The Deep Creek Blog

Savage River Watershed Association Welcomes New Executive Director

 The new Executive Director of the Savage River Watershed Association (SRWA), Kathy Bisko, will be introduced at the July 19 bi-monthly SRWA meeting to be held at 7 PM in the classroom of the Appalachian Laboratory in Frostburg, MD. The public is welcome to attend.

Over the past 15 plus years Bisko has worked with a diverse group of communities, organizations, and businesses to help implement local programs and projects. These range from a green building initiative in rural Montana to the construction of a residential subdivision on a reclaimed brownfield site in suburban Philadelphia. Most recently she has been working as program director for a non-profit organization in Somerset County, Pennsylvania to implement community improvement projects based on locally priorities and long-terms goals.

In her new position as Executive Director of SRWA, Kathy looks forward to dedicating her skills and experience to help preserve and enhance this extraordinary natural area. According to Bisko, “Although there are sure to be many challenges along the way, the organization has an impressive record of accomplishments to build on—and I am excited about the potential to do even more good work on behalf of SRWA in the future”.

The SRWA is a group of local landowners and other citizens dedicated to preserving and enhancing the rural nature and natural resources of the Savage River watershed. Members assist interested landowners and public land managers with environmental stewardship efforts and educational outreach. Anyone who is concerned about the Savage River watershed is invited to join. For more information, persons may contact SRWA through email at SRWAdirector@gmail.com or by telephone at 301-689-7156. The SRWA is a non profit charitable organization. Donations may be sent to: Savage River Watershed Association, PO Box 355, Frostburg, MD 21532. For directions or further information, contact us at 301-689-7156.

 

 

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.

Volunteers Host 13th Annual Art in the Park at Deep Creek Lake State Park

Forty-five plus artists including several new to the festival, display and sell their work at the 13th Annual Art in the Park in one of Western Maryland’s most magnificent settings – Deep Creek Lake State Park, July 14-15th.

Arrive by boat, car or foot – enter through the gate at Deep Creek Lake State Park (service charge applies). The park is located on the east side of the lake – where recreational choices abound.

“Art in the Park is an event for the entire family to enjoy,” said Caroline Blizzard, volunteer coordinator of the Western Garrett County State Park Volunteers, Inc. (WGCSPVI) “Beautiful art work, hands-on activities, delicious food will delight children and parents alike. We are proud to offer such programs that can bring family, fun and education together.”

Co- sponsored by the Western Garrett County State Park Volunteers and the Garrett County Arts Council, Art in the Park provides a great fundraising opportunity for both organizations while presenting a quality festival. All artwork on display is available for purchase. The variety of artistic and handmade pieces at the event include: jewelry, photography, wood turned items, native wildflowers, pottery, fused glass, original artwork, wood painted furniture, handmade wooden furniture, tatting, homemade chocolates, hand-woven baskets, wool rugs, handmade soaps, children’s books w/ the author and much more.

 
Art in the Park will occur on Saturday, July 14th from 10 – 5 and on Sunday, July 15th from 10 – 4, rain or shine. Admission is the usual charge into Deep Creek Lake State Park, $3.00 per person for MD residents and $5.00 per person for out-of-State vehicles. Docking is available for those wishing to come by water. Plan to come for the day and enjoy Art in the Park, along w/the beach area and all that the park has to offer. For more information about this event and other programs offered at the Discovery Center, please call 301.387.7067 or visit www.dnr.maryland.gov/publiclands/western/discovery.html

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         

 

DNR Kicks Off 9th Annual Natural Resource Photo Contest

 Entry deadline August 31, 2012

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is now accepting entries for its annual Maryland Natural Resource Photo Contest.

Photos entered into the 2012 contest will be judged in six categories: birds, wildlife, insects, scenic, wild plants and Maryland State Parks or people enjoying them. Winning entries will be featured in the winter issue of The Maryland Natural Resource magazine as well as the 2013 DNR calendar.

The best overall photo will win the grand prize of $500, a 2013 Maryland State Park Passport, a lifetime subscription to the magazine and five copies of the 2013 DNR calendar, which will feature the winning photo on the cover.

First place winners in each category will receive a Maryland State Park Passport, a two-year magazine subscription and two copies of the 2013 DNR calendar. Second place winners will receive a one-year subscription to the magazine and a calendar.

Deep Creek Lake State Park Seeks Volunteers for Trail Clean Up on June 2

Deep Creek Lake State Park Rangers and Garrett Trails’ sustainable crew invite participants to join them as they clean and enhance area trails on June 2 in celebration of the American Hiking Society’s National Trails Day.

“The 2012 National Trail Day theme is America’s Largest TRAILgating Party,” said Ranger David Best. “Garrett Trails and Deep Creek State Park are moving the party off the pavement to where the scenery is greener and the air is fresher.”

Participants will enjoy Deep Creek Lake State Park and share in the natural beauty of Garrett County as they join forces with Rangers of the Maryland Park Service, and Garrett Trails sustainable trail crew and interpretive staff members. Volunteers are asked to bring gloves, tools, energy and enthusiasm for pruning branches, moving rocks, raking, grading and sprucing-up Meadow Mountain and Brant Mine Trails for the summer season.

“This is a day to come together outdoors to give back to the trails in our region,” said Theresa MacLennan, Garrett Trails Executive Director. “Discover, enjoy and care for the public lands trail system in Deep Creek Lake State Park.”

Volunteers will meet at 9 a.m. at Deep Creek State Park’s upper overflow parking lot, off of State Park Road. Staff recommends that participants bring water, insect repellant, sunscreen, weather-appropriate clothing and a snack. The event should last to about 12 p.m. More information is available by contacting Best at 301-387-5563 or MacLennan at 360-509-3492.

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.

Wildfire Risk Remains High

Continuing dry conditions across the State have led to an increase in the number of wildfire occurrences and a higher risk of fire danger. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) urges citizens to use caution when participating in any outdoor activity that could spark a wildfire and recommends that all open-air burning be postponed at this time.

“Currently, the combination of warm temperatures, low humidity, high winds and dry forests have caused many wildfires to quickly burn out of control,” said DNR Fire Supervisor Monte Mitchell. “Elevated fire conditions in Maryland have been in effect for more than a week and are expected to continue through the weekend.”

Outdoor burning remains the leading cause of wildfires in Maryland, accounting for more than 30 percent of incidents. Other causes include arson, children playing with fire and equipment use. Lightning is the only natural source of fire ignition, but accounts for less than 2 percent of wildfire starts in Maryland.

The Department currently recommends that all outdoor burning be postponed until after a significant rainfall of at least one inch. Even then, it should only occur on low fire danger days in accordance with DNR’s Open Air Burning Regulations for all activities in or near woodlands, located at dnr.state.md.us/forests/fire/firenotes.asp.

Homeowners also have a responsibility to ensure they are prepared for a wildfire. Creating an area of clear and open space at least 30 feet surrounding the home and outbuildings serves as a safety zone around the structures. Within this space, plants should be controlled and the area should be free of dead debris, leaves and flammable vegetation to prevent a wildfire from spreading from the forest to the structure. Maintaining a green space landscaped with fire resistant vegetation improves the safety zone. All households should also prepare a disaster plan.

More information on wildland fire management is available at dnr.state.md.us/forests/wfm.asp

Native Plant Sale

The Savage River Watershed Association (SRWA) will sponsor two native plant sales this spring to help gardeners create eco-friendly landscapes around their homes, schools and businesses. A variety of plants native to Allegany and Garrett Counties will be available for purchase including: grasses, ferns, wildflowers, shrubs and trees. All proceeds will benefit SRWA.
 
April 28th
New Germany State Park from 10 am to 1 pm.
SRWA volunteers will be available to answer your questions about native
plants, conservation landscaping and backyard wildlife habitat practices.
 
May 19th
Elk Ridge Native Plant Preserve from 10 am to 2 pm.
Starting promptly at 11 am and 1 pm, visitors will be able to take a free
guided tour of the wildlife habitat garden to see a variety of conservation
landscaping and wildlife habitat practices that can be used to enhance
biodiversity.

The Savage River Watershed Association invites everyone to “go native” and experience the joys of conservation landscaping: a garden filled with bees, birds, butterflies and beautiful plants. For more information about either of these events contact Liz McDowell, SRWA native plant sale coordinator, at 301-895-3686 or lmcdnativeplants@hughes.net For general information about SRWA contact SRWAdirector@gmail.com or 301-689-7156. The SRWA is a non profit charitable organization. Donations may be sent to: Savage River Watershed Association, PO Box 355, Frostburg, MD 21532

Focus on Pawpaws at Next Maryland Native Plant Meeting

The Western Mountains Chapter of the Maryland Native Plant Society will hold its regular meeting at the Appalachian Laboratory in Frostburg on Tuesday April 17th at 7:00 pm. The guest speaker will be R. Neal Peterson, plant breeder. His presentation titled “A Native American Species Becomes a New Fruit Crop” will begin immediately following a brief chapter meeting. The public is welcome to attend.

The pawpaw, Asimina triloba, is North America’s largest edible native fruit – not to be confused with the papaya, also known as pawpaw in the tropics. Native in 26 States across most of Eastern North America, the pawpaw is largely forgotten today, but in centuries past it was a common part of the seasonal diet for settlers and native people. This talk recounts the pawpaw’s history, biology, early efforts at domestication, and recent domestication conducted by Peterson. These newest breeding efforts are bringing a distinctively American fruit into the arena of horticulture, not only in America but also in other humid temperate regions of the world.

Neal was born and raised in southern WV. As a teenager he spent many happy days tramping the woods for miles behind his town, and this is where he became a lover of the Appalachian flora and fauna, a self taught naturalist. He fell in love with the pawpaw while in graduate school at WVU where he was studying plant genetics. Over the years they became his life’s mission to domesticate them and bring them the popularity they deserve. After doctoral study at Michigan State University in agricultural economics, he became an economist for the USDA from1980 to 1998. During those years he pursued his calling of breeding better pawpaws. After 30 years of work, he selected some great varieties, which he has released to the public. Although he is no longer president of the PawPaw Foundation, he continues to promote the pawpaw to farmers and scientists. However, he is happiest communing with plants of all sorts (not just pawpaws) in gardens, woods, and fields.

Directions: From I-68 take exit 33 (Braddock Rd & Midlothian Rd). Follow Braddock Rd ~ .2 miles to the entrance to the Appalachian Lab on the left side of the road (301 Braddock Road).  There is plenty of parking in front of the building. 


The Maryland Native Plant Society uses education, research, and community service to increase awareness and appreciation of native plants and their habitats leading to their conservation and restoration. Membership is open to all who are interested in Maryland's native plants and their habitats. Preserving Maryland's natural heritage, increasing knowledge about native plants, and helping to further the Society's mission are our goals. MNPS sponsors monthly meetings, workshops, field trips, and an annual fall conference. For more information, visit www.mdflora.org

The Western Mountains Chapter has formed to expand the efforts of MNPS on the Allegheny Plateau and Ridge & Valley physiographic provinces of the central-Appalachians. Residents of western Maryland, nearby Pennsylvania and West Virginia, and anyone else interested in learning more about and conserving the native plants of this region are invited to join. For more information contact Liz McDowell, Chapter Coordinator, at 301-895-3686 or lmcdnativeplants@hughes.net

Volunteers Needed to Plant Red Spruce in Savage River Watershed

The Savage River Watershed Association (SRWA) is looking for adult volunteers to help plant red spruce trees this spring on Sunday April 15th from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm and on Monday April 16th from 9:00 am to noon. Red spruce is being planted along high quality streams in the Savage River State Forest in an attempt to maintain conifer cover.

By shading streams evergreen trees such as hemlock, pine and spruce help keep water temperatures low, a critical factor for native brook trout survival. Unfortunately native hemlocks, Tsuga canadensis, are being killed by an exotic invasive insect called the Hemlock woolly adelgid. These native red spruce seedlings will ultimately fill in gaps where hemlock trees are lost.

This is the fourth year that SRWA has planted red spruce in the Savage River State Forest for a total of 4,000 trees to date. SRWA used money raised from native plant sales to purchase the 500 trees being planted this spring. Wade Dorsey, Savage River State Forest manager, is assisting with tools and logistics. Frostburg State University students from Dr. Sunshine Brosi’s Plant Taxonomy class will be assisting with additional plantings. Lowe’s Home Improvement of LaVale donated buckets for the planting project.

To volunteer, please contact Ron Boyer, SRWA red spruce planting coordinator, at 301-895-3686 or rbiodiversity@hughes.net  For general information about SRWA contact SRWAdirector@gmail.com, visit www.SavageRiverWatershed.org or call 301-689-7156. SRWA is a non profit charitable organization. Donations may be sent to: Savage River Watershed Association, PO Box 355, Frostburg, MD 21532.

"Tsuga" unofficial mascot of the SRWA red spruce planting project, performs a quality control check on a recently planted red spruce.

3D Archery Range Opens March 31

The Potomac State Forest will open their 3D archery range for the season at the end of the month. The set-up allows participants to shoot at variety of life-sized, artificial animals marked with scoring rings.

The area offers 30 targets that range in size from a large bear to a small beaver, set at varying distances. Participants can even take a shot at non native animals, like an alligator or cheetah. There is also a mock tree stand that allows archers to practice safely and easily from an elevated position without the hassle of climbing a tree. Archers can shoot from different distance on every target, based upon their skill level. The area is a good place for hunters to practice their skills.

The range will be open from March 31 to September 30, 2012, daily from sunrise to sunset, on a self-registration system. The Department of Natural Resources originally opened the archery range in 1997. It is located in the wooded area behind the Potomac-Garrett Headquarters at 1431 Potomac Camp Road. The range is $7 for adults, $5 for children ages 12-16, and free for ages 11 and under. Archers must provide their own equipment.

For more information, call the Potomac-Garrett State Forest office at 301-334-2038 or visit, dnr.maryland.gov/publiclands/western/potomacforest.asp.

New Germany State Park Open for Camping

New Germany State Park is celebrating the beautiful spring weather by opening the campground three weeks early.  New Germany now has fifty campsites available for tent or RV camping, including nine pet-friendly campsites in the Hemlock Loop.  Clean restrooms with hot showers are provided.  Reservations are recommended, but walk-in campers are welcome.  For reservations, call 1-888-432-CAMP, or visit http://reservations.dnr.state.md.us/. 

Fishes of Western Maryland Featured Topic at AHC March Meeting

The Allegheny Highlands Conservancy (AHC) will hold a meeting on Wednesday, March 28th at  New Germany State Park.  The meeting will begin promptly at 7:00 pm with a presentation by Dr. Rich Raesly, Frostburg State University (FSU), on the “Fishes of Western Maryland”. The public is welcome to attend this free educational program.

Dr. Raesly will present an overview of the diversity of fishes in Maryland with a focus on Garrett and Allegany counties. Habitats of fishes will be described and basic life history information of common species will be discussed. The talk will conclude with an overview of the current conservation status of fishes. Rich Raesly is Chair of the Biology Department at FSU where he has taught courses in ecology, fish biology, and fisheries management since 1989.

Directions: From I-68 take exit 22 and follow signs for New Germany State Park.  Turn left into the park onto McAndrews Hill Road.  The meeting will be held in the Lake House. Parking is available in Lots # 4 or 5. There are also handicap accessible parking spaces at the Lake House. Bring a flashlight since parking lots will be dark by the end of the program.

Photo above shows Dr. Rich Raesly holding a quillback