The Deep Creek Blog

Youth Fishing Rodeo to be Held at New Germany State Park

The annual Youth Fishing Rodeo at New Germany State Park will be held on Saturday, May 18, from 8 am to noon. All children ages 15 and under are welcome to participate, and the event is free. 

Registration will begin at 8:00 am, and the first 50 participants to register will receive a free “grab bag” stocked with a variety of fishing tackle. To encourage beginners, a limited supply of fishing equipment will be available for loan during the event. Fishing will take place from 8:00 am – 11:00 am, followed by the awards ceremony and prize drawings at 11:15 am. 

First, second, and third place prizes will be awarded for the longest fish caught in three age groups: 6 and under, 7-11 and 12-15. A variety of door prizes will also be available, courtesy of Eagle Claw Fishing Tackle, The Bassin’ Box, Wal-Mart (LaVale), and Friends of New Germany State Park. 

Additional activities will be available after the rodeo, including a Pro Cast Challenge at 11:30 am and a fish painting craft at 12:00. Those participating in the fish painting craft are encouraged to bring a white t-shirt or purchase one at the park. Food, refreshments, and gift items will also be available for purchase at the New Germany Snack Bar & Gift Shop, located inside the Lake House. 

During the Rodeo, fishing will be restricted to children 15 and under, with limited adult assistance. Boating will not be permitted. 

For more information, please call the Ranger Station at 301-895-5453 or email lmongrain@dnr.state.md.us.

Deep Creek 2014 Announces Events and Programming

Deep Creek 2014, the host event production company for the 2014 Canoe/Kayak Whitewater Slalom World Championships, announces events and programming for the May pre-World's Test event and USA Team Selection to be held May 17-19 at the Adventure Sports Center International. 

Deep Creek 2014 and the Adventure Sports Center International will host the 2013 USA Canoe/Kayak Slalom Team Trials and Deep Creek Open on May 17-19, 2013. 

Athletes from all over the US will be competing along with 3 Olympic Gold Medalists.

The USACK Senior Team Trials is open to USA athletes and will serve as the selection for the 2013 National Slalom Team.

Admission is free and there will be food, beer, and great music in addition to Olympic level whitewater action. This will be an event you won’t want to miss!

In addition to the racing, Deep Creek 2014 announces these other activities:

Media Day -- May 17, 11am-2pm
Open invitation to all regional and local media outlets to come and learn about media opportunities and the significant impact of the World Championships on our region. The World Championships will put Garrett County on the world stage as we play host to over 40 international countries, 21.5 million broadcast viewers and the largest inbound sporting event to be held in the United States in 2014.

Media Day will feature a general presentation by Deep Creek 2014’s Executive Director Todd Copley and will be followed by a VIP lunch at the Island Tent with a brief presentation by Joe Jacobi, US gold medalist and current CEO of USA Canoe/Kayak.

Media must pre-register by going to Media Day at DeepCreek2014.com. Special lodging rates are also offered through our WISP Resort partner.

Community Open House -- May 18, 11am-2pm
An opportunity for local businesses, civic organizations and Garrett County's general public to learn more about the preparations for the World's Event and see the infrastructure improvements necessary to host a World Championship. Recently Deep Creek 2014 and the Adventure Sports Center International were awarded a one million dollar State Bond to support necessary capital projects at the venue.

Includes a presentation by Executive Director of Deep Creek 2014, Todd Copley

Children’s Adventure Series and Kids Day at The Races -- May 19, 11am-2pm
A great day for local and regional school aged children to come see the Adventure Sports Center International and have a chance to meet and see Olympic athletes and paddlers. Kids will get a great overview of the sport of Slalom Canoe and Kayak and have unlimited access to the interior Island and close viewing of the action. Admission is free and includes a free hot dog and drink for the kids. 

 

 

Oakland Civil War Days Event

Oakland Civil War Days events will take place on April 25th - April 28th.   Our Town Theatre will be presenting: The Civil War: Common Threads".   There will be all day events on Saturday and Sunday including re-enactors, speakers, music, book signings and more.  There will be a dinner on April 26th at the Pleasant Valley Community Center for $25 per person and The Elk's on April 27th for $25 per person.  Call the Garrett County Historical Society for reservations at 301-334-3226 for all dinner reservations. 

Visit  www.agreatsmalltown.com for more information.

 

Maryland in the War of 1812- A Living History Event

The Mountain Maryland Gateway to the West Heritage Area in Garrett County and Garrett Lakes Arts Festival present a Star Spangled 200 sponsored event, Maryland in the War of 1812 - A Living History Event.  This project focuses on bringing the commemoration of the War of 1812 to Garrett County middle school students and also provides opportunities for western Maryland residents and visitors to participate in Maryland’s Star Spangled 200 activities.  This project is made possible by the Maryland War of 1812 Bicentennial Commission.

The first part of the project provides an interactive presentation by award-winning actress and Smithsonian Scholar, Mary Ann Jung, playing Rosalie Stier Calvert. Rosalie married George Calvert in 1799 and became mistress of his plantation, Mt. Albion. When Rosalie’s father died, he left his plantation in Bladensburg, "Riversdale Plantation", to his daughter Rosalie -- not her husband, which was the custom. Through Rosalie’s remarkable story, participants will learn what it meant to be in charge of two growing plantations in early 1800's Maryland.

The performance will also explain the importance of the War of 1812 and how this era affected the newly independent United States of America. Audience members will become the British versus the Americans to better understand this important war and re-live the dramatic Battle of Bladensburg --- and find out how close it came to Rosalie’s beloved Riversdale. The stirring creation of the Star-Spangled Banner by Francis Scott Key, who married Rosalie’s friend Polly, is included as well. Performances will be held at Garrett College for 4th, 5th and 8th grade Garrett County students on Friday, April 5, 2013.

In addition, educational resources will be purchased for middle school teachers relating to the War of 1812, including books, videos and a traveling trunk, created by the Jefferson Patterson Park & Museum, for Garrett County middle school students. The trunk focuses on life during the war for all Marylanders and contains 11 lesson plans and many hands-on objects, including flint and steel kits, period clothing, time period games, and books.

The Maryland in the War of 1812 – A Living History Event will be the grand finale for the project providing interpretation and experiential learning opportunities for the students and the general public.  This free celebration, scheduled for May 17-18, 2013 at the Garrett County Fairgrounds in McHenry, Maryland, will include on-site War of 1812 speakers and re-enactors, period music performed by musicians & singers in period garb and displays & education information, including a United States Navy display covering their beginning and their involvement with the War of 1812.  This event is free and open to the public. Event hours are 5 pm – 8 pm on Friday, May 17 and 10 am- 5 pm on Saturday, May 18th.

New Germany State Park Hosts Ultimate Egg Hunt

The Ultimate Egg Hunt is back at New Germany State Park on Saturday March 23rd from 11 am to 1pm, with more than 1,500 prize-filled eggs hidden in the park! Participants will be divided into three age groups ─ 1 to 3 years, 4 to 7 years, and 8 and older. Participants ages 8 and up will be challenged to complete the Ultimate Hunt Hike to find eggs hidden along the “Bunny Trail.”

Where: New Germany State Park Lake House, 349 Headquarters Lane, Grantsville

Cost: Free

Contact: 301-895-5453

 

Maple Syrup Demonstration in State Parks this Weekend

Visit Swallow Falls or Herrington Manor this weekend for Maple Syrup demonstration.

Swallow Falls State Park
March 16, 2013 from 8:30 am to 3:30 pm.

A local Maple Syrup producer will be on hand to answer questions and demonstrate use of an evaporator in syrup making process. Pure maple products will be offered for sale during the demonstration.

Cost: $4/car instate $5/car out of state

For More Information

Contact the Sue Steyer at 301-334-9180 or email ssteyer@dnr.state.md.us.

 
Herrington Manor State Park
Pancake Breakfast & Maple Syrup Demonstration
Sunday, March 17, 2013
8:30 am - 2:00 pm

A demonstration of the Maple syrup making process along with a Pancake breakfast will be held from 8:30 am to 2:00 pm. A demonstration using an evaporator to make maple syrup will be done along with the pancake breadfast. Pure maple products will be offered for sale during the demonstration and breakfast.

Cost: $8/Adults, $5/children under 12

For More Information

Contact the Sue Steyer at 301-334-9180 or email ssteyer@dnr.state.md.us.

Natural Egg Dyeing at the Deep Creek Lake Discovery Center

Enjoy natural egg dyeing at the Discovery Center at Deep Creek Lake State Park on Saturday March 30th.  Visit anytime between the hours of 11:00 am - 1:00 pm. 

Children will enjoy an egg dyeing session using all natural dyes of beets, onions, chlorophyll and more!   Bring no more than six (6), hardboiled eggs.  Wipe eggs off with a mild vinegar solution
so the eggs will take the dye. 

The Easter Bunny will be there too.

 

For additional information or to learn of other programs offered at the Discover Center call 301-387-7067.

** Sponsored by the Western Garrett County State Park Volunteers Inc.

(WGCSPVI)  www.discoverycenterdcl.com and on FACEBOOK Discovery Center|Deep Creek Lake             

February at the Deep Creek Lake Discovery Center

Sunday, February 3rd 

11:00 a.m. “February Reading Series” Story and Craft.  Join in and listen to a seasonal or nature story and then complete a craft! $2 per child. 40 minutes.

2:00 p.m. 2:00 p.m. Aviary Encounter Get up close and personal with our birds of prey. Learn some interesting facts and hear stories!  Check in at the Discovery as location is subject to change due to weather.

Saturday, February 9th  

11:00 a.m. Animal and a Craft Get up close and personal with one of the animals that lives in the Discovery Center and then do a craft related to the animal.

2:00 p.m.  Bird Feeder Watch and Pine Cones Join the Naturalist as we watch the bird feeder to spot our flying friends eating a snack! You will also make your our own bird feeder to take home. .40min.

Sunday, February 10th 

11:00 a.m. “February Reading Series” Story and Craft .  Join in and listen to a seasonal or nature story and then complete a craft! $2 per child. 40 minutes.

2:00 p.m. Creating an Owl Join the Naturalist as we talk about the adaptations of owls. Meet one of ours and then create your own owl.

Saturday, February 16th  

11:00 a.m. Gone Batty Join the Naturalist to learn about the history of these flying mammals as well as the problems they are facing today.

2:00 a.m. “February Reading Series” Story and Craft .  Join in and listen to a seasonal or nature story and then complete a craft! $2 per child. 40 minutes.

Sunday, February 17th  

2:00 p.m. Aviary Encounter Get up close and personal with our birds of prey. Learn some interesting facts and hear stories!  Check in at the Discovery as location is subject to change due to weather.

Saturday, February 23rd  

11:00 a.m. Critter Encounter Join us at the beginning of every hour as we feed and learn about one of the critters that live in the center. You’ll even be given a chance to touch these animals!

2:00 p.m.  Bird Feeder Watch and Pine Cones Join the Naturalist as we watch the bird feeder to spot our flying friends eating a snack! You will also make your our own bird feeder to take home. 40min.

Sunday, February 24th  

11:00 a.m. “February Reading Series” Story and Craft .  Join in and listen to a seasonal or nature story and then complete a craft! $2 per child. 40 minutes.

2:00 p.m. Creating an Owl Join the Naturalist as we talk about the adaptations of owls. Meet one of ours and then create your own owl.

New Germany State Park Happenings This Week

Friday, July 13th:

Spooky Owl Prowl, 9:00 PM

It’s Friday, the 13th… spooky!  During this fascinating program, participants are invited to venture into the forest for a guided hike by light of the moon.  With any luck, participants will hear some of the “spooky” hoots, wails, and shrieks of owls native to the park.  Participants are encouraged to wear appropriate footwear and bring a flashlight for safety when leaving the program.  Meet at the Nature Center, next to the Lake House.

Saturday, July 14th:

Moss Graffiti, 1:00 PM

Participants are invited to join the park naturalist and discover an exciting new, environmentally-friendly form of art.  Meet at the Nature Center, next to the Lake House.

Tree Quest – Any Time

This self-guided activity challenges participants to explore the park on a quest to locate and successfully identify a series of trees, using the materials provided.  The activity is designed for families to enjoy independently, at their own pace.  Activity packets can be obtained at the Nature Center, from 10 AM – 6 PM.  

Dutch Oven Cooking, 5:30 PM

This program will provide participants with all of the ingredients needed to create an outdoor feast, including unique recipes, tips, and demonstrations.  Cost is $5 per person, which will include a free hot dog, all-u-can-eat S’mores, and a variety of sample-food items.  Children 5 & under are FREE.  Participants are encouraged to bring an appetite and meet at the Nature Center.

Campfire Program:  Appalachian Blacksmith Workshop, 7:00 PM

This workshop will feature award-winning metal sculptor and blacksmith, Kenny Braitman.  This will be the first of three workshops, in which Braitman will provide hands-on demonstrations and instruction on the unique art of sculpting metal.  Additional workshops will be held on July 21st and 28th.  Meet at the Nature Center, next to the Lake House.

Sunday, July 15th:

Who Polluted the Potomac? 11:00 AM

This entertaining and interactive program will illustrate how everyone contributes to pollution, and more importantly, how everyone can be part of the solution.  Meet at the Nature Center, next to the Lake House.

Wednesday, July 18th:

Leave No Trace Hike, Games, & Crafts, 10:00 AM

Leave No Trace – Bigfoot’s been doing it for years!  This activity will feature a short hike with the park naturalist, in which participants will learn about Leave No Trace outdoor ethics.  The activity will conclude with Leave No Trace games and crafts.  Participants are encouraged to wear appropriate footwear (close-toed shoes).  Meet at the Nature Center, next to the Lake House.

First Annual Fort Father's Day Summerfest

This Father's Day weekend, June 14-17, 2012, The Fort Association; Smiley's Bar & Grill, Pine Lodge Steakhouse, Black Bear Tavern & Smiley's Fun Zone are sponsoring The First Annual "Fort Father's Day Summerfest" to benefit the Community School Support Fund for Garrett County!
 
Beginning at 11 am on Thursday, June 14th through 5pm on Sunday, June 17th,  enjoy live entertainment, poker runs and a Family Olympics with a prize package worth over $1000.
 
Entertainment includes area bands and local personalities such as: The Davisson Brothers, The Mags, Super Beast, Dustin McCray, Jackson Monsour, Lady Invidia & The Hillbilly Gypsies.
 
For more information, calendar of events or to register visit this site. 

New Germany State Park Weekend Events

Saturday, June 9th:

License-Free Fishing Day!

Saturday, June 9th, is a license-free fishing day all across Maryland!  On this day, no fishing license is required to catch and possess finfish in tidal and non-tidal waters of the State for recreational purposes.  All other fishing laws and regulations still apply.

 Katie’s 5K Race (& 1 Mile Walk/ Run), 9:00-11:30 AM

Lace up your running shoes and prepare to be inspired!  The Katie’s 5K is an annual 5km race in memory of Katie DeRosa, a local 13-year-old who was tragically struck and killed by a speeding car while training for cross-country.  Katie was an organ donor and saved the lives of 5 people.  The race takes place on trails and roadways within New Germany State Park.  Registration begins at 7:30 AM at the Lake House and the cost is $15.00 (race day entry).  Proceeds sponsor two college scholarships in Katie’s memory and other Queen City Striders activities.  For more information, visit www.qcstriders.org.      

Salamander Scurry, 3:00 PM

When was the last time you turned over a rock in search for critters?  Join the park ranger for some old-fashioned fun, and learn about some common salamanders found in the park.  Cost is $6.00 per family, which includes a free field guide.  Participants are encouraged to dress for the weather and wear adequate footwear.  Meet at the Nature Center, next to the Lake House.

Campfire Program:  Scales & Tales, 7:30 PM

Gather ‘round the campfire with Ranger Elena Bode and experience a fascinating, up-close encounter with live birds of prey.  After the program, participants can enjoy free S’mores around the campfire.  Meet at the Lake House, and bring a flashlight for your safety when leaving the program.       

Sunday, June 10th:

Tree ID Hike, 3:00 PM

Join the park naturalist on a guided one-mile hike, and learn how to identify some common trees found in the park!  Cost is $6.00 per family, which includes a free field guide.  Participants are encouraged to dress for the weather, wear adequate footwear, and bring drinking water.  Meet at the Lake House.

 

June at The Deep Creek Lake Discovery Center

Sunday, June  3,10,17,24    

11:00a.m.Kids Nature Hike.   Guided hike around the Discovery Center’s Sensory Trail in search of bird and animals, nests, and dens!  Approx. 1 hour. Free

1:30p.m. Aviary Encounter Come to the aviary to get up close and personal with our birds of prey. Learn some interesting facts and hear stories. Bring a camera because they will be perched for a great photo opportunity! Free

Monday, June 11,18,25 

Fishing with a Naturalist.  Kids 7 and up join us on the shores of the Discovery Center for fishing basics. Poles, bait, and tackle are provided.  $4/person, adults (16 +must have a license). Pre-register required as space is limited.Toddlers in Nature. This program is for kids up to 4 years old. Join the naturalist for a craft and fun in nature. 1 hour $2 per. 

Summer at Sang Run Check out Friend’s Delight and Store every Monday.  Local artisans demonstrating their art, nature programs, walking trails and shop the historic store. 10-4p.m.

Tuesday, June 5,12,19,26

8:00 a.m. Birding at Deep Creek. You’ll learn how to bird by sight and ear as we listen for distinctive songs on a stroll through the park.  Bring binoculars and meet at the Discovery Center. Experienced and Beginner birders are welcomed! Few Binoc’s to lend.

2:00p.m. Flutterbys and Flowers. (begins June 19th) Join the Naturalist for a walk around the Discovery Center grounds observing the butterflies that inhabit our native plants.  Learn the difference between native and non-native plants and their effects on our environment. Approx. 1 hour.

Wednesday, June 13,20,27      

11:00 a.m. What’s that Reptile? Come to the Discovery Center to learn about the reptiles and amphibians in the center and even have a chance to touch these amazing cold blooded creatures! Approx. 1 hour, Free

1:00 p.m. Wild Wednesday Tie Dye! Meet us at the beach to make your own tie dye shirt and create your own conservation message for your shirt!  “Give a Hoot Don’t Pollute” wait that one is taken. You get the idea! $10.00 per shirt or $5.00 for a bandana. Approx. 1 hour.

Thursday, June 7,14,21,28    
11:00 am Brant Mine Hike Take a guided hike with the naturalist to the historic Brant Mine.   You will see the remnants of a coal mine that was operated in the 1920’s.  Plus, you never know what wildlife we will see on the way. Approx. 1 ½  hour. Moderate walking, Free

1:00 pm Critter Encounter  Join a naturalist as they feed the many critters in the Discovery                   Center such as the fish, frogs, turtles, and snakes! Approx. ½ hour, free.

Friday, June 8,15,22,29
11:00 a.m. Aquatic Adventures Join the Naturalist on the docks of the Discovery Center for this exciting adventure! Check out our fish traps, aqua scopes and learn about the critters that call Deep Creek home.  Approx. 1 ½ hours, Free
10:00-11:30  Dutch Oven Demonstration – Stop by the Discovery Center to see what the rangers are cooking up in our camp Dutch ovens.

1:00 p.m. Bear Aware Take a hike with the Naturalist, to discover the life of a Black Bear. Check out our bear hide, tracking equipment and learn some interesting facts. Appropriate for all ages. Approx. 1 ½ hours. Light hiking.

Saturday, June 9,16,23,30 11:00 a.m.
Fish Prints-  Learn about the fish that live in Deep Creek Lake with the Naturalist!  Learn how fish live and look! Complete your learning by making fish prints to take home to all of your friends and family! Free

11:00-12:00 Little Guard For kids age 5-7. Meet at the beach and learn the skills of a lifeguard.  Kids will run a relay, practice throwing a lifesaving device, how to recognize a troubled swimmer and more.  NO swimming required. Cost is $7.00 and includes a T-Shirt and whistle.

7:00 p.m. Campfire Program Join us at the amphitheater for a variety of program topics, marshmallows and more!   Free         

 

New Germany State Park to Host Youth Fishing Rodeo on May 19

New Germany State Park will feature a morning of fun and fishing at its annual Youth Fishing Rodeo on Saturday, May 19, from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. The event is free and open to young people ages 15 and under.

“This is a great opportunity for kids to learn and enjoy the sport of fishing in a pressure-free environment,” said Ranger Adam Stachowiak. “Plus, we have fantastic competitive prizes and door prizes this year, so everyone will have a chance to win.”

First, second and third-place prizes will be awarded for the longest fish caught in three age groups: 6 and under, 7-11 and 12-15. There will also be a variety of door prizes courtesy of Eagle Claw Fishing Tackle, The Bassin’ Box, Allegany Garrett Sportsman’s Association, Bill’s Outdoor Center, Walmart in LaVale and the Maryland Department of Natural Resources interpretive services.   

Activities after the rodeo include a Pro Cast Challenge and a fish-painting craft. Craft participants are encouraged to bring a white t-shirt or purchase one at the park. The New Germany Snack Bar & Gift Shop, located inside the Lake House, will have food, refreshments and gift items for sale.

Registration will begin at 8 a.m. and the first 50 registrants will receive a free grab-bag stocked with a variety of fishing tackle. To encourage beginners, a limited supply of equipment will be available for loan during the event. Fishing will take place from 8 to 11 a.m., followed by the awards ceremony and prize drawings. Boating is prohibited. For more information, call the Ranger Station at 301-895-5453 or email astachowiak@dnr.state.md.us.

May at The Discovery Center

Sunday, May 6

11:00 a.m. Breakfast of Creepy Crawlies! Join the Naturalist at the Discovery Center for a morning of feeding the snakes, turtles and frogs! Learn about what they eat in the wild and what helps them survive!

1:30 p.m. Swimming with fishes. Learn about the fish that live in Deep Creek Lake with the Naturalist!  Learn how fish live and look! Complete your learning with some fish prints to take home to all of your friends and family!

Friday, May 11

8:00 a.m. Birding at Sang Run You’ll learn how to bird by ear and listen for distinctive songs as we stroll through Friends Delight.  Bring binoculars and meet at the Kayak launch. Experienced and Beginner birders are welcomed!

Saturday, May 12  

What’s that habitat? Hab-a-what? Learn what a habitat is and how humans and animals share space and resources. Guests can create their own drawings to bring home for family and friends!      

1:30 a.m. Wildlife Investigation This self guided program allows you to become a detective for the nature world.  Open your eyes and see the clues left behind by nature.  Can you tell the difference between the details and solve the puzzle?

Sunday, May 13             

11:00 a.m. Inside the Shell. Meet the Naturalist at the Discovery Center for a morning full of turtles! Learn cool facts about these reptiles while watching them eat and even getting the chance to touch these critters!

1:30p.m. Aviary Encounter Come to the aviary to get up close and personal with our birds of prey. Learn some interesting facts and hear stories. Bring a camera because they will be perched for a great photo opportunity!

Friday, May 18             
8:00 a.m. Birding at Sang Run You’ll learn how to bird by ear and listen for distinctive songs as we stroll through Friends Delight.  Bring binoculars and meet at the Kayak launch. Experienced and Beginner birders are welcomed!

Saturday, May 19                           
1:30 p.m. Spring Walk in the Woods. Join the Naturalist for a hike the Snake Root Trail, approximate ½ Mille.

Sunday, May 20                           
All day Scavenger Hunt and Wildlife Investigation.

 

Saturday, May 26                           
11:00a.m. Swimming with the Fishes.

7:00 p.m. Campfire Program Come to the amphitheater for Scales and Tales Program. Get up close and personal with our birds of prey and snakes and reptiles! At the end of the presentation there will marshmallows!

Sunday, May 27             
11:00 a.m. Breakfast of Creepy Crawlies! Join the Naturalist at the Discovery Center for a morning of feeding the snakes, turtles and frogs! Learn about what they eat in the wild and what helps them survive!

1:30 p.m. Nature Games! Come to the Discovery Center to join the Naturalist for fun and active games that relates to wild animal’s survival and how they use their surroundings!

Monday, May 28                           
1:30p.m. Aviary Encounter Come to the aviary to get up close and personal with our birds of prey. Learn some interesting facts and hear stories. Bring a camera because they will be perched for a great photo opportunity!

Last Minute Tickets for he Tamburitzans Available

Tickets are still available for The Duquesne University Tamburitzans, peforming as part of the GLAF season on Friday, April 20th at 7:30 pm in Garrett College Gymnasium.  Visit www.artsandententertainment.org to purchase.