M ay 2019 Volume 29 Number 3 New state plans reveal tough path to 2025 cleanup goals ≈ PA plan admits it falls short of nia, which submitted a draft plan to the programs to implement them. the Bay’s most important habitats for goal; NY hints it may not follow U.S. Environmental Protection Agency The agency has the ability to take juvenile crabs, fish and waterfowl. When that falls far short of its cleanup goal. New action against states that fall behind on the algae die, they draw oxygen from the theirs; ag and stormwater runoff York submitted a plan, but suggested it their goals, and pressure is mounting for water, leading to oxygen-starved dead bedevil almost all jurisdictions. did not intend to fully implement it. Pennsylvania to face consequences if it zones that put large areas of the Bay By Karl Blankenship Other states drafted plans that meet continues to come up short. off-limits for everything from fish to In April, states submitted yet another their goals on paper. But in many cases, The region has been working to clean bottom-dwelling worms. round of roadmaps outlining how they require a nearly unprecedented up the Bay since 1983 and set its first After earlier goals were missed, the they intend to reach Chesapeake Bay increase in the amount of on-the-ground voluntary cleanup goal in 1987. It then EPA imposed a regulatory plan, called cleanup goals by 2025. But, 36 years actions that reduce polluted runoff from repeatedly established and fell short of the Chesapeake Bay Total Maximum after the region committed to cleaning farms and developed lands. goals to control nitrogen and phospho- Daily Load or “pollution diet,” in 2010. up the nation’s largest estuary, the latest The EPA is reviewing the drafts to rus, two nutrients that spur algae blooms It established enforceable limits on the draft plans still won’t get them over the determine whether they meet pollution in the Bay. amount of nutrients entering the Bay finish line. goals for each state and whether states The blooms block sunlight, kill- That’s largely because of Pennsylva- have adequate funding, staffing and ing underwater grass beds — one of WIPs continues on page 22

This is the view of the Susquehanna taken from above Highpoint Scenic Vista near Wrightsville, PA, in the Susque- hanna National Heritage Area. (Susquehanna Heritage) New National Heritage Area to highlight Susquehanna ≈ Designation likely to attract more history, and it is such a special place. I think it visitors to York and Lancaster counties’ deserves it,” said Mark Platts, president of Susque- hanna Heritage, a nonprofit coalition of partners natural, historical and cultural features. from both counties that pushed for the designation By Ad Crable and will guide its moving forward. The majestic Lower Susquehanna River, its vistas, “It was part of our vision to be a national destina- wooded hills, sculpted potholes — in the river rocks, tion,” he said. “The heritage area is seen as a vehicle not roads — and its place in shaping U.S. history will to do that. We would like to see a combination of get more attention now that it has earned a seat among more recreation and interpretation.” the nation’s other 54 national heritage areas. That means more programs and experiences for The Susquehanna National Heritage Area was visitors and the area’s residents alike. recently created by Congress and President Donald The designation brings the heritage area under the Trump, after 11 sometimes frustrating years in umbrella of the National Park Service and its familiar the making. It includes 53 miles of the river at its brown logo. Local officials hope the increased recogni- A kayak launch at the Zimmerman Center for Heritage widest and deepest point and all of Lancaster and tion and visibility will mold the two counties into a provides access to the Susquehanna River as part of York counties to the Maryland line. the Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic “The Susquehanna is so significant to American Heritage continues on page 24 Trail. (Dave Harp) 2 Bay Journal • M ay 2019

Editor’s Note BAY JOURNAL is published by Bay Journal Media to inform the public about ecological, scientific, historic and cultural issues Can we WIP Chesapeake into shape? Only time will tell and events related to the Chesapeake Bay. The Bay Journal, circulation 35,000, is published monthly except in midsummer It was a momentary declared that it will keep doing the same and midwinter. It is distributed free of charge. Bundles are available lapse. I recently called things, even if it doesn’t get to the goal. for distribution. Material may be reproduced, with permission someone and asked about a For many of the other states, meeting and attribution. Publication is made possible by grants through “tributary strategy.” goals would require the implementation of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Chesapeake Bay “What?” they wondered. runoff control practices on farms at rates far Program Office, the Campbell Foundation, the National Oceanic It’s a term that’s not greater than have been seen in the past, and and Atmospheric Administration’s Chesapeake Bay Office, the been actively used in Bay they require continued over-performance by Sumner T. McKnight Foundation, the Rauch Foundation, the circles for many years. wastewater treatment plants to cover likely Fair Play Foundation, the Shared Earth Foundation, the Virginia Tributary strategies were the original Bay shortfalls from the stormwater sector. Environmental Endowment, anonymous donors, and by reader cleanup plans — making the foundational The EPA is reviewing plans to determine contributions. Views expressed in the Bay Journal do not connection that cleaning up the Bay means if they are feasible and adequately show necessarily represent those of any funding agency or organization. cleaning up the rivers that flow into it. They how remaining gaps should be filled. If not, were first written by states in 1992, with a it could potentially set the stage for future For mailing list additions/changes, please use the form on this couple of iterations over the next decade. agency action. The public is encouraged to page or contact: Bay Journal, P.O. Box 222, Jacobus, PA 17407-0222 The strategies laid out what states had review the plans as well. E-mail: [email protected] to do to meet the Bay nutrient reduction WIPs were supposed to make the Bay BAY JOURNAL MEDIA goals as they were written at the time, the cleanup efforts “real” in a way the tributary first of which was set in 1987. Obviously, strategies never did. Soon, we’ll find out if Bay Journal Media is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization with they were not totally effective, as we are still that’s the case. a mission to further public education and awareness of issues talking about meeting Bay water quality affecting the Chesapeake Bay and the mid-Atlantic environment goals. Today, though, our strategies are called Stream ‘An Island out of Time’ by creating and distributing journalistic products. In addition “watershed implementation plans.” These The latest film sponsored by Bay Journal, to producing the Bay Journal, Bay Journal Media operates the documents are not only more specific than “An Island out of Time,” premiered to on Bay Journal News Service, which distributes Bay Journal their predecessors, but potentially more Maryland Public Television in April. articles and original op-eds about the Chesapeake Bay or regional enforceable under the Bay’s Total Maximum The half-hour documentary, produced environmental issues to more than 400 newspapers in the region, Daily Load, established by the U.S. by the filmmaking team of Sandy Cannon- reaching several million readers each month. Environmental Protection Agency in 2010. Brown, Dave Harp and Tom Horton, tells In the coming months, we’ll get an idea the story of a seafood-harvesting family Karl Blankenship, Executive Director about whether the WIPs are indeed more on Smith Island, MD, their vanishing Andrew Nolan, CPA, Chief Financial Officer effective. The drafts released April 12 were heritage and culture — and the difficult STAFF supposed to be something of the endgame decisions made by their children to break — the plans that would show how the with that tradition. Based on Horton’s 1996 Editor: Karl Blankenship ([email protected]) remaining nutrient reduction gap would book, the film is an elegy for a place beset Managing Editor: Lara Lutz ([email protected]) be closed between now and 2025, thereby with erosion, dwindling population and CONTACT US Associate Editor/Projects: Timothy B. Wheeler ([email protected]) restoring healthy conditions throughout vanishing economic opportunities. by mail: Bay Journal News Service Editor: Tim Sayles ([email protected]) the Chesapeake. Feedback has been overwhelmingly The Bay Journal Copy/Design Editor: Kathleen A. Gaskell ([email protected]) Frankly, it’s not encouraging. positive. If you haven’t seen it yet, you can 619 Oakwood Drive Staff Writer: Jeremy Cox ([email protected]) Pennsylvania’s plan doesn’t add up, and its watch it on our website. Visit Seven Valleys, PA Staff Writer: Ad Crable ([email protected]) task is beyond daunting. New York, which bayjournal.com and click on “Films.” 17360-9395 Staff Writer: Whitney Pipkin ([email protected]) has made relatively little progress, has — Karl Blankenship Staff Writer: Sarah Vogelsong ([email protected]) by phone: Photographer: Dave Harp ([email protected]) 717-428-2819 ADVERTISING Sign Up for the Bay Journal or Change your Address TheBay Journal is distributed FREE by Bay Journal Media, Inc. If you would like to Marketing & Advertising Director: Jacqui Caine ([email protected]) be added to its mailing list or need to change your present address, please fill out this form To inquire about BOARD OF DIRECTORS advertising, contact and mail it to Bay Journal, P.O. Box 222, Jacobus, PA 17407-0222. Mary Barber, President o o Jacqui Caine at Check One: New Subscription Change of Address Bill Eichbaum, Vice-President 540-903-9298 o Please remove my name from your mailing list Karl Blankenship, Secretary Please note that it may take up to two issues for changes to become effective. Frank Felbaum, Treasurer Donald Boesch Name: Kim Coble Tom Lewis Address: City: State: Zip: Optional: Enclosed is a donation to the Bay Journal Fund for $

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Clockwise from left: Canvasback decoys in a pile with other duck carvings recall a time when this waterfowl was the object of market hunters. See article on page 10. (Ad Crable)

Cyclists follow the Pennsylvania Dutch route in the Farm to Fork Fondo, intended to raise awareness about farmland conserva- tion. See article on page 26 (Courtesy of Wrenegade Sports)

Some call the eastern salamander a devil dog, mud devil, snot otter or Old Lasagna Sides. Pennsylvania has named the creature WHAT’S INSIDE its state amphibian. See article on page 20. News Travel (Dave Harp)

5 Fears over potential fishing regs hold up sanctuary 26 Pedal up! Food, farms await on farm-to-fork bike rides designation for Mallows Bay • NOAA trying to assure Hogan that it would only protect ships not regulate fishing Columns 8 Pipeline proposal may undermine Delmarva forestry industry, critics say • If MD’s only biomass energy plant 4 Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay • Going native? Let experts shuts down, landowners may have to switch land to less- help you find the best plants for your needs environmentally beneficial uses 39 On the Wing • Cape May warbler has its own part to play in 10 Recent large rafts of canvasbacks a feast for birders’ eyes spring’s avian orchestra not gourmets’ tables • Sightings of popular waterfowl stir memories of days when market hunting and decoy carving 40 Bay Naturalist • Rock-a-bye-birdie: Birds’ nests may vary, ruled the Upper Bay but each is home tweet home 12 Piscataway Park to share complex past of its people, landscape • ‘Viewshed’ coming out of Mount Vernon’s Puzzles & Events shadow to shed light on its own history 38 Chesapeake Challenge • Where in Heaven are you? 14 Hampton Roads wastewater-to-aquifer recharge project showing results • Success of SWIFT, the first to test technique 38 Bay Buddies • Flower part-ners! WE’RE JUST in a non-arid region, is attracting attention of other jurisdictions 34 Bulletin Board • Volunteer Opportunities • Workshops • A CLICK AWAY 15 VA closes striped bass trophy season as ASMFC weighs Events • Programs • Resources action • Assessment showing species is overfished led to action Visit us online: bayjournal.com 16 Livestock fencing needs to pick up pace in Shenandoah Forum Like us on FaceBook: Valley • Report finds just 20% of area farms have such fences Chesapeake Bay Journal while obstacles to installation persist Commentary • Letters • Perspectives or send us a Tweet: @ChesBayJournal 18 MD bans plastic foam containers, VA passes plan for coal 30 Harry Hughes, one of the best political allies the Chesapeake ash • Both states also addressed fishing, farming and energy ever had issues during recent legislative sessions 31 Chesapeake Born • When it came to the Bay, Hughes was 19 MD, VA legislatures tackle oyster issues with mixed reactions • In Annapolis, lawmakers had to overcome Hogan more than up to the challenge veto, opposition from watermen 32 Reopen CREP: Help a farmer and you help the Chesapeake 20 Eastern hellbender gets new nickname: Pennsylvania Rolling back Clean Water rules would devastate the state amphibian • North America’s largest amphibian is also 33 a poster child for clear, clean water Potomac, Bay 21 Highlights of the Watershed Implementation Plans 4 Bay Journal • M ay 2019 Going native? Let experts help you find the best plants for your needs By Abbi Huntzinger you with the right native plant — sometimes all There are few things more exciting than you have to do is ask! a garden awakening in spring with a buzz Jeffrey Popp, senior of activity. In May, many of us in the program manager at the Chesapeake region are patiently waiting for Chesapeake Bay Trust, serviceberry, milkweed, phlox and other suggests that by express- plants to bloom and lure pollinators and ing the importance of other wildlife to our native gardens. and growing demand Some of us are planning how to for native plants in the expand our native gardens to extend their Chesapeake region, you seasonal interest, attract more wildlife, have the opportunity to and/or reduce lawns and other high- prompt the increased maintenance landscapes. availability of native In recent years, many great resources plants from that vendor. have been developed to help identify And if you are feel- native plants species that match our needs ing brave, sharing with based on location, soils, sun exposure and the vendor the negative bloom time. These include: impacts of supplying ≈ Chesapeake Bay Native Plant invasive plants can Center: nativeplantcenter.net prompt a reduced ≈ National Wildlife Federation’s availability of these Garden for Wildlife Native Plant Finder plants. You may be Tool: nwf.org/NativePlantFinde asking which plants are ≈ Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower considered invasive. Center Find Plants: wildflower.org/plants That is another topic ≈ Audubon Native Plants Database: Monarch butterflies feed on a groundsel tree on Poplar Island in Talbot County, MD, in 2016. for another day. But if audubon.org/native-plants (Will Parson / Chesapeake Bay Program) you need a good refer- ≈ U.S. Natural Resource Conservation ence, Plant Invaders Service PLANTS Database: plants.usda.gov States, this region, local ecotype, unsure) of Mid-Atlantic Natural Areas is really Once you identify the right plant for ≈ Are the native plants you provide helpful. the right place, where can you find these primarily straight species, cultivars or both? Beyond traditional plant vendors, the species? Sourcing quality native plants ≈ How are the plants cultivated? Chesapeake Bay region is fortunate to be that function the way you want them (grown from seed you’ve purchased, home to many community and nonprofit to has not always been easy. Thanks to suggests that designers and consumers grown from seed you collected, pur- organizations who offer native plant sales increasing demand in both the landscape engage in informed discussions with plant chased from another grower, propagated throughout the year. A calendar of native design and consumer sectors, though, vendors to ensure plant selection matches from cuttings of another plant, propa- plant sales and related events is found on growers and vendors have been steadily desired native garden goals. gated from tissue culture, unsure) the Choose Natives website, increasing native plant offerings. Asking Here are smart questions to ask vendors: ≈ What is your policy on using choosenatives.org/native-plant-sales/2019- local nurseries to stock more native spe- ≈ What percentage of your plant offer- pesticides/fertilizers/other chemicals? native-plant-sales-events, or through your cies can help them plan for this increas- ings consists of native plants? ≈ What is looking good/what’s avail- local native plant society. While many of ing demand. Leslie Cario, Principal at ≈ How would you describe the native able in my time frame? the organizations listed on this site have Chesapeake Horticultural Services, LLC, range of these plants? (native to the United While there are no right or wrong high standards for sourcing the native answers to the questions above, it is plants they are selling, it never hurts to important to understand the answers in the ask the questions that will help you meet context of your own native garden goals. If your own native garden goals. What is a Native Plant Cultivar? your garden is more ornamental in nature If you find you need additional Shortened from “cultivated herbivore activity was observed and not adjacent to wild populations of information in your native plant sourcing variety,” cultivar refers to a plant in cultivars where leaf color was plants, then it may make sense to include quest, there is a growing community that has been altered by humans changed from green to red, blue native species cultivars that are propagated of professionals who can help. The to display certain desired charac- or purple. The study suggests that from the cuttings of another plant because Chesapeake Bay Landscape Professional teristics such as leaf color, bloom cultivars that retain their green leaf these plants may be more attractive in certification program trains and certifies color, bloom size, and more. In the color can play a role in restoring and/ form and bloom. If you are working on regional sustainable landscape profes- native plant world, a native plant or sustaining insect-driven food webs.* a garden that is less about aesthetics and sionals, many of whom are native plant cultivar is the result of altering the Additional studies are examin- more about ecosystem restoration, then it specialists. The program’s coordinator, genetics of the original native plant ing the impact that changes in may make sense to find the straight spe- Beth Ginter, encourages those seeking variety found in the wild. flower shape, bloom time, and cies of the native plant. Regardless of your native plant sourcing assistance to visit For many native plant enthu- other physical characteristics of native garden goals, being more informed the program’s website, which includes a siasts, the notion of using native cultivars have on wildlife. Changes when sourcing native plants will help you searchable directory where you can locate cultivars can cause trepidation. A in these characteristics could have meet your goals. certified professionals in your area. recent study led by Mt. Cuba and negative impacts for pollinators If you are asking a plant vendor ques- Enjoy the buzz as your garden the University of Delaware found such as reduced access to pollen tions about native plants that they cannot awakens this spring! And when it comes that over a two-year period little and nectar. answer, you may want to seek another to sourcing native plants, know that you difference exists in the abundance *Baisden, Emily C., et al. “Do vendor. Many native plant information play a vital role in shaping an informed and diversity of insect herbivores Cultivars of Native Plants Support Insect sources, including some of the resources and growing native plant movement in on cultivars versus straight species Herbivores?” HortTechnology, vol. listed above, include lists of select native our region! of native plants. 28, no. 5, Oct. 2018, pp. 596-606., plant vendors. These lists are not all-inclu- Abbi Huntzinger is the Maryland A significant decrease in insect doi:10.21273/horttech03957-18. sive, and there is the possibility that your restoration program manager at the favorite local plant vendor can supply Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay. Bay Journal • M ay 2019 5 Fears over potential fishing regs hold up sanctuary designation for Mallows Bay ≈ NOAA trying to assure kayakers, conservationists, Hogan that it would only protect local officials and many others are enthusiastic about making shipwrecks not regulate fishing. Mallows Bay a sanctuary, By Timothy B. Wheeler Brown said he has yet to see an It’s been four and a half years since ironclad guarantee from NOAA the state of Maryland asked the federal that it will never invoke its legal government to make Mallows Bay a authority to regulate or restrict national marine sanctuary to safeguard commercial fishing in the the final resting place of a “ghost fleet” proposed sanctuary. of World War I–era ships as well as “We want to maintain our some even older relics. livelihood,” he said. Though Despite having broad support, Mallows Bay itself is too clut- the effort to protect this historic ship tered with wreckage for most graveyard on the Potomac River south commercial fishing gear, the of Washington, D.C. has been stalled river above and below it yields for a year as Gov. Larry Hogan seeks sizeable catches of blue catfish, extra assurance that the state’s water- as well as blue crabs, striped bass men won’t lose their ability to crab, and even some oysters. oyster and fish in what would become Often described as the federally protected waters. largest ship graveyard in the The National Oceanic and Atmo- Western Hemisphere, the small spheric Administration, which oversees bay on the Maryland shore of marine sanctuaries, has repeatedly the Potomac holds the sunken said that the agency is only interested remains of nearly 200 known in protecting the maritime artifacts in vessels dating to the Civil Mallows Bay and won’t meddle with War, though some artifacts fishing there. But lawyers for NOAA Submerged remains of century-old wooden vessels in Mallows Bay are most visible at low found there go back 12,000 and Hogan have been unable to reach tide. (Dave Harp) years. It’s best known as the agreement so far. Advocates say they’re watery crypt for more than 100 frustrated by the delay. pursuing the marine sanctuary designa- “all their concerns have been addressed.” wooden steamships built to support “This has been held up by the tion. “It’s ridiculous. There’s such a Not so, countered Robert T. Brown, the U.S. engagement in World War I. governor for a year now,” said Charlie tiny minority of people who’ve raised president of the Maryland Watermen’s Stek, chairman of a coalition of groups concerns here,” he added, asserting that Association. While recreational anglers, Mallows continues on page 6 Want a diversified investment portfolio with a low carbon footprint? Your Money, Your Values.

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Mallows from page Advocates say they think Mallows Bay is different Finished too late to be used, they were because it enjoys broader deemed obsolete, towed to Mallows for support. Even so, they say salvage, and subsequently burned to they’re willing to go along the waterline. with the precedent NOAA set The site was put on the National Reg- and offer a five-year opt-out ister of Historic Places in 2015, not long in this case. But they object after the state formally asked NOAA to to extending that to 10 or 15 make 18 square miles of the Potomac years. encompassing Mallows Bay a marine “Overall, I think it’s a bad sanctuary. The nomination had wide- precedent for land and water spread backing early on, including from conservation efforts,” said sport and commercial fishing advisory Kristen Sarri, president and groups. Many have extolled its historic CEO of the National Marine and scenic qualities, others have called it Sanctuary Foundation, a a birdwatcher’s paradise and suggested nonprofit advocacy group. it has the potential to be a prime magnet “It doesn’t show the state is for outdoor recreation and tourism. willing to invest in the site. If After an extensive review, NOAA that’s the situation, it’s hard announced in early 2017 that it was for others to want to invest.” prepared to go forward but said its Some investments have “preferred alternative” for the new already been made, and sanctuary would cover 52 square miles A pair of ospreys made their nest on the remains of a ship in Mallows Bay. (Dave Harp) activities begun to promote of the river, almost three times larger Mallows Bay as a sanctuary. than the state’s original request. on top of reassurances.” Ricci added: “The governor’s office is Last year, for instance, Sarri’s founda- That drew enthusiastic support from Orlando said the memorandum of seeking protections for the state from tion gave the state a $62,500 grant to most people and groups who weighed in understanding outlining the plan for potential federal overreach in Mallows place a buoy in Mallows to do continuous during public meetings and the writ- the sanctuary Bay, including water quality monitoring there. Charles ten comment period. But watermen in makes clear that opt-out clauses.” County has a park on the shoreline and Maryland and Virginia rose up in vocal it is solely for Advocates for has offered guided kayak tours of the opposition, saying they’d been taken the protection of Mallows Bay say wrecks, as have other organizations. aback by how large the proposed pro- historic wrecks the governor’s On behalf of her organization tected area had grown. Noting that fishing and artifacts, lawyer has and more than a dozen others, Sarri is limited or prohibited in many other and that NOAA pressed NOAA wrote Hogan, NOAA and some of marine sanctuaries, they said they feared intends to leave to give the Maryland’s congressional delegation federal interference with their ability to all management state the right in March calling for Mallows Bay’s earn a living on that stretch of water. of fisheries and to revoke the designation without further delay. NOAA has repeatedly stressed that other natural marine sanctu- “It’s well past in our minds the the sanctuary designation is intended resources in the ary status up to time for a decision,” Sarri said in an exclusively to protect shipwrecks and area to Mary- 15 years after its interview. “A lot of this lies with the artifacts, and fishing can continue as land’s Depart- designation. governor’s office because this is a it does now. Paul “Sammy” Orlando, ment of Natural NOAA agreed community-driven process, so NOAA NOAA’s liaison for the proposed Resources and two decades ago has to be and is being respectful of what sanctuary, said that pledge was written to the bistate to include an the state wants to do. The groups that into a memorandum of understanding Potomac River opt-out clause in want to see this designation are wonder- that’s been drawn up since 2017 in talks Fisheries Com- its designation of ing why the state is not taking action.” between the federal agency, the state mission. another marine But Brown, the watermen’s association and Charles County, MD, where the But Brown sanctuary, president, said he remains opposed to the sanctuary is located. NOAA also agreed and other water- Thunder Bay on proposed sanctuary as it stands now. to go along with the state’s original pro- men point out the Michigan Joel Dunn, president and CEO of the posal for an 18-square-mile area, which that NOAA has shore of Lake Chesapeake Conservancy, has also been leaves out a few wrecks that the larger authority under Huron. Like an ardent advocate for the sanctuary. designation would have protected. federal law to Mallow’s Bay holds the sunken remains of Mallows Bay, it His group, in partnership with others, In early 2018, Orlando said, federal limit fishing in nearly 200 known vessels. (Dave Harp) was designated produced a downloadable paddler’s officials thought an agreement had marine sanctuar- solely for the guide to the wrecks and wildlife in the been reached and were prepared to ies. And while the agency says it won’t purpose of protecting a cluster of area. It’s also posted a map of three finalize the designation once the gover- exercise that authority in Mallows shipwrecks that had occurred there. paddling itineraries online along with a nor and Congress had an opportunity Bay, they fear that could change in the But it faced significant opposition from series of virtual reality tours of the site. to review it, as the law requires. future, because sanctuary management commercial fishermen, charter boat Dunn said he sees the sanctuary Then, in March 2018, the governor’s plans get reviewed and renewed every captains and scuba divers fearful that proposal as “a huge opportunity for chief counsel, Robert Scholz, got five years. NOAA would not keep its word and the state of Maryland to celebrate its involved, Orlando said. The NOAA Scholz referred questions to the interfere with them; one town even Chesapeake culture and wildlife.” He liaison said the agency’s initial com- governor’s communications office. voted against the sanctuary proposal in added that he believes it would be “a munications with Scholz involved Michael Ricci, Hogan’s communica- a referendum. huge tourism draw” and generate visi- familiarizing him with the federal tions director, declined to discuss the In the case of Thunder Bay, NOAA tor spending for Charles County and marine sanctuaries law and what was “back and forth,” as he put it. He said granted the state a chance to pull out other neighboring localities. planned in Mallows Bay. the Hogan administration “strongly when the sanctuary management plan “I want to encourage them to keep “We’ve been doing that back and supports the designation, and our came up for review after its first five working on it,” he said of the lawyers for forth with him,” Orlando said, “and to counsel is working closely with NOAA years. By that time, concerns had NOAA and the governor. “And I think a large degree a lot of what he’s asking on the final details.” eased, and some outspoken opponents it’s just such an enormous opportunity, it for falls into the category of assurances Pressed to explain the state’s position, have since become vocal supporters. would be a shame to miss out.” Bay Journal • M ay 2019 7

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Give us a call at 301-725-7333 or find your perfect mix at chesapeakevalleyseed.com. 8 Bay Journal • M ay 2019 Pipeline proposal may undermine Delmarva forestry industry, critics say ≈ If MD’s only biomass energy plant shuts down, landowners may have to switch land to less- environmentally beneficial uses. By Jeremy Cox A proposal to shut down a Mary- land prison’s wood-fueled boiler is generating worries about the economic future of private forests that help keep the Chesapeake Bay clean. James Culp State officials are seeking to extend cuts some natural gas service to the Eastern Cor- small pines rectional Institution south of Princess to thin out a Anne, replacing a more than 30-year- stand of pines old woodchip-burning system as the on his tree prison’s source of heat and electricity. farm near About one-third of the pulpwood Powellville, produced on the Eastern Shore finds its MD. The way to the prison, home to the state’s thinning only biomass energy plant. If it goes allows more offline, forestry leaders fear it would light and undercut an industry that is already nutrients to shrinking in the region and possibly reach the force some landowners to switch their remaining acreage to other uses, such as planting trees to crops or building homes. augment “Without markets for these prod- their growth. ucts, it makes these lands more prone (Dave Harp) to development pressure,” said Beth Hill, executive director of the Mary- states. The agreement reaffirmed an new energy source for the state-owned company of Eastern Shore Natural land Forests Association. earlier goal of restoring 900 miles of prison, economic gain is once again a Gas, which operates a nearly 500-mile The prison’s proposed conversion is stream-adjacent forests per year. driving theme. network of pipelines in southeastern setting off alarm bells among environ- The Eastern Correctional Institu- Somerset is one of three counties in Pennsylvania, Delaware and Mary- mentalists, too. The loss of forested tion, commonly called by its acronym Maryland where there are no natural land’s Eastern Shore. land could further erode water quality ECI, houses about 2,840 inmates in gas distribution lines. Local boosters Last September, the company filed in the nation’s largest estuary, while a medium-security complex and 560 hope that the move opens the door an application with the Federal Energy six states and the federal government others in a minimum-security annex. It to future natural gas expansion to Regulatory Commission seeking scramble to meet a 2025 cleanup receives all of its heating and about 85 the town’s industrial park, which has approval for a $37 million project that deadline, they said. percent of its electricity from a boiler struggled to lure employers, in part would create four pipeline segments “Forests on the landscape are the that consumes about 50,000 tons of because of its lack of pipeline access. totaling nearly 20 miles. One of those best for water quality, hands down,” wood chips per year, according to state “Companies coming in ask, ‘What segments, if green-lighted by FERC and said Craig Highfield, head of the Alli- estimates. do you have to offer?’” said Dennis Wil- other regulators, would extend a pipeline ance for the Chesapeake Bay’s forestry The facility’s unusual energy liams, a town commissioner and member for more than 6 miles south from Salis- program. “In essence, these private arrangement is the result of a mixture of the Somerset County Economic bury in Wicomico County to a point just foresters are doing a public good.” of politics and economic development, Development Commission. “Everyone below Somerset’s northern boundary. Trees and shrubs filter up to 65 said Bill Miles, the lobbyist for the wants to have the natural gas.” A Chesapeake Utilities representa- percent of nitrogen and 45 percent of Association for Forest Industries. Last August, the Maryland Envi- tive offered few details about the ECI phosphorus from stormwater as it runs In the early 1980s, when backers of ronmental Service, a self-supporting proposal in an email to the Bay Journal, toward streams and the Chesapeake ECI’s construction were trying to win state agency, began asking natural gas but he clarified that additional piping Bay, where it can spawn harmful algal support among state lawmakers, Miles suppliers to submit construction bids would be needed to carry the gas from blooms, studies show. Their roots also was the chief of staff on the Maryland on a pipeline to ECI and the University the proposed pipeline’s terminus near stabilize stream banks, preventing the Senate’s Budget and Taxation Com- of Maryland Eastern Shore, which is in the county line to the college and ECI. leaching of sediment that can impede mittee. He recalled that the installation Princess Anne, Somerset’s county seat. “Our goal is to continue to find ways to the growth of aquatic grass. of a wood-based boiler was dangled The gas would have to be flowing by provide the underserved areas on the But the amount of forested land has as a potential economic windfall for 2022, according to bid documents. (Delmarva) Peninsula with low-cost, plummeted in the Bay watershed from Somerset County, historically one of Craig Renner, an MES spokes- environmentally beneficial energy solu- 95 percent of land cover in the 1600s to the state’s poorest counties. man, said he couldn’t comment on the tions,” Justin Mulcahey wrote. 55 percent today. And nearly 80 percent “The idea was to take a resource proposal while the bidding process On its own, the prison’s switch to of what remains is in private hands. that’s abundant and available and is ongoing. Bill Robinson, a spokes- natural gas, if it happens, is unlikely During the 1990s and early 2000s, convert it into energy for that prison man for the university, supplied a to doom the Eastern Shore’s forestry mid-Atlantic forests were lost to devel- down there,” Miles said. brief statement, saying the parties industry, experts say. But it would take opment at a rate of 100 acres per day, Today, the aging system is operat- are “evaluating the best path forward another swipe at a business facing a according to the U.S. Forest Service. ing below its advertised efficiency and in providing natural gas to the lower death by a thousand cuts. Forests are considered so impor- requires fuel oil for starting up and Eastern Shore.” “It is important income for [owners tant they were written into the 2014 “support,” according to state records. The MES is now in talks with the of] private forests in the area,” said Chesapeake Bay Watershed Agree- “It’s a dinosaur, but it’s still function- project’s lone bidder: Chesapeake Sally Claggett, Chesapeake Bay Pro- ment between the U.S. Environmental ing,” Miles said. Utilities. The publicly traded corpora- Protection Agency and the watershed’s As officials move toward a possible tion, based in Dover, DE, is the parent Boiler continues on page 9 Bay Journal • M ay 2019 9

Boiler from page 8 lawmakers passed a bill in the closing hours of their spring gram Coordinator for the U.S. Forest session this year that increases Service. “It’s just like farmers. They that standard to 50 percent by need a place to sell, and it’s always a 2030. The measure requires challenge to find a market, especially Gov. Larry Hogan’s signature since the mills keep closing.” to become law. Wood products During the 2000s, about half of the like those used for the ECI state’s sawmills closed amid the global energy plant are designated economic downturn. One sawmill in as “Tier I” renewable sources Linkwood, about 50 miles northwest of under the state’s energy credit the prison, was set to go up for auction system. in April. If the state is determined to The Maryland Forests Association replace the old ECI boiler, it and the Association of Forest Indus- should build at least one new tries said the loss of the wood market wood-fueled system elsewhere to at ECI would cost 50 jobs regionally keep the market alive, Miles said. and $7 million in economic activity. James and Linda Culp own They also claim that forest manage- hundreds of acres of timberland ment would suffer. on the lower Eastern Shore. Joe Hinson is a consultant for Nearly a decade ago, loggers Eastern Shore Forest Products, the slashed away about 3,500 tons of Salisbury-based timber company under hardwood from a forest they own contract to supply ECI with its pulp- near Pocomoke City in Worces- wood. The wood sent to ECI is usually ter County. Its destination: ECI’s harvested during a practice called energy plant. “thinning,” when loggers remove brush What was once a stand “as as well as young or damaged trees thick as dog hairs” is now a from a forest. Thinning, he said, makes Forestry leaders worry that shuttering Eastern Correctional Institution’s wood-based healthy forest where trees have forests less susceptible to devastating energy system could lead to more clear-cutting like this in Talbot County. (Dave Harp) room to breathe, James said. To fires and sets the stage for more- him, maintaining the wood chip valuable trees to receive more sunlight “Basically, the state is spending tax- productive forest,” he added. boiler is a win for renewable energy and nutrients, speeding their growth. payer money to entice a gas company Forest industry supporters also and to the Eastern Shore’s landscape. Without the ECI market, many to build a pipeline to ECI that destroys question the move’s timing, point- “I’m not against natural gas, Delmarva landowners will no longer local jobs and is detrimental to both ing to a law requiring 25 percent of but natural gas is not a renewable have a financial incentive to thin their forest management and the ability of the state’s electricity to come from resource,” he said. “Trees are a renew- woodland, Hinson said. landowners to maintain their land as renewable sources by 2020. Maryland able resource.” Restoring the Using Nature to Restore Nature native balance

ernstseed.com [email protected] 800-873-3321

www.ecotoneinc.com 410.420.2600 10 Bay Journal • M ay 2019 Recent large rafts of canvasbacks a feast for birders’ eyes, not gourmets’ tables ≈ Sightings of popular waterfowl on the East Coast. stir memories of days when In novelist Edith market hunting and decoy Wharton’s Pulitzer Prize-winning The carving ruled the Upper Bay. Age of Innocence, By Ad Crable about the bluebloods On a cold morning last February, Bob of New York City Schutsky looked out the dining room in the Gilded Age window of his home along the Susque- (1870s–1900s), the hanna River in southern Lancaster protagonists are served County, PA, and spied a raft of tightly canvasbacks and packed ducks that made his heart race. Maryland terrapins, Four days before, 36 miles south at along with fine wines. the head of the Chesapeake Bay, Rick Market hunters killed Bouchelle glanced outside the Upper Bay canvasbacks by the Museum in North East, MD, and stared hundreds in the morn- in disbelief at a floating flock of ducks. ing, and by evening, “They were so thick in there you diners in the finest could walk on them. There were thou- restaurants in Baltimore, sands,” the president of the museum Philadelphia, New York recalled, still with a tinge of excitement. and Boston could feast Both men were thrilled to the bone on the delicacy. because they recognized the waterfowl “They were loaded immediately as canvasbacks. in wooden nail kegs and For Schutsky, a well-known orni- shipped to restaurants. thologist, it was a notable birdwatching They weren’t even sighting. For the next month, he posted dressing them out. You daily updates of the canvasback numbers One male stands out in a raft of canvasbacks on the Choptank River in 2016. (Dave Harp) were just shooting them on a statewide website. As the ranks and piling ’em up,” hanging out in the middle of the river mous with canvasbacks as the Upper Bay It’s no coincidence that both the Upper Bouchelle said. swelled to 515, birders came from far and and most specifically the Susquehanna Bay Museum and nearby Havre de Grace The demand for canvasbacks soon wide to see a species of waterfowl that Flats. Plant-boosting nutrients and topsoil Decoy Museum sport canvasbacks on spawned a market for weapons that could once dominated the Susquehanna but had flushed into the shallow, 25,000-acre flats their logos. take the migrating waterfowl in ever- been mostly gone for generations. from the Susquehanna River and created And, Maryland Del. Mary Ann increasing numbers. For Bouchelle, seeing so many of ideal growing conditions for underwater Lisanti, a Havre de Grace resident, is Perhaps the ultimate example was the the handsome diving ducks with their grasses, including wild celery and wid- trying to get the canvasback designated punt gun, a crudely fashioned shotgun distinctive sloping, rusty red heads was geon grasses — the caviar for migratory as Maryland’s state waterfowl. approaching the effectiveness of a small like seeing a ghost, and strong memories ducks. Today, an overload of nutrients Her first attempt failed but she cannon. The guns, filling most of the of the past welled inside him. and sediment has become a problem vowed to continue her quest. “Some length of low-profile skiffs, were simple Canvasbacks are birds of lore on the rather than a boon, creating algae blooms things in life take time, and this is no guns made from steel pipes and folded Chesapeake Bay. For almost a century, and smothering grasses. Curbing them is exception,” she said. “I will continue into a wood block. They had to be the Bay was the wintering grounds at the core of the Bay restoration effort. to advocate for preserving our rich anchored to the skiff to protect shooters From cultural history while looking to the from the recoil. approxi- future to find innovative ways to link A single blast from their wide shot pat- mately the our waterfront communities together.” tern was capable of taking out 30 ducks Civil War Decoy carvers, who fashioned or more. One account claimed 54 ducks until about and painted lifelike representations of were killed from a single discharge. 1950, the canvasbacks, were in great demand. Men Market hunters would take ducks Upper Bay from Upper Bay towns such as Havre de by any means necessary. Thus, much offered Grace, North East, Elkton and Charles- hunting occurred at night when the the finest town began hand-chopping, carving and ducks were at rest on the water, floating canvasback painting wooden decoys to meet hunters’ in tight flocks and were, literally, sitting hunting in demands. ducks. The boats that sneaked up on the world. They didn’t know it at the time, them were painted grey to blend in with Business but the period would make legends of the reflected moonlight. magnates blue-collar decoy carvers on the flats: Sinkboxes were another effective and celebri- James Pierce, Harry Jobes, Bob McGaw, hunting device. They resembled floating ties such Paul Gibson, Charles Joiner and many coffins with wings that unfolded when Hunters in a sinkbox wait low in the water for ducks in this photo as Annie others, especially R. Madison Mitchell, the rigs were moved into place. taken on the Susquehanna Flats in 1950. (Upper Bay Museum) Oakley and a funeral home director from Havre de Flat-bottomed iron decoys were President Grace whose decoys now fetch more placed on the attached wooden platforms for at least half of all canvasbacks Grover Cleveland flocked to area towns than $10,000. to sink the vessel to water level, and in North America — about 250,000. and hunting lodges for autumn hunts Havre de Grace still bills itself as the hunters would lie hidden in the coffin- Hunting for the large and tasty ducks guaranteed to bring action and gunning “decoy capital of the world.” like space. Lighter, flat-bottom wooden helped define the Bay’s identity, creat- without limits. The wild celery that used to abound decoys were scattered on canvas wings ing a distinctive culture and represent- Some of the largest lodges, including in the flats gave canvasbacks a distinctive and 300 to 700 wooden decoys were ing a big chunk of the economy for one owned by banker John Pierpont savory taste. With the invention of refrig- strategically scattered around the sinkbox towns at the water’s edge. Morgan, were located on what is now the erated railroad cars in 1870, the ducks No part of the Bay was more synony- Army’s Aberdeen Proving Ground. became the preferred wild game delicacy Ducks continues on page 11 Bay Journal • M ay 2019 11

Ducks from page 10 Ducks on Display in the water. Two private museums capture the rich When a flock of canvasbacks approached, hunters history of hunting canvasbacks and other would jump up and shoot. ducks on the Upper Chesapeake Bay and Sinkboxes and live decoys were outlawed by the Susquehanna Flats. federal government in 1935. Less elaborate were “sneak” or “bushwhack” boats. Upper Bay Museum A single 10-foot oar protruding from the stern of the Devoted to preserving the area’s culture boat allowed a sculler to silently propel the boat toward of the hunters and watermen, the museum is a flock of ducks that had landed in the decoy spread, located in an old shad and herring-processing while two other hunters hunkered down, ready for facility on the North East River that operated action. from 1880–1973. The floor of the museum Market hunting ended abruptly with the passage of used to be knee-deep in fish. Today you will the Migratory Bird Treaty Act in 1918. Alarmed at the find displays of hunting, boating and fishing declines of many bird species because of commercial tools. Visitors can trace the long history of the hunting for waterfowl hunter through various gunning consumption rigs and an extensive display of original work- and feathers for ing decoys. The museum includes one of the women’s hats, country’s best collections of marine engines. Congress passed Location: 219 W. Walnut St., North East, legislation that MD; 410-287-2675, upperbaymuseum.org. for the first time Hours: 12–4 p.m. Fridays, Saturdays and placed kill limits on Sundays, Memorial Day through Labor Day. migratory birds. The museum is closed from the Decoy Show Even without a (mid-October) until Memorial Day weekend. commercial market, Groups may call to arrange for a tour when hunters were still the museum is not open. keenly interested Admission: Free. Donations welcome. in the Upper Bay’s Upcoming events: Upper Shore Decoy canvasbacks. Show, Oct. 19., North East Fire Hall, 210 One method A display of old, mostly canvasback, decoys at the Upper Mauldin Ave. that became Bay Museum attests to the popularity of the duck among popular after the hunters the late 1800s and early 1900s. (Ad Crable) Havre de Grace Decoy Museum ban on sinkboxes Located on the banks of the historic was “body boot Each winter since 1955, the Maryland Department of Susquehanna Flats, the museum houses one A lifelike mannequin of decoy carver hunting.” Hunters Natural Resources has conducted a survey of the various of the finest collections of working and deco- Robert Litzenberg is found at the would don one- duck species spending the season on the Chesapeake Bay. rative decoys from the area’s famed carvers. Havre de Grace Decoy Museum. piece surplus World This winter, 46,000 canvasbacks were sighted, actually The building once housed the swimming (Ad Crable) War I diving suits down from 60,000 the previous year. But Josh Homyack, pool for the adjacent Hotel Bayou, a lavish and wade into the the agency’s waterfowl project manager, cautions against structure built in 1921 mainly to accommo- Flats amid their spreads of decoys. The hunters would reading too much into the numbers, especially for last date visiting waterfowl hunters. stand behind a cutout silhouette of a Canada goose stuck winter, when high water flows impeded counts and Location: 215 Giles St., Havre de Grace, in the mud with a pole. The back of the cutout included a dispersed flocks. MD; 410-939-3739, decoymuseum.com. shelf for ammo. “A lot of people saw them scattered around the Bay Hours: 10:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday The end of an era came abruptly with an August 1950 this year and thought populations would be high and were through Saturday and 12–4 p.m. Sundays, storm that ripped up submerged grasses that had grown disappointed [that the survey’s results] were not,” Homy- year-round. Closed New Year’s Day, Easter, on the Flats for centuries. Without their preferred food, ack said. Still, he added, “Most hunters had really good Thanksgiving, Christmas, and the day the most of the canvasbacks went elsewhere. Hurricane Agnes duck hunting on the Bay this year, particularly scaup and city of Havre de Grace holds its 4th of July in 1972 was the final nail in the coffin, smothering the canvasbacks.” Parade & Fireworks, which may or may not remaining grasses in an underwater wave of sediment. That’s enough to spark a dream in Kerri Kneisley, be the 4th of July. Were the large flocks of canvasbacks seen by executive director of the Havre de Grace Decoy Museum, Admission: $6 / adults; $5 / ages 60+ Bouchelle and Schutsky last winter an anomaly or signs who also saw one of those large flocks. of something more? “Gosh, I wish we would see that like we used to.” CHESAPEAKE BAY WORKBOAT MODELS Fishing Boats, Crab Boats, Oyster Boats, Skiffs & More

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215-290-3722 www.BlackwayBoatModels.com 12 Bay Journal • M ay 2019 Piscataway Park to share complex past of its peoples, landscape ≈ ‘Viewshed’ coming out of say, ‘That land was Mount Vernon’s shadow to shed stolen, and that, and that,’ ” he said. light on its own history. “But that doesn’t By Whitney Pipkin help a lot when it Among the heavily wooded acres of comes to a sensi- Piscataway Park, on Maryland’s shore tive and nuanced of the Potomac River, is a popular discussion. Con- collection of cattle, sheep, hogs and servation means plants — their breeds and varieties far different things to more common on local farms during different people. the 1700s than today. They are the Where we are now living dressing on a recreated colonial is a place where we farm — a farmhouse and tobacco are finally starting barn and costumed interpreters — to appreciate those established there in 1958. perspectives.” But the colonial era story highlighted Many of the in the park’s 5,000 acres is only one layer people in the room in the long, complex history of the land were residents and its people. of the Moyaone That’s why the Accokeek Foundation, Reserve, a nearby the nonprofit group that runs the farm, residential commu- wants to do more. nity named after a “We want to listen to the rhythm of historic Piscataway the land and the river and listen to the village site in the various stories of the land,” said Gene area. The com- Roberts, one of the nonprofit’s board munity, made up members, during a conversation the This is the view across the Potomac River from Piscataway Park, a national park near Accokeek, MD. The of mostly 5-acre foundation hosted on March 31. park was originally preserved to protect the tree-lined views of Mount Vernon across the river, but interpreters wooded lots and The discussion about the “compli- are looking to unearth more about the people who have used this land over the centuries. (Whitney Pipkin) built around con- cated story” of conservation was one of servation values, is three this spring aimed at incorporating encountered them in the early 1600s. generations of change,” she said. Yes, actually included within the boundaries a diversity of perspectives into the site’s Their communities suffered violence and Piscataway was the first national park of Piscataway Park, which is one of the interpretation. disruption as colonists came to control set aside to preserve a historic vista, “but few national parks with such an arrange- The series, explained Shemika Berry, the landscape. Farms and plantations that’s only part of it. It also preserved ment. Before the park was created, the Accokeek’s interpretation coordinator, grew, depending greatly on the work of the heart of the traditional homeland of community’s early residents worked to “is designed to honor the voices of those enslaved people, and changed over time. the Piscataway people. It preserved a protect the land from industrial develop- who were here on this land before us, That took place before, in the 1700s, landscape that carries the stories of first ment, explained Wilton Corkern, an and those who still live here.” George Washington lived in the Mount contact [with European settlers] and adviser to the Accokeek Foundation who The Piscataway people inhabited the Vernon mansion directly across the river. colonization and the story of the evolu- served as its president for 22 years. riverside area for thousands of years It happened before the land at Piscataway tion of agriculture against the backdrop “Beginning in the 1950s and ’60s, a before the English explorer John Smith Park was preserved from development in of slavery, emancipation, Jim Crow, the small group of women and men, right the 1950s to protect Civil Rights movement and the Ameri- here in Accokeek, changed the way Shemika Berry, the tree-lined view can Indian movement.” Americans would think about land Accokeek’s from that estate. But Ford said conversations like the ones conservation for the next two genera- interpretation those colonial and they are hosting help provide informa- tions and protected this from private coordinator, conservation stories tion for future interpretations of the development,” Corkern said, gesturing to portrays Cate have formed the property, allowing caretakers to expand some families in the room whose parents Sharper, a dominant narrative their perspective. were a part of that early movement. fictitious enslaved of this land for many “It’s what’s driving our interpretive The conservation covenants they put in woman, whose of its more recent planning process, and that’s what’s going place to maintain a wooded community son was sold to years. to get us to a place where we’re telling also protected the tree-canopy shoreline another planta- To only tell one a different story,” she said, “a more view from Mount Vernon. When the tion. Visitors slice of that history, authentic story of this landscape.” community became part of the national to her garden, said Accokeek Piscataway Park also includes the park, those covenants turned into feder- planted with heir- Foundation president remains of former Piscataway Chief ally held easements that require property loom varieties, and CEO Laura Turkey Tayac, whose burial at the owners to get National Park Service get a glimpse into Ford, is to miss an national park site in 1979 required a permission before felling large trees. African American opportunity. But to permit from Congress, according to a Many of the conservation-minded foodways and do justice to each of Washington Post article. residents of the Moyaone Reserve remain how “the dignity the land’s past and Chris Newman, a farmer, software active in efforts to protect the land and of labor [helped present inhabitants engineer and member of the Choptico its surroundings from what they consider enslaved people] — without taking Band of Piscataway Indians, opened intrusive development. Last year, they transcend visitors through a up the March discussion by saying the worked with the Mount Vernon Ladies unthinkable disorienting time decision to pursue a community dialogue Association to convince Dominion Energy exploitation and warp — can be was a brave one. Land conservation, he that an adjacent Charles County property hardship.” (Cour- challenging, too. said, can be “a fraught issue for indig- was not the right place for the utility’s tesy of Accokeek “This landscape enous people.” Foundation)) tells us a story of “It can be tempting to stand up and Views continues on page 13 Bay Journal • M ay 2019 13

Views from page 12 Newman said that narrow view only encourages visitors at both sites to see the planned natural gas compressor station. land as it relates to the colonial story — at But the concept of conservation can the expense of other narratives. be as complicated as this landscape, and “Accokeek is, for me, about this place the foundation wanted the conversation and just this place,” he said. series to point that out. Roberts, the board member, said that Newman explained that some modern the different narratives and time periods approaches to conservation — which don’t necessarily have to be competition entail removing all people from the or in concert. landscape so it can be protected from “I think Accokeek has an opportunity their urge to develop it — run afoul of to identify a number of those layers that the way indigenous people managed the it will interpret. And those layers are landscape by cultivating it. not necessarily going to agree with each “These landscapes did not just happen other,” he said. by themselves. We were an integrative Accokeek already is working to move part of it,” he said. “These places are beyond the colonial narrative. Visitors anthropogenic by nature. They were who come to the colonial farm learn influenced by native people, by their how the Bolton family — the fictitious hands, by fire, by wildlife that we directed residents of the farm — preserves food into certain places, by cultivars that we for a Maryland winter, and they can also encouraged to grow in certain places.” talk to Cate Sharper, a fictitious enslaved Newman takes a similar approach woman interpreted by Berry, whose son today as he and his family manage a A historic photo shows Piscataway Chief Turkey Tayac with some of the founders was sold to another farm. They can visit handful of historic lands as farmers and of Piscataway Park when the historic site was preserved. Today’s interpreters her garden, planted with heirloom variet- “permaculture developers,” working to want to incorporate more layers of the land’s history into their presentations ies, to get a glimpse into African Ameri- produce food in concert with the sur- today. (Whitney Pipkin) can foodways and how “the dignity of rounding ecosystems. To that end, they labor [helped enslaved people] transcend graze animals and plant perennials on impetus for preserving a landscape that the viewshed of Mount Vernon. unthinkable exploitation and hardship.” 150 acres split between historic Strat- modern caretakers realize might have a “This landscape is in the gaze of “As the interpretation coordinator, it ford Hall in Montross, VA, and James lot more stories to tell. Mount Vernon. This landscape is to be is my job to make sure we’re telling the Madison’s Montpelier near Orange, VA. Julia King, an archaeologist and author consumed by people at Mount Vernon stories of the people of this area respect- He’s also working on projects with the of the book, Archaeology, Narrative, and who may never even come here and real- fully and compassionately,” Berry said. Accokeek Foundation. the Politics of the Past: The View from ize that it has history,” King said during “With the interpreters we have now and At these historic places and others, Southern Maryland, pointed out how the event. “So my question is: Is there a will have, we will be the faces and voices protecting colonial history was the often this property is defined by its role as way we can turn that gaze around?” [to provide] that framework.”

A FUN AND FESTIVE FAMILY-FRIENDLY EVENT!

SATURDAY, JUNE 1ST 1pm - 5pm (Rain or Shine) Leigh Family Farm — Betterton, MD

Local Eastern Shore food, drink, and wares! Guided birding walks, tours of the farm, games — all offered to enhance appreciation of conservation, restoration, and ecology.

Featuring two of the most raved about local bands, The High and Wides and Black Dog Alley Tickets and Info at www.eslc.org/events 14 Bay Journal • M ay 2019 Hampton Roads wastewater-to-aquifer recharge project showing results ≈ Success of SWIFT, the first district, the city of Hampton to test technique in a non-arid justified its decision to use pollution reduction credits region, is attracting attention of from SWIFT by arguing that other jurisdictions. the city will “conserve scarce By Sarah Vogelsong state and local resources for One year after the highly anticipated other important water quality SWIFT project came online in Virginia, projects.” its trickle of activity continues to swell. But while municipalities The Sustainable Water Initiative for may be relying on SWIFT Tomorrow is an innovative solution to for reductions, the state two problems that plague the Hampton has adopted a wait-and-see Roads region: the need to cut down on approach to including the pollution that flows into local waterways project as a best management and the shrinking of the Potomac aquifer, practice in its latest watershed the main source of water for eastern implementation plan for meet- portions of the state. ing 2025 Bay cleanup goals, In April 2018, instead of simply released as a draft in April. discharging the treated wastewater back “Until it’s proven, we into the rivers, the Hampton Roads weren’t going to require Sanitation District began giving it an it in the WIP,” said Allan even greater level of treatment and then Brockenbrough of Virginia’s injecting it 2,000 feet into the ground to Department of Environmental help recharge the aquifer’s increasingly Quality. Nevertheless, he said, dwindling stores. “The WIP counts on signifi- A similar approach to aquifer recharge This is the SWIFT Research Center at the Hampton Roads Sanitation District’s Nansemond cant nutrient reductions from has been adopted elsewhere — particu- Treatment Plant at the ribbon cutting for the facility on May 18, 2018. (Courtesy of SWIFT) those facilities, and they may larly in the arid regions of the Middle achieve those reductions from East and Santa Clara Valley of California Hampton Roads region, that compaction facilities to develop. the SWIFT project.” — but the proposal to adopt it on a large has occurred at an estimated rate of “We started out with the toughest Other localities are taking notice scale in a “wet weather” area of the East 1.5–3.7 mm per year. one, and we didn’t exactly hit a home run of SWIFT’s promise. Henifin said that Coast was new. Within that context, McCoy pointed there,” he said. several representatives of other cities Now, one year into the experiment, out, the aquifer’s expansion by a third The next expansions are slated to or counties had visited the site to see if SWIFT is pumping an average of 1 of a millimeter within only two months’ occur at the James River Treatment they could implement a similar system at million gallons of drinking-quality water time is significant. Plant in Newport News, followed by home. back into the aquifer every day from the “It was a bit unexpected for those of the York River Treatment Plant in “We’re interested to see how effective SWIFT Research Center, located at the us that aren’t geologists,” said sanitation Seaford, the Virginia Initiative Plant it is, and we do see it potentially as one Nansemond Treatment Plant in Suffolk. district manager Ted Henifin. in Norfolk and finally the Nansemond part of an integrated strategy both to That quantity is only a fraction of So far, SWIFT has pumped a total of Treatment Plant, where the Research meet our water supply goals down the the 100 million gallons per day that the about 90 million gallons of highly treated Center is also located. road and our nutrient management goals sanitation district plans to inject back into wastewater back into the aquifer. Henifin said that the district has down the road,” said Christopher Phipps, the aquifer once the project is fully built. Much of the Research Center’s focus already acquired or finalized deals to the director of public works for Anne But even in these early stages, the U.S. has been on refining its processes. acquire the land needed for those expan- Arundel County, MD. Geological Survey has found that SWIFT Among other tweaks, the site had to be sions. Anne Arundel does not face a is having results. taken offline for a period over the winter Despite the Williamsburg setback, problem with land subsidence, and its “[We] saw a signal of expansion of the because of issues involving the unex- cash-strapped municipalities within the water supply is more stable than that aquifer by a third of a millimeter over the pected corrosion of steel tanks. district have greeted SWIFT with open of Hampton Roads. But a portion of course of two months,” said Kurt McCoy, Eventually, SWIFT will operate arms because it offers a way to sidestep the county also draws water from the a hydrologist at the USGS Virginia out of four or five facilities throughout expensive stormwater repairs that would Potomac aquifer, and the county as a Water Science Center, which has been the district, each of which will return otherwise be needed immediately to meet whole is subject to the same goal of monitoring and analyzing SWIFT since water to the aquifer through multiple pollution reduction goals for the Bay reducing the flow of pollution to the Bay. its inception. “It is showing that the recharge wells. cleanup. Henifin said that all 11 localities “We’re not under duress, especially on SWIFT activities do have an impact on Initial plans called for the first in the area with municipal separate storm the water supply side, but we do think it the aquifer.” new facility, which would have had sewer system (MS4) permits have struck could have some potential for longer-term A third of a millimeter may not seem a recharge capacity of about 8 mil- agreements with the district to use credits and regional strategies,” Phipps said. like much, but “these things add up over lion gallons a day, to be constructed from the SWIFT project to meet their On May 10, the Chesapeake Environ- time,” McCoy said. at the Williamsburg Treatment Plant nutrient reduction obligations. mental Protection Association, a non- That’s particularly true in the low- near historic Carter’s Grove. In April, Such agreements, known as nutrient profit group, will hold a forum to explore lying area of Hampton Roads, where though, the James City County Board of trading, allow a polluter that achieves whether the SWIFT model is “feasible sinking land and rising waters are Supervisors denied the district’s request reductions beyond the threshold set for it and worthy of further consideration” in closely connected. Recent projections to acquire the land on the grounds that by the state to sell or transfer “credits” for Anne Arundel and Southern Maryland. show that sea level in the area has been the project doesn’t meet state criteria those reductions to other polluters. Those To Phipps, the idea of using treated rising 4–5 mm per year. Historically, allowing utilities to acquire land in an other polluters can then put the credits wastewater to recharge aquifers is part of about half of that has been caused by the agricultural and forestal district. toward their own reduction quota. a broader — and growing — shift among overpumping of water from the Potomac Consequently, while Henifin said that The result is that even if each source the public toward recycle-and-reuse aquifer. Overuse has caused the pressure the sanitation district “hope[s] to be able of pollution does not achieve its own strategies. of the water within the aquifer to decline to resolve our land issues in Williams- reduction target, the region can still meet “We call it wastewater, but is it?” he and the land to sink as the sediments burg in the coming years,” that expansion its overall goal. asked. “Should it be wasted, or should it that hold the water are compacted. In the has been moved “to the end of our list” of In its agreement with the sanitation be used?” Bay Journal • M ay 2019 15 VA closes striped bass trophy season as ASMFC weighs action ≈ Assessment showing species is They called for the ASMFC to the 1970s and 1980s, sending the popula- overfished led to action. commit to adopt new measures by its tion to record low levels and ultimately October meeting, while urging states to act leading to a fishing moratorium in the Bay By Karl Blankenship sooner on their own. States that take early and along the coast in the late 1980s. Virginia and two New England states action, they said, should get credit for those The population rebuilt and reached are urging other East Coast fishery manag- efforts when new conservation measures new peaks by the early 2000s, but has ers to move quickly to curb striped bass are established by the commission. been declining since 2010, at least in part catches in the wake of a new assessment In Virginia, the closing of the state’s because a number of dry springs in the that found the prized species was being spring trophy season affects fishing from Chesapeake region led to a series of years overfished. May 1 through June 15 and targets fish at with lower than average reproduction. The Virginia Marine Resources least 36 inches long. In the state’s Potomac In recommending emergency action, Commission voted unanimously April 23 River tributaries, the season is from April the VMRC staff noted that the recreational to shut down the state’s spring striped bass 29 through May 15, with a minimum size catch of striped bass in Virginia has trophy season, which targets the largest of 35 inches. Along the Atlantic coast, the declined from 368,000 fish in 2010 to less fish in the population. season runs May 1 through May 15, with a than 52,000 last year. Angler reports of The action comes in the wake of a 36-minimum length. From May 16 though catching trophy-size fish have also been new stock assessment that found striped June 15, anglers will be able to keep two low in recent years, they said. bass along the East Coast, also known as striped bass measuring 20-28 inches. The Maryland Department of Natural rockfish, were in worse shape than previ- Recreational catches of striped bass are down The large fish are popular for anglers, Resources is going ahead with that state’s ously thought and had been overfished for in Virginia in recent years. (Dave Harp) but are also important to the health of the trophy season for striped bass as is the several years. overall population because they produce a Potomac River Fisheries Commission, a “Virginia has always been a conserva- cannot afford to continue unsustainable disproportionately large number of eggs. bi-state panel which regulates fishing in the tion leader, and this is a time to step up. levels of fishing” as the commission mulls Although striped bass spend most of their mainstem of the river. The season in both The recent stock assessment shows that its response to the assessment. “Scientific lives migrating along the coast, most are cases runs April 20 through May 15, with a early action is needed to slow the decline evidence and what fishermen in our states spawned in the Bay’s tributaries. minimum catchable size of 35 inches. In a and restore this fishery to sustainable are seeing on the water tell us that bold “The state of our striped bass fishery press release announcing the spring trophy levels,” said Steven Bowman, head of the action to protect striped bass is long over- is shameful, especially considering that it season, the Maryland DNR said it intends commission. due,” they wrote. “Rebuilding striped bass was fully rebuilt just a few years ago,” said to work through the management process In an April 17 letter sent to James stocks and sustaining them at target levels Matthew Strickler, Virginia secretary of set up by the Atlantic States commission Gilmore, chair of the Atlantic States of abundance is incredibly important to natural resources. “We need immediate and expects to have a “more long-term Marine Fisheries Commission — which fisheries in our states. We urge the Com- action to reduce striped bass harvests to picture” of the fishery after the commis- manages striped bass along the coast — mission to implement measures that will sustainable levels to ensure we have better sion’s April 30 meeting. environmental officials from Virginia, reduce striped bass harvests to sustainable fishing in future seasons.” Staff writer Jeremy Cox contributed to Massachusetts and Connecticut said “we levels as quickly as possible.” Striped bass were heavily overfished in this report.

Chesapeake Challenge Answers to Where in Heaven are You? on page 38.

1. Wetland 2. Wetland, Meadow 3. Wetland, Meadow 4. Rocky patch 5. Wetland 6. Woods 7. Wetland, Wet woods 8. Woods Bay Buddies Answers to Flower Part-ners! on page 38. 1. aNthEr 2. filameNT 3.OvaRy 4. petAls 5. pistiL 6. sepAl 7. s t a Men 8. stIgma 9. styLe 10. ovUles Answer: Mountain laurel

Mountain laurel (Arx Fortis CC BY-SA 3.0) 16 Bay Journal • M ay 2019 Livestock fencing needs to pick up pace in Shenandoah Valley ≈ Report finds just 20% of area farms have such fences while obstacles to installation persist. By Whitney Pipkin Time seems to slow down in the Shenandoah Valley, where the pastoral act of raising livestock for a living appears as unchanged by the years as the emerald-green hills on either side of Interstate 81. But almost a decade has passed since Virginia first set a goal to have farmers build fences along nearly every Chesapeake Bay-bound stream that livestock could otherwise access in the state. As much as animals like to wade in and drink from the streams that cut across countless pastures here, their hooves and feces wreak havoc on local and regional water quality. For two decades, federal and state governments have provided varying levels of funding to reimburse farmers who install fences and alternative watering sources. Such practices are among the most cost-effective ways for Chesapeake Bay states to reduce pollution heading into local streams and, eventually, the Bay. But cost and cultural preference are still formidable obstacles. A report released by the Environmental Integrity Project in April found that in the state’s two Arlene and Glenn Reid decided to take measures on their 40 acres of pasture after attending a meeting about the urgency of largest farming counties, both of which keeping cows out of local creeks. “We said, ‘We can do our little part here,’ ” Glenn Reid said. (Whitney Pipkin) are in the Shenandoah Valley, just 20% of farms had fenced their animals away require fencing. If that is politically said. “Our desire is to exclude ani- Augusta counties, according to the from streams as of 2017. implausible, we say ‘why not create a mals from all perennial streams. The 2017 Census of Agriculture released The results suggest the state is far system of tax incentives for farms that question is: How do you get that done? last month, making the region a focal away from its goal, which “seeks the are fencing?’ ” said Pelton, who also What will that cost, and what is the point of state efforts. exclusion of livestock from all peren- thinks Virginia should continue to share ability of farmers to do that?” Arlene and Glenn Reid learned nial streams in the Bay watershed.” farmers’ costs as much as possible. The amount of money farmers can about the urgency of keeping cows Its new Bay cleanup plan, released as “Virginia should say, ‘We’re going to receive from state or federal coffers out of the creeks running through a draft in April, seeks to dramatically pay for this, but you’ve gotta do it.’ ” for stream fencing and the practices their 40 acres of pasture at a meeting ramp up support for initiatives aimed But fencing streams has long been that go with it — such as alternative about their local Linville Creek. The at getting livestock out of streams controversial for some farmers because watering troughs and forested stream- tributary to the Shenandoah River is across the state. it not only denies cattle easy access side buffers — has varied from year impaired by high concentrations of The EIP report, though, is critical to water, but also requires long-term to year. When the state told farmers fecal coliform bacteria, and a 2017 of those efforts because they fall short maintenance. Maryland requires that they could receive up to 100% plan for improving its water quality of making fencing the required method farmers to exclude cattle from streams reimbursement for the cost of stream found that only a small fraction of the of exclusion. While the plan calls for in the state, though — in lieu of a strict exclusions if they signed up by mid- creek had been fenced off from the a dramatic increase in fencing, it also fencing requirement — the measure 2015, officials found themselves with cattle that dot the surrounding hills. includes a broader suite of actions such also gives landowners wiggle room a backlog of hundreds of interested “We said, ‘We can do our little part as providing “off stream watering” to install alternative watering troughs landowners. They’ve been chipping here,’ ” Glenn Reid said from his front to cows, which gives the animals an and vegetated buffers to discourage away at that list ever since, as staff and porch in Broadway, VA, from which he alternative water source but does not livestock from wading. funding becomes available. can see almost the entire farm on the guarantee they will stay out of streams. Russ Baxter, deputy director at the Virginia legislators approved a cascading hill below. EIP spokesman Tom Pelton faulted Virginia Department of Conservation budget this year that allocates nearly $90 After that creek meeting, the couple the plan for being vague, saying the and Recreation, said each new draft million over the next two fiscal years invited staff from the Harrisonburg state should stick to stream fencing of the state’s cleanup plan is informed toward agricultural cost-share programs, office of the USDA Natural Resources rather than allow other measures to be by the latest available data. Given the an amount one advocate deemed an Conservation Service to visit and considered similarly effective. magnitude of stream mileage in the “unprecedented level of investment.” write up a management plan. The The plan also calls for legislation to state, he said it was not practical to plan incorporated several practices require the exclusion of livestock from hold Virginia to the goal established In the Shenandoah to improve water quality — stream streams and provide a date by which years ago that focused solely on the There is no better place in Virginia fencing, cross-farm fencing to create farms must provide exclusion measures. amount of fencing. to see how such programs play out on more paddocks, alternative water Pelton raised concerns that the plan “What I would say is that we are the ground, where obstacles persist troughs and water crossings, to name a itself did not clearly require fencing nor absolutely committed to excluding even when funding is available, than few — while making their farm more establish a compliance date. livestock from streams — and have in the Shenandoah Valley. Cattle “We’re saying Virginia should spent millions of dollars to do that,” he outnumber people in Rockingham and Fencing continues on page 17 Bay Journal • M ay 2019 17

Fencing from page 16 helped to fund, but that those estimates did not include fencing installed by productive. They made the changes farmers without government funding. over a few months in 2017. To arrive at a more holistic number, “For years, it was one big pasture and the EIP combed through 2017 Google the cows would roam around wherever Earth images of farms in Augusta they wanted. It worked, but it wasn’t as County, which were taken between productive as we wanted it to be,” Glenn January and October of that year, Reid said. looking for evidence of pastures with Now, the Reids, who are in their fenced-off streams. Pelton said a team early 60s with four children in college, of analysts spent several months last can manage the cattle more easily year poring over the images, compar- on their own alongside a bustling ing them with county tax maps to greenhouse-based business. determine farm boundaries. “Before, trying to round up three or “When a farm doesn’t have a fence, four cows was a job,” said Arlene Reid. you can easily see the brown, muddy But, with the rotational grazing methods banks and the areas where the cow that came with the plan, systematically goes right into the river,” he said, moving cows through the paddocks to noting aerial images included in the promote better forage, “these cows can’t report as examples. wait for me to open the gate so they can The report also synthesized similar get to the new pasture.” Cows visit Whiskey Creek in Augusta County, VA. Cows’ hooves and feces can data from a survey the Shenandoah wreak havoc on a stream’s water quality. (Shenandoah Riverkeeper) Riverkeeper conducted in 2016 of Obstacles farms in Rockingham County that Still, the Reids understand why walk them through the process. Bobby thick riparian buffers protect them. concluded that just 20 percent of farms their neighbors aren’t all eager to Whitescarver, a livestock farmer and “Some farms are more expensive with livestock in that county fence install fencing and the other practices champion for stream exclusion in and complicated to fence out, espe- them away from waterways. that often accompany it. Augusta County, said many of those cially if people are philosophically Evaluating farm practices from While various programs have programs are being tweaked, albeit opposed to the idea,” he said, a nod aerial images has its shortcomings, reimbursed the couple for most of slowly, to respond to what landowners to farmers who are skittish about which the report acknowledged. their costs, the upfront price was about need on the ground. government programs or who simply EIP analysts used “common sense” $35,000. Finding local contractors Certain types of fencing that prefer the traditional look of a stream definitions of streams and farms to drive in fence posts or bury pipes qualify for state funds, for example, unencumbered by trees and fences. that in some cases do not match the for watering troughs was easier said might not stand up to frequent flooding definitions the state uses to measure than done, with many booked up with near the mainstem of the Shenandoah Way forward progress, so the data is difficult to projects for months into the future. River, and a farmer who relied on state The EIP report suggests a few ways compare. Also, tallying the number Many in the Reids’ community are funding might not have help to rebuild to overcome these obstacles, though of farms with fences is not directly Mennonite farmers who have reserva- it. The state’s draft cleanup plan calls some of them skew toward using laws comparable to the number of linear tions about receiving government for more flexibility in grant programs, to require fencing rather than stick- feet of streams with fences because funding. Other experts estimate that which might make them more appeal- ing with the state’s incentive-based one large farm could contain several as much as half of the pastures in parts ing and adaptive to certain farms. approach. If legislators can’t compel miles of streams while another has of the Shenandoah are rented by the Some private granters are stepping into farmers to install livestock fencing, the very few, for example. farmers who maintain cattle on them. the gap for farmers who have exceeded report says, the state should consider But several sources said they would “Without a long-term lease, a their contract periods and want to adding tax-based incentives that would agree, based on what they see in these farmer is going to be reluctant to continue maintaining fences. reward farmers who help improve counties, with an estimate that 20–30% spend thousands on a long-term stream Buff Showalter, a livestock farmer water quality while reducing tax of farms have fenced livestock from exclusion project,” said Matt Kowalski, in Rockingham County who fenced breaks for those who don’t. streams so far. a watershed restoration scientist with off his streams years ago, said he feels Pelton said part of what drove the “It’s a hard pill to swallow, but I the Chesapeake Bay Foundation who that the low-hanging fruit — farms EIP report is that Virginia seemed think it’s pretty truthful,” Whitescarver works in the Shenandoah Valley. whose owners or landscape make them unable to definitively track progress said. But, he added, “Twenty years ago, The alphabet soup of programs that relatively easy places to fence livestock toward the stream-fencing goals offi- nobody was thinking about fencing can help defray costs can be over- away from streams — has already been cials had set earlier. Baxter and others cattle out of the streams. You could flip whelming for farmers, but the Reids picked. At his farm, the main water- at the DCR said they knew how many the coin and say, ‘Wow. Starting from said the local NRCS office helped ways are located near the back, where miles of stream fencing the state had zero, we’re doing pretty good.’ ”

Number 2 Volume 27 Annapolis Canoe and Kayak Watermen oppose ADVERTISE with US! plans to protect historic shipwrecks April 2017 ≈ Fear of fishing restrictions down the road alarms those An invasive who ply waters near MallowsR blue catfish, heele recently Bay, despitehy B. assurances. W imoT caught in By T the Potomac The “ghost fleet” sunk in the mud River by of Mallows Bay never saw action in Richard World War I. But nearly a century later, Turner and the decaying wrecks of more than 100 his crew. wooden steamships built for that war They can and left to rot in the Potomac River have reach 100 triggered a new conflict. pounds and A proposal by the National Oceanic consume and Atmospheric Administration to vast create a new national marine sanctuary - amounts of around the skeletal remains of those crabs and vessels has riled commercial fishermen in menhaden. Maryland and Virginia. Despite assur Photo / ances to the contrary, they see the move Dave Harp as a potential threat to their livelihood. They have flocked to public meetings to oppose it, saying they fear it could restrict Canoes or block their access to waters where ✦ they’ve harvested a bounty of fish, crabs and oysters for years. Reach our audience of educated, “The word ‘sanctuary,’ makes us commercial fishery has taken off. shake,” John Dean, president of the St. But a new federal regulation could Mary’s County Watermen’s Association, disrupt what many see as one of the said at a public meeting earlier this month. most successful “eat the invasives” “Please leave this alone.” - have been eating their way through campaigns in the country. Under Now, a proposal that at one time had the Potomac River and the rest of legislation passed by Congress seemed to be sailing along with universal New catfish reg threatensthe Chesapeake Baywatermen’s for the last yearslivelihood, ago to protect Mississippi’s Bay support has run into a squall of opposi 28 on page Inspection requirement decade. They can grow to 5 feet long farmed catfish industry from foreign tion. Though small compared to the ≈ and weigh up to 100 pounds while imports, sales of any type of catfish, continues could derailffort both to control thriving gobbling up other commercially 12 including these wild-caught in the page SHIPWRECKS fishery, e valuable fish, such as menhaden and Chesapeake region, will be subjecton invasive species.oBell blue crabs. continues ona K Turner and a growing number of By R CATFISH conscientious, and loyal readers Richard Turner Jr. maneuvered his fishermen are turning the tables on Kayaks these invasive predators. Spurred on Carolina Skiff around Gunston Cove ✦ by a burgeoning market and the lack in the Potomac River, then hoisted of any harvest limits, the blue catfish three decades to revive the Bay’s ecological health. a hoop net out of the water that he’d - “If this program is eliminated, there is a very left there hours ago. M ay 2017 real chance that the Bay will revert to a national Inside wriggled a 12-pound blue disgrace,” said Chesapeake Bay Foundation - catfish. These mustachioed menaces President William Baker, “with deteriorating water Bay Program — which guides the overall state-fed quality, unhealthy fish and shellfish, and water-borne eral restoration effort — from $73 million to nothing diseases that pose a real threat to human health.” It also galvanized a bipartisan pushback from 14 in the fiscal year beginning Oct. 1. The EPA’s overall on page Underwater grassesbudget was targeted for a 31 percent reduction. elected officials throughout the region, as state offi fforts. The White House called also for sharp decreases continues Proposed TrumpKenship budget eliminates Chesapeakecials and members Bay of Congress Program weighed in against lan BUDGET aRl B in other agencies and departments that have Sharpup cuts in 8%; other initiatives &acreage K would also is ≈ R contributed to the Bay restoration effort, but gave — in print and online! set back other B. W restorationheele e hy few details of how those might play out in specific TimoT By highest in decades- programs or initiatives. Volume 27 The Trump administration would shut down the The administration is expected to release a more ≈ Scientists say some beds might be large 34-year-oldenough Chesapeaketo survive Baysevere Program weather restoration events. detailed spending plan in May. But the potential cuts Number 3 partnership in its “America First” budget blueprint already alarmed those who’ve labored for more than SUPs By released Karl in March, while likely cuts to other initia ✦ Blan tivesUnderwater would further grasses,Kenship set oneback of efforts the most to restore closely the watchednation’s indicators largest estuary, of Chesapeake advocates Bay say. health, surged Theto the 53-page highest budget levels outline seen in would decades, slash federal Rentals & Sales accordingfunding to surveyfor the resultsEnvironmental for 2016. Protection Agency’s This is the second straight year that grasses have set a record since the survey began. Nearly 100,000 acres of the Bay’s bottom were covered by the underwater meadows, which provide habitat for juvenile fish and blue crabs, as well as food for waterfowl. That was an 8 percent increase over 2015, and more than twice what was in the Bay just four years ago. “It was an impressive year following on a previ ously impressive year and we are at numbers that we’ve not seen — ever,” said Bob Orth, an underwa ter grass expert with the Virginia Institute of Marine Science who oversees the annual aerial survey. Like all green plants, submerged grasses need - sunlight to survive, and the clearer the water, the more sun they get. Because of the link to water - clarity, the annual survey of Bay grasses — often Contact referred to by scientists as SAV, for submerged aquatic vegetation — is a closely watched indicator of the Chesapeake’s overall health. A thick stand of eel grass grows in the Honga River at the end of May in 2016. Photo / Dave Harp 311 Third St., Suite B In their own right, grass beds are also a critical component of the Bay ecosystem. In addition to and crabs, they also pump oxygen into the water providing food for waterfowl and shelter for fish and trap sediments. Restoring underwater grass beds is one of the goals of the nutrient and sediment reductions aimed at cleaning up the Bay, as water clouded by sedi ment or nutrient-fueled algae blooms can be lethal Sea Grant, which sustainsto grass more beds. than marine 20,000back to 48,195jobs, acres bymay the one-two be punch cut of Hur ricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee in late summer ≈ Trump budget would eliminate The Bay’s underwater grasses were knocked program that has economic 2011, which sent a flood of nutrients and sediment - into the Bay. Annapolis, MD 21402 impact of $575 million. But relatively dry conditions since then, which By reduced the flow of nutrients and sediments into the jacqui caine rona - growers earn money not only for the Ko Once a month,Bell Matt Parker and bivalves they grow, but also for the water Suzanne Bricker drive along Penny Lane they clean under the state’s nascent nutri through a Southern Maryland forest until ent trading program. G it dead-ends at the Chesapeake Bay. Then, R ASSES continues they pull on their waders, hop into a skiff At a University of Maryland lab, It might even encourage more Mary Parker and Bricker test their samples to landers to get into the oyster-growing to maneuver out to aquaculture cages - on page see how much nitrogen and phosphorus business. 26 where they grab samples of water, and the the oysters remove as they filter the oysters taking it in. “It’s really cool,” said Bricker, a water. If they can translate that into scientist with the National Oceanic and - (410) 263–2303 Their results may eventually let oyster programs around the nation that help a dollar value, they might one day be Atmospheric Ocean Service. “And it’s the able to generate “credits” that can be translate science into sustainable coastal first time it’s ever been done (for nutrient economies. Parker works for Sea Grant, 540-903-9298; [email protected] sold to others who are having a tough trading).” time meeting their Bay-related nutrient promoting aquaculture and helping future reduction goals. But partnerships like Parker’s and oyster farmers write and implement their Bricker’s won’t be happening in the business plans. Chesapeake, or anywhere else, if the In a draft budget released in March, Trump administration’s proposed budget the Trump administration proposed is approved. The work is funded by Mary eliminating the entire $73 million Sea land Sea Grant — one of 33 Sea Grant Grant program, which operates at universities in all Coastal States, the Great Lakes, and Guam. - www.annapoliscanoeandkayak.com SEA GRANT continues Paddle to the Bay from our Store! on page 25 18 Bay Journal • May 2019 MD bans plastic foam containers, VA passes plan for coal ash Both states also addressed lawsuits. Lafferty said ≈ he withdrew the bill at fishing, farming and energy the urging of legislative issues during recent legislative leaders but plans to sessions. reintroduce it next year. By Timothy B. Wheeler ≈ Forest conserva- The third time’s the charm, it tion: Amid continuing seems. After balking twice before, debate over whether Maryland lawmakers this year adopted Maryland’s forests the nation’s first statewide ban on need greater protection polystyrene foam food and drink from development, containers. lawmakers took a And in Virginia, after two years couple of small steps. of debate and study, legislators They agreed to study agreed on a plan for dealing with coal the issue in the coming ash impoundments that threaten to year, and they acted to contaminate groundwater and Bay make localities better tributaries. account for fees that The Maryland General Assembly developers pay in lieu session in Annapolis, which concluded of replacing woodlands on April 8, gave environmental that get bulldozed. advocates more cause to cheer after ≈ Agriculture: discouraging results the previous Lawmakers passed year. The 90-day session saw debates legislation intended to on a slew of environmental issues, enhance the tracking including oysters, clean energy, forest of poultry manure, a conservation and environmental rights. potentially significant “We were pleasantly surprised by source of nutrient how much we got done,” said Karla For the second year, Virginia lawmakers did not bring state fishing regulations for menhaden in pollution on the Eastern Raettig, executive director of the Mary- line with limits ordered by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission. (Dave Harp) Shore, and tightened the land League of Conservation Voters. permitting of large- Advocates in Virginia had a more of cleaning the mess that we inherited and wind projects come online. scale poultry operations. They also modest list to celebrate after lawmak- and created,” said Del. Brooke Lier- The fate of both the foam ban and tightened restrictions passed two years ers finished in Richmond on Feb. 23. man (D-Baltimore city), lead sponsor clean energy bills rests now with ago on the use of antimicrobial drugs Legislators there weighed funding of the House version of the bill. Gov. Larry Hogan, who must decide in healthy farm animals. increases for Bay restoration efforts, ≈ Clean energy: The Clean Energy whether to sign or veto them, or let ≈ Cownose rays: With a ban on as well as bills dealing with fisheries Jobs Act passed in the final hour of them become law without his signature. killing cownose rays in bowfishing management, offshore drilling and the session, but only as the result of a ≈ Environmental rights: A bid contests set to expire this summer, climate. compromise that left some environ- to give Marylanders a constitutional lawmakers voted overwhelmingly Legislation in both states dealing mentalists bitter. right to a clean environment failed for to extend the prohibition until state with oysters and aquaculture are The act requires Maryland to get the second year. Inspired by similar regulators complete a plan for manag- covered in a separate article (see MD, 50% of its energy from renewable amendments in Pennsylvania and other ing the species. VA legislatures tackle oyster issues sources by 2030 and to come up with states, advocates argued that residents ≈ Solar siting: An emergency with mixed reactions, page 19). Here a plan for reaching 100% by 2040. But should be able to challenge in court is a rundown of other notable bills that to win passage, lawmakers agreed to those state and local governmental Sessions continues on page 20 passed — and some that didn’t. maintain a loophole in the existing actions they law that classifies trash incineration as contend are Maryland clean energy, enabling it to earn state harmful to the ≈ Foam ban: Lawmakers approved a ban on polystyrene foam food subsidies. environment. containers after advocates pointed out That upset some activists, who “Shouldn’t that two of Maryland’s largest coun- argued that incinerators are significant people at least be ties, Prince George’s and Montgomery, sources of air pollution and that, able to get in the had already enacted local bans, and particularly in Baltimore, poor and door to challenge others are scheduled to take effect in predominantly minority neighbor- things that seem the coming year. hoods are recipients of those harmful dangerous to all Foam food and drink containers emissions. of us?” asked Del. make up 10–40% of the litter col- Supporters of the bill said they tried Stephen Lafferty lected in stream cleanups, according to close the incineration loophole, but (D-Baltimore to the nonprofit Trash Free Maryland. couldn’t muster the votes needed to County), the bill’s Beyond that, they argue, the foam pass it because of warnings that jobs sponsor. poses threats to wildlife and human could be lost if incinerators in Balti- Despite being health, as it picks up contaminants and more city and Montgomery County a priority of the breaks down into tiny particles that were forced to shut down by losing the environmental can be easily ingested. subsidies. community, the “The health of the Chesapeake Bay, Supporters also say that the benefits measure worried Maryland has enacted a ban on polystyrene foam food our waterways, our neighborhoods outweigh the downsides, and the some lawmakers containers. According to Trash Free Maryland, foam food and our children’s futures depends on share of clean-energy credits going to that it could flood and drink containers make up 10–40% of the litter collected our willingness to do the hard work incineration will shrink as more solar the courts with during stream cleanups. (Dave Harp) Bay Journal • May 2019 19 MD, VA legislatures tackle oyster issues with mixed reactions ≈ In Annapolis, lawmakers Elfreth, a lead sponsor of the bill, had to overcome Hogan veto, emphasized that the restriction would be temporary. No sanctuary acreage opposition from watermen. could be opened to harvest, she said, By Timothy B. Wheeler until the DNR has reconstituted its Oysters got attention from lawmak- advisory commission and worked to ers this year in both Maryland and get new management recommendations Virginia, but the issue sparked bitter from them — a process she estimated debates in Annapolis. could take up to two years. Maryland lawmakers overcame Elfreth said she offered to amend Gov. Larry Hogan’s veto to forbid her bill to let watermen start working future commercial harvests from five as early as this year on rebuilding oyster sanctuaries undergoing restora- oyster habitat in up to four sanctuaries, tion. They also passed another bill that to see if they could support rotational at least temporarily bars opening any harvest in a few years. But the offer of the state’s 46 other sanctuaries to wasn’t taken, she said. harvest. Watermen are urging Hogan Hogan has until late May to sign, to veto it as well. veto or let the management bill become In Richmond, there was less at stake law without his signature. If he vetoes and more harmony — which may stem it, the General Assembly could vote on from the fact that the Old Dominion’s an override when it meets in January, wild oyster harvests have been increas- unless there’s a special session earlier. ing, while Maryland’s have been Other controversial oyster bills in slipping. Virginia lawmakers approved Maryland failed to progress, including Oysters grow in a sanctuary in the St. Mary’s River, one of five major oyster three that sought to prohibit the dredg- Gov. Ralph Northam’s budget request restoration projects taking place in Maryland. (Dave Harp) ing of old oyster shells from Man ’o for $4 million for oyster reef repletion War Shoal, a large reef near the mouth As part of the Chesapeake Bay recommendations” for maintaining a and restoration, one-third more than of the Patapsco River. They died in Watershed Agreement, Maryland sustainable harvest and rebuilding the this year. They also agreed to some of committee. pledged nearly five years ago to the recommendations of a gubernato- depleted oyster population, estimated The DNR has proposed dredging restore oyster populations in five Bay rial task force seeking to ease conflicts to be 1–2% of historic levels. 5 million bushels from the shoal to over aquaculture leases. tributaries by 2025. Work is essentially Supporters say the measure requires rebuild oyster reefs in public fishery The two oyster bills passed by complete in Harris Creek and in vari- the DNR to follow a more inclusive areas and sanctuaries, as well as to Maryland’s General Assembly are the ous stages of construction or planning process for developing management supply oyster farmers with shells. But latest in a tug of war with the Hogan in the other four: the Tred Avon, Little strategies that environmentalists and sport fishermen, environmentalists administration over management of the Choptank, St. Mary’s and Manokin watermen alike can support. But DNR and even some watermen oppose the keystone Chesapeake Bay species. rivers. officials view it as potentially disrup- project, which they contend could Hogan campaigned in 2014 with The proposed bill barred any tive, saying it could prolong their impact finfish and degrade one of the a pledge to end what he called his changes to the five sanctuaries without development of the plan and limit their state’s last large reefs. The U.S. Army predecessor’s “assault” on watermen. approval from the General Assembly, options. Corps of Engineers has given the In early 2017, at the urging of water- removing direct control from the That’s a concern for watermen, who project conditional approval, but the men worried about declining harvests, DNR. Watermen opposed it, contend- got a sobering preview in mid-April Maryland Board of Public Works has his Department of Natural Resources ing that the restoration projects — and of new harvest limits the DNR may not yet issued a decision. floated a plan to open portions of some sanctuaries in general — aren’t helping impose on existing public fishery Also dying in committee was sanctuaries for commercial harvest. to restore the oyster population. They areas. DNR officials told the Oyster legislation sponsored by a pair of St. The General Assembly reacted by have pressed the state to let them Advisory Commission they were Mary’s County lawmakers that would blocking that move until the DNR harvest oysters from portions of some considering shortening the six-month have given waterfront property owners produced a scientific assessment of the sanctuaries on a rotational basis, a season, cutting the number of harvest the right to preempt the issuance of a oyster stock. The study, completed last management method used in Virginia. days per week, reducing the maximum state lease to raise oysters in cages or year, found that the state’s population In March, in votes that generally daily catch, or alternately opening and floats in the water off their shoreline. of market-size oysters had declined by broke along party lines, the Democrat- closing areas to limit harvest pressure. The DNR has sole authority over half since 1999 and more than half of controlled Maryland House and Senate Robert T. Brown, president of the whether to lease bottom or the water the areas where commercial harvest is approved the bill. Hogan vetoed the Maryland Watermen’s Association, column for aquaculture. But in response allowed were being overfished. measure, calling it bad for watermen contended that the curbs would hurt to complaints from waterfront property Those findings prompted the DNR and the Bay. He accused the legislature his members, may not be effective and owners, the Southern Maryland county to begin drawing up a new manage- of undermining his administration’s might actually increase harvest pres- last year imposed a six-month mora- ment plan for oysters, which officials efforts to forge a consensus over stew- sure in some areas. He said the “one torium on using county docks to work said they hoped to have in place before ardship of the state’s oyster population. thing that could save our industry” new water-column leases. the next commercial oyster season Unswayed, the House easily over- would be for the DNR to let watermen Aquaculture legislation fared begins on Oct. 1. rode Hogan’s veto, while the Senate try rotational harvests in the sanctuar- better in Virginia, where lawmakers But environmentalists, worried that did so by a narrow margin. ies not affected by the bill passed over approved a measure intended to medi- the DNR was still intent on opening The same back-and-forth may await Hogan’s veto. ate disputes over navigational dredging sanctuaries, appealed to lawmakers to the oyster management bill that the But after the meeting, Jeannie through the many leased areas in the set some parameters for future man- Assembly also passed in its final days. Haddaway-Riccio, the new DNR Lynnhaven River in Virginia Beach. agement. One bill proposed stronger The bill requires the DNR to reorga- secretary, said that the oyster manage- They also passed a bill that gives the protection for sanctuaries in the five nize its Oyster Advisory Commission, ment bill would prevent the DNR from Virginia Marine Resources Commis- Bay tributaries that the state has then work with it and the University letting watermen experiment with any sion more leeway in preventing parties selected for large-scale oyster restora- of Maryland Center for Environmen- of the other sanctuaries. from acquiring leases that they have no tion projects. tal Science to develop “consensus Anne Arundel County Sen. Sarah intention to use for raising oysters. 20 Bay Journal • M ay 2019 Eastern hellbender gets new nickname: Pennsylvania state amphibian ≈ North America’s largest students have found amphibian is also a poster viable populations remaining in only four child for clear, clean water. mountain tributaries of By Ad Crable the Susquehanna. The imperiled eastern hellbender, a Countering the eastern creature most people consider ugly and hellbenders’ rise to few Pennsylvanians have ever seen, recognition in Pennsylva- became the state’s official amphibian nia, the U.S. Department April 23, with the stroke of a pen from of the Interior in April Gov. Tom Wolf. declined to list the species It was a crisscrossed journey — the as threatened under the nomination of another salamander briefly Endangered Species challenged the designation — but the per- Act after eight years of sistence of a high school environmental consideration. The Center group and a few other loyal fans of North for Biological Diversity America’s largest salamander succeeded characterized the decision in the end. as “a big shove toward A fully aquatic salamander with extinction.” slimy, wrinkled skin, the hellbender can But there are some grow up to 2 feet long and goes by an encouraging signs on the unflattering array of nicknames such as conservation front. Last devil dog, mud devil, snot otter and Old August, 100 adult hell- Lasagna Sides. benders raised in captivity It is not aesthetically pleasing or at the Bronx Zoo — from universally cherished like other Pennsyl- Eastern hellbenders, which live up to 50 years, have been around for tens of thousands of years. eggs collected by Petokas vania official emblems, such as ruffed (Dave Harp) in Pennsylvania and New grouse, brook trout, Pennsylvania firefly, York — were released white-tailed deer or mountain laurel. The recognize hellbenders. Eastern hellbenders, which live up into a tributary of the Susquehanna in new state amphibian is actually one of “It’s an excellent natural indicator of to 50 years, have been around for tens southern New York. The Wildlife Conser- the least-known creatures in the state. good water quality. It exemplifies what is of thousands of years and are the largest vation Society paid for the project which But supporters say it serves as a good about Pennsylvania’s waterways.” amphibians in the world aside from a is working on a second batch for release. symbol for something valued both by Yaw decided to push for state status 4-foot-long species in Asia, which is their And a new high-tech tool called Pennsylvania citizens and those down- after being approached by Anna Pauletta, closest relative. Environmental DNA uses water samples stream near the Chesapeake Bay: clean, of Mechanicsburg, PA, then a high school They are secretive, live most of their collected from streams to identify the clear water. student and president of the Chesapeake lives under a single boulder or two, and presence of different species. The data Hellbenders survive only in clean, Bay Foundation’s Student Leadership only come out at night to feed. Few people is identifying hellbenders in some new well-oxygenated and fast-flowing Council in Pennsylvania. have ever seen them, though anglers streams, according to Brandon Ruhe, streams. They also need streams with “It’s not the most attractive, but it’s fishing with bait occasionally are startled president of the Pennsylvania-based plenty of boulders to hide under and something that’s very important to the to find one at the end of their lines. Mid-Atlantic Center for Herpetology and snatch prey, which consists almost food and balance of our waterways. It’s Eastern hellbenders once inhabited Conservation. entirely of crayfish with an occasional an indicator species,” Pauletta said. “It’s rivers and tributaries up and down the Ruhe says the group is also getting minnow or trout egg that they find more such a universal need. Everybody relies Appalachians, from New York to Geor- promising reports from anglers who by smell than clumsy sight. on clean water.” gia. But they have disappeared from most accidentally hook hellbenders, some in “Yes, it’s an ugly creature that Peter Petokas, a biology professor at of their range in recent decades because streams where hellbenders had not been serves a beautiful purpose,” state Sen. Lycoming College in Pennsylvania who of pollution, sedimentation, illegal collec- documented. Gene Yaw said on the floor of the keeps tabs on hellbenders and fights to tion, acid mine drainage, dams and more “I think maybe we should take a deep capitol in Harrisburg in February when save them, adds, “They are kind of a recently, a fungus. breath. Maybe they are doing a little he appealed to fellow legislators to canary in the coal mine.” In Pennsylvania, Petokas and his better than we thought,” Ruhe said.

Sessions from page 18 groundwater and pollute waterways in overflows into the Potomac River. language in the budget to prevent the Bay watershed. Dominion Energy ≈ Menhaden: For the second year, the state from joining the Regional bill aimed at steering solar energy devel- had wanted to cap the ash in place at lawmakers did not bring state fishing Greenhouse Gas Initiative, a nine-state opment away from farmland and forests its plants, but legislators agreed on a regulations for this important forage fish compact that’s working to reduce passed the Senate but died in the House. plan to recycle at least 25 percent of in line with limits ordered by the Atlantic climate-altering carbon pollution by Sen. Paul Pinsky (D-Prince George’s the ash and move the rest to modern, States Marine Fisheries Commission. The requiring fossil-fuel power plants to County) had proposed a broad-based lined landfills. commission has said it won’t penalize the buy and trade emission allowances. commission to write siting guidelines ≈ Agriculture: The General state as long as the Virginia-based Omega Gov. Ralph Northam tried to remove amid the uproar over plans to clear 240 Assembly increased funding to help Protein menhaden fleet does not exceed the language, but the Assembly refused forested acres in Southern Maryland farmers control runoff from fields and the Bay catch cap of 51,000 metric tons. to go along. In mid-April, the state Air for a solar facility to serve Georgetown pastures, putting $89.7 million into an ≈ Offshore Drilling: Legislation Pollution Control Board approved a University. A House committee plans a agricultural cost-share program that that would have limited exploration plan to regulate carbon emissions from summer study of the issue. will help to pay to exclude livestock and drilling for oil and gas in state power plants that would let it join the from streams and install other waters failed. Environmental advo- regional compact. But it’s not clear what Virginia conservation practices. The budget cates worry that an offshore oil spill or the state could do as long as that budget ≈ Coal Ash: Unlined ponds holding included $25 million for upgrading well blowout could affect the Bay as language remains in effect. Advocates the toxic residue from coal-fired Alexandria’s combined sewer and well as the Atlantic shoreline. are urging the governor to veto it, which power plants threaten to contaminate stormwater system, which routinely ≈ Climate: Legislators inserted he must do by May 3 or it takes effect. Bay Journal • M ay 2019 21 Highlights of the Watershed Implementation Plans In 2010, the U.S. Environmental rate of nitrogen reductions from agricul- Protection Agency established a ture threefold — from 2010 through 2017, cleanup plan for the Chesapeake Bay it achieved 1.4 million pounds of nitrogen known as the Total Maximum Daily reductions from farmland. Load or “pollution diet.” It established Controlling stormwater continues to the maximum about of nitrogen and be a challenge. Current permits for its phosphorus “loads” that could reach nine largest jurisdictions call for a treat- the Chesapeake Bay each year while ing runoff from the equivalent of 20% allowing it to maintain water quality of the previously untreated impervious safe for aquatic life. Specific goals were surfaces, but jurisdictions have struggled assigned to each state and major river to meet that goal. The WIP suggests in the watershed. The Baywide goals, that in the next 5-year permit cycle, an slightly refined in 2018, are: average reduction rate of 2% per year — half the current objective — may be more Nitrogen realistic. ≈ 2009 Load: 270.9 million pounds It also said counties will be able ≈ 2017 Load: 249.78 million pounds to meet a portion of their stormwater ≈ 2025 Target: 201.41 million pounds requirements though water quality trad- ing as “over performance in the waste- Phosphorus water sector more than offsets anticipated ≈ 2009 Load: 17.07 million pounds growth in the urban sector.” ≈ 2017 Load: 14.84 million pounds The plan’s preliminary estimates say ≈ 2025 Target: 14.17 million pounds that full implementation will cost the States have been working since 2010 state $273 million a year, with the largest to achieve those goals. On April 12, they costs incurred by wastewater, followed released draft plans showing how they Controlling stormwater runoff continues to be a challenge for several of the Bay by stormwater. It estimates that local plan to achieve remaining nutrient reduc- jurisdictions. (Dave Harp) governments will incur an additional $1.6 tions by the 2025 deadline. Drawing billion in costs through 2025, mainly to straight comparisons between the drafts need to have nutrient management plans Bay toward the ocean, only a portion of implement stormwater programs. is difficult, as each presents information implemented on three times as many its nutrients impact Bay water quality. and data in slightly different ways, and crop acres by 2025 as have been done Therefore, it takes significantly more Pennsylvania not all provide cost estimates. since 2010, and plant three times as many reductions from the James to achieve the Nitrogen Highlights of those “watershed acres of cover crops. Streamside grass same water quality impact as those from 2009 Load: 112.71 million pounds implementation plans,” as well as the buffers with livestock fencing would other tributaries. Because of its reliance 2017 Load: 107.31 million pounds nutrient reduction progress and goals for have to increase by 14-fold. The Eastern on James River reductions, Virginia’s 2025 Target: 73.17 million pounds each state, are summarized here. Shore would require similar ramp-ups. statewide nitrogen reductions far surpass Draft WIP: 84.74 million pounds To help cover likely shortfalls in those the state goal set in the TMDL in order to Phosphorus Virginia basins, the plan is counting on over- have the same benefit to the Bay. 2009 Load: 4.46 million pounds Nitrogen performance in other basins, particularly 2017 Load: 3.8 million pounds 2009 Load: 68.1 million pounds the James River, where a number of Maryland wastewater treatment plants are slated for 2025 Target: 3.04 million pounds 2017 Load: 58.15 million pounds Nitrogen Draft WIP: 2.98 million pounds 2025 Target: 55.72 million pounds upgrades. 2009 Load: 57.51 million pounds Draft WIP: 48.67 million pounds* In some cases, the plan calls for 2017 Load: 54.22 million pounds Pennsylvania’s draft states that it “is backup from the state legislature if committed to having all practices and Phosphorus 2025 Target: 45.78 million pounds 2009 Load: 6.99 million pounds progress falls short. For instance, the plan Draft WIP: 45 million pounds controls in place by 2025” and says that 2017 Load: 6.12 million pounds aims for nutrient management plans on its plan provides “reasonable assurance” 85% of all cropland and says the state Phosphorus that those reductions will be achieved. 2025 Target: 6.19 million pounds 2009 Load: 4.05 million pounds would pursue legislation making it a 2017 Load: 3.66 million pounds The submitted plan would achieve the Draft WIP: 5.14 million pounds* requirement for all operations larger than goal for phosphorus, but not for nitrogen. The Virginia plan divides its goals 50 acres that apply fertilizer, manure or 2025 Target: 3.68 million pounds The state would fall short by about one among its major river basins: the Rap- sewage sludge. The requirement would Draft WIP: 3.28 million pounds third of its goal, or 11 million pounds, phannock, York and James basins, as only be triggered if the state is not on a Maryland’s plan outlines activities and the plan does not clearly show how well as the state’s portion of the Potomac trajectory to meet the 85% goal by 2025. that would lead to success but says Bay that gap would be closed. River watershed and Eastern Shore. Likewise, the plan sets a goal of restoration will “test the collective will The WIP says it hopes to shore The plan cautions that the goals are excluding livestock from all streams in across seven watershed jurisdictions” to up part of the shortfall by identifying “ambitious and will require significant the state and says the state will pursue see if they can “live in harmony with the nutrient control practices that have been effort, sustained funding and increased legislation to require it, though it did not region’s natural resources.” installed, but not previously counted technical capacity.” It also expects that establish a time frame for doing so. The majority of the state’s nitrogen toward cleanup goals. The state has also more public funding and new laws will The WIP also calls for establishing a reductions will come from continu- launched an intensive effort to work be needed. And, it anticipates that surplus workgroup to explore whether the state’s ing improvements from wastewater with local officials and organizations to nutrient reductions from wastewater Chesapeake Bay Preservation Act, which treatment plants, where discharges are develop county-level plans, which is a treatment plants will be needed to cover gives local governments more regulatory projected to decrease by 4.7 million more aggressive effort to engage local potential nutrient reduction shortfalls in authority to protect water quality, should pounds a year as the last large treatment governments than has been undertaken its stormwater and agriculture sectors. be extended to areas west of Interstate 95. plants in the state are upgraded with in other states. The plan says that when The job will be particularly difficult *Meeting cleanup goals requires nutrient control technology. that process is complete, counties may in its portions of the Potomac basin significant nutrient reductions from That will be closely matched by agri- identify additional nutrient reduction and Eastern Shore, which have the the James River to offset shortfalls culture, which is expected to deliver a 4.4 opportunities. But the first two counties greatest impact on Bay water quality. elsewhere. Because much of the water million pound annual reduction. Under For instance, the Potomac basin would from the James goes out the mouth of the the plan, the state needs to increase its Highlights continues on page 23 22 Bay Journal • M ay 2019

WIPs from page 1 from each state and major river, and it requires all actions needed for meeting those goals to be in place by 2025. States wrote plans and have been implementing them with varying amounts of success. They have met phosphorus goals ahead of schedule, but efforts to control nitrogen — long the bigger challenge — are far off track. The new “watershed implementation plans” being completed this year are supposed to show how states will complete the job on schedule. States submitted their drafts to the EPA April 12, and they are available for public comment through June 7. The plans are to be finalized by Aug. 9.

More effort & more costs For some, writing the latest plan was easy. West Virginia and the District of Columbia have already met their goals, though both have committed to do more An Amish farmer lays down commercial fertilizer in Lancaster County, PA. The state has more farms — 33,000 — than other in coming years. states in the region, and most are small, making both oversight and outreach a struggle. (Ad Crable) Other plans detail how states would meet the 2025 goals but require signifi- now needs to accomplish three quarters cover the shortfall. Harry Campbell, Pennsylvania cantly more effort and funding to reduce of the remaining reductions needed in the In its warning last year, the EPA said executive director of the Chesapeake Bay nutrient-laden runoff from farmland — entire Bay watershed. Pennsylvania does that if Pennsylvania did not submit a Foundation, expressed disappointment in the largest source of nutrients — as well not touch the Chesapeake, but nearly half satisfactory plan, it could face a variety Pennsylvania’s plan. “We’ve got to fix it as stormwater from urban and suburban of the state drains into the Susquehanna, of consequences. Those could include and fund it,” he said. roads. while a small portion goes into the forcing wastewater treatment plants to Campbell praised the state’s effort to Maryland counts on doing three times Potomac River, the Bay’s second largest make further costly upgrades, bringing involve counties, farmers and other stake- as much to control nutrients from its tributary. more animal feedlots under the federal holders in the plan’s development, saying farms between now and 2025 than it has Under the pollution diet, the state regulatory umbrella, redirecting how EPA “the process got a lot of interest, energy accomplished since 2010. Delaware calls needs to slash annual nitrogen discharges grant funds are spent or other actions. and even enthusiasm” and that the state for planting cover crops on “every eligible to the Bay by 39.5 million pounds a year, An agency spokesman declined to would have been further along if such an acre,” and Virginia calls for a huge accel- but through the end of 2017 — the most comment on Pennsylvania’s plan, saying outreach effort had begun years ago. eration of its various programs aimed at recent figures publicly available — the that the agency was reviewing drafts But, he added, “the bottom line is it’s keeping livestock out of streams. state had reduced its load by just 5.4 mil- from all of the states and would release its got to add up.” Some states included cost estimates for lion pounds, according to the state-federal assessments in early June. Securing funding from the state’s Gen- their plans; others did not. But the plans Bay Program. eral Assembly has long been a challenge. show that full implementation would cost Although its draft plan says the state EPA urged to act According to the plan, the state and coun- hundreds of millions of dollars a year. “is committed to having all practices Environmental groups and representa- ties in the Bay watershed currently spend The biggest problems lie on the and controls in place by 2025” to meet tives from other jurisdictions have called about $229 million a year on restoration Susquehanna River, which supplies half the Bay goals, the submitted document on the agency to apply more pressure efforts. But that spending needs to be of the freshwater — and nearly half of the only shows how it would achieve two- on Pennsylvania. Maryland’s draft plan ramped up to $485 million a year. nitrogen — to the Bay. thirds of its needed reduction, leaving emphasized that meeting Bay goals “will The shortfalls identified in the report New York, which lies hundreds of a gap of more than 11 million pounds. require full commitment from upstream are not new. A Pennsylvania “reboot” miles upstream and has long been a That’s nearly a quarter of the nitrogen states, like Pennsylvania and New York” strategy released three years ago reluctant participant in the Bay restoration reductions needed for the entire Bay and upon the EPA “holding all jurisdic- intending to jump-start the state’s Bay effort, has made little progress since the watershed from now through 2025. tions accountable.” obligations also identified severe staffing pollution diet went into effect. Rather than (The state would achieve its phosphorus Deborah Klenotic, a spokeswoman shortages and a funding shortfall. accelerating its work, the state’s new plan goal, though.) for the Pennsylvania Department of Campbell said that the new plan, and commits to maintaining “a consistent Even with that shortfall, the plan Environmental Protection, acknowledged the potential for EPA action, could finally level of implementation” on its farmland, would require Pennsylvania to increase that the plan only outlined actions that spur the state’s lawmakers to provide which is by far its largest source of nutri- funding for pollution reduction efforts achieved two-thirds of the nitrogen goal more resources for the job. “This is sort ents, saying such efforts are “realistic.” It by $257 million a year — more than but said the state “will meet its obligations of a stark reminder, and maybe even a is counting on significant farmland losses doubling what the state currently spends. through additional measures.” wake-up call, as to the need,” he said. in its portion of the watershed, with an Because Pennsylvania is so far “A key focus … is increased tracking associated reduction in fertilizer applica- behind in its Bay commitments, the of nitrogen reductions from sources not Keystone State’s tough task tions, to help meet its goal. EPA last year singled it out for increased yet documented,” she said. Pennsylvania has always faced a more New York submitted an alternate plan oversight and asked for more evidence to The plan said many conservation difficult challenge in reducing nutrient that would achieve the Bay goals, but demonstrate that it will have the pro- measures that farmers and others pollution than most other states in the said it lacks the funding and staffing to grams, funding and policies needed to implemented on their own — without watershed. implement it. implement its plan. The agency also said public funding — have not been Maryland and Virginia have made it expected “technical details,” includ- accounted for in meeting Bay goals. It recent progress by upgrading wastewa- PA still far behind ing a list of all nutrient control actions calls for increased efforts to track those ter treatment plants, but only about a The larger shortfall, by far, is in Penn- Pennsylvania needs to meet its goals. actions, as well as other measures for tenth of Pennsylvania’s nitrogen comes sylvania. Nutrient reduction has lagged The draft failed to do that and provides which it says the state has not received there for years, and the Keystone State little detail about how the state would full credit. WIPs continues on page 23 Bay Journal • M ay 2019 23

Highlights from page 21 2025 Target: 431,952 pounds Draft WIP: 383,000 pounds to complete plans, Lancaster and York, fell short of their nutrient reduction goals. West Virginia has already reached Only about a tenth of the nitrogen and slightly exceeded its 2025 from the state comes from wastewater, goals because of reductions from and most of its plants have been upgraded wastewater treatment plant upgrades, with nutrient control technologies. That agriculture and stormwater runoff, means most of the remaining reductions as well as changes in the way that the will have to come from agriculture and state-federal Bay Program developed stormwater, sectors in which all states its nutrient reduction goals. But the have been struggling to reduce pollution. state’s plan says that it is committed Noting that the shortfalls could trigger to continue implementing runoff action by the EPA, the plan stresses the control practices at its recent rate urgency of demonstrating progress. because of benefits to local water- For instance, it says, local governments ways, which will result in additional can take necessary administrative steps nutrient reductions. toward creating stormwater fees even if they cannot be levied immediately. New York They can also create voluntary programs Nitrogen to reduce lawn fertilizer, subsidize rain 2009 Load: 14.51 million pounds barrels and promote reforestation, the 2017 Load: 14.32 million pounds plan suggests. 2025 Target: 11.53 million pounds Draft WIP: N/A Delaware Phosphorus Nitrogen 2009 Load: 737,271 pounds 2009 Load: 7.25 million pounds The District of Columbia has already surpassed its nutrient reduction goals for 2025, thanks in 2017 Load: 632,372 pounds 2017 Load: 6.46 million pounds large part to upgrades at its Blue Plains Advanced Wastewater Treatment Plant. (Dave Harp) 2025 Target: 587,326 pounds 2025 Target: 4.55 million pounds Draft WIP: N/A Draft WIP: 4.46 million pounds would triple cover crop implementation wastewater from the district, as well as by 2025. Among other actions, the its densely populated suburbs in Virginia New York has not been working at Phosphorus 2009 Load: 139,723 pounds state is counting on ramped up levels of and Maryland. But the wastewater the pace needed to meet its nitrogen 2017 Load: 118,069 pounds enhanced nutrient management to further figures included in the district’s plan only goals by 2025. The plan does not acceler- reduce fertilizer applications. At the same cover the portion of the Blue Plains flow ate improvements for its agricultural 2025 Target: 108,000 pounds time, it backs away from earlier goals for stemming from the district. sector — the state’s largest source of Draft WIP: 81,000 pounds planting streamside buffers, citing lack of Nonetheless, the district plans to nutrients — saying the state is “com- Delaware’s plan would achieve its landowner interest. continue implementing stormwater con- mitted to executing a consistent level nutrient reduction goals by 2025. The trol actions because of benefits to local of implementation.” It characterizes the state’s nutrients overwhelmingly come District of Columbia communities, such as improving stream decision to maintain the current level from agriculture instead of stormwater Nitrogen health and reducing flood risks. of effort as “practical and reasonable runoff from developed areas or wastewa- 2009 Load: 2.76 million pounds Actual nitrogen loads from the considering current available funding, ter. Its largest town in the Bay watershed, 2017 Load: 1.54 million pounds district could be less than stated in its technical staff, time and cooperation for Seaford, has fewer than 8,000 people. 2025 Target: 2.42 million pounds plan, because the WIP sets the nitrogen implementation.” Delaware has several small wastewater Draft WIP: 2.42 million pounds discharge for Blue Plains at its design The state is counting on “negative dischargers but is counting on agricul- capacity. In fact, the plan notes, the plant growth” in its agricultural sector, antici- Phosphorus ture to overachieve and offset potential 2009 Load: 72,272 pounds is operating under that capacity, and is pating that the loss of farms — and the increases from wastewater treatment 2017 Load: 76,178 pounds expected to do so at least through 2030. related nutrients — will help meet its plants. Most states are approaching it the goal. But figures presented in the plan other way around, looking for reductions 2025 Target: 130,065 pounds West Virginia make it unclear whether those changes from wastewater to cover shortfalls in Draft WIP: 129,037 pounds Nitrogen would be sufficient to close its gap. agriculture. The District of Columbia has already 2009 Load: 8.06 million pounds The plan anticipates small reduc- Recent rates of agricultural nutrient surpassed its nutrient reduction goals for 2017 Load: 7.77 million pounds tions in wastewater pollution as some reductions would not achieve the state’s 2025, thanks in large part to upgrades 2025 Target: 8.22 million pounds upgrades are finalized, while expecting goal, so the plan calls for a sharp increase at its Blue Plains Advanced Wastewater Draft WIP: 7.51 million pounds to slash nitrogen runoff from urban areas in activity. That includes planting “every Treatment Plant, by far the largest Phosphorus — an area where others have struggled eligible acre” of cropland with a nutrient- treatment plant in the Bay watershed 2009 Load: 624,124 pounds — by 600,000 pounds a year, or more absorbing cover crop in the fall, which and perhaps the world. It handles the 2017 Load: 429,053 pounds than a quarter of its urban runoff.

WIPs from page 22 of Pennsylvania’s developed lands are potential EPA action. It implores local lawsuits. In the draft plan, Pennsylvania outside areas covered by state and federal governments and others to “demon- tacitly acknowledges that patience among from that sector. stormwater permits, meaning there is strate progress,” such adopting policies others involved in the Bay restoration Most of its nutrients come from agri- little effective regulatory control. or ordinances, even if on-the-ground effort is wearing thin and that it “could culture and stormwater runoff — sectors “Compared to the other states in the action is not immediately possible. face opposition from other states and that all of the states have struggled to watershed, the scale of the nonpoint The plan also emphasizes that not only environmental organizations” if it does control. source challenges in Pennsylvania is one the Bay, but the state’s own rivers, streams not do more. It has more farms — 33,000 — than of the most significant factors that has and public drinking water supplies are at Links to the plans, and instructions other states in the region, and most impacted past progress and will impact risk and would benefit from the cleanup for commenting, can be found at the are small, making both oversight and future success,” the state’s draft plan says. actions. EPA’s Chesapeake Bay Total Maxi- outreach a struggle. Likewise, much of Despite its shortfall, the state’s draft If the state doesn’t ramp up its efforts, mum Daily Load website. Visit the stormwater pollution comes from plan acknowledges the urgency to begin some — including Maryland lawmakers epa.gov/chesapeake-bay-tmdl and small rural communities. Three-fourths demonstrating cleanup progress or face — have suggested forcing action through click on “Read the Draft WIPs.” 24 Bay Journal • M ay 2019

Heritage from page 1 The last known to be in the area were murdered in 1763. national destination where visitors can Over time, the Susquehanna made the take in natural, historical and cultural area a national nexus of early commerce features — some already well known, with its canals, railroads, shad runs, rafts some not so much. of timber and iron furnaces. The river The National Park Service already has town of Columbia in Lancaster County, been a partner on several river-related in fact, wielded such economic might that projects in the area, helping to fund a map the town failed to become the nation’s and guide in 2003 for the Susquehanna capital by just a single vote in Congress River Water Trail and improving the in 1790. Zimmerman Center for Heritage in 2006 The river also was a natural barrier so that the riverfront site could become a that figured prominently in two wars. visitor center and passport station for the During the Revolutionary War, the Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Continental Congress fled Philadelphia, Historic Trail. A ranger stationed there crossed the Susquehanna and met in York offers family programs. for nine pivotal months. The Articles of Platts thinks the park service’s Confederation were written there and presence has increased attention on the George Washington survived an effort to area and helped to nail down the Congres- remove him as commander-in-chief. sional support that led to creation of the In the Civil War, Confederate Gen. national heritage area. Robert E. Lee’s plan to invade Pennsyl- A national heritage area is different vania was thwarted when Union forces from a national park in that a heritage Depressions in boulders, sculpted by Ice Age currents and swirling debris, known as burned the covered bridge across the area is not federal property. “We don’t potholes, lie in the Conewago Falls section of the Susquehanna River. (Ad Crable) river at Columbia. Lee’s forces retreated, manage what heritage areas do,” noted resulting in the epic Battle of Gettysburg. Peter Samuel of the Park Service’s the river and its tributaries for at least John Smith, during his exploration Socially, the river tested early settlers’ regional office in Philadelphia. Rather, the 11,000 years before European settlers of the Chesapeake Bay and some of its mettle, Platts said. communities do. arrived as part of William Penn’s experi- rivers, only made it a few miles up the For a time, the river was a gateway Though the new heritage area will ment in religious freedom. Susquehanna in 1608. But he met with to the untamed West. “Those risk takers develop and promote opportunities The Susquehannocks, later called Con- members of the Susquehannock tribe crossed the river. To this day, the cultures throughout the two counties separated estogas, were the largest tribe in the area, from present-day Lancaster County and of people in Lancaster and York counties by the Susquehanna, a river will be but there also were Mohawk, Seneca, was impressed by the athletic and tall are different,” Platts said. the umbilical cord that ties everything Shawnee and Nanticoke, Ganawese and tribesmen whom he described as “giants.” Preservation of the wooded hillsides together. Delawares — some seeking refuge in the As settlers continued to enter the area, Native Americans used the area along area with permission from Penn. Native Americans were driven away. Heritage continues on page 25 Bay Journal • M ay 2019 25

Heritage from page 24 that cloak both sides of the river’s gorge has been a longstanding effort. For Set your sights on these Susquehanna sites example, the Lancaster County Conser- Thinking about checking out the vancy, aided by the state, has acquired Susquehanna National Heritage Area in more than 1,800 acres of former utility- Lancaster and York counties, PA? Here owned woods along the river over the last are some of the recreational, historical decade. The ongoing state-private effort and cultural attractions: to preserve woodlands on both shores is ≈ Agricultural & Industrial Museum: called the Susquehanna Riverlands. Exhibits highlight 300 years of transpor- Surprisingly, the corridor retains a tation, agriculture and the development large amount of its natural character, of manufacturing and industry. 217 W. even though the stretch contains a nuclear Princess St., York. yorkhistorycenter.org facility, two hydrolectric dams, a pumped ≈ Captain John Smith Chesapeake storage reservoir, power plant and National Historic Trail: Fifty-three incinerator. miles of this water trail with land- The segment between the Maryland based sites flow through the heritage line to just south of Harrisburg has a area on the Susquehanna. nps.gov/cajo wide range of natural features, from ≈ Christiana Underground Railroad overlooks that peer down into the gorge, Center & Underground Railroad the jutting Chickies Rock with its Museum: Learn about the 1851 “Chris- sweeping vista — a regional magnet for tiana Resistance,” when local residents rock climbers — and the water-sculpted violently protected a fugitive slave potholes at Conewago Falls. from Maryland from a posse. 11 Green Two outfitters, one on each side of the St., Christiana. zerchershotel.com The creation of the new Susquehanna National Heritage Area is expected to boost river, supply paddlers. Two hiking and ≈ Columbia Crossing River Trails recreational activities on the Susquehanna River. (Shank’s Mare Outfitters) bicycling trails, one in the old bed and Center: This Gateway visitor educa- mule paths of the Pennsylvania Canal, tion center is also the trailhead for the 1120 Marietta Ave., Lancaster. in the River Hills of York County. parallel the Susquehanna near the river’s Northwest Lancaster County River lancasterhistory.org kta-hike.org edge and include great views. Trail. 41 Walnut St., Columbia. ≈ William C. Goodridge Freedom ≈ Northwest Lancaster County River The dams create quiet water, while susquehannaheritage.org Center & Underground Railroad Trail: Walk or bicycle a 14-mile trail above them the river flows free and swift. ≈ Ephrata Cloister: Explore the Museum: Exhibits tell the story of the along the river connecting the towns The two different environments attract a site of a celibate, disciplined religious African American businessman and of Columbia, Marietta, Bainbridge variety of freshwater game fish popular experiment that started in 1732. 632 W. abolitionist in his former home. 123 E. and Falmouth. nwrt.info with anglers. Market St., Ephrata. ephratacloister.org Philadelphia St., York. ≈ York County Heritage Rail Trail: Though the river will be front and ≈ Highpoint Scenic Vista: Take in goodridgefreedomcenter.org Walk, bicycle or travel by horseback center, the heritage area development will sweeping views of the Susquehanna ≈ York Colonial Complex: Four his- on a 21-mile trail from the Maryland include attractions throughout the two and hilltop meadows. 1199 Hilt toric buildings showcase York’s consider- line to York. yorkcountypa.gov counties that shaped the area’s history and Road, Wrightsville. able role during the Revolutionary War, Native American Sites culture. Among them will be destina- yorkcountypa.gov/parks-recreation including a reconstructed courthouse ≈ Blue Rock Heritage Center: The tions revolving around the Underground ≈ Lancaster County Central Market: where the Continental Congress wrote center features Native American Railroad, Plain Sects, agricultural bounty, Shop at the nation’s oldest municipally the Articles of Confederation. 205 W. artifacts from one the most heavily President James Buchanan, abolitionist operated market. 23 N. Market St., Market St., York. yorkhistorycenter.org populated villages of Susquehannocks. Thaddeus Stevens, Native American Lancaster. centralmarketlancaster.com ≈ Zimmerman Center for Heritage: 2251 River Road, Washington Boro. history and others. ≈ Landis Valley Village & Farm This visitor center for the heritage area is susquehannariverlands.com Quaint old river towns such as Museum: Learn about Pennsylvania’s also a visitor station and National Park ≈ Conestoga Historical Society: View Columbia, Wrightsville and Marietta, German farming heritage and equip- Service passport site for the Capt. John Native American artifacts found in each undergoing revitalization efforts, ment circa 1740–1940, 2451. Kissel Smith Chesapeake National Historic the area. 51 Kendig Road, Conestoga. are expected to benefit from the national Hill Road, Lancaster. Trail. It includes a paddle launch and susquehannariverlands.com designation as they seek to become tourist landisvalleymuseum.org short hiking trail. 1706 Long Level Road, ≈ Hans Herr House & Museum: Visit destinations. One of them may host an ≈ Pennsylvania Railroad Museum: Wrightsville. susquehannaheritage.org a life-size reproduced longhouse used envisioned Museum of the Susquehanna. See more than 100 locomotives, histori- Trails by local Native American tribes. “It’s going to be a big help to be able to cal displays, giant model train display ≈ Conestoga Trail: A rugged hansherr.org use that as an advertising piece and say, and interactive exhibits. 300 Gap Road, 14-mile section of the trail goes ≈ Indian Steps Museum: This is ‘Come to the area and see our antique Ronks. rrmuseumpa.org through ravines and ridges on the perhaps the first public museum in shops, see our history and come along and ≈ Safe Harbor petroglyphs: Shank’s Lancaster County side of the Susque- the United States for Native American see the river,’ ” said Columbia’s mayor, Mare Outfitters will lead paddling hanna. susquehannagreenway.org culture. Its local artifacts date back to Leo Lutz. tours to the site on July 27, Aug. 17 ≈ Enola Low Grade Rail Trail: This 10,000 B.C. 205 Indian Steps Road, Partners in the heritage area will get and Sept. 21 at 2092 Long Level Road, 28-mile route on a former freight Airville. indiansteps.org busy on a management plan over the Wrightsville. shanksmare.com / railroad, features about 5 miles along the ≈ Native Lands County Park: This next couple of years. They are already Chiques Rock Outfitters is another Susquehanna, including the Turkey Hill 180-acre preserve of woods and mead- planning a big launch over Memorial local paddling outfitter. 41 Walnut St., Trail to a scenic vista, 2459 River Road, ows on the hills above the Susquehanna Day weekend with pontoon tour boats Columbia. chiquesrockoutfitters.com Washington Boro. manortownship.net River includes the site of a Susquehan- on weekends to take visitors between the ≈ Wheatland: Visit the home of ≈ Mason-Dixon Trail: A section of the nock settlement. 1664 Long Level Road, Zimmerman Center for Heritage on the former President James Buchanan. 193-mile trail follows the Susquehanna Wrightsville. yorkcountypa.gov York County side of the river to Columbia and its Columbia Crossing River Trails Center to the east. The two facilities will cans who lived along the river and Smith’s an old dam that was built to tow canal could be expanded to take bikes and be hubs for visitors to the heritage area. historic visit. They will also see and learn boats across the river below what was the kayaks between the two shores. Land- A guide will be on board and passen- about river features, such as a natural world’s longest covered bridge. water shuttles are another possibility in gers will learn about the Native Ameri- rock ledge and the unnatural remains of If successful, the tour boat trips the future. 26 Bay Journal l Tr avel l May 2019

Pedal up! Food, farms await on farm-to-fork bike rides do bicycle series. The night before, at a meet-the-farmer dinner, he explained his mission to raise awareness for farmland conservation. “We in the cycling community get to experience these iconic landscapes that are disap- pearing to development, and we have a unique responsi- bility to preserve them,” he said. “I want these events to make that connection.” True to the fondo format, there are prizes for those who want to race, but the emphasis at Wren’s events is on celebrating the ride at all levels and inspiring support for local farmers. Nearly 500 riders particiated in last year’s Pennsylva- nia Dutch fondom, which started and ended at a pictur- esque stone farmhouse, built in the 1700s, on Wyebrook Farm in Honey Brook. At mile 12, we rolled into our first rest stop, Wanner’s Pride-n-Joy Farm in Narvon. Volunteers from a local charity kept the aid station stocked with sunscreen and offered to spritz us with cool water. Along with energy drinks and protein bars, the refueling tent had samples of orange quinoa pudding, made with milk from the farm, topped with strawberries and toasted almonds. I knew it would set me back timewise, but I asked farmer Alfred Wanner to show me the digester that con- verts manure into methane for powering the farm. It was basically a big black tank. But I also got to pet a newborn calf and see what an operation with 750 head of cattle looks like. Cyclists travel the countryside of To bicycle through farmland in Lancaster A little more than eight miles down the road, we Lancaster County, PA, during the County, PA, is to inhale the air of a bygone stopped at Lapp Valley Farm, a Mennonite dairy and ice Pennsylvania Dutch Farm to Fork creamery in New Holland. Another team of volunteers Fondo. The bike tour is one of several era. It’s a feeling that cannot be experienced cheered us in wildly, eager to earn their share of a $4,000 that take place each year at a variety from the seat of a car, even with the windows cash prize to be distributed based on rider votes for the of locations to raise awareness about most supportive teams. It’s part of Wren’s strategy to farmland conservation. (Courtesy of down. support the broader community at a time when agricul- Wrenegade Sports) It’s not just the horse-drawn buggies that pass you when tural regions are facing intense pressure from develop- you’re on a bike. However you travel, you will see backyard ment, an aging population of farmers, fluctuating food clotheslines hung with rows of black pants and long dress- prices and rising costs. es. You’ll see men in suspenders guiding wooden plows Our third rest stop, at Cherry Crest Adventure Farm behind teams of horses. You’ll see mile-long vistas of roll- in Ranks, revealed how some farmers have turned to ing fields cut through here and there with open road, and diversification for economic sustainability. In addition you’ll likely notice the absence of overhead powerlines. to raising beef cows, broiler chickens and crops, Cherry By Kimbra Cutlip But only by bike can you experience the kind of still- Crest has embraced “agri-tainment” with a 15-acre ness that swallows sound and makes it feel as if time has theme park that includes a corn maize, petting zoo and stopped. It was a windless 94-degree day in June when I rode in the 2018 Pennsylvania Dutch Farm to Fork Fondo: an organized bicycle ride featuring farm-fresh treats at rest stops on local farms. A Fondo is a festive cycling event in which riders choose from different course lengths ranging from a 10-mile “ramble,” to a full 75- to 100-mile “gran” fondo. Most riders I spoke with had opted for the 25– or 50- mile routes because of the brutal heat, but I was commit- ted to the full 80-mile course. Over long stretches of road I was aware of the absence of sound: no distant cars or planes, no crickets, birds or cicadas. But when I stopped for a moment of shade beneath a tree, the silence was so absolute it had a presence of its own, like the blue sky and stifling heat. It was a silence I had only experienced in the desert far from human development. I was having a moment — one that exemplified how different Lancaster County is from the mixed suburban farmland in southern Anne Arundel County, MD, where I usually ride. Appetizers served at a meet-the-farmer dinner are just one I think that’s exactly what former pro cyclist Tyler Wren of the many opportunities to sample local fare during the had in mind when he conceived of the Farm-to-Fork Fon- cycling event. (Courtesy of Wrenegade Sports) 27 Bay Journal l Tr avel l May 2019 farm-themed games. When I rolled in, only a handful of other riders lingered over the apple cider donuts and corn on the cob. My delays had cost me, and so had the combination of heat, exer- tion and rich food. The pre- vious night’s dinner was a Above: A volunteer offers watermelon to cyclists at a rest stop rustic gourmet during a Farm to Fork Fondo in Pennsylvania. Right: Cyclists affair with makes their way uphill through the rolling Pennsylvania mushroom landscape. (Photos courtesy of Wrenegade Sports) crepes, pork roast, Dutch potato salad and peach farmers Abe and Melissa Mellinger. chutney. Adding ice cream at the After showing me the goat milking last stop had been a mistake. Others parlor, Abe described the buffer of didn’t appear distressed by it, but my trees he and his father (who are not stomach was in knots. I hoped more Plain Sect) planted to absorb runoff peddling would shake it out. along their stretch of Pequea Creek. Over the next 14 miles the course “It’s amazing,” he said, “how re- dipped deep into the expansive silient it is. Even though it’s just this cornfields of Plain Sect farmer ter- small section of the creek, there are ritory south of Strasburg. Families fish, crayfish and things that weren’t in black buggies passed by wearing there when I was a kid.” That Abe dark clothing from ankle to neck looked to be a bit younger than 30 in near 100-degree heat. The route suggested restoration can have rapid crisscrossed Little Beaver Creek and impacts. its tributaries, where cattle cooled When I left Abe, I found that I’d themselves in the water. fallen to the very back of the pack. Giving cattle free access to The next stop, Riehl’s Family Farm, streams creates nutrient and sedi- was seven miles away in Leola, and I ment pollution when manure and was almost there when I veered for loosened soil merge with local wa- the shady tree. I was overheated, and terways. Here, fuzzy brown growth my stomach had shut down. With 27 I hadn’t crossed the finish line on two like a gold medal. It was the most floated in the muddy slurry as it miles of sweltering pavement left to wheels. The voice on the loudspeaker festive bike event I’d ever participated traveled languidly toward Pequea peddle, I knew I was finished. called my race number, a woman in. I think I’d rather see all that rich Creek, one of Pennsylvania’s most I made it to Riehl’s but wheeled draped a cold wet cloth on my neck farm food at the after-party instead of polluted. In the county as a whole, right past the freshly made potato and I bowed to receive a lanyard with the rest stops, but I’m ready to tackle approximately 40 percent of streams chips, whoopie pies and root beer, a commemorative wooden spatula it again. are impaired. and called the sup- But well managed farmland is port vehicle for a 2019 Farm to Fork Fondos generally considered better for water ride. I would miss quality than development, and these the next two farms There are eight Farm-to-Fork farms offer important opportuni- with their cheese Fondos scheduled in 2019 from ties for improvement. Plain Sect and veggie empana- Maine to Virginia. Two are in communities have been reluctant to das and the Amish adopt some environmental practices, buns with lavender the Chesapeake watershed: such as planting streamside trees herbed butter and l The Pennsylvania Dutch and fencing cattle from streams, honey, but other route on Aug. 24 especially through government- riders would later sponsored programs. But some have tell me they were l The Shenandoah route on found ways to participate in con- fantastic. Sept. 15 servation programs, and more are Back at Wye- starting to do so. brook, I walked Registration fees vary depend- The next rest stop offered the my bike to the ing on the cyclists’ age and boost of optimism I needed, if finisher’s tent to get length of the route. For infor- not the energy. Though, I couldn’t my bag of swag. It touch the lamb sliders, goat cheese didn’t matter that Cyclists gather at the starting line for the Pennsylvania mation and registration, visit or vegan watermelon gazpacho at the after-party was Dutch Farm to Fork Fondo. (Courtesy of Wrenegade Sports) farmforkfondo.com. Linden Dale Farm, I did speak with nearly over, or that 28 Bay Journal • M ay 2019 Your continued generosity is turtle-ly awesome! There’s no greater Lycoming County Conservation District sign of the Bay Jour- Montoursville, PA s success than nal’ Debbie Miller the compliments and Free Union, VA donations received from Lynn Moore readers like you. Your Triadelphia, WV gifts to the Bay Journal John Munroe Fund continue to make Baltimore, MD our work possible, Brian Myers from coverage of the East Berlin, PA Bay restoration and the Sarah Nicholas health of its rivers, to Mechanicsburg, PA the impacts of climate Melanie Parker change, toxics, growth Windsor Mill, MD and invasive species on Larry Plazinski the region’s ecosystem. Taneytown, MD Our staff works every Marilyn Postles day to bring you the best Salisbury, MD reporting on environ- David Read mental issues in the Bay Plumas Lake, CA region. We are grateful Terry P. Reck Dover, PA for your donations. Norma Roberts Please continue to sup- Alexandria, VA port our success! William Saley & Marcia Hanson Mount Holly, NJ Advocate Pat Schooley Anne Brooke Hagerstown, MD Norfolk, VA A box turtle ambles across a moss-covered log in a Nassawango Creek wetland near Salisbury, MD. (Dave Harp) Mr. & Mrs. George T. Sheldon Richmond, VA John R. & Martha L. 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Continued from 28 Claude Bell Virginia Beach, VA Jody Marshall Steve Bender McLean, VA Tilghman, MD Judith H. McAloon Dan Bianca Springfield, VA Bel Air, MD Paul Mesmeringer Kevin Bianca Baltimore, MD Bel Air, MD Tina Minshed Mr. & Mrs. Lloyd B. Blake Stafford, VA Glen Allen, VA Patrick Morris Bruce Blanchard & Carola Honodel Washington, DC Upper Marlboro, MD Douglas & Mary Ann Bruce Poole Blankinship Wilmington, DE Damascus, MD Victor Rollins Charles Blizzard Heathsville, VA Trappe, MD Charles Skinner Mary Burney Bolling Baltimore, MD Washington, DC The Bugbees Stephen Bono Red Lion, PA Baltimore, MD Lonnie Wood Anna Book Charlottesville, VA Elizabethtown, PA In Honor of Paul Eldredge B. Boswell from Jack Hall Baltimore, MD Blacksburg, VA Clarke Bowie Susan Atlas Bel Air, MD New York, NY Samuel Bowling Bedford Conservation District Issue, MD Bedford, PA Jim Brackbill Edward & Thelma Betz Strasburg, PA Glen Arm, MD Bill Branch Janet & Harold Butler Hillsborough, NC North East, MD A growth on a tree trunk looks remarkably like a turtle’s head in a Nassawango Creek wetland owned by the Shirley Brandes David Carter Nature Conservancy near Salisbury, MD. (Dave Harp) Grantsville, MD Charlottesville, VA Anne Bredlow Edwards Seafood Steve Lay David A. Prescott Barbara & Elmer Wilgus Ben Arnold Street, MD Havre De Grace, MD Boiling Springs, PA Salisbury, MD Chambersburg, PA Onley, VA Charles Bright Blaine Leidy Janice Arone Ned Gerber Steven Preston In Honor of Noah Wiggins Leonardtown, MD Glen Arm, MD Abingdon, MD from Ken Wiggins Charlottesville, VA Chester, MD Julia & Avery Brown Dudley Lindsley Scott Richardson Elkton, MD Brian Baer Coudersport, PA Michael Goyne California, MD Milford, DE Leesburg, VA Baltimore, MD Barbara Abraham Ronald & Kathleen Brown Jim McMahon Philip Robbins Hampton, VA Gene Baldwin Sykesville, MD Albert Guber Burtonsville, MD Pasadena, MD Fredericksburg, VA Newport, PA Edward & Elaine Airey Beverly Browne Robin & Robert McVicker Fishing Creek, MD Philip Barber Robert Guldin Suffolk, VA Gordon Shafer McLean, VA Arlington, VA & Susan Strasser Bradford, NY Capt. Leen Alewynse Jeramie Bruce Phillip Merkle Olney, MD Dr. & Mrs. Martin A. Barley Takoma Park, MD Bethesda, MD Jay R. Shank California, MD Saint Leonard, MD James Hall Crownsville, MD John Almassy Dennis & Millie Brune Dan Michael Heathsville, VA Ron & Sharon Barnes Cavetown, MD Lancaster, PA Jeffery Shank Clements, MD Atlanta, GA Jerry Hess Elizabethtown, PA Glenn Amsbaugh Carol Brunson Jessica Milstead Annapolis, MD Mary Reid Barrow Shrewsbury, PA Bowie, MD Linda Silversmith Virginia Beach, VA Fairfax, VA Mark & Sara Hollberg Michael W. Moscatello Rockville, MD T. Bruce Anderson III Sadj Bartolo Rose Buberl Staunton, VA Georgetown, TX Barry Sperling Weems, VA Columbia, MD Parkville, MD Frank Jennings Al Peasley Alexandria, VA Jim Andrews John Baxter Leroy & Joyce Bupp Saint Leonard, MD Huntingtown, MD Melanie Wertz Afton, NY Hayes, VA Seven Valleys, PA Phillip Kiersznowski Thomas H. Pheiffer Newport, PA Priscilla Arenas Ron Bayer Robert & Valerie Burkholder Townsend, DE Annapolis, MD In Honor of Cookie Haynie Kensington, MD Baltimore, MD Charleston, SC Brian Knode Eric Pluchino from Pete Haynie Henry T. Armistead Fred Beata Lawrence Bush Salisbury, MD Cape Canaveral, FL Reedville, VA Philadelphia, PA Springfield, VA Frederick, MD Thank You To These Philanthropic Donors The Curtis and Edith Munson Foundation 30 Bay Journal • M ay 2019

Commentary • Letters • Perspectives Harryorum Hughes, one of the best political allies the Chesapeake ever had WhenF problems with the Chesapeake “Harry Bay were starting to become obvious, Hughes Maryland Gov. Harry Hughes stepped usually forward and acted, when many others considered would have been far more cautious. Many the political of his admirers refer to him as the “ father implica- of Bay restoration” for his willingness to tions of act, which he always did with grace. We a given asked several people who had worked decision, closely with Hughes over the years to but I never offer some of their memories about work- saw these ing with him. sway the direction of John Griffin his choices. Environmental aide to Gov. Hughes, now They were a program manager for Chesapeake always Conservation Partnership framed by Governor Hughes entered the 1984 his sense of Maryland General Assembly session with achieving a comprehensive package of legislative the greatest and budgetary initiatives as the state’s progressive response to the documented declines in good for the the Chesapeake. His proposal, painstak- citizens of ingly developed over the course of 1983 Maryland.” in consultation with many, many stake- — Bill holder groups, had in December of that Eichbaum year received thunderous acclaim at the (Dave Chesapeake Bay Summit in Virginia. Harp) Knowing that parts of his proposals would be controversial, Hughes hosted a Benedict and went to Solomons, where striped bass, previously a vital link in Pennsylvania, Maryland and Massachu- series of dinners for each member of the we stopped for dinner that evening. I gave the Bay’s ecosystem chain, a mainstay setts and in the federal Department of the General Assembly — serving oysters and a talk with data and statistics and I men- of commercial and recreational pursuit Interior. For eight of those years, I served rockfish. He arranged for a special guest, tioned that Thanksgiving had just come and source of income from tourism and in Hughes’ administration. Two features scientist and author William Warner, but said, “Christmas is just around the other industries across the state. stand out about his leadership. to attend each dinner and personally corner, governor. You could do Southern He wanted to know in detail about the One, he created a collaborative inscribe a copy of his Pulitzer Prize- Maryland a great big favor. People would immediate impact on the watermen and environment in which his senior staff and winning book, Beautiful Swimmers, for honor you the rest of your life if you their communities. He wanted to know officials joined together to seek the most each guest. Warner and Hughes spoke to would play Santa Claus this Christmas about the longer-term consequences, for productive policy choices for the benefit each group of legislators about the historic and help us clean this Patuxent River up.” them and the Bay’s health, of not acting. of the public. The landmark efforts to moment they were in and the need to And when he got up to respond, he started He wanted to discuss the strategy to win begin the Chesapeake’s restoration were approve the proposals. off by saying, “Ho ho ho.’ ” the political fight in the Maryland General one of many results of this approach. Warner refused to receive an hono- At the time, the feds were saying Assembly and within the Atlantic States Second, as I recall, Hughes had a press rarium for the cost of each trip from his nitrogen was not a problem. They were Marine Fisheries Commission, which conference almost every week. These home in DC or the valuable gift of his arguing that only phosphorus needed included states up and down the Atlantic were wide-ranging but often touched on time and wisdom. Both these great to be addressed. That was disturbing Coast. He wanted to hear about a strategy to environmental issues. Americans were motivated solely by a because that meant the federal govern- provide meaningful employment for water- Over the years, he made decisions cause greater than themselves, the restora- ment would not pay a dime for the men while the moratorium was in place. about and prepared for public discussions tion of the Chesapeake Bay. Two Great nitrogen removal. But Hughes was so What he didn’t ask, or want to know, on a wide range of issues from the envi- Gentlemen of the Greatest Generation. convinced that the Chesapeake Biologi- was the impact on his polling. I never ronment to mental health to the criminal cal Lab scientists and our group were heard him inject that type of question justice system. Throughout that time, Bernie Fowler right that he pledged that day to pay for in any of the tough public policy issues Hughes usually considered the political Former chairman of the Calvert County taking the nitrogen out of the largest we dealt with — from increasing the implications of a given decision, but I Board and former Maryland state senator sewage treatment plant on the Patuxent gas tax, to installing the first fishing never saw these sway the direction of his After Gov. Huges was elected, I asked River. He was really interested in using license with fees to help provide funding choices. They were always framed by his him to meet with the Calvert County the river as a laboratory for the Bay. for his comprehensive Chesapeake Bay sense of achieving the greatest progres- commissioners and the Chesapeake restoration program. sive good for the citizens of Maryland. Biological Lab folks to see the degraded Verna Harrison state of the Patuxent River. When he Former aide to Gov. Hughes, now a Bill Eichbaum William C. Baker came down, on Dec. 12, 1979, it was just consultant specializing in organizational Member of the Hughes administration, President of Chesapeake Bay Foundation like I had known him forever. He really development and resource protection vice president emeritus and senior fellow I have been fortunate to have known turned out to be one of the best political Looking up from his black read- with the World Wildlife Fund and worked with Hughes throughout allies I ever had. ing glasses, he asked, “so what do we Over a period of 20 years, I was my 40-plus years at the foundation. He really got charged up. We took do?” — in response to receiving the fortunate to serve in senior environmental a tour down the river that started up at most recent report on the decline of positions in the state governments of Hughes continues on page 33 Bay Journal • M ay 2019 31

Commentary • Letters • Perspectives Whenorum it came to the Bay, Hughes was more than up to the challenge ByF Tom Horton And creating the Hughes Center “Harry Hughes Horton.” Sounds for Agro-Ecology, good, don’t ya think? A missed oppor- a novel organiza- tunity that I’ll explain in a bit. tion that straddles I always had a soft spot for Harry R. the often-difficult Hughes, Maryland’s governor from 1979 divide between to 1987, who died March 13 at age 92. We farming and both grew up in rural Caroline county, environmental born a generation apart (1926 and 1945). protection. When Caroline, the only Eastern Shore he was elected county lacking Bay shoreline and back in 1978, ignored by major highways, didn’t none of the above change that much between Hughes’ was on anyone’s time and mine. I would joke to Harry radar screen. that he came from the “privileged” Though he was part, around Denton, which in our day athletic — he is in had the county’s only stoplight. My the Eastern Shore hometown, Federalsburg, made do Baseball Hall of with a yellow flasher. Fame — Hughes “Champion of Clean Government was no typical, and a Clean Bay” — the Baltimore Sun outdoor Eastern put that perfect headline on Hughes’ Shore guy. He was obituary. A reputation for integrity did appreciative of his help fuel his stunning upset victory rural roots, but in the Democratic primary election of rather urbane and 1978. He had resigned as secretary of more at home in a transportation a year earlier to protest suit than in camo. unethical bidding processes. I remember But no one, including Harry him as a young Hughes, foresaw the environmentalism lawyer who did that would become a major part of his Former Maryland Gov. Harry Hughes walks along his property in Denton, in Caroline County on some work for legacy, and not just while he governed. Maryland’s Eastern Shore in 2006. (Dave Harp) my Dad’s poultry I have long privately compared him company, being with former President Jimmy Carter — then as deputy secretary and secretary dragged down to our cabin on the both men showing unstinting, lifelong of Maryland’s Department of Natural Honga River for duck hunting expedi- commitments to public service. Resources. tions. I was just a kid, but it was appar- A few years after leaving office, Hughes would follow the science ent he’d rather have been anywhere else. Hughes joined the board of the Eastern and act on it, letting the chips fall But as the facts came in during the Shore Land Conservancy, significantly where they might, said Griffin and 1970s and ’80s on the troubling envi- raising the profile of that “little podunk others who worked with Chesapeake ronmental declines throughout the Bay. group,” to use the words of current Bay restoration efforts. Harry Hughes was more than equal to ESLC president Rob Etgen. “[He gave “He would listen intently to the the challenge, becoming forever associ- us] the heft we needed,” Etgen said. evidence, ask questions, then say, ‘we ated with championing the Chesapeake. Having Hughes onboard opened doors need to do something … Maryland In September of 1978, I was assigned for the group, which is now a force for should lead on this,’” Griffin said. to cover his upset victory in the Demo- environmental leadership on the Shore, Issue after issue: a moratorium on cratic primary, which in those days was where it has conserved around 65,000 Chesapeake Born catching rockfish that outraged some tantamount to winning the governorship. acres of land. of Hughes’ closest allies on his native A phone call from my wife cut Nearly a million more acres have An example. In 1997 Hughes agreed Eastern Shore, but led to the species’ that assignment short. She was giving been protected statewide under to chair a commission taking on a robust recovery; a ban on phosphate birth — six weeks early. Racing to the Maryland’s Rural Legacy Program, political hot potato — the mysterious detergents that was controversial enough hospital, we mulled our list of baby which came to be under Hughes’ outbreaks of pfiesteria, a toxic algae for the Baltimore Sun to dispatch me names. Tyler, we decided, if it was a boy. post-gubernatorial leadership. In 1995, that threatened the Bay’s seafood, tour- to interview people in laundromats in It was, and Tyler, now 40, is doing good. in consultation with then Gov. Parris ism and recreation industries. phosphate-ban states like Wisconsin. But I often told Harry, if we’d Glendening and farming and natural The upshot revealed a shocking lack Also taking leadership in the historic realized just how good he was going to resources officials, he hatched the plan of progress by Maryland agriculture 1983 federal-state partnership that ush- be, the name, hands down, would have that would become Rural Legacy. in meeting its Bay cleanup obligations ered in the ongoing watershedwide effort been Harry Hughes Horton. “He was always there for you, and and led to recent legislation that will to restore the Bay’s health; and before Tom Horton has written about he had a sense for those ‘pivot points,’ sharply limit the runoff of manure into that, deciding to clean up the Patuxent the Chesapeake Bay for more than including his own first election, where Maryland waterways. River, which Maryland environmental 40 years, including eight books. He things were on the cusp of change, “My admiration for him only grew officials had earlier fought in court, lives in Salisbury, where he is also a where moving decisively could get big after he left office,” said John Griffin, denying emerging science that the river professor of Environmental Studies at results,” Etgen said. who worked on the governor’s staff, was in peril. Salisbury University. 32 Bay Journal • M ay 2019

Commentary • Letters • Perspectives Reopenorum CREP: Help a farmer and you help the Chesapeake By BFeth McGee trees in priority land- scapes in Pennsylvania In the most recent Bay Barometer by the end of 2025. report released by the Chesapeake Bay Aerial surveys show Program, one metric tracking progress 1.4 million acres of toward a healthy Bay stands out: With streamside land across a goal to plant forested buffers along the Bay watershed that 900 miles of streams each year, the could be converted Bay states in 2017 planted just 56 from crops, pasture, miles. It was the lowest annual plant- or turf into forested ing total in 22 years. buffers, according to Forested streamside buffers remain the Bay Program. one of the most cost-effective ways to But all of this cut pollution from agricultural lands, momentum is at risk trapping soil, manure and fertilizers unless CREP reopens before they can flow downstream to soon. the Bay. The woeful lag in planting The biggest blow spells big trouble for the states as they could be to farmers’ design their final plans to meet feder- willingness to plant ally mandated pollution reductions in forested buffers in the the Bay by 2025. future. Planning and That’s why it is imperative for the U.S. ultimately planting a Department of Agriculture to reopen a buffer can take months key program that helps Bay farmers put of effort — from forested buffers in the ground. designing the buffer The Conservation Reserve alongside technical Enhancement Program, or CREP, pays specialists to submit- farmers in the watershed an annual ting paperwork, order- rent over a contract period of 10–15 ing trees and putting years for land where they agree to A narrow forested buffer separates this farm field in Maryland from a creek that flows into the shovels in the dirt. plant protective barriers of native trees Choptank River. (Dave Harp) Repeated interruptions along streams. It also provides incen- of the CREP program tive payments and defrays the cost of buffers. The closure of CREP means Second, a legislative effort led by undermine this significant investment designing and installing the buffers, farmers with expiring contracts who Sen. Bob Casey (D-PA) incorporated of time and effort and hinder farmers’ as well as related practices like stream want to continue their commitments substantial improvements to CREP in ability to plan for the future. As a result, fencing and water systems. may choose not to do so, putting those the new Farm Bill. The new measures many farmers who want to enroll in On the farm, the buffers help stabilize buffers at risk. ensure farmers have adequate financial CREP are understandably frustrated. stream banks; provide shade and cool the The delay couldn’t come at a worse support to maintain buffers and protect As Roger Rohrer, a farmer in water for native fish; create habitat for time. Fewer miles of buffers means a their investments. The bill also ensures Lancaster County, PA, said, “It’s a wildlife; and enhance the aesthetic value heavier lift for states as they design farmers are fairly compensated for problem when we have people raising of the landscape. Downstream in the their final watershed implementation expenses associated with buffers, such their hands and we can’t move on.” Bay, the pollution reductions from buf- plans, the steps that will make the as installing fencing along streams and We must support farmers who want fers help to restore underwater grasses, final push to the 2025 deadline for providing alternative water sources for to do the right thing for their com- reduce harmful algal blooms and shrink meeting Bay restoration requirements. livestock. munities and the Bay. The best way to oxygen-deprived dead zones. Last year’s midpoint assessment of Finally, the CBF and its partners do that is to reopen CREP as soon as But CREP, the primary program how much progress states are making last year launched the Keystone 10 possible. Farmers, and the Bay, can’t for planting forested buffers in the toward those goals noted that the Million Trees Partnership to focus a afford to wait. watershed, stopped accepting new planting of forested buffers needs to diverse array of resources on forests Beth McGee is director of science applications from farmers last Sep- accelerate — not scale back. and streamside buffers. The partnership and agricultural policy at the Chesa- tember after the expiration of the 2014 There are three reasons to be is committed to planting 10 million new peake Bay Foundation. Farm Bill. Despite the passage of a optimistic about closing the gap. new bill reauthorizing the program, First, many farmers in the water- the USDA indicates it will likely not shed are willing and excited to plant accept new enrollments until this fall. forested buffers. In Pennsylvania, Let Us Know Put plainly, farmers willing to protect Chesapeake Bay Foundation res- The Bay Journal welcomes letters pertaining to Chesapeake Bay local streams from pollution can’t. toration specialists report getting issues. Letters should be no more than 400 words. Send letters to: Editor, Additionally, approximately 34,000 weekly calls from producers who Bay Journal, 619 Oakwood Drive, Seven Valleys, PA 17360-9395. acres of farmland in the Bay watershed are interested in planting buffers and E-mail letters to: [email protected] currently enrolled in CREP and its signing up for CREP. Farmers who Letter writers should include a phone number where they can be parent program, the Conservation have worked with the CBF and state reached. Longer commentaries should be arranged in advance with the Reserve Program, are set to expire this and federal partners to plant buffers in editor. Call: 717-428-2819. year. When contracts expire, farmers the past say they are eager to do more, Views expressed are those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect no longer receive rental payments noting the benefits buffers provide for those of the Bay Journal or Bay Journal Media. and are not obligated to keep their native wildlife and flood management. Bay Journal • M ay 2019 33

Commentary • Letters • Perspectives Rollingorum back Clean Water rules would devastate the Potomac, Bay ByF Nancy Stoner the Upper Potomac and Quail Run in the Shenandoah River watershed are merely For nearly 50 years, the Clean Water two examples of thousands of streams in Act’s definition of which water bodies our watershed that would be more vulner- across the country are protected from able than ever to pollution. pollution enabled states and local com- The rule would also eliminate federal munities to safeguard our nation’s rivers, protection for most wetlands. In Virginia, streams, wetlands and other waterways. for example, we estimate that up to 80 The value of clean water was broadly percent of freshwater wetlands could lose appreciated and understood. President federal protection. George W. Bush implemented his father’s Wetlands are the kidneys of the vision of no net loss of wetlands. President stream system, absorbing one million Obama’s Environmental Protection gallons of water for every acre. They Agency sought to clarify and simplify the serve as natural pollution filters, buf- definition of “Waters of the United States” fers for flooding and critical habitat for in 2015 to protect invaluable sources of migratory waterfowl and other birds. drinking water and critical wildlife habitat. When wetlands are lost, the public suffers But now, in the blink of an eye, Presi- from increased flooding, loss of habitat dent Trump’s EPA threatens to undo all of and more pollution — as well as pay to the progress we’ve made cleaning up and Tubers and kayakers enjoy a day on the Potomac River near its confluence with install more-expensive and less-effective protecting our nation’s treasured waters. the Shenandoah River at Harpers Ferry, WV. One of objectives of the Clean Water engineered infrastructure to try to replace The EPA is proposing to drastically Act was to make U.S. waters safe for recreational activities. (Dave Harp) the wetlands functions that have been lost. limit the scope of the Clean Water Act The Clean Water Act has played a and gut existing clean water protections half of the waters of our country from streams, lakes and wetlands. seminal role in setting us back on the path at the behest of polluting industries that protection, taking away the public’s right No scientific basis supports the Trump to clean, healthy rivers, streams and wet- profit from weak regulation. The new rule to clean water. We have come too far EPA’s rule. It would eliminate express lands that provide drinking water, wildlife would remove the federal protection of at to undo decades of critical protections protection for waters flowing through habitat and recreational opportunities for least 40% of the country’s rivers, streams that cleaned our rivers and streams and multiple states and strip protection from millions of Americans. and freshwater wetlands, undermining the stopped pollution. ephemeral streams — those that exist The days when the Cuyahoga River protection that provided greatly improved The Clean Water Act is designed to from rainfall or snowmelt and form the burned, the Potomac was called a water quality in many of our waterways. ensure that Americans could go anywhere headwaters of watersheds. In the West, “national disgrace” and the Chesapeake The Potomac River’s vast improve- in the country and be confident that they 80–90% of streams are ephemeral. Bay’s perpetual decline was mourned are ment in water quality, wildlife habitat could drink the tap water, eat the fish they Closer to home, 60 percent of Virginia over, yet President Trump’s EPA wants to and recreational opportunities has largely caught and go swimming. While we have streams would lose their shield, especially dismantle the protections enabling such been driven by implementation of the not yet realized that goal, we are making headwater streams in the Shenandoah and great progress. Clean Water Act, one of our nation’s most great progress, and the Clean Water Act is Upper Potomac regions of the Potomac’s Our waterways belong to all of us, effective environmental statutes. responsible for much of it. 14,000-square-mile watershed, which not to polluters. We need to stand up The new rule purports to create The new rule would take away Ameri- are integral to providing habitat for trout and defeat this rollback of clean water “clarity, predictability and consistency” cans’ right to clean water protections and and other popular species, not to mention protections. in defining “waters of the United States.” replace them with the right of polluters to clean drinking water for almost 6 million Nancy Stoner is president of the Instead, it simply defines away nearly destroy or degrade 40% of the country’s people downstream. Miney Branch on Potomac Riverkeeper Network.

Hughes from page 30 Ann Swanson more. In each case, these actions were Hughes in the back offices of the Executive director of Chesapeake Bay not about party, but instead about the General Assembly after a particularly While there were many memorable Commission resource, the culture and the community. confusing commission meeting. moments, September 1982 stands out I met Hughes for the first time in Hughes was smart. He was humble. He He challenged to me to provide in my mind. Virginia Gov. Chuck Robb 1984, shortly after the signing of the first was environmentally aware. He was the actionable scientific advice, even with came to Annapolis to campaign for Chesapeake Bay Agreement and thought leader that all of us needed to jump-start the uncertainties that existed: “You Hughes’ second term. They began the he was the consummate blue-eyed, Bay this program and guarantee its longevity scientists need to tell us what you know, day with a press conference at the State gentleman. He seemed to have a heart-felt over time. His slogan, “Together we will,” not just what you don’t know.” House, where they launched a Maryland/ sense of the Bay, a calm and an almost remains the mantra of the Chesapeake Within two weeks I pulled together Virginia partnership to “save Chesapeake genetic attachment to Maryland and its Bay Program to this day. a group of scientific experts — among Bay.” Both governors used that exact Bay. When combined with his political whom there was much skepticism and term, saying that if Hughes was re-elected savvy and polished demeanor, Hughes Donald Boesch disagreement — who finally agreed to to a second term, the two of them would was a credible leader able to persuade Former president of Maryland Center for the “Cambridge Consensus” that nutrient work together to “Save the Bay.” liberals and conservatives alike that the Environmental Science pollution was contributing to harmful That may seem routine today, but Chesapeake was well worth restoring. In 1997 Gov. Parris Glendening algal blooms and that more effective it was a groundbreaking moment. The Hughes worked his magic repeatedly — it appointed Hughes to chair a commission controls of agricultural sources were partnership formed that day has had an was so easy to follow him. Assisted by to recommend steps that could be taken required. The commission’s report, incalculable benefit for the Bay. On behalf his able staff, he created the Critical to deal with outbreaks of toxic algal based on this scientific advice, led to of the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, we Areas program; sediment and erosion blooms that had commanded much public the enactment of Maryland’s historic are grateful for Harry Hughes’ leadership control laws; rockfish moratoriums; the attention. Nutrient Management Law in the next and dedication to saving the Bay. phosphate detergent ban; and so much I remember meeting with Governor legislative session. 34 Bay Journal • M ay 2019

visitor center’s front desk; maintaining trails; Adopt-a-Stream program working on landscape projects, landscap- The Prince William Soil & Water Con- ing, mowing and the Pollinator Garden; WorkdayMake sure that when Wisdom you par- servation District in Manassas, VA, wants feeding or handling captive birds of prey; ticipate in cleanup or invasive plant to ensure that stream cleanup volunteers maintaining birds’ living quarters; and removal workdays to protect the have all of the support and supplies they participating in CBEC’s team of wood duck Chesapeake Bay watershed and need for trash removal projects. Participat- its resources that you also protect box monitoring or other wildlife initiatives. yourself. Organizers of almost every ing groups receive an Adopt-A-Stream sign Other opportunities include participating in workday strongly urge their volun- in recognition of their stewardship. To learn Volunteer Opportunities fundraising events and behind-the-scenes teers to wear long pants, long-sleeved more, adopt a stream or get a proposed operations, including website develop- shirts, socks and closed-toe shoes site, visit [email protected]. MD Volunteer Angler Survey ment, writing for newsletters and events, (hiking or waterproof). This helps to Groups can register their events at The Maryland Department of Natural developing photo archives and supporting minimize skin exposure to poison ivy trashnetwork.fergusonfoundation.org. Resources is asking anglers to help track office staff. Volunteers donating more than and ticks, which might be found at scientific data by using the mobile-friendly 100 hours of service per year receive a the site. Light-colored clothing also Magruder Woods Volunteer Angler Survey. Anglers of all complimentary 1-year family membership makes it easier to spot ticks. Hats are Help Friends of Magruder Woods 9 ages can become citizen scientists by to CBEC. Info: volunteercoordinator@ strongly recommended. Although a.m. to 1 p.m. the third Saturday in May, some events provide work gloves, recording basic information from their bayrestoration.org. not all do; ask when registering. June and July remove invasive plants in the catch such as species, location and size Events near water require closed- forested swamp in Hyattsville, MD. Meet directly to the survey on their smartphone. Watershed Stewards Academy toe shoes and clothing that can get at farthest end of parking lot. Info: Biologists use this data to develop, plan Learn how to become a Harford wet or muddy. Always bring water. [email protected], 301-283-0808, and implement management strategies. County Master Watershed Steward at an Sunscreen and an insect repellent (301-442-5657 the day of event); or Col- The artificial reef initiative, blue crab, fresh- information session 6–7 p.m. May 14 at designed to repel both deer ticks and leen Aistis at 301-985-5057. water fisheries, muskie, shad and striped the McFaul Activities Center in Bel Air, mosquitoes help. Lastly, most organizers ask that bass programs have upgraded to mobile- MD. Stewards become leaders in their Become a VA Master Naturalist friendly methods. Participants are eligible community, helping to improve the health volunteers register ahead of time. Virginia Master Naturalists are a corps Knowing how many people are going to win quarterly prizes. Info: dnr.maryland. and function of local streams and the Bay. to show up ensures that they will of volunteers that perform help to manage gov/Fisheries/Pages/survey/index.aspx. There is no registration for this free event. have enough tools and supervisors. and protect natural areas through activities Info: bit.ly/WatershedStewards, 410-638- They can also give directions to such as plant and animal surveys, stream Severn River Association 3217 x244, [email protected]. the site or offer any suggestions for monitoring, trail rehabilitation, and The Severn River Association in apparel or gear not mentioned here. teaching in nature centers. Basic training Annapolis is recruiting volunteers to join Cromwell Valley Park teaches new volunteers to become Master their team of citizen scientists monitoring Cromwell Valley Park in Parkville, MD, Naturalists. Topics covered include ecol- water quality on the Severn River and needs volunteers for: entation dates to practice handling reptiles, ogy, geology, soils, native flora and fauna its creeks. The weekly tours take place ≈ Habitat Restoration Team / Weed learn reptile basics, practice engaging an and habitat management. Info: Wednesday and Thursday mornings, and Warrior Days: 2–4 p.m. May 4, 8, 11, & 15 audience with reptile questions. Sign up virginiamasternaturalist.org. last roughly four hours. The season lasts and 10 a.m.–12 p.m. June 8, 19, 22 & 26. for one or more four-hour volunteer shifts from May to October. Volunteers can sign All ages (12 & younger w/adult). Remove during Reptile Week (June 29–July 7). New American Chestnut Land Trust up for as many tours as they’d like. Info: invasive species, install native ones, main- and returning volunteers are encouraged to The American Chestnut Land Trust in [email protected], 443-569-3556, tain habitat. Service hours available. Meet at attend. Volunteers must be 15 or older to Prince Frederick, MD, needs volunteers [email protected] Sherwood House parking lot. Registration volunteer without an adult helper. Preregis- for invasive plant removal workdays 9–11 required. Info: [email protected]. tration required: 717-428-1961. a.m. Thursdays and 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse ≈ Drop in Gardening: 9 a.m.–12 p.m. ≈ Stop the Spread! 2:30–4 p.m. June Wednesdays. All ages (16 & younger The National Historic Landmark, May 18. Meet at Children’s Garden. 9. Nixon Park, Jacobus. Get an update on w/adult) are welcome. Training, tools Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse, restored Individuals/Families ages 13+ Gloves, tools, gypsy moths in York County, the emerg- and water are provided. Preregistration is by the U.S. Lighthouse Society, which water provided. Bring a hat, sunscreen. No ing spotted lantern fly threat. Learn how required. Info: 410-414-3400, acltweb.org, operates tours in partnership with the registration. Info: cromwellvalleypark.org, to control these species’ impact on your [email protected]. Annapolis Maritime Museum, needs [email protected], 410-887- community. No registration. volunteers. Info: [email protected]. 2503. For disability-related accommoda- Ruth Swann Park tions, call 410-887-5370 or 410-887-5319 Little Paint Branch Park Help the Maryland Native Plant Irvine Nature Center (TTY), giving as much notice as possible. Help the Maryland-National Capital Society, Sierra Club and Chapman Forest Irvine Nature Center in Owings Mills, Park and Planning Commission remove Foundation 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. the second MD, needs Weekend Weed Warriors, ages York County (PA) Parks invasive species 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. the last Saturday in May, June and July remove 14 & older, to remove oriental bittersweet Upcoming volunteer opportunities in Saturday in May, June and July at Little invasive plants at Ruth Swann Park and multiflora rose May 11 & 25 and York County, PA, parks include: Paint Branch Park in Beltsville. Learn about in Bryans Road. Meet at Ruth Swann June 1, 15 & 29. Training and tools are ≈ Cleaning of the Rail Trail Train Stations: native plants. Sign in for a safety orienta- Park-Potomac Branch Library parking lot. provided. Wear sturdy shoes that can get 5 p.m. May 14. (Hanover Junction) & May tion. Gloves, tools are provided. Info: Marc. Bring lunch. Info: [email protected], 301- wet/muddy and bring water and nonrefrig- 21 (New Freedom). Bring your favorite sup- [email protected], 301-442-5657. 283-0808, (301-442-5657 day of event). erated snacks or a lunch. Meet at the main plies to clean walls, floors, windows. Pizza, Carpoolers meet at the Sierra Club MD entrance. Info, including hours: 443-738- subs, drinks provided. No registration. Anita Leight Estuary Center Chapter office at 9 a.m. and return at 5 9230, [email protected]. ≈ Intro to iNaturalist: 1–2:30 p.m. May Anita C. Leight Estuary Center in p.m. Carpool contact: 301-277-7111. 18. Nixon Park, Jacobus. Using citizen Abingdon, MD, needs volunteers for its Volunteer at CBEC science tools such as iNaturalist, people Invasinators Workday 10 a.m.–12 p.m. May Creek Critters app The Chesapeake Bay Environmental can contribute data to scientific research. 19. Help to remove invasive species and Audubon Naturalist’s Creek Critters Center in Grasonville, MD, has a variety Half-indoor, half on-the-trails program install native plants. Learn why nonnative App empowers people to check their of volunteer openings for those who only shows how to be part of a worldwide invasive plants threaten ecosystems, how local streams’ health through finding want to drop in a few times a month to collaboration. Preregistration required: to identify problem plants, removal and and identifying small organisms that live assist with a project or event, or help out 717-428-1961. restoration strategies. Wear sturdy shoes, in freshwater streams, then generating on a more regular basis. Openings include: ≈ Reptile Week Volunteer Orientations: long sleeves, work gloves for field work, health reports based on what they find. helping with educational programs, such 2–4 p.m. June 8; 6–8 p.m. June 11; 10 a.m.– weather permitting. Ages 12 & younger The free app can be downloaded from as School’s Out or Summer Camp; early 12 p.m. June 17. Nixon Park, Jacobus. must be accompanied by an adult. Info: the App Store and Google Play. Info: childhood Creepy Crawler programs; Those interested in volunteering during 410-612-1688, 410-879-2000 x1688, guided kayak trips or hikes; staffing the Reptile Week must attend one of three ori- otterpointcreek.org. Bulletin continues on page 35 Bay Journal • M ay 2019 35

tions seeking to restore local waterways, increase climate resilience or develop the next generation of environmental stewards. New Submission Guidelines To streamline the grant application process, The Bay Journal regrets it is not advance. See below. the DNR has created a Grants Gateway always able to print every notice it ≈ Submissions to Bulletin Board receives because of space limitations. must be sent either as a Word or Pages that provides a single entry point for Priority is given to events or programs document, or as simple text in the body prospective grantees, and assures access that most closely relate to the of an e-mail. PDFs, newsletters or other to funding for innovative local projects. preservation and appreciation of the formats may be considered if there is Bulletin from page 34 In addition to ease of use for applicants, Bay, its watershed and resources. Items space and if information can be easily Grants Gateway provides the DNR with published in Bulletin Board are posted extracted. anshome.org/creek-critters. To learn about an integrated grant-management system to on the online calendar; unpublished ≈ Programs must contain all of items are posted online if staffing the following information: a phone partnerships or host a Creek Critters event: monitor sources, manage data and ensure permits. Guidelines: number (include the area code) or [email protected]. grants are consistent with strategic priori- ≈ Send notices to e-mail address of a contact person; ties. Grants are made possible with funding [email protected]. Items sent the title, time (online calendar Floatable monitoring program through the State of Maryland, National to other addresses are not always requires an end time as well as a start The Prince William Soil & Water Con- Oceanic and Atmospheric Administra- forwarded before the deadline. time), date and place of the event or servation District in Manassas, VA, needs tion and U.S. Environmental Protection ≈ Bulletin Board contains events program. Submissions must state if the that take place (or have registration program is free, requires a fee, has volunteers to help assess and trace trash Agency’s Chesapeake Bay Program. Info: deadlines) on or after the 11th of the age requirements, has a registration in streams as part of an effort to reduce dnr.maryland.gov/ccs/Pages/funding/grants- month in which the item is published deadline or welcomes drop-ins. nonpoint source pollutants in urbanized gateway.aspx. through the 11th of the next month. ≈ June issue: May 11 and industrialized areas in relation to Deadlines run at least two months in ≈ July/August issue: June 11 the County’s Municipal Separate Storm Rain barrels for sale Sewers (MS4) permit. Cleanup supplies are Friends of the Occoquan are selling provided. Info: [email protected]. 55-gallon food-grade rain barrels for $60. organizations that do not have this equip- Bay Backpack is an online resource for Each barrel comes with the hardware ment. The DEQ asks that participants use educators with information about funding Eden Mill Nature Centerr to complete the barrel; tools, hoses and these kits as part of the EarthEcho Water opportunities, field studies, curriculum Eden Mill Nature Center in Pylesville, downspout are not included. Assembly Challenge (worldwatermonitoringday.org). guides and lesson plans related to the MD, invites volunteers, ages 5 & older, is required. Rain barrels help to decrease Groups with their own monitoring equip- Chesapeake. Info: baybackpack.com. to help on its Plant Invaders Workday, runoff — which contains pesticides, sedi- ment can also participate. Request a kit at 9:30 a.m. May 25. Participants will learn ments and bacteria — before it enters the [email protected]. Provide 5 MD libraries offer fishing gear about native and invasive plants, then watershed. The captured rain can be used an address, the number of monitoring The Maryland Department of Natural remove invasive plants. Preregister 24 to water lawns, gardens or indoor plants locations and the number of people from Resources’ Aquatic Resources Education hours in advance. Info: as well as wash cars. Barrels also reduce the organization or school expected to Program is providing rods and reels, [email protected]. erosion and control moisture levels around participate in the EarthEcho Water Chal- tackle and fishing books geared toward a home’s foundation. For info on FOTO’s lenge. This information helps to determine children to the Eastport-Annapolis Neck Stansbury Park cleanup rain barrel workshops or to host one: how many kits a group needs. Community Library and Mountain Road Clean Bread and Cheese invites volun- [email protected], Community Library in Anne Arundel teers of all ages and abilities to help clean friendsoftheoccoquan.org/rainbarrelswork- PRAD accepting grant proposals County; Westminster Branch Library in up Stansbury Park in Dundalk, MD, 9 shops/aboutrainbarrels. Patuxent River Appreciation Day, Inc. Carroll County; Brunswick Branch Library a.m. to 2 p.m. May 18. Trash bags, gloves, is accepting proposals for its 2019 grant in Frederick County; and Joppa Branch snacks, water and lunch are provided. Wetlands Work website cycle. Nonprofit organizations that provide Library in Harford County. The goal is to A limited number of tools are available; The Chesapeake Bay Program has educational programs about the Patuxent foster the next generation of anglers by volunteers are asked to bring their own, if launched Wetlands Work (wetlandswork. River or conduct research activities or cultivating a passion for outdoor recreation possible. Service learning hours and com- org). The site, developed by the Wetlands enhancements in and around the Patuxent and an appreciation of nature. The librar- munity service hours are available. Register Workgroup, connects agricultural land- River or Patuxent River Basin are eligible to ies, which are close to public fishing areas, at the park’s pavilion. Info: 410-285-1202, owners with people and programs that apply for grants of up to $1,000. To request have partnered with local fishing clubs to [email protected]. can support wetland development and an application: Melissa.McCormick@ ensure inventory levels and maintenance restoration on their land. calvertcountymd.gov. The deadline for of the equipment. Merrimac Master Naturalist applications to be received (or postmarked Merrimac Farm Master Naturalists / Turf / lawn programs if sent via USPS) is May 31, 2019. Forums / Workshops Prince William County Chapter are For information on the Prince Wil- accepting applications for the Basic Train- liam Soil & Water Conservation District’s Severn River video library Stormwater & litter forum ing Course starting in August 2019. Virginia 12 Steps to a Greener Lawn / Building The Severn River Association invites Managers of Phase I and Phase II MS4 Master Naturalists are trained and certified Environmental Sustainable Turf BEST the public to view videos of its John Wright permits and stormwater professionals are volunteers, ages 18 & older (14 & older w/ Lawns programs, low-cost, research-based Speaker Series presentations to learn about invited to the Second Virginia Stormwater parents), who participate in education and programs for lawn education, contact: activities and challenges on the Severn & Litter Workshop, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. May outreach in schools; stewardship of forests, 703792-4037, [email protected]. River. The videos are available at 28 in Woodbridge, VA. The workshop parks and waterways; and citizen science severnriver.org/category/speaker-series will address urban trash pollution and ranging from bioblitzes to water quality Watershed education capsules strategies used to intercept trash before it monitoring. An information meeting is Prince William (VA) Soil and Water Stormwater management becomes part of stormwater runoff and scheduled 7–8:30 p.m. May 22 in Manas- Conservation District’s Watershed Capsules, Prince William (VA) County Businesses is conveyed to and through the sewer sas, VA. Register by May 21. Fee of $200 which teach students about the functions and nonprofits interested in landscaping system via storm drains. It will include case includes training and membership. Info: of watersheds, are available, first-come, and turf management, stormwater pond studies, an overview of available technolo- [email protected]. first served. Info: pwswcd.org/educators, management, wildlife concerns, recom- gies, networking, and discussions about [email protected]. mendations for maintaining landscapes, funding, behavioral change and legislation. Resources protecting water quality and pollution The registration fee of $20 includes lunch, VA water monitoring test kits prevention can call the county at 703-792- morning coffee, snacks and afternoon MD DNR Grants Gateway The Virginia Department of Environ- 6285 to schedule a free site visit. break. Preregistration info: goo.gl/forms/ The Maryland Department of Natural mental Quality is distributing a limited UHdhgRYmCGcMTeIG3. Agenda Resources has announced that $24.75 number of water monitoring kits to test for Bay Backpack updates: [email protected]. million in funding is available for local dissolved oxygen, pH, turbidity and tem- Provided by the Chesapeake Bay governments and nonprofit organiza- perature. These kits are free to schools and Program’s Education Workgroup, the Bulletin continues on page 36 36 Bay Journal • M ay 2019

loading & unloading vessels included. on Maryland Dove, a reproduction of the ≈ Frog Roundup: 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Fee of $20 includes kayaks, equipment. 17th-century trading ship that accompanied May 26. Ages 8+ Hike to Marble Springs. Preregistration required: the first European settlers to what is now Nets, capture containers provided to help bayrestoration.org/guided-kayak-tours. Maryland, kicks off in the afternoon. Help identify, then release, what is caught. Wear ≈ ACA Level 1 – Introduction to Kayak- make trunnels, or large wooden nails, to waterproof shoes, boots. Free. ing: 10 a.m.–5 p.m. May 19, June 2 be used during its construction. Festivities ≈ Forest Animals & Their Tracks: 1–2:30 or July 7. Beginner to intermediate kayakers also include boat rides, and local food and p.m. June 1. All ages. Animals’ distinctive interested in traditional decked kayaks, drink. Admittance, which includes general marks reveal who they are. Make a plaster Bulletin from page 35 inflatables, and sit-on-tops (spray skirts admission, is $15/adults; $12/ ages 65+, cast of a track. Fee: $5. not used in this course). Classes include college students w/ID & retired military; $6/ ≈ Visit our Nature Center Day! Drop in two hours of dry land instruction and ages 6–17; free/ active military, ages 5 & program. 11 a.m.–3 p.m. June 2. All ages. Events / Programs three hours of on-water instruction on younger. Info: cbmm.org. Exhibits, animal visits, iced tea. Free. No calm, flat water with certified ACA Kayak ≈ Open Boatshop: 5:30–8:30 p.m. May registration. Maryland Park Quest Instructors at a 5 to 1 ratio. Course includes 23, June 20, July 25 & Aug. 22. Experi- ≈ Lady Bug Fun: 1–2:30 p.m. June 8. The Maryland Department of Natural pre-paddling preparation; equipment enced and novice woodworkers, ages 16+ Ages 4–10 w/adult. The lady bug is an Resources invites the public to register overview; stroke development; maneuvers; (unless accompanied by an adult) can work important beetle. Learn about local spe- for Park Quest, a family-based outdoor self-rescue; rules of the water. This is a on a small woodworking project of their cies, search for one, make a craft. Fee: $4. adventure program in state parks. This skills-based course with an optional assess- own, or bring ideas for a future project ≈ Let’s Get Wet! 1–2:30 p.m. June 9. All year’s theme is Off the Beaten Path - Arts, ment that provides the participant with an to receive guidance from an experienced ages. Explore Minebank Run. Wear shoes Activities & Adventures in Maryland State opportunity to receive documentation of shipwright and woodworker, as well as that can get wet. Free. Parks. One thousand qualifying teams will having achieved a certain level of paddling assistance with CBMM’s machinery and Programs take place at the Willow get an opportunity to complete outdoor ability. Cost: $80, plus a kayak and equip- tools for the execution of their small-scale Grove Nature Center unless noted excursions at at least 20 different sites ment rental fee of $20. Those seeking the project. Fee $35. Preregistration required: otherwise. Ages 12 & younger must be from May 1 through Oct. 31. Teams must optional Assessment pay an additional $15 cbmm.org/shipyardprograms. accompanied by an adult. Except where include at least one member who is 16 and will need to acquire an ACA member- noted, preregistration is required for all pro- or younger and at least one adult, with a ship prior to class. Preregistration required. Mount Harmon Plantation grams. Info: [email protected], maximum of 10 participants per team. The Info: bayrestoration.org/kayaking. Mount Harmon Plantation in Earleville, cromwellvalleypark.org, 410-887-2503. cost to participate is $10 per team, which MD, invites nature lovers to a guided For disability-related accommodations, is provided with a Park Quest passport South River 5-mile swim Native Tree Walk with Mount Harmon call 410-887-5370 or 410-887-5319 (TTY), booklet. Registration is first-come, first- This year’s South River Open Water Tour 1–2:30 p.m. May 19. The fee is $10. giving as much notice as possible. served and is open until 1,000 team slots Swim Benefit, is set for 8 a.m. May 26, at Preregistration is required. Info: are filled. Families who miss the registra- Sylvan Shores in Riva, MD. The noncom- [email protected] Oregon Ridge Nature Center tion process can participate by accessing petitive event offers swimmers, paddlers Upcoming programs at the Oregon Park Quest worksheets on the Maryland and kayakers an opportunity to start their Boating safety classes Ridge Nature Center in Cockeysville, MD, Park Service website. Info: dnr.maryland. season while helping to fund the efforts U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla include: gov/parkquest/Pages/Home.aspx. of the South Riverkeeper in protecting, 25-08 is offering Boating Safety classes ≈ Nature Book Club / Sea Change - A preserving and restoring the South River. 7:30 a.m.–5 p.m. May 18, June 15 and Message of the Oceans: 7–8 p.m. May 13. Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse The fee to enter is $200. Preregistration, July 20 at the Washington Farm United Author Sylvia Earle makes it clear that how The Annapolis Maritime Museum is volunteer, sponsor, advertising info: Methodist Church in Alexandria, VA. we treat oceans now will determine the offering tours of the Thomas Point Shoal [email protected], Learn about boat handling and regulations, future health of the Earth – and of humans. Lighthouse 9–11 a.m. & 12–2 p.m. June 8 swimthesouthriver.com. nautical “rules of the road,” trailering and Free. Preregistration appreciated. & 15 and July 6, 13 & 27. The tour include required gear. Virginia, Maryland and the ≈ Shoots & Letters: 10–11 a.m. May 16 30-minute boat rides to and from the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum District of Columbia have varying require- (Turtles); May 23 (Forests); May 30 (Flow- lighthouse, with opportunities to photo- Upcoming events at the Chesapeake ments for boaters before they may legally ers). Ages 3+ Outdoor activities. Fee: graph it from every angle, and a one-hour Bay Maritime Museum in St. Michaels, operate certain motorized vessels on their $2/child. No registration. interior tour, where visitors, who must be MD, include: respective waterways. Each jurisdiction has ≈ All About Birds: 10 a.m.–12 p.m. May 12 & older, learn about the light’s history, ≈ On Land & On Sea - A Century of some requirement for a safe boating class. 18. All ages. Learn about bird adaptations, the life of a keeper and the role of the U.S. Women in the Rosenfeld Collection: May Preregistration is required. Info: go on a bird hike. Fee: $3. Coast Guard. Tours require some physical 17 through March 1, 2020. Exhibition of [email protected], 703-307-6482. The ≈ Senior Stroll: 10:30 a.m. May 18. exertion. Tickets are $80 and help to fund photos taken by Morris and Stanley Rosen- auxiliary’s website, wow.uscgaux.info/ Adults. Walk on the Marble Quarry Loop, the lighthouse’s restoration. Info: feld showcases roles of women in maritime content.php?unit=B-DEPT, also features a paved, 0.3-mile interpretive trail. Stay for amaritime.org, uslhs.org. industries and beyond, revealing the social, boating safety tools, materials. a guided reflection activity. Free. historical context of women over the better ≈ Full Moon Family Camp Out: 6 p.m. Merrimac Farm bird walk part of the 20th century. The exhibition Cromwell Valley Park May 18 through 9 a.m. May 19. All ages. The Prince William Conservation also features photographs of women from Upcoming programs at Cromwell Valley Bring a tent (limited number available for Alliance invites the public to a bird walk museum’s collection. Park’s Willow Grove Nature Center in rent at $10), camping gear, bag dinner. 8 a.m. May 31 on Merrimac Farm in ≈ Create Decorative Rope Fenders: Parkville, MD, include: Take a night hike. S’mores, light breakfast Nokesville, VA. Preregistration required: 10 a.m.–4 p.m. May 25. $75 fee includes ≈ Bird Walks: 8–10 a.m. Saturdays provided. Fee: $10. [email protected], 703-499-4954. basic tools, materials. Preregistration through May 25. Meet at Willow Grove ≈ ORNC Council Speaker Series / You required. Info: cbmm.org/ropefenders, Farm gravel parking lot. Can’t Get Blood from a Stone, But You Kayaking at CBEC cbmm.org/shipyardprograms. ≈ Full Flower Moon Night Hike & Can Get Money from It - the Northampton The Chesapeake Bay Environmental ≈ Maritime Day: 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Campfire: 8–9:30 p.m. May 17. Ages 5+ Iron Furnace: 7–8:30 p.m. May 20. Adults. Center in Grasonville, MD, is offering June 1. Celebrate the traditions kept alive in Take a moonlit stroll, gather around a fire Bill Curtis, a National Park ranger, will dis- kayak tours and classes to increase the CBMM working Shipyard, the construction for s’mores. Fee: $5. cuss the history of the furnace, its workers appreciation, knowledge and stewardship of a new Maryland Dove. The annual Bless- ≈ Boy Scout Day: 1–3 p.m. May 18. as well as ways Americans have exploited, of the Chesapeake ecosystem: ing of the Fleet, prayers for a safe and boun- Lion, Tiger & Wolf Cubs. Meet some of changed natural resources: stone, minerals, ≈ Guided Kayak Tours: 5:30–7:30 p.m. tiful boating season and for mariners whose Maryland’s amazing animals, go outside to wood, water. He will touch on transporta- May 16 & June 6. Beginner to intermediate lives were lost at sea will take place at 10 explore their habitat. Participants receive a tion history. Free, donations appreciated. kayakers. Look for wildlife while exploring a.m. Shipwrights will demonstrate maritime Cromwell Valley Park patch. Fee: $5. No registration. Marshy Creek with a self-provided snack skills throughout the day, including steam- ≈ Beaver Valley: 1–3 p.m. May 25. Ages ≈ Amphibian Walk: 2–3 p.m. May break at the halfway point. Instruction on bending mast hoops, shaping a dugout 8+ Learn how these animals shape the equipment, paddling/safety techniques, canoe, blacksmithing, splicing. Construction landscape, hike to see beaver-cut trees. Free. Bulletin continues on page 37 Bay Journal • M ay 2019 37

Mary’s River State Park, 301-872-5688. two sessions: 9:45–10:45 a.m. or 11:30 5:45–8:15 p.m. Thursdays, in July & ≈ Tributary of Wicomico / Wicomico a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The fee for children ages August. Fee of $8 includes all equipment. County: 7 a.m. June 1. Info: Allen Swiger / 9 months and older is $8 per workshop. Preregistration is required for all Wicomico County Parks and Rec, Parents are free. (If financial constraints programs and closes 24 hours in advance 410-548-4900. prevent someone from attending, contact of each program. Weekend program MARC to see if arrangements can be registration closes at noon on the prior Patuxent Research Refuge made.) Preregistration is required; no walk- Friday. Info: 410-836-3050, edenmill.org, Upcoming programs at the Patux- ins. Info: [email protected]. [email protected]. Bulletin from page 36 ent Research Refuge’s North Tract and National Wildlife Visitor Center [C] in Anita Leight Estuary Center York County (PA) Parks 21. Ages 10+ Visit the wetlands, listen Laurel, MD, include: Programs at the Anita C. Leight Estuary Upcoming events at York County (PA) for calling frogs, toads. Learn about the ≈ Bird Walk: 8–10 a.m. May 8 & 22 Center in Abingdon, MD, include: Parks include: FrogWatchUSA monitoring effort. Free. [C] Ages 16+ Search for spring migrants in ≈ Mother’s Day Tea Party Pontoon: ≈ Spring Plant Fest: 8:30 a.m.–2 p.m. ≈ Pollination Power: 1–3 p.m. May various habitats. Bring binoculars. 2:30–4 p.m. May 12 Ages 2+ Fee: $12. May 11 at 112 Pleasant Acres Road. Native 25 & 26. Ages 4+ Learn how plants are ≈ Owl & Kestrel: 12:15–12:45 p.m. ≈ Birding By Boat: 9–10:30 a.m. May plant sale sponsored by Penn State Exten- pollinated, visit the gardens to look for May. 11, 18 & 25 [C] All ages. Meet two of 18. Ages 8+ Search for marsh birds along sion & MAEscapes includes wildflowers, pollinators. Fee: $3. North America’s smallest birds of prey: the Otter Point Creek. Fee: $10. ferns, shrubs, trees. Attend talks on making Ages 16 & younger must be accom- American kestrel and eastern screech owl. ≈ Critter Dinner Time: 1:30 p.m. May one’s space more butterfly-friendly. Info: panied by an adult. Except where noted, No registration. 18. All ages. Learn about turtles, fish, 717-840-7408, extension.psu.edu/plants/ preregistration is required for programs ≈ Tiny Tots: 10:30–11:15 a.m. May 12 & snakes while watching them eat. Free. No gardening/maescapes. and payment must be made within five 13. [C] Ages 16–48 months w/participating registration. ≈ Build a Rain Barrel: 2:30–4 p.m. business days of registration All programs parent. Interactive songs, stories, activities ≈ Kayak Cruising on the Creek: 10 May 19. Nixon Park, Jacobus. Ages 12+ take place rain or shine. Programs are teach about the refuge. a.m.–12:30 p.m. May 23. Adults. Explore Add to a home spout to conserve water, designed for individuals and families, not ≈ Nature Tots / Spring has Sprung: nooks, crannies of Otter Point Creek, save money, help the environment. All groups. To arrange a program for a group, 10:30–11:30 a.m. May 14. [C] Ages 3–4. upper Bush River. Fee: $12. materials provided. Fee $30 per barrel. contact the park office. Info: 410-887-1815, Learn to identify plants in the refuge. ≈ Children’s Garden Club: 10:30–11:30 Preregistration required: 717-428-1961. [email protected]. For ≈ North Tract Bicycle Ride: 1–3:30 p.m. a.m. May 25. Ages 5–8 w/adult. Cook, ≈ Family Scavenger Hunt: Drop-in disability-related accommodations, call May 26. Ages 10+ Learn the importance of create, explore while discovering a garden’s 12–4 p.m. May 26. Nixon Park, Jacobus. 410-887-5370 or 410-887-5319 (TTD/ reducing one’s footprint, leaving no trace connection to the wild world. Fee: $5/child. Pick up a self-guided scavenger hunt Deaf), giving as much notice as possible. on 12-mile guided ride. Discover local ≈ Spring Kayak Scavenger Hunt: 1–3:30 challenge packet. Explore trails, museum wildlife, plants, historical sites. Bring bike, p.m. May 25. Ages 8+ Search for animals, to complete pages. Go to nature center MD youth fishing rodeos energy bar/snack, water bottle, helmet. plants, landmarks. First boat to find every- before closing to pick up a small reward. The MD DNR Fishing & Boating Ser- Ride is weather-dependent. thing on the list wins. Fee: $12. ≈ Statewide Free Fishing Day: May vices and partners in local communities ≈ Treetop Rock Jam Session with Stina ≈ Meet a Critter: 1:30 p.m. May 26. All 26. Kain & Spring Valley parks, York. No are running free Youth Fishing Rodeos for the Nature Troubadour: 1–2 p.m. May 18 ages. Meet a live animal up close, learn license needed to fish this day. All other ages 3–15. Participants learn basic angling [C] Participants of all ages can bring a hand what makes it special. Free. No registration. regulations apply. skills; develop an understanding of the drum, guitar or any acoustic instrument to ≈ Press-a-Posie: 3–4:30 p.m. May 26. ≈ Summer Reading Program & Go environment and natural resources; and play along with musical nature games. Ages 5+ Collect flowers to dry in a micro- York! Kick-off: 10 a.m.–12 p.m. June 1. have an experience that fosters interest in ≈ Raptors Reign: 1–3 p.m. May 25 [C] wave press, then use in a craft. Fee: $5. Nixon Park, Jacobus. County libraries are conservation and fishing. The DNR helps All ages. Join licensed falconer Rodney Ages 12 & younger must be accom- kicking off SummerQuest: A Universe of raise and supply thousands of hybrid sun- Stotts, for discussions and up-close panied by an adult for all programs. Stories. Bring your library card to pick up a fish, channel catfish and rainbow trout for encounters with birds of prey. Events meet at the center and require program packet. Pack a picnic lunch. Early this year’s fishing rodeos with support from ≈ Kids Fishing Day: 1st session 8:30–11 preregistration unless otherwise noted. registration begins online May 19. Info: the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and a.m.; 2nd session 8:50–11:20 a.m.; 3rd Payment is due at time of registration. yorklibraries.org. Sport Fish Restoration Program. Because session 9:10–11:40 a.m.; 4th session 9:30 Info: 410-612-1688, 410-879-2000 x1688, ≈ Sharks & Shells Drop-In: 2–4 p.m. of space limitations, would-be attendees a.m.–12 p.m.; 5th session 9:50 a.m.–12:20 otterpointcreek.org. June 2. Nixon Park, Jacobus. Ages 5+ must call the contact at each venue to p.m. June 1. Ages 3–15 w/adult. Catch & Learn about treasures one might find on register. Upcoming rodeos include: release only. Call 301-497-5887 to register: Eden Mill Nature Center the beach. Examine shells, animal artifacts. ≈ Gwynn Brook /Baltimore County: 8 leave a name; a good contact phone Upcoming programs at Eden Mill Learn the truth about Atlantic Coast sharks. a.m. May 18. Info: Mark Kurth / Northwest number; ages & names of children; preferred Nature Center in Pylesville, MD, include: ≈ Creature Features: 9:30–10 a.m. & Fishing Club, 410-382-3107. session. If that session is filled your reserva- ≈ Critter Dinner Time: 1–2 p.m. May 11–11:30 a.m. June 6, 13, & 20. Nixon ≈ Patterson Park /Baltimore City: 10 tion will be moved to the next available 4 & 18. Ages 5+ Learn about, help feed Park, Jacobus. Ages 5+ Each session, a.m. June 1. Info: Bob Wall / Parks & Rec, time slot. Do not register for other families. some of the center’s animals. props, photos, artifacts feature a different 410-245-0854. All programs are free; donations are ≈ Nature Storybook Art for Home- creature, its natural history, behavior. ≈ Hillcrest Park Lake / Baltimore appreciated. Except where noted, pro- schoolers: 12:30–2:30 p.m. May 15, 22 & ≈ Sunset Scramble Bicycle Rides: 6:30 County: 7 a.m. June 8. Info: Jodie Black- grams are designed for individuals/families 29. Ages 5–12, parents do not attend. Learn p.m. May 7 (Hanover Junction Train Sta- ford / Baltimore Highlands Rec Council, and require preregistration. Contact: 301- about books, illustrators, art techniques tion); May 14 (Railroad, PA, Parking Lot); 410-887-6994. 497-5887. For disability-related accommo- such as drawing, painting, collage, crafting/ May 21 (New Freedom Train Station); May ≈ Calvert Cliffs Pond / Calvert County: dations, notify the refuge, giving as much constructing. Fee: $44 for the month. 28 (Rudy Park near Rail Trail entrance); 8 a.m. June 1. Info: Diane Holloway/ Cal- notice as possible. Info: ≈ Child & Adult Paint Afternoon / June 4 (Brillhart Station); June 11 (Glatfelter vert County Parks and Rec, 410-586-1101. fws.gov/refuge/Patuxent, fws.gov/refuge/ Butterfly: 3–5 p.m. May 17. Ages 5–10 w/ Station). Meet at designated parking lot for ≈ Silver Run/ Carroll County: 8 a.m. Patuxent/visit/PublicPrograms.html. adult. Child & adult each complete a 14"x 13–15 mile round trip on the Heritage Rail May 18. Info: Lois Szymanski Silver / Run 18" acrylic painting on canvas. Instruction Trail. The group determines the pace. Each Union Mills Lions Club. 443-519-8124. MARC Farm Sprouts provided during event. Fee: $50 per pair. rider must have a light, water, helmets. ≈ Roberts Mill Pond / Carroll County: The Maryland Agricultural Resource ≈ Preschool Nature Series: 10 –11:15 a.m. Snack money is optional. 8 a.m. May 18. Info: Bob Mitchell / City of Center invites children, ages 5 & younger May 21 (Lovely Ladybugs); May 28 (Plant ≈ Moonlight Bicycle Ride: 8:30 p.m. Taneytown, 410-751-1100. and their parents to its Farms Sprouts Power). Ages 2–5 w/adult. Nature games, May 18. Meet at the Heritage Rail Trail’s ≈ Krimgold Park Pond / Carroll County: programs, Cows/Milk on May 17 and story, craft, hike. Fee: $10 per session. Seven Valleys parking lot. Ride about 9 8 a.m. May 19. Info: Loren Lustig / Carroll Tractors on June 7 at the Baltimore County ≈ Sunrise/Sunset Canoe Trips: 5:45– 8:15 miles north. Bring bicycle, light, helmet. County Parks & Rec, 410-386-3705. Agriculture Center in Cockeysville. Classes p.m. Tuesdays & Thursdays in June, Unless noted otherwise, programs are ≈ St. Mary’s River / St. Mary’s County: features movement, stories and arts & September & October through Oct. 13 and free and do not require registration. Info: 8:30 a.m. May 12. Info: Will James / St. crafts. Participants must choose between 9–11:30 a.m. Saturdays in July & August. 717-428-1961. 38 Bay Journal • M ay 2019

Flowers are not just pretty faces for plants. Where in Heaven are you? They have an impor- tant job: Pollinating A petal paradise awaits potential seeds to Bay Buddies those who wander in the produce next year’s Chesapeake watershed. plants. Some plants Flower Part-ners! Here are some of the are able to do this by wildflowers you might themselves, with a encounter, as well as little help from the wind, while others need to attract their descriptions. This pollinators (and that’s when having a pretty face or puzzle wants to know nice scent is important). a red center) open only Here are the scrambled names of flower parts, where you are. Woods? in bright sunlight from along with their roles in producing seeds. Unscramble Wetlands? Meadows? June to August. Its flat, the words and put them in the spaces. Some of the Rocky patches? Or oval stems are thick letters will have a number below them. Place the letter more than one of these and fleshy pads with in the space above the matching number in the blanks habitats? Answers are on short spines that grow in Prickly Pear Cactus at the end of the puzzle. When you are finished, the page 15. clumps up to 3-feet wide blanks will spell out one of the watershed’s showiest 1. The arrow arum and 1-foot tall. blooms. Answers are on page 15. gets its name from the 5. Rose mallow has Cardinal Flower arrow-shaped leaf that showy 6– to 8-inch 1. N H E A R T ______surrounds its spadix, hibiscus-like white 4 13 the long thick spike or pink flowers with This is the tip at the end of the male flower part. It that bears its tiny white a burgundy or deep produces the pollen. blossoms. It grows pink center and yellow 2. F L A M E T I N ______in large colonies and stamens. The plant, 8 5 blooms from May to which can grow up to 7 This is the male part’s thin tubelike stalk, which ends July. A favorite of black feet tall, blooms from late with a pollen-producing tip. and wood ducks, it is June to the first frost. sometimes called duck 3. R Y V O A ______6. Smooth Solomon’s 2 12 corn. American Indians seal’s half-inch greenish This is the bottom of the female part that produces pounded its roots into yellow, pendant-shaped and contains potential seeds before they are pollinated. flour and ate its green flowers hang in pairs Once the seeds are pollinated, they will develop into a fruits like peas. from the axils of its 2– to fruit. 2. Dense blazing star’s 4-inch leaves on an 4. P L A T E S ______clumps of pinkish-purple arching stem. It blooms 10 or white flowers cover from May to July. Scars Rose Mallow Spicebush These parts surround the rest of the flower. Their 1–2 feet of a thick spike on its rhizome (horizon- role in most flowers is to attract pollinators. that can grow up to 5 tal underground stem) feet tall. Its 1-inch feath- 5. L I P I S T ______are said to resemble the 14 ery flowers bloom from seal of King Solomon of This is the female part of the flower. It consists of the July through September, ancient Israel. tip that collects the pollen and the part that produces starting with the flowers 7. Spicebush has been the seeds. It is usually in the center of the flower and is at the top of the spike. called “the forsythia of the tallest part of the flower. Songbirds, butterflies the wild” because its and honeybees visit this 6. P A L E S ______0.125-inch pale yellow 6 plant. flowers bloom in dense This is the green leaflike structure that protects the 3. The cardinal flower clusters from March to Wild Ginger flower when it is a bud. Later, it supports the flower has small, bright red, April, before its leaves after it has bloomed. tubular flowers consisting unfurl. Its leaves and 7. E N M A S T ______of two lips and three twigs have been used to 1 lobes with white-tipped make tea. Its berrylike This is the male part of the flower. It consists of a stamens that unite to red fruit, when dried, has stalk and a tip. There may be more than one of these form a tube. Although it been used as spice. on a flower. attracts bees, butterflies 8. Wild ginger does Dense Blazing Star and hummingbirds, it is 8. A M G I S T ______not have petals. Instead, 7 mostly pollinated by the its three pointed sepals This is the top of the female part that traps pollen, latter, which are more form a 1.5-inch wide usually through a sticky substance, hairs or flaps. successful in navigating brownish red to green- 9. L E S T Y ______the tube than the others. ish brown cup at the The flowers bloom on 9 junction of two petioles. This is the name of the stalk between the pollen- stalks that can grow 2–4 It may take some effort collecting and seed-producing parts of the flower’s feet tall from July through to find wild ginger, female structure. September. because it is often buried Arrow Arum Smooth Solomon’s Seal 10. U S O L V E ______4. The prickly pear in leaf litter under its 3/11 cactus is the only hairy, heart-shaped 5– to Prickly Pear Cactus, Arrow Arum, Cardinal Flower (Dave These will develop into seeds if they are pollinated. widespread native cactus 6-inch leaves. Look for it Harp) // Rose Mallow (Fritzflohrreynolds / CC BY-SA 3.0) east of the Mississippi. from April to May. // Spicebush (Ryan Hager / USFWS) // Wild Ginger (Peter ______Its 3-inch bright yellow Pearsal / USFWS) // Dense Blazing Star (Brett Billings / 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 flowers (sometimes with — Kathleen A. Gaskell USFWS) Smooth Solomon’s Seal (Kristine Paulus / CC BY-2.0) — Kathleen A. Gaskell Bay Journal • M ay 2019 39 Cape May warbler has its own part to play in spring’s avian orchestra By Mike Burke consume in vast numbers. Most warblers lay two to three eggs each year, but the I stood on the boardwalk and turned Cape May will brood six or more during to the early morning sun. I felt the years with abundant bud worms. warmth on my face and closed my eyes. These warblers also eat The dawn chorus of birds enveloped me. invertebrates like spiders and insects. As I listened intently, I could make Unique among warblers, the Cape May out several familiar songs. There was a has a semi-tubular tongue, which it hermit thrush nearby, singing its fluted uses to access hummingbird feeders, notes. To my left an indigo bunting the nectar from flowers and the juices whistled its complex tune. Somewhere of fruit such as grapes. behind me came the rattling voice As the days shorten in September, of a downy woodpecker. There were Cape May warblers return to their warbles and chirps and slurred cheeps. winter grounds in the Caribbean. (The Above me and quite close by, I could bird gets its name from the location hear a softer tsee, repeated four to five where it was first identified.) times. With eyes now wide open, I The male Cape May is a brightly col- tilted my head toward the lisped notes. ored chap. His yellow breast and sides There it was, with a heavily streaked are heavily streaked with black. The yellow breast and a tell-tale chestnut black continues down through its white face patch. This tiny songster was a belly before yielding to its all-white Cape May warbler (Setophaga trigina). vent. He has a brilliant yellow neck ring For centuries, humans have that starts with a bold throat patch and celebrated the arrival of spring with its narrows as it reaches the back of the extraordinary and all-pervasive renewal neck. A bright chestnut “ear” patch is of life. Flowers blossom, trees leaf out, eye-catching. He has a dark cap and a fawns are born, and most delightful of thin black line runs through the eye. A all, birds sing. A few common species slightly down-curved bill sets it apart like cardinals and wrens sing all year from all other warblers. With a greenish long, but for most avian species, song mantle and a fat white wing bar, the is restricted to the breeding season. To Cape May’s color palette is complete. hear it in its full glory, listen at dawn In contrast to the male’s complex when male birds fill the air with their The Cape May warbler (male shown here) is the only warbler with a semi-tubular color pattern, the female Cape May is lively tunes. tongue, which it uses to access hummingbird feeders, the nectar from flowers and much duller. Indistinct streaking and It was the first week of May. We the juices of fruit such as grapes. (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service) faint hints of yellow make the female had arrived at the Kenilworth Aquatic a much tougher field ID. During the Gardens a little before 7 a.m., and a The Cape May was just passing fall migration the male, too, has lost its kind ranger let us in a bit early. The through on his way to his breeding most distinctive coloration. Even worse, National Park Service property is an grounds in the coniferous boreal forests of he doesn’t sing in the fall. oasis in Washington, DC. Bordering the Canada and the northernmost tier of the After feasting my eyes on the male, Anacostia River and directly opposite United States, from Michigan to Maine. I again closed my eyes. From near and the National Arboretum, the park has a We see these warblers in the Chesapeake far the bird songs continued. I stopped tidal river, marshes and a host of trees region just briefly each year. During the struggling to identify species by ear surrounding the ponds. Its rich and varied spring migration they come through and just listened. For a few moments habitats make it an ideal spot for birding. in early May. In the fall, they will fly at least, the world drifted away as I To see the park’s lovely aquatic plants through the watershed in September. was transported by the avian music. I and their bountiful blooms of water lilies Cape May warblers preferentially wanted to soak it in and make sure that and lotus flowers, come in midsummer. nest in spruce trees. These birds are I would remember this moment. But to enjoy its soundscape, come in late canopy specialists, living atop the trees When the cacophony of modern life April or early May, and be sure to come where they build their nests, raise their seems overwhelming, this memory of when it opens. its companions. The dawn chorus of young, and find most of their food. Their exuberant bird song will be the perfect The Cape May warbler doesn’t have mixed species that morning would rival reproductive success largely mirrors the antidote. the loveliest voice in the forest, but its any symphony orchestra in richness, boom-or-bust cycles of the spruce bud Mike Burke, an amateur naturalist, notes seemed to perfectly complement complexity and pure musicality. worm, a widespread pest that Cape Mays lives in Cheverly, MD.

Naturalist from page 40 do not disturb the bird, eggs or hatchlings. plans that are designed for specific bird Under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, it species in your region at nestwatch.org/ pebbles or down. Birds: many shorebirds, is illegal to take possess, import, export, learn/all-about-birdhouses/right-bird- such as terns, plovers, killdeers, American transport, sell, purchase, barter or offer right-house. oystercatchers. for sale, purchase or barter any migratory Kathy Reshetiloff is with the U.S. Fish ≈ Platform: Sticks and twigs make up bird, or the parts, nests, or eggs of such and Wildlife Service’s Chesapeake Bay these bulky, relatively flat nests, although a bird except under the terms of a valid Field Office in Annapolis. some have a shallow depression. Some federal permit. birds may use the same nest year after The Cornell Lab of Ornithology runs These yellow warbler eggs are in a cup year and continue to add material. Birds: a citizen science project called NestWatch nest. The Cape May warbler, featured ospreys, bald eagles, great blue herons and (nestwatch.org) that provides information in the on the Wing column, above, also other wading birds. on how to monitor a nest safely and report builds a cup nest. (Jerry Schoen / If you come across an occupied nest, observations. You can also find bird house CC BY-NC 2.0) May / 2019 Volume 29 Number 3 The Bay Journal NONPROFIT ORG. P.O. Box 222 U.S. POSTAGE Jacobus, PA 17407-0222 PAID DULLES VA PERMIT # 234

The Bay Journal is printed on 100% recyclable/recycled paper using vegetable-based inks. www.bayjournal.com Rock-a-bye-birdie: Bird nests may vary, but each is home tweet home By Kathy Reshetiloff

A few weeks ago, I took advantage of the lovely spring weather to begin sprucing up my yard, neglected during months of cold and rain. Not many of my trees or shrubs had leafed out yet. Passing by my Virginia sweetspire bush, I noticed an empty nest, a leftover from a robin last year. It was an ordinary nest, cup-shaped and made of woven grasses. As I moved around the yard, a small bird, an eastern phoebe, caught my attention as it flew back and forth from the nearby woods to a spot under my deck. A quick look confirmed that the bird was building a nest on a support beam. Unlike the robin’s, this nest was being created with tiny, carefully placed, pieces of moss and mud. Birds are a diverse group of animals, differing in size, color, song, food prefer- ences and habitat. Their nests are just as distinct, some simple and plain, others engineering marvels. Some nests are lined with plant fibers, feathers and other Clockwise, from top: A female Baltimore oriole guards her materials to cushion the eggs even as an pendulum nest. An osprey pair may return to the same platform adult moves around the nest. But they all nest every year. The red-headed woodpecker feeds its young in serve the same purpose: to protect eggs a hollow cavity nest. (Oriole: Ben Long Hair / CC BY-NC 2.0) and growing hatchlings. (Osprey: Randy Loftus / U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service) (Red-headed Birds also choose the location of their woodpecker: Joe Kosack /Pennsylvania Game Commission) nests to provide shelter from wind, rain and sun. And, because eggs and chicks These may be placed between or on are vulnerable to hungry predators, some branches, on ledges or even on the ground. birds choose a location that will hide or Birds: robins, hummingbirds, yellow camouflage the nest with leaves, grass, warblers and many perching birds. moss and bark. ≈ Pendant: These elaborately woven nests, with side entrances, dangle from Basic Shapes & Inhabitants branches, providing protection from preda- ≈ Cup: This nest , the one most people tors. Birds: Baltimore orioles. are familiar with, differs in size, dimen- ≈ Sphere: Almost completely enclosed, sions and depth, depending on the bird. these round nests with a side entrance are well camouflaged. These nests are often on the ground or in low areas susceptible Common terns to predators. Birds: marsh wrens, winter lay their eggs wrens, ovenbirds. in a scrape, ≈ Cavity: These nesters either hollow a shallow out their homes (or use abandoned nest depression on holes hollowed out by other species) as the ground well as natural holes in trees and poles. with only a Some also use bird boxes. Birds: Eastern bit of nesting bluebirds, house sparrows, most wood- material. peckers. (Peter C. ≈ Scrape: You might not even notice McGowan / these shallow depressions. Some have The marsh wren’s sphere nest has a U.S. Fish a little nesting material, such as plants, side entrance and is built close to the and Wildlife ground. (Chelsi Burns / U.S. Fish and Service) Naturalist continues on page 39 Wildlife Service)