its citizens. Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Secretary John Griffin presented Gaudette, newly retired from his position as DNR Director of Boating Services, with the award during his farewell celebration on May 31.

     “Mr. Gaudette has been a tireless advocate for boating access within our State’s waterways and the Chesapeake Bay throughout his 32 years with DNR,” said Governor O’Malley. “He exemplifies outstanding leadership and public service, and he understands the vital connection between our environment and our children’s future. That’s why he is more than deserving of the Admiral of the Chesapeake award.”

     The Admiral of the Chesapeake is awarded by Maryland’s Governor to those who have demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to the conservation and restoration of the Chesapeake Bay, its surrounding landscapes, and the life that inhabits them. This lifetime achievement award is the highest honor the Governor can bestow on an individual for environmental contributions, and is given on an as-merited basis. 

     “Bob ranks in the top one percent of public servants that I have been honored to work with over my long career,” said Griffin. “He has been a valued leader for the Department and will be missed by me and all of his fellow colleagues.” 

     Gaudette joined the DNR family in 1981, serving as Director of several programs including Waterway Improvement, Engineering and Construction, and most recently, Boating Services. For the past five years, Gaudette has done an exemplary job in overseeing the funding and technical services for boating access, dredging and navigation projects, and leading advancements in waterway planning, boating regulations, Clean Marinas, marine sewage pumpouts and several State marina facilities. 

     Before his time at DNR, Gaudette worked as Assistant County Engineer with the Talbot County Department of Public Works where he coordinated public boating access and other projects for the County.  

     He was raised in Cambridge, Maryland and received his undergraduate degree from the University of Maryland Baltimore County and his master’s from Johns Hopkins University. 

     “I have very much enjoyed my time at DNR and working alongside other knowledgeable and dedicated people who share a common goal and passion to improve and promote the Chesapeake Bay,” said Gaudette. 

     Gaudette was also recently appointed by Governor O’Malley to the State Marine Contractors Licensing Board.

Fireworks Displays on the Chesapeake and Tributaries

   Visit our home page for the 2013 schedule.


 Baltimore, Md. -- Mariners are advised that the Coast Guard Captain of the Port Baltimore has received notice of the following fireworks displays, scheduled to occur on or near navigable waters during the 2012 Independence Day holiday period:

1. Chester River, Town of Chestertown, Maryland, mariners are urged to remain at least 300 yards from the fireworks discharge site located on shore near the mouth of Radcliffe Creek on July 4, 2012 (rain date of July 5, 2012) for a display scheduled at 9:20 p.m. Chart 12272.

2. Fairlee Creek, Great Oak Landing Marina, Maryland, mariners are urged to remain at least 200 yards from the fireworks discharge site located on shore at Shell Point on July 7, 2012 (rain date of September 3, 2012) for a display scheduled at 9:30 p.m. Chart 12274.

3. Herring Bay, Herrington Harbour South Marina, Rose Haven, Maryland, mariners are urged to remain at least 150 yards from the fireworks discharge site located on the south jetty on July 3, 2012 (rain date of July 4, 2012) for a display scheduled at 9:15 p.m. Chart 12266.

4. Miles River, St. Michaels, Maryland, within a 200-yard radius of the fireworks discharge site located on a point of land at the mouth of Long Haul Creek on June 30, 2012 (rain date of July 7, 2012) for a fireworks display scheduled for 9:15 p.m. Chart 12263.

5. Patuxent River, Golden Beach/Patuxent Knolls Civic Association, Maryland, mariners are urged to remain at least 200 yards from the fireworks discharge site located on shore near Long Point on June 30, 2012 (rain date of July 1, 2012) for a display scheduled at 9:30 p.m. Chart 12284.

6. Potomac River, Town of Colonial Beach, Virginia, mariners are urged to remain at least 150 yards from the fireworks discharge site located at the end of the Municipal Pier on July 4, 2012 (rain date of July 7, 2012) for a display scheduled at 9:30 p.m. Chart 12286.

7. Rock Hall Harbor, Rock Hall, Maryland, mariners are urged to remain at least 150 yards from the fireworks discharge site located on shore on July 4, 2012 (rain date of July 5, 2012) for a display scheduled at 9 p.m. Chart 12278.

8. Sassafras River, Georgetown, Maryland, mariners are urged to remain at least 150 yards from the fireworks discharge site located upland along the river east of Dyer Creek on July 4, 2012 (no rain date) for a display scheduled at 9 p.m. Chart 12274 .

9. Severn River, Sherwood Forest, Maryland, mariners are urged to remain at least 150 yards from the fireworks discharge site located at the end of the Sherwood Forest Club’s Main Pier on July 3, 2012 (rain date of July 6, 2012) for a display scheduled at 9 p.m. Chart 12282.

10. Somers Cove, Crisfield, Maryland, mariners are urged to remain at least 100 yards from the fireworks discharge site located on shore at Jersey Island on July 4, 2012 (rain date of September 2, 2012) for a display scheduled at 9 p.m. Chart 12231.

11. St. Mary’s River, Carthagena Creek, Maryland, mariners are urged to remain at least 150 yards from the fireworks discharge barge located in Carthagena Creek on June 29 2012 (rain date of June 30, 2012) for a display scheduled at 9 p.m. Chart 12233.

12. St. Mary’s River, St. Mary’s City, Maryland, mariners are urged to remain at least 150 yards from the fireworks discharge barge site located at the end of the St. Mary’s College of Maryland pier on July 6 2012 (rain date of July 27, 2012) for a display scheduled at 9:30 p.m. Chart 12233.

13. Susquehanna River, Havre de Grace, Maryland, mariners are urged to remain at least 300 yards from the fireworks discharge site located on shore at Park Island on July 1, 2012 (no rain date) for a display scheduled at 9:30 p.m. Chart 12274.

14. Upper Potomac River, Mount Vernon Cut, mariners are urged to remain at least 100 yards from the fireworks discharge site located on shore at George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate and Gardens on July 4, 2012 (no rain date) for a display scheduled at 11 a.m. Chart 12288.

15. Upper Potomac River, Oxon Hill Maryland, mariners are urged to remain at least 150 yards from the fireworks discharge site located at the end of the National Harbor Commercial Pier on June 30, 2012 (no rain date) for a display scheduled at 11 a.m. Chart 12289.

16. Upper Potomac River, Oxon Hill Maryland, mariners are urged to remain at least 100 yards from the fireworks discharge floating platform located adjacent to the Gaylord National Harbor Resort on July 4, 2012 (no rain date) for a display scheduled at approximately 9 p.m. Chart 12289.

17. Upper Potomac River, Oxon Hill Maryland, mariners are urged to remain at least 150 yards from the fireworks discharge site located at the end of the National Harbor Commercial Pier on July 4, 2012 (no rain date) for a display scheduled at approximately 9:45 p.m. Chart 12289.

Mariners are urged to transit these areas with caution, to keep a sharp lookout for other watercraft in these areas, and are reminded to heed the directions of patrolling law enforcement and public safety officials. Absent specific guidance, mariners should remain 300 yards from any fireworks discharge site. For any comments or questions, contact Coast Guard Sector Baltimore Waterways Management Division at telephone number (410) 576-2674, (410) 576-2693 or email Ronald.L.Houck@uscg.mil.

 Mariners are advised that, as described in Title 33 Code of Federal Regulations Section 100.506, the following safety zones are established within the Captain of the Port Baltimore Zone for fireworks displays planned during the 2012 Independence Day holiday period:

18. Anacostia River, Washington, DC, within a 200-yard radius of the fireworks barge in approximate position 38°52′16″ N, 077°00′13″ W, located approximately 500 yards southeast of the shoreline near Washington Nationals Ball Park. This safety zone will be enforced on July 3, 2012, from 7:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. (no rain date) for a fireworks display scheduled for approximately 9:30 p.m. Chart 12289.

19. Baltimore Inner Harbor, Patapsco River, Maryland, within a 150-yard radius of the fireworks barge in approximate position 39°16′55″ N, 076°36′17″ W, at the entrance to Baltimore Inner Harbor, approximately 150 yards southwest of Pier 6, and Northwest Harbor (Western Section), Patapsco River, Maryland, within a 250-yard radius of the fireworks barge in approximate position 39°16′37″ N, 076°35′54″ W, located near the western end of Northwest Harbor. These safety zones will be enforced on July 4, 2012, from 8 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. (with a rain date of July 5, 2012) for a fireworks display scheduled for 9:30 p.m. Chart 12281.

20. Chesapeake Bay, Chesapeake Beach, Maryland, within a 150-yard radius of the two fireworks barges in approximate position 38°41′36″ N, 076°31′30″ W and 38°41′28″ N, 076°31′29″ W, located north and south of the jetties at Chesapeake Beach, Maryland. This safety zone will be enforced on July 3, 2012, from 8:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. (with a rain date of July 5, 2012) for a fireworks display scheduled for 9:15 p.m. Chart 12263.

21. Choptank River, Cambridge, Maryland, within a 300-yard radius of the fireworks launch site located at Great Marsh Point, Cambridge at 38°35′06″ N, 076°04′46″ W. This safety zone will be enforced on July 4, 2012 from 8 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. (with a rain date of July 5, 2012) for a fireworks display scheduled for 9 p.m. Chart 12266.

22. Middle River, Baltimore County, Maryland, within a 300-yard radius of the fireworks barge in approximate position 39°17′45″ N, 076°23′49″ W, approximately 300 yards east of Rockaway Beach, near Turkey Point. This safety zone will be enforced on June 30, 2012, from 8 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. (no rain date) for a fireworks display scheduled for 9:30 p.m. Chart 12278.

23. Northeast River North East, Maryland, within a 300-yard radius of the fireworks barge in approximate position 39°35'26'' N, 075°57'00'' W, located approximately 400 yards south of the North East Community Park. This safety zone will be enforced on July 3, 2012, from 8 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. (no rain date) for a fireworks display scheduled for 9:15 p.m. Chart 12274.

24. Patuxent River, Solomons Island, Maryland, within a 300-yard radius of the fireworks barge in an area bound by the following points: 38°19′42″ N, 076°28′02″ W; thence to 38°19′26″ N, 076°28′18″ W; thence to 38°18′48″ N, 076°27′42″ W; thence to 38°19′06″ N 076°27′25″ W, thence to the point of origin, located near Solomons Island, MD. This safety zone will be enforced on July 4, 2012, from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. (with a rain date of July 5, 2012) for a fireworks display scheduled for 9 p.m. Chart 12284.

25. Potomac River, Prince William County, Virginia, within a 200-yard radius of the fireworks barge in approximate position 38°34′08″ N, 077°15′34″ W, located near Cherry Hill, Virginia. This safety zone will be enforced on June 30, 2012, from 8 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. (with a rain date of July 1, 2012) for a fireworks display scheduled for 9:30 p.m. Chart 12289.

26. Potomac River, Charles County, Maryland, within a 300-yard radius of the fireworks barge in approximate position 38°20′36″ N, 077°14′09″ W, located near Fairview Beach, Virginia. This safety zone will be enforced on July 14, 2012, from 8:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. (with a rain date of July 21, 2012) for a fireworks display scheduled for 10 p.m. Chart 12288.

27. Severn River and Spa Creek, within an area bounded by a line drawn from 38°58′39.6″ N, 076°28′49″ W, thence to 38°58′41″ N, 076°28′14″ W, thence to 38°59′01″ N, 076°28′37″ W, thence to 38°58′57″ N, 076°28′40″ W, located near the entrance to Spa Creek in Annapolis, Maryland. This safety zone will be enforced on July 4, 2012, from 7:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. (with a rain date of July 5, 2012) for a fireworks display scheduled for 9 p.m. Chart 12283.

28. Tred Avon River, Oxford, Maryland, within a 150-yard radius of the fireworks barge in approximate position 38°41′24″ N, 076°10′37″ W, approximately 500 yards northwest of the waterfront at Oxford. This safety zone will be enforced on July 4, 2012 from 8 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. (with a rain date of July 5, 2012) for a fireworks display scheduled for 9:30 p.m. Chart 12266.

29. Upper Potomac River, Alexandria Channel, within a 300-yard radius of the fireworks barge in approximate position 38°48′37″ N, 077°02′02″ W, located near the waterfront of Alexandria, Virginia. This safety zone will be enforced on July 7, 2012, from 7:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. (with a rain date of July 8, 2012) for a fireworks display scheduled for 9:30 p.m. Chart 12289.

Fireworks barges and launch sites on land will have signs labeled FIREWORKS--DANGER--STAY AWAY to provide on scene notice that the safety zone will be enforced. Vessels may not enter, remain in, or transit through the safety zone during the enforcement period unless authorized by the Coast Guard Captain of the Port (COTP) or designated Coast Guard patrol personnel on scene. All persons and vessels shall comply with the instructions of the COTP or the designated on-scene-patrol  personnel, and upon being hailed by siren, radio, flashing light or other means, the operator of a vessel shall proceed as directed. Other Federal, State and local agencies may assist these personnel in the enforcement of the safety zone. For any comments or questions, contact Coast Guard Sector Baltimore Waterways Management Division, at (410) 576-2674, (410) 576- 2693 or  Ronald.L.Houck@uscg.mil.

Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum to host 25th annual Antique & Classic Boat Festival

     St. Michaels, Md. -- A collection of antique Silver Arrow Chris-Craft boats headlines the 25th anniversary celebration of the Antique & Classic Boat Festival, to be held at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum over this Father's Day weekend. The event takes place June 15-17 and is hosted by the Chesapeake Bay Chapter of the Antique & Classic Boat Society (ACBS).

     Made in limited production in the late '50s, the 19' Silver Arrow runabout is considered a collectable treasure today. Powered by a big V-8 Detroit engine, its unique design combines a wood hull with a sleek and sophisticated fiberglass exterior, distinguished by the Silver Arrow's '50s-style tail fins.

     The festival also features more than 100 antique and classic boats, as well as building demonstrations, maritime artists and craftsmen, craft vendors, and a nautical flea market featuring classic old boats, motors, and more. A selection of regional and grilled foods, beer and music will be provided throughout the festival.

     As an ACBS-judged boat show, the festival brings visitors the opportunity to enjoy some of the finest antique and classic boats from across the country, which will be displayed in the water and on land at CBMM. Wood and early fiberglass-classics are featured- from runabouts to yachts, including race boats, work boats, launches, hydroplanes, and utilities.

     Several boat models depicting unique, Chesapeake watercraft will also be on display, including Sea Skiffs, Owens cabin cruisers, and Whirlwind sport boats. The competition culminates in a Father's Day award ceremony, where boat owners will be recognized for their commitment to antique and classic boat preservation and restoration.

     The festival also features "The Arts at Navy Point," where national artists and craftsmen offer maritime-themed items for boat and home. Children's activities include boat-building craft projects, and a youth judging event that educates young girls and boys about the award-winning qualities of preserved and restored classic boats. Along the Fogg's Landing side of CBMM's campus, the festival's "Field of Dreams" features an array of restorable classic boats and motors, along with other items for sale in a nautical flea market.

     Festival hours are Friday, June 15, from 11am to 5pm; Saturday, June 16, from 10am to 5pm; and Father's Day, Sunday, June 17, from 10am to 2pm. The festival includes admission to the museum's twelve exhibit buildings, where authentic, Chesapeake boats and traditions are highlighted. The event is free for CBMM members and children under six, or $13 for adults; $10 for seniors; and $6 for children 6-17. For more information, call 410-745-2916 or visit www.cbmm.org.

Great Chesapeake Bay Swim on Sunday

     Stevensville, Md. -- The annual Great Chesapeake Bay Swim races will occur on Sunday, June 10. The 1-mile swim (off Kent Island) will start at 10 a.m. and finish at 11:30 a.m. The 4.4-mile swim (across the Chesapeake Bay) will start at 11 a.m. and finish at 3:15 p.m. 

     During these events, as described in Title 33 CFR Sec. 100.501, special local regulations establish a regulated area on all waters of the Chesapeake Bay, between and adjacent to the spans of the William P. Lane Jr. Memorial Bridge shore to shore 500 yards north of the north span of the bridge from the western shore at latitude 39°00'36" N, longitude 076°23'53" W and the eastern shore at latitude 38°59'14" N, longitude 076°20'00" W, and 500 yards south of the south span of the bridge from the western shore at latitude 39°00'16" N, longitude 076°24'30" W and the eastern shore at latitude 38°58'39" N, longitude 076°20'10" W. The regulated area will be enforced from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on June 10.

     Except for persons or vessels authorized by the Coast Guard Patrol Commander, and event sponsor-designated participants and official patrol vessels, no person or vessel may enter or remain in the regulated area. The Coast Guard Captain of the Port Baltimore can be contacted at telephone number (410) 576-2525 or 2693. Official patrol vessels enforcing this area can be contacted on marine radio VHF-FM channel 16.

     The Coast Guard Patrol Commander may forbid and control the movement of all vessels in the regulated area, and upon being hailed or signaled by an official patrol vessel, the operator of a vessel shall immediately comply with the instructions given. Failure to do so may result in expulsion from the area, citation for failure to comply, or both. 

     Vessel operators may contact the Patrol Commander to request permission to pass through the regulated area. If permission is granted, vessels must pass directly through the regulated area at safe speed and without loitering. The U.S. Coast Guard may be assisted in the patrol and enforcement of the 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 12263, 12270.

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.

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

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.

Keith Lockwood's Maryland Fishing Report

     Oxford, Md. -- As we approach the end of April cooler weather has sure put the seasonal calendar back in place; Garrett County even received snow over the weekend. Fishing opportunities abound this week in Maryland from walleye and trout fishing in western Maryland to striped bass and tautog fishing at the Ocean City area. The trophy striped bass season is now in full swing in the main stem of the Chesapeake south of Baltimore and fishermen had a crowded but successful opening day.

     Fishermen looking for catch and release opportunities on the Susquehanna Flats are finding good fishing for male striped bass and report a slow pick on large females. Cloudy water conditions from rain runoff on the eastern side of the flats area was a problem earlier this week and windy conditions did not help matters. Conditions are improving this week and good catch and release fishing should prevail. Spoons, crankbaits and soft plastic jigs have been favorite presentations. White perch are present in very good numbers in the lower Susquehanna and there are always plenty of channel catfish in the region.

     Fishermen were of course out in force on Saturday to work the steep edges of the shipping channel, lesser channels and prominent points. Boats trolling in the upper bay near the Bay Bridge picked at fish along Sandy Point Light south to Thomas Point and Bloody Point. Many of the boats that left the dock in the dark did well at first light and reported that by 7:00 it was pretty crowded out there. Striped bass swimming near the surface do not like engine noise so boat traffic will definitely have an adverse effect on the bite. Fishermen in the middle bay region focused on the steep edges on the western side of the shipping channel but the False Channel and the Gas Buoy area also produced good fishing on the eastern side. The fleet fishing in the southern waters of the bay did well near the mouth of the Potomac, Buoy 72A, Hooper's Island Light, Cove Point and out in front of the power plant. Not every boat caught their limit and even charter captains reported they had to work for their fish. Also worth noting is the fact that not every boat was out trolling; some fishermen had success chumming and others light tackle jigging. Traditionally the fishing will improve from this coming weekend through the first week or two of May. There are still a lot of striped bass in the spawning rivers so there will good fishing as they leave and travel out into the bay.

     More than a few fishermen reported not seeing much difference in white or chartreuse in regard to catching fish and most of the fish caught have been in the 32" to 37" size range. There were some whoppers caught though and we received a call from an award center on the lower Potomac that they were running out of Fishing Challenge entry tickets which are for striped bass over 40" in size.

     Shore based fishermen were not left out of the fun and many found exciting fishing from favorite points, docks and piers along the bay's shoreline. Fishermen were out at traditional locations such as Sandy Point State Park, Matapeake Pier, Point Lookout Pier and prominent points. Reports from Deal Island in Somerset County told of fishermen doing very well on the bayside shore there. Bloodworms, cut bait and soft crab were popular baits but more than a few fishermen reported hungry white perch and blue crabs being pesky on those expensive bloodworm baits. A few croakers have been caught recently and pound net fishermen have been finding them in their nets. The popular theory is that the vanguard is here but holding in deep water because of cool water temperatures in the shallows. Some speckled trout have also been showing up in the lower bay.

Freshwater

     Freshwater fishermen will find plenty of good opportunities this week in the western region for a wide variety of fish. The walleye bite is on in Deep Creek Lake and fishermen are finding something as simple as a minnow and a slip bobber are hard to beat for putting tasty walleye in the fish box. Smallmouth bass can be found off rocky points and largemouth bass are beginning to stage at the entrance of coves. The weekend's snow has done much to bring water flows in the region's creeks and streams back to a level for good trout fishing. John Mullican sent us this report from the upper Potomac. The upper Potomac River remains below normal for this time of year. Last weekend's cold front and rain have increased flows somewhat and levels are predicted to remain good for fishing. Like our crazy spring weather, fishing has been hot and cold - catch the river during a warming trend and the smallmouth have been cooperative. A variety of lures have been productive but I have done best with suspending jerkbaits and 1/8 oz tubes.

     Largemouth bass in many of the waters in the central, southern and eastern regions of the state are beginning to sit on nests now in the shallows or staging near the spawning areas. Fishermen are reporting good success with chatterbaits over or near grass or spatterdock and spinnerbaits worked slowly near the grass or spatterdock edges. Soft plastics and crankbaits have been a good choice near sunken wood and rocks or near docks.

At the Ocean

     Ocean City area fishermen are starting to see the fishing action there pick up as water temperatures at the beaches hovers around 54-degrees. Surf fishermen are catching large striped bass on cut menhaden baits and black drum on crab, Fishbites and squid. Skates and dogfish are chewing up baits and a few bluefish and blowfish are being caught now and then. At the inlet fishermen have been catching a few striped bass at night on bucktails and swim shads and bluefish on Got-Cha plugs. Tautog are entertaining fishermen in and around the Inlet/Route 50 Bridge area and are being caught on frozen sand fleas and pieces of green crab. Flounder fishing has been improving when the water clarity is good and large Gulp baits with a strip of squid have been catching the largest flounder. Minnows and squid have been working well for fishermen drifting around the Thorofare area down to the bridge going out to Assateague. Offshore tautog fishing remains good and boat captains have been reporting limits of large tautog are common around the rails.

Chesapeake Bay Grady White Club Announces Upcoming Events

     Annapolis, Md. -- Members of the Chesapeake Bay Grady White Club have scheduled a meeting April 24 at the West End Grille in Annapolis. The meeting begins at 7 p.m. and will offer a presentation about signaling with flares. The club will hold their "Take Cruising Members Fishing" event on May 12. On May 22, a picnic is scheduled at a member's community beach. May ends with a Memorial Day weekend cruise and rendezvous in Solomons. For more information, email to cbgradyclub@yahoo.com.

Keith Lockwood's Maryland Fishing Report

     Oxford, Md. -- More than a few fishermen will have a hard time sleeping soundly Friday night as they periodically peek at their alarm clocks waiting to get up and head off with family and friends for the opening day of the trophy striped bass season. Whether it is opening day of a favorite hunting season or fishing season; few things stir the souls of outdoorsmen more than the traditions of opening day.

     Fishermen looking for catch and release action with large pre-spawn striped bass were finally rewarded for their patience last week and the action has hit high gear this week. Casting spoons such as the Tony Accetta's and soft plastic jigs has been two of the best lures to use this week. Wind can be an issue on some days and fishermen are also reporting an "on and off" situation on some days in regards to action and they are also reporting sighting some spawning activity. 

     The run of hickory shad in the lower Susquehanna River continues this week and fishermen report the run at Deer Creek is peaking and fishing in the lower river is being affected by water releases from the Conowingo Dam. "Plenty of water released- good fishing, no water released- not so good for fishing". Fishing for a mix of channel catfish and flathead catfish near the dam remains very good this week and white perch are also entertaining fishermen. 

     This coming Saturday is of course a big day for striped bass fishermen out to mix it up with trophy sized fish. Captains will be doing their best to jockey into trolling position along the shipping channel edges and couple that with planner boards that seem to be venturing farther and farther on port and starboard each year; it might be difficult to maneuver out there. There is a substantial spawn going on in the Choptank and Nanticoke Rivers and even up on the Elk River this week; spawning will continue to occur into early May. Post-spawn striped bass will be heading south out of the tidal rivers this week so Choptank fish will most likely follow the False Channel out into the shipping channel and Nanticoke River fish are going to slip out through Hooper's Island or Kedges Straits or follow the channel down Tangier Sound. Most fishermen know that the steep sides of the shipping channel on the west side tend to be a super highway for large migrating striped bass due to strong currents there. Steep channel drop-offs such as Bloody Point, the Gas Buoy, Breezy Point, Cove Point and Hooper's Island Light also tend to gain the attention of large striped bass moving north or south in the bay. 

     If you are lucky enough to catch a striped bass larger that 40" don't forget to visit an award center near where you make port to get an award certificate and to be entered in the Maryland Fishing Challenge. On September 8, 2012 someone is going to be drawn to win the grand prize of a boat, motor and trailer and others for thousands of dollars worth of prizes. All fishermen should check out the freshwater and saltwater divisions and be familiar with minimum sizes so when you catch that whopper (and you will) you can enter your fish.

     Perhaps some of the best fishing opportunities will be close to the surface where water temperatures are around 61-degrees this week; so if you don't have planner boards let those flat lines out way back there. Striped bass do not like engine noise and will shy away from boats on the move. Every year there has to be a new hot lure or color and it seems John Deere green is the new color in town for sassy shads and parachutes this year.

     Shore based anglers should not feel left out; there are plenty of good fishing opportunities from fishing piers such as Matapeake and prominent points such as Sandy Point State Park. Fresh cut menhaden and bloodworms will be baits of choice; although white perch can chew up a big gob of bloodworms fairly quickly. Fishermen hopefully understand that the tidal rivers are still off limits to targeting striped bass.

     White perch have moved into the lower sections of the tidal rivers and are offering good fishing this week. Channel catfish are also plentiful and can be caught most anywhere. Reports of croakers showing up in the lower Potomac continue to circulate but so far only a few have been reported; this should change very shortly and Point Lookout and the mouth of the Wicomico River are traditionally the first places to catch them. 

      There are a lot of wonderful freshwater fishing opportunities out there this week in all regions of the state. The lakes, ponds and tidal waters of the state are offering all kinds of fishing fun. Starting out in the western region there are walleye and smallmouth bass in the upper Potomac River and Deep Creek Lake, excellent trout fishing in all of the trout management waters and largemouth bass, crappie and bluegills in most bodies of water. 

      Fishermen in the other regions of the state are enjoying the bounty of generous trout stockings in the put and take trout management areas. Hatchery staff continue to have a few tricks up their sleeves with the continued stocking of large trout that can exceed 8lbs in size in a trout stream near you. 

     Largemouth bass are a favorite with freshwater fishermen and for good reason since they fight so well, entertain us with explosive strikes and are distributed widely in waters all over the state. Largemouth bass are in a pre-spawn mode this week and are aggressively feeding. Fishing grass beds either with topwater lures over the grass or other presentations such as spinnerbaits around the edges continues to be very productive. Soft plastic jigs and crankbaits near transition zones such as channel edges and sunken wood and docks are another good bet. 

     Water temperatures in the Ocean City area continue to rise and surf temperatures are now in the low 50's. Surf fishermen are picking away at large striped bass and medium sized bluefish. Fresh cut menhaden baits have been the bait of choice with fishermen and also with skates and dogfish. Flounder season opened and area fishermen were able to get into some action right off the bat from the Thorofare south to the airport. A couple of real nice doormat sized flounder were checked in at local shops. A few striped bass are also being caught in and around the inlet and back bay areas. 

     Tautog fishing continues to be good inside the inlet from bulkheads, the Route 50 Bridge and for those fishermen with access to a boat; the south jetty remains the best place to catch some nice tog. Offshore the Ocean City fleet has been finding good fishing for tautog on the wrecks with limits catches being common.

Maryland Fishing Report by DNR Biologist Keith Lockwood

     Oxford, Md. -- It truly is a wonderful time of the year for fishermen to head down to one's favorite fishing hole and whether your bank fishing or in a boat to enjoy spring at it's best. Many species of freshwater fish are eager to jump on your hook and there are so many choices it can be hard to choose what type of fishing to pursue. Fishermen on the tidal Potomac are sending in a lot of pictures and entries on the angler's log site of snakeheads they've caught. The snakehead contest has turned out to be a lot of fun as anglers share their experiences of catching one of these frightful looking beasts and then finding out how excellent they are to eat. One of our lucky entered anglers is going to win a $200 gift certificate to Bass Pro Shops in a random drawing at the end of the contest. Contest Details

     Recently an Internet news story got the whole deal wrong and reported that there was a $200 bounty for each fish. As one can imagine there were calls to fisheries by fishermen from as far away as Texas, ready to quit their jobs and come to Maryland to fish snakeheads for a living.

     Fishermen at the Susquehanna Flats area are finding the waters stirred up by persistent winds lately but those winds are predicted to subside by the end of the week. Mike Benjamin reports that the best fishing is on the eastern side of the flats area and of course this has been the windward side lately so fishing has been rough. Water temperatures on the flats are holding right around 50-degrees and less than that in the river. Fishermen are catching mostly school-sized male striped bass on swimming plugs and to a lesser degree on soft plastic jigs and spoons. Power generation at the dam has mostly been in the afternoon. White perch are becoming more prevalent in the upper bay and are a welcomed bonus to fishermen looking to take some fish home; channel catfish are also very plentiful.

     Fishermen looking for hickory shad at Deer Creek are finding a slow pick at the mouth of the creek and in the river; catching and releasing mostly males. The larger female hickory shad are in the river and the fishing there is expected to gain momentum this week as warmer weather moves in.

     Water temperatures in the middle bay region are around 54-degrees in most areas and large pre-spawn striped bass are making their way towards the upper bay spawning areas. A few fishermen have been practicing some catch and release along the shipping channel edges and out in front of the Calvert Cliffs Power Plant Discharge. One of the reactors is reported to be down for maintenance so there is not much of a warm water plume to attract striped bass. Shoreline fishermen along the bay have also been trying their luck with circle hooks and bloodworms or cut bait at prominent point and fishing piers.

     White perch are moving into the traditional locations at the lower sections of the bay's tidal rivers and are providing some fun action for fishermen fishing with bottom rigs and small jigs. Channel catfish continue to be plentiful in most tidal rivers and fishermen hoping to catch the first croakers at the Bushwood area on the Wicomico River are not finding any croakers yet but plenty of medium-sized blue catfish. Fishermen have been standing vigil at Point Lookout and the Wicomico waiting for the first croakers of the season to arrive.

     Freshwater fishermen have a lot of good choices this week in regard to what type of fishing they would like to do. Smallmouth bass are beginning to move into transition areas nearing spawning coves at Deep Creek Lake and fishermen are finding plenty of action by working crankbaits and jigs along drop-offs and secondary points. The lake was stocked with plenty of trout; which has made for good trout fishing and walleye, largemouth bass and large yellow perch are active. Fishing in the upper Potomac for smallmouth bass, walleye and muskie continues to be very good this week. Trout fishing in the many trout management waters in the western region could hardly be better; it is just a wonderful time of the year to be out fishing in the region.

     Fishermen in the central/southern regions to the eastern shore are finding excellent fishing for largemouth bass in tidal rivers, small farm ponds and larger lakes. The largemouth bass are in a pre-spawn feeding mode and are presenting good fishing in a wide variety of situations. Chatterbaits and other topwater lures over grass, spinnerbaits and crankbaits near grass or spatterdock edges and soft plastics and grubs near sunken wood and docks are all catching fish. The crappie bite is on in lakes such as Deep Creek Lake, Piney Run, Liberty, Loch Raven, small ponds and tidal rivers. It has been a very good trout season so far for put and take trout fishermen.

     Fishermen at the Ocean City area are seeing surf conditions improve this week as the strong winds of last week taper off. Surf fishermen are picking at striped bass, lot's of dogfish and skates and a few bluefish and black drum. Our neighbors to the south tell us a swarm of northern puffers, blow toads or blowfish are headed our way; they can be real bait stealers but a smaller long shanked hook and a piece of squid will never fail to put the some fine eating in your cooler.

     In and around the Ocean City Inlet fishermen are finding good fishing for tautog and fishermen are reminded that the new minimum size is now 16". Traditional haunts such as the South Jetty, the Route 50 Bridge, and the bulkheads near the inlet are where fishermen are catching them on frozen sand fleas and pieces of green crab. Offshore the head boats headed out to the wreck sites are catching big tautog and most fishermen are catching their limits.

Coast Guard Announced Proposed Rule for Chesapeake Bay Workboat Race

     Poquoson, Va. -- The Coast Guard proposes to establish a special local regulation during the Chesapeake Bay Workboat Race, a series of boat races to be held on the waters of Back River, Poquoson, Virginia on June 24. This event will consist of approximately 75 powerboats conducting high-speed competitive races on the waters of the Back River. This regulation is necessary to provide for the safety of life on navigable waters during the event. This action is intended to restrict vessel traffic in portions of the Back River, Messick Point, Poquoson, Virginia during the event.

     Find our more about the proposed rule here.

Schulstads New Dealers for Chesapeake Ranger Tugs

     Grasonville, Md. -- Fluid Motion has announced a transition in the representation of its Ranger Tugs dealership in the Chesapeake region, which should provide benefits to the area’s trailerable yacht enthusiasts.
     Mark and Tony Schulstad, owners of Mass Enterprises and Cutwater Marine Sales have acquired Chesapeake Ranger Tugs, formerly owned by Chuck Wistar. Cutwater Marine Sales is part of a yacht dealership based in Grasonville, Maryland, and Mark Schulstad will retain the Chesapeake Ranger Tugs office in Annapolis, Maryland. Both locations will give customers access to Ranger Tug and Cutwater Yacht models.
     In addition to keeping the Annapolis office operational, Chuck Wistar will remain part of the organization in a sales, marketing and strategic planning role. His years as a Ranger Tug dealer in the Chesapeake region have resulted in a rapid expansion of owners in the Bay area and he will continue to serve Ranger Tug owners and prospects as well as Cutwater customers.
     The existing Cutwater Marine Sales team includes two sales associates as well as a service team headed by Tony Schulstad and is responsible for servicing, warranty work, electronics installations and maintenance and outfitting. The management of both companies under Mass Enterprises, LLC provides owners access to all the services out of the Grasonville location.
     As a joint business, Cutwater Marine Sales and Chesapeake Ranger Tugs will be responsible for sales and service for owners in the entire Chesapeake Bay region including the Baltimore/Washington, DC Metro area, Annapolis and the Delmarva peninsula.
     Mark Schulstad said: “This is a perfect combination for us because we have tremendous support from Fluid Motion who builds both brands and we will offer that same seamless line of support to prospects and owners. There is a growing demand in the market for dependable, diesel, trailerable cruisers and we can now cater to a larger audience with Ranger Tugs as part of our repertoire.”
     Both brands will be on display at the Bay Bridge Boat Show, April 19-22, under ownership of Mark Schulstad. There will be a Cutwater 26 and 28 and Ranger Tug 21, 25 and 27 on display.
     For more information on Chesapeake Ranger Tugs, visit chesranger.com and for more information on Cutwater Marine Sales visit pocket-yacht.com.

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.
___________________________________________

NOAA’s mission is to understand and predict changes in the Earth's environment, from the depths of the ocean to the surface of the sun, and to conserve and manage our coastal and marine resources. Join us on Facebook, Twitter and our other social media channels.

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.