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Deep Creek Drive Road closure

 The area of 855 Deep Creek Drive will be closed to through traffic on Tuesday, June 6, 2023, from 8:30am to 2:30pm for maintenance.  Questions may be directed to 301-334-6976. for more information Deep Creek Drive road closure – Department of Public Works – Public Utilities Division – Garrett County Government

Unveiling the Best Fishing Areas in Garrett County, Maryland

Amidst the stunning Appalachian Mountains, Garrett County boasts a plethora of pristine lakes, tranquil rivers, and picturesque streams, making it a true haven for fishing enthusiasts. In this blog post, we will unveil some of the finest fishing areas in Garrett County, where you can cast your line and reel in an unforgettable experience.

  1. Deep Creek Lake: Let’s begin our angling adventure with the crown jewel of Garrett County—Deep Creek Lake. Spanning over 3,900 acres, this expansive lake offers a diverse range of fish species, including largemouth and smallmouth bass, walleye, northern pike, yellow perch, and trout. Launch your boat from one of the numerous public access points or try your luck from the shoreline. Don’t forget to explore the secluded coves, where fish often gather for a feeding frenzy.
  2. Savage River: For a more secluded and serene fishing experience, head to the Savage River. Renowned for its exceptional trout fishing, this scenic river is a fly fisherman’s paradise. With crystal-clear waters and a healthy population of native brook trout, brown trout, and rainbow trout, the Savage River offers a challenging yet rewarding angling experience. The catch-and-release regulations ensure the sustainability of the fish population, so remember to release your prized catches unharmed.
  3. Youghiogheny River: Flowing through the western edge of Garrett County, the Youghiogheny River provides anglers with a variety of fishing opportunities. The lower section of the river, known as the Youghiogheny Reservoir, is particularly famous for its smallmouth bass, walleye, and channel catfish. If you prefer a more adventurous experience, try floating down the river in a kayak or canoe while casting your line. The stunning scenery and abundant wildlife will make your fishing trip truly unforgettable.
  4. Casselman River: As it winds through Garrett County, the Casselman River captivates anglers with its natural beauty and thriving fish population. This picturesque river is known for its healthy population of brown trout, rainbow trout, and native brook trout. You can access the river from multiple locations, including Casselman River Bridge State Park and the town of Grantsville. Don’t miss the annual “Heritage Day” fishing event, where locals and visitors come together to celebrate the river and its bountiful fish.
  5. Jennings Randolph Lake: Situated on the North Branch Potomac River, Jennings Randolph Lake offers excellent fishing opportunities for anglers of all skill levels. The lake is well-stocked with a variety of fish species, including smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, walleye, and crappie. Whether you prefer fishing from a boat or casting from the shoreline, Jennings Randolph Lake guarantees a rewarding experience. Take advantage of the lake’s tranquil ambiance and immerse yourself in the surrounding natural beauty.

Edwards Fund issues $13.2 million in grants for Allegany, Garrett projects

 Representatives for the Sen. George C. Edwards Fund announced Tuesday that 13 economic development projects in Allegany County and six in Garrett County have been awarded nearly $13.2 million in grant funding.

The Sen. George C. Edwards Fund was allocated $50 million by the state of Maryland last year to be distributed in Allegany, Garrett and Washington counties over the next five years to create jobs and stimulate the economy in Western Maryland.

Projects selected for funding in Allegany County include $1.5 million for the conversion of the former Memorial Hospital site in South Cumberland to a housing complex. Also included is $1 million each for improvements to Vocke Road and for an expansion of Western Maryland Lemonade located in downtown Cumberland.

Managed by the 11-member Western Maryland Economic Future Investment Board, the Fund received 100 applications. Each board member reviewed all the applications, and the county commissioners from each county ranked the projects within their jurisdictions. The ranked projects were presented to the board, which had the final vote.

“I am very happy to see this fund support so many strong projects, which will have a tremendous impact on our communities,” said Edwards in a press release. “These investments in Western Maryland will create jobs and help attract new businesses, supporting and inspiring economic growth for years to come.”

Other projects selected for funding in Allegany County include 1812 Brewery, $750,000; Rosenbaum Building redevelopment downtown, $500,000; Wills Hotel development, $500,000; former Allegany High School site improvements for future housing, $422,000; Liang Property development near UPMC Western Maryland, $250,000; Pharmacare expansion, $223,000; Queen City Creamery, $200,000; Rainmaker Music expansion downtown, $140,000; Allegany College of Maryland, $100,000; and Reptilian Arts expansion, $15,000.

According to the press release, the total impact value of the funded projects is $178.5 million, which is leveraged by $20 million from the fund. The projects are expected to create over 600 direct, permanent jobs, not including temporary construction jobs or indirect job creation. Grant agreements have been signed with the awardees, and the Tri-County Council for Western Maryland is coordinating the distribution of funds.

In Garrett County, projects selected for funding include $1.5 million for expansion of the Beitzel Corporation’s headquarters in Grantsville, where the company will construct a new field crew and fleet training and maintenance center.

Other projects to receive funds include $1.5 million for Simon Pierce Manufacturing; $1.3 million for improvements at the Corsa Coal North Mine; Garrett County government for $1.2 million for future housing; $600,000 for a MEDCO spec building; and $500,000 for improvements at the Keyser’s Ridge Business Park.

Andrew Sargent, from the Maryland Department of Commerce, said, “The Economic Future Investment Board worked hard to review all the applications and identify the projects that would have the greatest impact on the region. We are excited to see these projects progress and are proud to have played a role in their success.”

Allegany, Garrett and Washington counties received $6.6 million each for projects. Washington County has six projects, including $1.52 million for a new Meritus school of osteopathic medicine.

article by Greg Larry at the Cumberland Times-News. To reach him, call 304-639-4951, email glarry@times-news.com and follow him on Twitter @GregLarryCTN.

Embrace the Outdoors: Explore the Best Hiking and Walking Trails in Garrett County, Maryland

With the arrival of summer, it’s the perfect time to lace up your hiking boots, grab a water bottle, and embark on an outdoor adventure. Garrett County, Maryland, nestled in the scenic Appalachian Mountains, offers an abundance of hiking and walking trails that showcase the region’s natural beauty. From lush forests and cascading waterfalls to panoramic vistas, these trails cater to all skill levels and provide opportunities to connect with nature. In this article, we will highlight some of the best hiking and walking trails in Garrett County, inviting you to explore the great outdoors.

Swallow Falls State Park is a true gem, boasting several beautiful hiking trails. The park’s main attraction is Muddy Creek Falls, Maryland’s highest free-falling waterfall. Take the easy 1.25-mile trail to witness the majestic cascade and continue to explore the park’s scenic surroundings. The Swallow Falls Canyon Loop Trail offers a moderate 1.25-mile hike through ancient hemlock forests, leading you to tranquil Swallow Falls and breathtaking Tolivar Falls.

Deep Creek Lake State Park not only offers water activities but also features picturesque hiking trails. The Indian Turnip Trail is a 1.4-mile loop trail that winds through hardwood forests and showcases stunning lake views. For a longer adventure, the Beckman’s Trail offers a 5.5-mile loop around the park, where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of the area’s diverse flora and nature.

Herrington Manor State Park is known for its serene lake, but it also offers fantastic trails to explore. The Hemlock Trail is an easy 1.2-mile loop that meanders through a beautiful forest of hemlock trees. For a longer hike, try the 6-mile Rock Maze Trail, which takes you on a journey through diverse landscapes, including scenic overlooks and the unique “rock maze” formation.

The Deep Creek Lake Discovery Center features interpretive exhibits and educational programs, as well as nature trails. The Lake Shore Trail is a 1.4-mile easy hike that takes you along the picturesque shoreline of Deep Creek Lake. Keep an eye out for wildlife and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the lake.

Located just outside of Garrett County, Casselman River Bridge State Park offers a historic and scenic hiking experience. The park’s trails lead you to the iconic Casselman River Bridge, built in 1813. Explore the 0.25-mile self-guided interpretive trail to learn about the history and significance of the bridge, and then continue onto the Great Allegheny Passage, a long-distance hiking and biking trail that follows the path of the former Western Maryland Railway.

Memorial Day

Today we honor the many women and men that lost their lives serving to protect our country and citizens. Many of us have family that we remember and honor on this day by picnics, family, and friend gatherings. Many people visit cemeteries and memorials on Memorial Day to honor and mourn those who died while serving. Many volunteers place American flags on the graves of military personnel in national cemeteries.

Cities and towns across the United States host Memorial Day parades each year, including our own Oakland, Maryland. often incorporating military personnel and members of veterans’ organizations. Some of the largest parades take place in ChicagoNew York and Washington, D.C.

Americans also observe Memorial Day by wearing a red poppy in remembrance of those fallen in war—a tradition that began with a World War I poem. On a less somber note, many people take weekend trips or throw parties and barbecues on the holiday, perhaps because Memorial Day weekend—the long weekend comprising the Saturday and Sunday before Memorial Day and Memorial Day itself—unofficially marks the beginning of summer.

Grand Old Flag

The Best Things to Do in Deep Creek Lake, Maryland

Deep Creek Lake State Park is an idyllic spot to launch a boat. Wisp Resort operates a rental kiosk on the park’s public beach for kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, and beach chairs.

Want to take paddling to the next level? Wisp has a 1,700-foot recirculating whitewater course on the top of the mountain, for gentler rapids than some on the nearby Youghiogheny River. Guides help rafts and kayaks maneuver the rock-lined loop. You can ride the ski chairlift to get to the course, taking in mountain and lake views.

Drop the paddle and start a motor at Lake Life Rentals in McHenry. The outfitter issues temporary boating licenses so you can steer pontoons with cushioned seats and a canopy for sun coverage. (Seafaring dogs are allowed.) For an additional fee, rent tubes to strap on the back of the boat.

The placid water makes the lake an ideal spot to learn how to waterski and wakeboard. Book a session with Rouse Water Sports, departing from the Deep Creek Marina Club. Greg Rouse, a water­ski instructor with more than 30 years’ experience, uses a training boom—a bar that extends from the boat onto the water—for a beginner-friendly lesson. Start with water­skis, or if you’re more advanced, try barefoot skiing.

Beyond the lake, there are hikes that take you by local waterways. To learn more about the area’s ecology, reserve a spot on a river walk led by All Earth Eco Tours. Stroll along the Youghiogheny River while a guide points out plants and animals. After a mile walk upstream, the tour stops at a swimming hole for downtime in the water.

Stop at Firefly Farms Market to stock up on Maryland-made cheese, cured meats, and crackers. At the cafe, the farm’s cow’s- and goat’s-milk cheeses are folded into cheffy sandwiches. West Virginia’s Mountain State Brewing Company has an outpost in McHenry for pub fare, flatbread pizzas, and cold beers. The back patio often hosts live music in summer. For a sweet treat by the water, grab a cone from Lakeside Creamery or, to customize your confection, pick a glaze and toppings at Deep Creek Donuts.

for more The Best Things to Do in Deep Creek Lake, Maryland (washingtonian.com)

Deep Creek Farmers Market season begins

The Deep Creek Farmers Market is a community event that promotes a wholesome, social gathering place in our area showcasing the rich agricultural heritage, local craftspersons, and unique small businesses of the area. Visit food vendors, craftors, live bands, and more! The Mission of this market is to serve all Garrett County residents and visitors alike, and specifically the Deep Creek Lake/Northern Garrett County region. There are inherent benefits for the consumer, producer, and community where food is grown, purchased, and consumed locally. They strive to improve the variety, taste, and freshness of products available to consumers in our area. The Farmers Market is open every friday during the summer season from 3-6pm between the fairgrounds and the college parking lot. visit Deep Creek Farmers Market – “Grow, nourish, and inspire community” for more information

Bobcat Academy gives students immersive college experience

Frostburg State University will be hosting students from both Allegany and Garrett Counties in a Dual Enrollment Pilot program next fall.  The Bobcat Academy will give students an immersive college experience and an opportunity to earn college credits while completing their senior year of high school.  Dr. Kim Green-Kalbaugh, Chief Academic Officer for Allegany County, spoke about the academy at this month’s school board meeting. Garrett County schools will have open house events on May 19th and 30th for students and parents interested in the Bobcat Academy.

for more information Bobcat Academy gives students immersive college experience | WCBC (wcbcradio.com)