Tag: mountains
Record-Breaking Turnout: Over 4,000 Nature Enthusiasts Embark on Maryland's 'First-Day Hikes
In a remarkable display of enthusiasm for the outdoors, more than 4,000 individuals kicked off the New Year by participating in Maryland’s ‘First-Day Hikes.’ The Maryland Department of Natural Resources reported a total of 4,248 people, covering an impressive 10,691 miles across 40 different state parks during the New Year’s weekend from December 31, 2023, to January 1, 2024.
Park rangers played a pivotal role in orchestrating the success of the event by leading 47 scheduled hikes and additional self-guided opportunities on state public lands. The diverse range of activities attracted nature lovers from every corner of Maryland and beyond, turning First Day Hikes into a cherished tradition.
Reflecting the unique character of Maryland, the weather during the event showcased its unpredictable nature. Some regions experienced a sunny New Year’s Day morning with occasional showers in the afternoon and evening, while others welcomed the new year with a picturesque snow-covered landscape.
Ranger-led programs engaged 3,153 visitors who collectively covered approximately 7,961 miles, while 1,095 participants explored self-guided hikes spanning at least 2,730 miles. A Maryland Park Service online survey encouraged hikers to self-report, revealing that 154 individuals covered more than 77 miles in the state’s parks.
Several exciting events added a unique touch to this year’s First Day Hikes. Tuckahoe State Park hosted a First Day Horse Ride in collaboration with the Tuckahoe Equestrian Center, drawing 50 riders. Gunpowder Falls State Park featured a First Day Bike Ride on the Torrey C. Brown Rail Trail, attended by cyclists who were first-time visitors despite rainy conditions. Smallwood State Park welcomed a furry friend—an adventurous cat in a backpack—joining hikers new to the area.
This year’s participation marked a significant increase over the previous year, with over 4,000 individuals compared to approximately 4,900 participants in the three-day period from December 31, 2022, through January 2, 2023. The growing success of First Day Hikes reflects a deepening connection between the community and Maryland’s stunning natural spaces.
Maryland’s ‘First-Day Hikes’ have evolved into a magnificent tradition, symbolizing the collective embrace of the great outdoors as a way to commence the new year. With each passing year, the event continues to flourish, fostering a sense of community and appreciation for the state’s breathtaking landscapes. As the numbers grow, so does the shared joy of exploring Maryland’s natural wonders, making First Day Hikes a tradition worth celebrating.
Doug McClive
Douglas “Doug” McClive passed in peace surrounded by his family on Oct.19, 2023 in Windsor, Calif.
Born on Jan. 8, 1950 in Buffalo, N.Y., Doug took the “quality of life” plunge back in 1974 and moved full time to Garrett County to assume the position as chef at the Four Season’s Restaurant, Will O the Wisp and later at Silver Tree Restaurant.
With 34 years in the restaurant business, Doug, Rebecca McClive, and business partner Debra Savage established McClive’s Restaurant on Deep Creek Drive in 1987. Doug and his family operated the locally celebrated restaurant until 2001.
Doug carried his love of Deep Creek Lake and all of Garrett County forward (2002-2023), along with his professional partner Ed King, to Long & Foster Real Estate, now Taylor-Made Deep Creek Vacations & Sales. He was an Accredited Buyer Representative (ABR) and member of MAR & NAR and was a six-year officer of the Garrett County Board of Realtors. His resort property niche and professional resources placed him among Deep Creek’s top producers every year.
Elected 2009 and 2014 REALTOR® of the Year by the Garrett County Board of REALTORS, he was named Top Producer, and a Long & Foster Gold Team member.
He was active in many local charities, including Deep Creek Lions Club, providing leadership as Membership Chair in 2013-2014 and participating in frequent fundraising events such as Casino Night and the Blind Skiing program at Wisp Resort, offering his world famous “Dougy Dog’s” barbecue at the Soap Box Derby.
25th Annual Deep Creek Dunk
Take the Plunge: Join the 25th Annual MSP/NRP Deep Creek Dunk for a Chilling Cause
Mark your calendars for February 24, 2024, as the 25th Annual MSP/NRP Deep Creek Dunk invites you to embark on an exhilarating adventure for a cause that warms the heart. Plunge into the frozen depths of Deep Creek Lake and make a splash to benefit the 15,588 athletes and Unified® teammates of Special Olympics Maryland!
Packet Pick-Up & Pre-Registration
Friday, February 23, 2024 • 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Head to the registration tent in the Honi Honi parking lot on Friday evening to kickstart your Dunk experience. Sign your waiver, grab your official Dunk sweatshirt and dunk zone wristband to skip the lines on Saturday. Ensure you’ve met the minimum fundraising amount ($75.00) to receive your gear. Cash, checks, and credit cards will be accepted. Don’t forget to bring any remaining donations for entry to your Plunge page. Afterward, indulge in an evening of Goosebumps, Grapes, and Growlers.
Goosebumps, Grapes & Growlers
Friday, February 23, 2024 • 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM Entry Fee: $20 Donation to Special Olympics Maryland
Start the Dunk weekend with a flourish at this wine and beer-tasting event. A $20 donation to Special Olympics Maryland grants you access to a delightful evening. Be captivated by the Honi Honi House Band at 8:00 PM, featuring a rotating ensemble of talented local artists and musicians.
Dunk Day
Saturday, February 24, 2024 • 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM 19741 Garrett Hwy, Oakland, MD 21550
As Saturday unfolds, the Dunk festivities begin at 11:00 AM with registration in the UNO Pizzeria and Grill parking lot. Arrive early to beat the rush, allowing more time to relish the fantastic music and excitement that the Dunk has in store. If you want to save time, bring your printed waiver, which you can find on the event’s official website.
DUNK!
Experience the thrill of the Dunk as participants take the plunge in waves of 30-40 at a time. The official Dunk kicks off at 2:00 PM, continuing until everyone present has taken the plunge. Remember, BYOB and coolers are strictly prohibited.
COSTUME CONTEST
Don’t miss the chance to showcase your creativity! Tune in to the Emcee at the main stage for announcements on when the Costume Contest begins and when the winners will be revealed.
PARKING
Parking is free at Garrett 8 Cinemas, conveniently located across the street from UNO Pizzeria and Grill and the Honi Honi Bar. However, due to limited spots, consider carpooling with friends and fellow Dunk enthusiasts to ensure everyone has a spot.
Join the 25th Annual MSP/NRP Deep Creek Dunk for a day of icy thrills, heartwarming moments, and a commitment to making a difference in the lives of Special Olympics Maryland athletes and Unified® teammates. Be part of this iconic event that blends courage, camaraderie, and a bit of winter madness for an unforgettable cause.
Deep Creek Featured In 10 Best Places To Visit In Maryland State This Winter
Muddy Creek Falls in Swallow Falls State Park
Muddy Creek Falls, situated within the stunning Swallow Falls State Park in Maryland, is a breathtaking natural wonder that captivates visitors year-round. Cascading from a height of 53 feet, it is the tallest free-falling waterfall in the state. During winter, this natural spectacle takes on a unique charm as the freezing temperatures often transform the falls and its surroundings into a sparkling ice-covered wonderland.
Skiing at Wisp Resort
Wintertime means winter sports. And Wisp Resort is one of the best options to enjoy them. It features 34 stunning slopes and trails for skiing and snowboarding. They are connected with 7 lifts and are suitable for both beginners and experts.
If you’re traveling with your family or friends, not every member of the party might be into skiing. But you can be sure that at Wisp Resort, nobody comes out short. There is also snow tubing, snowshoeing, ice skating, a unique self-powered mountain coaster, as well as plenty of dining options. for full article 10 Best Places To Visit In Maryland State This Winter (travelinglifestyle.net)
25th Annual Deep Creek Dunk Additions
The Maryland State Police/Natural Resources Police will host the 25th Deep Creek Dunk on Saturday, Feb. 24 at Uno’s Pizzeria and Grill on Deep Creek Lake in Western Maryland.
More than 400 participants from across the state will take a dunk into the chilly waters of Deep Creek Lake to raise funds for Special Olympics Maryland (SOMD). All funds will benefit the Special Olympics Maryland — Garrett County athletes and Unified® teammates.
For the first time ever on Thursday, Feb. 22, starting at 2 p.m., the group will host a Community Dunk.
The Community Dunk is presented by the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce and is sponsored by Oak-Mar Motel & 3rd Street Diner and Casselman Creamery. This is specifically geared toward local community engagement. This first of what is planned as an annual event is billed as “a smaller, more intimate affair with a local flair.”
“If you are a local, avoid the crowds of the Saturday Dunk but still support the athletes and Unified® teammates of Special Olympics Maryland — Garrett County,” a spokesperson said. “Register for the Community Dunk at www.CommunityDunk.com.”
Money raised during the Dunk week goes towards the Special Olympics Maryland — Garrett County programming, including participation at the 2023 Bowling State Championships back on Dec. 3 and Garrett County Public Schools hosted the first ever Interscholastic Unified Elementary Bocce County Championships on Dec. 20. For more information New addition announced for 25th year of Deep Creek Dunk | Garrett News | wvnews.com
County Commissioners Public Meeting Cancelled
The Board of County Commissioners Public Meeting scheduled for Tuesday, January 2, 2024 has been cancelled. The next Public Meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, January 23, 2024 beginning at 4:00 p.m.
Maryland Fishing Report – Winter Preview 2023-24
The pre-season trout stocking program is now underway until late March 2024, when the spring trout stocking program will commence. Anglers are encouraged to check out the trout stocking website to see where they are taking place.
Trout fishing in the put-and-take areas is a wonderful way to introduce anglers of all ages to fishing with some success. During the winter many marginal trout waters in community areas provide cool enough water conditions for stocked trout to survive until the early summer. These sites can usually be reached by most Maryland without too much driving and they are relatively easy to fish. A simple bobber, hook, and bait – either an earthworm or artificial such as a Powerbait – is all that is needed within easy casting distance. There are also some trout management waters that are set aside for our young anglers under the age of 16.
The catch-and-release and gear-specific trout management waters offer plenty of fun for those using fly fishing gear or using artificials. Many of these trout management waters are located in the western region of Maryland, offering solitude and a picturesque setting of mountain streams. In the central region there are a few similar trout management waters, with the upper Gunpowder being one of the more popular locations.
The upper Potomac River is providing good fishing for smallmouth bass and walleye for the coming months. Water levels can change and cause hazardous conditions at times so caution should be taken after heavy rainfall. U.S. Coast Guard approved life jackets must be always worn when on the upper Potomac and its tributaries from November 15 to May 15. Deep Creek Lake and the lower Susquehanna River also have populations of smallmouth bass and walleye and Prettyboy Reservoir has a healthy smallmouth bass population.
Fishing for crappie remains good during the winter, and they can be found holding close to deep structure. Bridge piers and marina docks are good places to look for them in tidal and nontidal waters. The tidal Potomac River near the Wilson Bridge is a popular crappie fishing area.
Anglers fishing in the tidal creeks of the Chesapeake are starting to catch yellow perch in some of the deeper areas. Small minnows on a bottom rig or jig head are great ways to catch them.
Largemouth bass can be found during the winter in a variety of waters, tidal and nontidal. One thing they will all have in common is deep water. The largemouth will be holding deep near channel drop-offs and structure. Blade lures and soft craw jigs are good choices for lures, but they must be worked slowly and close to the bottom.
Advisory board talks protections for Youghiogheny River
Garrett County and Maryland officials are “totally ignoring” regulations crafted to protect the state’s only Wild-designated river, Donald Sebold said.
Sebold is chairman of the Youghiogheny Scenic and Wild River Advisory Board, which met Monday to discuss issues, including the Swallow Falls Road bridge project.
The board wants to be notified before any actions are taken that could impact the Scenic and Wild Yough corridor.
Recently, the board members and many other folks were surprised after the Maryland Department of Natural Resources approved installation of monitoring equipment in the corridor by the United States Geological Survey at the request of Deep Creek Watershed Foundation.
“DNR has failed to be open and transparent with this whole decision making process with the public and this board,” former state Scenic and Wild Rivers Coordinator John Wilson said.
He spent roughly a third of his career working on the Yough.
“The Yough is a special place and is irreplaceable,” Wilson said. “It’s the only Wild river designated in the state.”
DNR’s approval of an exception to the river’s protections that will allow for a new bridge and road to be constructed near the Swallow Falls Road bridge contradicted the board’s recommendation for the bridge project to use the smallest footprint possible, he said.
“DNR resources professionals clearly indicated that it will impact the river and the adjoining corridor particularly by clearing two acres of virgin hemlock forest,” he said of recommendations the department’s staff made about the bridge project.
“DNR resources staff recommended using the existing right-of-way was did this board but departmental leadership chose for some reason to grant the exception anyway,” Wilson said.
Wilson said he is perplexed at why DNR as stewards of the “spectacular natural resource” appear to be ignoring “all of the protection measures that we worked so hard to put in place.”
DNR leadership is not interested in following regulations and protecting the Yough, he said.
“It almost feels like the foxes are guarding the hen house,” Wilson said.
Sebold also addressed the proposed project to add a new bridge rather than use the existing Swallow Falls Bridge alignment.
“The best reforestation I know of is don’t do it,” he said of cutting trees for the project.
“I feel like the (river’s) management plan was put into effect to actually save the river from property owners who were in the process of developing,” Sebold said. “Now, it looks like we’ve got to be aware and concerned about the state and the county. They want to develop this area to bring in money.”
Paul Peditto, DNR’s assistant secretary for land resources, said he couldn’t provide details on why the department didn’t follow the advisory board’s recommendation.
“I would love to dig deep into this,” he said. “Regrettably we are in active litigation.”
That referred to a petition that in September asked Garrett County Circuit Court to review DNR’s decision on the bridge project exception.
“As we’ve been advised by the Office of Attorney General … we can’t adjudicate that here,” Peditto said.
“That’s what happens when you sue us, you kind of put us in a box to talk about it,” he said.
“We most certainly considered the input from the advisory board,” Peditto said and added there were many decades without input from the advisory board. “We struck a balance. We had very, very strong input from the county as to the necessity of creating the exception.”
He also told the board members to consider that while DNR issued the county an exception that would allow for an off-site span, the new bridge isn’t built yet.
“If the county were to come back and say ‘we’re OK with closing this bridge’ … then our exception letter is no longer necessary,” Peditto said.
“We’re waiting on a new design plan,” he said. “When we get to the 60% design phase, we will have a substantially better understanding of what will happen.”
Regarding the USGS equipment in the Yough corridor, Peditto said DNR has multiple gauging stations on waters across the state.
“We did not ignore or intentionally avoid giving you a heads up about a gauging station” in the Yough corridor, he said, and added the project came to DNR from Garrett County officials, the Deep Creek Lake Property Owners Association and Deep Creek Watershed Foundation.
Peditto also talked of an OAG memo that suggests the Yough advisory board was formed to develop regulations for the river.
“I think it’s a question for you all going forward as to whether the collective legal entities see the role as continuing,” he said.
Peditto said he will engage with the advisory board moving forward.
Steve Storck is a petitioner in the litigation Peditto mentioned.
Storck said DNR is supposed to consult the advisory board about potential activities in the Yough corridor.
“It’s in the management plan that you’re supposed to come to this board to discuss these types of things,” he said.
“It is your management plan,” he told Peditto.
Storck also said the Deep Creek POA, Watershed Foundation and USGS should not have been allowed to request the gauge project.
“They should not have been eligible … according to the Attorney General and secretary of DNR last year,” he said.
Storck talked of folks who own property in the Yough corridor.
“Landowners do not know what their responsibility is related to the corridor,” he said. “It would be great if you could educate landowners.”
The advisory board plans to meet again 9 a.m. Jan. 25 to discuss issues including administrative rules, mapping updates from DNR and orientation materials.
for more information Advisory board talks protections for Youghiogheny River | Local News | times-news.com
Garrett Fire Department to Receive Volunteer Fire Assistance Grant To Enhance Wildland Fire Protection
For 2023, the Maryland Forest Service awarded grant funds totaling $149,325 in match funding for $390,502 in total project costs. Generally the grants cover 50 percent of project cost, with a maximum grant award of $3,500 per department. The grants include federal funding provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service.
Wildland firefighting projects and purchases that receive awards include personal protective equipment, fire hoses and related equipment, power tools such as chainsaws or leaf blowers, fire engines and pumping units, utility and all-terrain vehicles, and certain types of training.
The Grant for Garrett is as follows
Bittinger Volunteer Fire Department
$3,500
($7,000) Deep Creek Volunteer Fire Company
$3,443
($6,885)Eastern Garrett Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department
$3,500
($7,300)
Kitzmiller Volunteer Fire Department
$3,083
($6,165.88)
Oakland Featured in Best Town for A Winter Getaway
This small town in Garrett County has less than 2,000 residents and hosts multiple state parks and lush natural surroundings, providing winter enthusiasts with endless opportunities. At Deep Creek Lake State Park, you can choose from hiking, ice fishing, cross-country skiing, and ice skating to enjoy the over 1,000-acre park. Alternatively, you can slip into your snowshoes to explore the winter wonderland that is Swallow Falls State Park. When temperatures drop, and the snow begins to fall, the three frozen waterfalls inside the park prove to be a breathtaking scene for explorers.
For more adventures in the town, Herrington Manor State Park boasts a chill environment with a 53-acre lake within Garrett State Forest. Meanwhile, Oakland has a rich railway heritage that you can learn about at the Oakland B & O Railroad Museum or the Garrett County Historical Museum. To ensure that you’re close to the action, you can stay at the Garrett Inn, which sits about 7 miles from Swallow Falls State Park.
for more 9 Best Towns In Maryland For A Winter Getaway – WorldAtlas
