“Wetlands are critical to the health of our beloved Chesapeake Bay,” said Governor Martin O’Malley. “These restoration efforts are essential to our future – for those who rely on waterways for their livelihoods, as well as those who enjoy them as a recreational resource. “

In June 2007, under the leadership of Governor O’Malley, Maryland acquired 728 acres of ecologically sensitive land along the Little Blackwater River that was threatened by runaway development.

“The project expands the existing agricultural ditches to create swamp runs and flood plains to better manage runoff into Maple Dam Branch, which runs along the side of the property,” said Jim Newcomb, of Dorchester Soil Conservation District. “We were pleased to provide insightful guidance to DNR to materialize our shared vision and construction plans.”

Maple Dam Branch is part of the Little Blackwater River, which flows into the Blackwater River. These two rivers and their adjacent tidal and nontidal wetlands comprise a significant portion of the watershed for the Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge, one of the largest conservation areas in Maryland.

In addition to improving the water quality entering Maple Dam Branch and Little Blackwater River, the acquisition through DNR’s Program Open Space resulted in: protecting and enhancing existing resources and Green Infrastructure Hub, an area of focus for on-going land conservation efforts by DNR and local land trusts; improving wildlife habitat at the site; providing passive recreational opportunities for the public; and implementation of agricultural best management practices.

Labels: blackwater, cambridge, DNR, environment, green

posted by MRD  # 9:30 AM

ANNAPOLIS – The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is seeking enthusiastic adults to become TEAM (Teaching Environmental Awareness in Maryland) volunteers. TEAM DNR is a volunteer program committed to educating elementary and middle school students about the Chesapeake Bay and other Maryland environmental issues through hands on presentations in classrooms around the state.

“TEAM volunteers are helping to create the next generation of environmental stewards,” said Amy Henry, Conservation Education Specialist at DNR. “Volunteers help students understand the importance of conservation and restoration through hands-on activities and presentations.”

TEAM Volunteers provide an important link between DNR, schools, and students. Since 1998, TEAM DNR volunteers have delivered 1000 classroom programs and inspired more than 30,000 students in Maryland. Currently, TEAM offers schools-free classroom programs on the Chesapeake Bay watershed, streams, oyster reefs, horseshoe crabs, and Chesapeake watermen.

The next volunteer workshop will be held on Friday, July 11, 2008 from 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. in the first floor conference room of the Tawes State Office Building (580 Taylor Ave. in Annapolis). Participants will be trained on three of the four classroom programs. DNR will provide snacks and beverages, but participants are asked to bring their own lunch.

To register for this workshop, contact Amy Henry at 410-260-8828 or ahenry@dnr.state.md.us.

Volunteers should have an outgoing personality and a strong desire to protect the Chesapeake Bay. While no prior teaching experience is necessary, volunteers should enjoy working with children. For more information, visit www.dnr.maryland.gov/education/teamdnr.

To help ensure that all Maryland children have an opportunity to experience and connect with nature, Governor O’Malley recently signed an Executive Order establishing the Maryland Partnership for Children in Nature. This coalition of state, local, private and non-profit partners is charged with promoting the well-being of youth by accelerating environmental learning, connecting communities to parks and public lands and expanding opportunities for structured and unstructured outdoor time in nature for both play and learning.

Labels: Annapolis, chesapeake bay, Department of Natural Resources, DNR, environment, martin o'malley, Maryland, oysters, Tawes State Office Building, Team, watermen, watersheds, wildlife

posted by MRD  # 11:48 AM