Volume 8 Spring & Issue 1 Summer - Maryland State...

Volume 8

Issue 1

Spring & Summer

2009

Inside This Issue

Park Quest Comes to Patapsco 1,3 Robin’s Nest 2,3 New Nature Center at Hilton Opens 4 Rob Dyke Wins Ranger Award 4 Adopt-A-Trail Program in Full Swing 5 2009 Volunteer Trail Work Days 5 Spring & Summer Program Calendar 6-11 CJC Returns to Patapsco in 2009 12

Patapso’s VBP Needs New Members 12 PVSP Hosted NRPA Congress Participants 12 Maryland Junior Rangers Program 13 Junior Naturalist Awareness Series 13 Bloede Descendents Visit PVSP 14 2008: A Banner Volunteer Year 14 Online Information 15 Directions to Areas of the Park 15

PARK QUEST COMES TO PATAPSCO! What would you call a day in the park with your friends & family completing an outdoor challenge such as finding geo caches, taking nature walks, canoeing water trails, playing disc golf, taking a history mystery walk or participating in a scavenger hike to list a few? All of this while you and your friends/family have a chance to win great prizes like bikes, camping supplies, kayaks and more. And, everything is well organized and it is all FREE. We call it Park Quest! What started on the Eastern Shore in 2008 has expanded state-wide in 2009. So get outside with your friends & fam-ily and enjoy what nature has to offer. You will get to see many of the unique areas in Maryland state parks stretch-ing from the Appalachian Mountains in Western Maryland to the sandy beaches of the Eastern Shore. Park Quest features numerous adventures in different Maryland State parks. During the 8-week competition, teams made up of at least one team member under 16 years of age and one adult, may visit all of the participating state parks in Maryland and take part in a variety of activities. Upon receiving mailed confirmation, families will complete assigned activities, such as paddling quiet streams, hiking trails in search of letter boxes, finding items on a scavenger hunt and fishing, and the team will receive a sticker to affix to their Park Quest passport. Completing the specified number of activities will make a team eligible to win some great prizes at the Park Quest final in August. Park Quest will start May 6th and go through most of July. Registration will begin in April. To register come up with a unique team name and go online to www.dnr.maryland.gov/publiclands/parkquest/ to sign up. Sign up as soon as you can because there is a limit on the number of teams that can participate. The most up-to-date in-formation as well as the official rules will be posted on the web site listed above. (continued on page 3)

photo by Brian Cooke photo courtesy of Sharky’s Shots

Patapsco Tributary Volume 8, Issue 1 Spring/Summer 2009

by Ranger Captain Robin Melton, Park Manager So, you want to be a Park Ranger! Many of you may have noticed the new recruiting signs for Park Rangers at the various entrances to Patapsco, and I am sure you have noticed our annually placed signs for seasonal employees at all of our entrances. To-day’s Park Ranger most likely began his/her career with the Park Service as a summer seasonal employee. Maryland Park Rangers have been a topic of discussion most of this winter for me, as I have been part of a committee to bring back Maryland Ranger School. Maryland Ranger School is a 4 week school that trains our Park Rangers in the skills and traditions of the Maryland Park Service. The first Ranger School since 1996 was held this past February at Janes Island State Park. We will have a second school this year in April at New Ger-

many State Park, as we work to catch-up in our training for Rangers. In 2005 the face of the Maryland Park Service changed, as our Law Enforcement Rangers transitioned to Natural Resource Police and the new non-law enforcement Ranger began to emerge within our Parks. Today, less than 30 Law Enforcement Rangers remain in the Maryland Park Service ( mostly Park Manag-ers and Assistant Managers), and our Ranger force is once again made up of non-law enforcement Rang-ers. Did you catch that “once again” in the previous sentence? Yes, there have been times in our history that we were not armed Rangers. Even though our Rangers are no longer law enforcement officers, their role in our Parks remains relatively unchanged. A Ranger’s job is often considered a “jack of all trades, & a master of some.” Each Park Ranger brings a special talent or love for the outdoors, but has training & knowledge in several areas. Our Rangers come from backgrounds as teachers, military members, law enforcement officers, tradesmen and fresh-out-of-college students with degrees in Resource Management, Entomology, Biology, Botany, History, Forest Management, and Parks & Recreation to name a few. Many worked in parks, worked as camp counsel-ors, or held other seasonal positions working in the Natural Resources field prior to becoming Rangers. Today’s Ranger focuses on four main areas in his/her job: Resource Management, Operations, Interpreta-tion, and Maintenance. Operations are the daily running of a park. Opening and closing gates, money handling, seasonal em-ployee supervision, customer service, public safety and event management are just some of the areas that a Ranger might be involved in each day. Resource Management – This is woven through all aspects of our job. From re-routing a trail to make it more sustainable, to sharing rules and regulations information with Park guests, Park Rangers are the stewards of Maryland’s Public Lands. Our job is to work to ensure that the resource will be available to the citizens of Maryland for generations to come. We plant trees, restore wetlands, develop management practices that help to reduce erosion and sustain our trail systems, and work to recognize and remove in-vasive plants as just a few examples of what this might involve. Interpretation – As stewards of Maryland’s Resources one of the most rewarding aspects of our job is the ability to share our knowledge and love of the outdoors with others. We do various interpretive programs on the unique features of our parks and share ways for people to interact with the resource through out-door recreation such a canoeing, hiking, biking, bird watching, wildlife photography and so much more.

photo by Rob Dyke


The program calendar on pages 6-11 is filled with many of these programs, which are led by rangers, volun-teers, and seasonal naturalists. Maintenance is all about sustainability today. This might include facility maintenance; from cleaning to me-chanical systems repair. It also includes turf management, trail design and management, small engine repair, vehicle maintenance, landscape maintenance, sign design and maintenance, basic carpentry, plumbing, and electrical work, as well as playground equipment maintenance. Rangers continue to help reduce our carbon foot print at Patapsco, by changing to CFL bulbs, adding motion activated lighting and encouraging recycling through our trash-free program. A Ranger’s job is truly unique; there is not a day that is the same at work. One day you may need to inspect a trail, the next you may be searching for a missing person, and mixed into all of that you most likely repaired a toilet, picked up some trash, answered some park visitor questions, gave a program, bandaged a skinned knee and helped a seasonal employee to do his or her job and guess what, tomorrow will be totally different! This April I have the privilege of being the Dean of Ranger School at New Germany State Park, an exciting opportunity, which I am very much looking forward to. Once again we will train our new and our veteran staff members in the skills and traditions of the Maryland Ranger. As you read through this edition of the Tributary, check out the article on Ranger Rob Dyke, he is the Area Manager for the northern areas of Patapsco. Even though he has 11+ years of service with the Maryland Park Service he just completed Ranger School this past Winter. He will tell you it was an energizing experience filled with team building, skills development, and the powerful knowledge that we have a solemn responsibility to protect and sustain Maryland’s resources for generations of park visitors. Throughout my career, I have heard over and over again from our visitors, “I would love to have your job.” It is usually 75 degrees, sunny, a slight breeze blowing, and they have just returned from a hike, or a canoe trip – they have seen the best of our job on those days. However, even on the rainy days, or the cold days, or the days where everything seems to have gone wrong, I would still agree with them – this is the best job one can have if they love the outdoors! How can you prepare for your career as a Park Ranger? Our young visitors can check out our Junior Ranger Programs or get involved in some of our family opportunities, such as Park Quest. For our 16 year olds to college students, check out our volunteer opportunities or apply for seasonal employment within the park. Maryland Conservation Corp. offers opportunities for High School or College Graduates. For our Senior Citi-zens and those wishing to go for that second career or to begin their first career, check out positions on-line at the DNR Web page – www.dnr.maryland.gov., or stop in at your local park and apply for a seasonal job or volunteer to share your love of the outdoors. Get out and enjoy, meet a Ranger this summer! I shall see you on the trail……….

(Park Quest Continued from Page 1) 2008, our first year of Park Quest in Maryland, was a huge success with over --150 teams participating and 37 of them making it to the final. All who participated had a great time and many stated their amazement of how much Maryland’s State Parks had to offer. Patapsco Valley State Park is proud to participate in park quest this year. Patapsco’s quest will be a round of disc golf played in the McKeldin area. Invented in the 1970’s, disc golf is a lot like regular golf but instead of a small white ball and an assortment of heavy, expensive clubs, you will have a few light inexpensive discs or frisbees. The object is the same as regular golf but instead of a ball you want to get your disc into the “hole” in the fewest number of throws as pos-sible. Disc golf is a great outdoor activity creating good exercise with a very low chance of injury. Discs, score cards, and instructions on how to play will be provided at no cost to registered “questers” at the McKeldin area contact sta-tion. So challenge yourself, sign up your family, and take the adventure through many of our state parks.


NEW NATURE CENTER TO OPEN ON EARTH DAY Children playing at the tire playground located at Patapsco Valley State Park’s Hilton area will soon have a new place to explore and learn. For the past two years, efforts have been made to develop a nature center from the area’s old camp store. Members of the Maryland Conservation Corps (MCC) have designed projects and built displays for the center. Last summer’s Civic Justice Corps (CJC), a summer work program for Baltimore youths, lent a hand as well under the guidance of MCC members. The building has undergone extensive improvements including being re-roofed and re-painted – both inside and out. Its exterior has silhouette paint-ings of animals found in the Patapsco area. Rain gardens line the walkway to the center, which passes the reading circle made by log stumps. In keep-ing with a ‘green’ theme, the center is equipped with a rain barrel outside and

most of the displays inside have been made using recycled materials that were generously donated to the park. Inside the Center, visitors can learn about Patapsco’s geography. Displays focus on the flora and fauna in the area, the Chesapeake Bay watershed, and geology features of the area. The Nature Center which will be staffed by MCC mem-bers, Patapsco naturalists, and volunteers, will serve as a place for educational programs and events as well as being open for casual visits. Please check the program calendar on the pages of this issue of the Patapsco Tributary for a list-ing of the many programs being offered at the Nature Center this season. Although the Hilton Nature Center will be open on April 22nd, its grand opening will not be until May 28th. Please stop by and see this newest addition to the park! Days and hours of operation are still to be announced.

PATAPSCO’S ROB DYKE WINS RANGER AWARD

On February 20, 2009, the Department of Natural Resources, Maryland Park Service, recognized the newest graduating class of the Maryland Park Service Ranger School. The class of 16 included Patap-sco Valley State Park’s Rob Dyke who also received the Ranger Award. The Ranger Award is chosen by fellow classmates at Ranger School. The award reflects the students’ view of who they feel is the most well rounded ranger in their class, and reflects team work, attitude, overall participation, skill, and can do spirit. The graduation ceremony marked the first class of new Maryland Park Ranger graduates since 1996, the same year that Rob began his career in 1996 as Outdoor Discovery’s camp leader at Tuckahoe State Park on the Eastern Shore. Later that year and until 2003, Rob was a seasonal and then full-time naturalist with Scales & Tales, DNR’s educational outreach program that takes birds of prey & reptiles to schools, camps, senior cen-ters & community festivals. In 2004, Rob became an employee at Patapsco Valley State Park mov-ing from park naturalist to park service associate, then to park service supervisor in 2005 where he is currently a park ranger and northern area manager. Rob hopes someday to become a park manager “when the right opportunity comes along.” If the recognition by his peers is any indication, that will be happening sooner rather than later. During the four-week academy at Janes Island State Park in Crisfield, park employees from across the state completed training in various aspects of park operations to develop & enhance the skills needed to be responsive to the resources and visitors to Maryland’s 65 State Parks. Students experienced real life scenarios & instruction involving resource man-agement, search and rescue, campground operations, park maintenance, resource interpretation and diversity in educa-tion. Maryland Park Service Superintendent Nita Settina attended the ceremony, along with Deputy Superintendent Chris Bushman and other Maryland State Park and DNR officials. “Maryland State Parks allow people to experience some of our State’s most cherished treasures and most beautiful places,” said Superintendent Settina. “For more than a century our Rangers have been the guardians of these places, serving as mentors protecting our visitors and enriching their ex-perience.” CONGRATULATIONS ROB!!!

photo by Larry Martin

photo by Trey Rankin III


PATAPSCO VALLEY STATE PARK’S ADOPT-A-TRAIL PROGRAM IS IN FULL SWING

In October 2008, Patapsco Valley State Park kicked off its Adopt-A-Trail program. A total of 35 trails from the park and Soldiers Delight Natural Environment Area were made available to individual and group volunteers. By early March 2009, 29 of the 35 trails have been adopted. Signs are posted at trailheads that include the adopters name. Trails are adopted for a period of one year, and may be renewed annually thereafter upon approval by the trail supervisor. After receiving a short training session during which the trail supervisor provides information and instruction on maintaining specific trails to meet area management guidelines, trail adopters are asked to visit their adopted trail at least 4 times per year (approximately once every 3 months). Trail inspections may include the following: observing the condition of trail signs, bulletin boards, trail surfaces, waterbars and drainage

ditches, bridges, boardwalks, culverts and stairs, monitoring trail conditions and performing routine maintenance, picking up litter, and notifying the trail supervisor of any problems or additional maintenance needs. Volunteers are also asked to notify the trail supervisor if there is an erosion problem, trees down on the trail, miss-ing or damaged signs, vandalism, or other issues that cannot be handled on the day of a trail visit. If you would like to adopt one of the remaining trails, please contact Larry Martin, the park’s volunteer coordinator, by phone at 410-465-3287 or by email to [email protected].

DO YOU LIKE TO GET YOUR HANDS DIRTY?

If so, please join Patapsco Valley State Park's award winning Trail Crew as we continue to improve and upgrade the park's trail system. The 2009 Volunteer Trail Work Days will be held on the following Saturdays:

April 11th

May 2nd

June 6th (National Trails Day)

August 15th

September 26th (National Public Lands Day)

October 17th

November 7th

Please note that for each date you must sign up in advance to participate. The minimum age to volunteer is 16. The ac-tual location of each trail project will depend on the priorities of the trail crew and the number of volunteers who sign up. Everyone who signs up will be notified by email a day or two before each date and will be advised as to who, where and when to meet and what to bring. On each date, the trail project will be from 9am until 1pm. Trail work will not be done if it is raining or has rained 24 hours prior. If you are interested in helping us maintain the park’s trails, please contact the park's volunteer coordinator, Larry Martin at (410) 465-3287 or by email at [email protected]

photo by Amy Lutsko

APRIL April 4: It’s A Family Affair - Avalon, 10a.m.-12p.m. Join a park naturalist for some bluebird house construction. The East-ern bluebird population in the Avalon area needs homes. Learn about our bluebird families. Help with putting up some bluebird boxes. Monitor houses every 2 weeks. (information will be given during the program). Meet at the Avalon Visitor Center’s back porch. This is a great family project for ages 10 & up. Wear old clothing, bring a note pad & pencil. 5254 South Street, Hale-thorpe, MD 21227. Please call 410-461-5005 in advance to sign up. Cost: Free! Donations welcome. April 4: Owl Prowl - Soldiers Delight, 8-10p.m. Join Natural-ists for a night hike to listen for local owls, followed by a program featuring the owls from the Scales & Tales program. For ages 7 & up. Meet at Visitor Center. 5100 Deer Park Road, Owings Mills, MD 21117. Please call 410-461-5005 in advance to sign up. Cost: $5 per person.

April 5: Natural Easter Egg Dyeing - Soldiers Delight, 12-2p.m. Do you think Easter eggs can only be decorated with

commercial dye kits from a store? Come learn how Mother Na-ture creates her own natural dyes made from common food products such as red cabbage, beets, coffee grounds, turmeric, cumin, spinach, parsley and onion skins, using an ancient Swiss technique passed down through generations. Bring as many eggs as you wish to decorate. One dozen is recommended for each participant. For all ages. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Meet at Visitor Center. 5100 Deer Park Road, Owings Mills, MD 21117. Please call 410-461-5005 in advance to sign up. Cost: $2 per person (includes materials). Abril 11: Caminata Histórico - Área Avalon, 10-11:30a.m. Venga y únete a uno de los guarda parques voluntarios y explo-re la historia de la comunidad Orange Grove, el Molino de Oran-ge Grove y el puente colgante, la línea férrea de B&O, y la Re-presa de Bloede. La caminata es aproximadamente una distan-cia de una milla y cuarto a lo largo de un sendero plano. Niños de 8 años y adultos. Lugar de encuentro es en el parqueo que está al frente del pabellón de picnic # 106 cerca al puente col-gante. Venga con zapatos resistentes o de caminata, y traiga agua de beber. La entrada al parque es por South Street, Halet-horpe, MD 21227. Por favor llamar al 443-415-3857 para regis-trarse. Costo: Gratis. Las donaciones para el Parque son bien-venidas. April 11: Spring Flowers Hike - Hilton Area, 2:30-4p.m. Come join one of the park’s naturalists for a moderate hike through forest & along stream banks to enjoy the signs of spring and hunt for our ephemeral spring flowers such as trout

lily, spring beauty, anemones and if we are lucky bloodroot which blooms for only 1 day. For ages 8 & up. Wear sturdy shoes & bring water. 1100 Hilton Avenue, Catonsville, MD 21228. Please call 410-461-5005 in advance to sign up. Cost: $2 per person.

April 11: Bad Bad Plants- Avalon, 1-2p.m. Ever thrown a dead plant outside thinking it would do no harm? Or does it?

This program can answer that question for you. Wear sturdy shoes and bring water & curious minds for a stroll through Ava-lon discovering invasive species. For ages 10 & up. Meet at picnic tables at Lost Lake. 5254 South Street, Halethorpe, MD 21227. Please call 410-461-5005 in advance to sign up. Cost: $2 per person. April 11: Star-gazing Program - Soldiers Delight, 8-10p.m. Come join volunteers from the Westminster Astronomy Club for an evening of star-gazing as we take a look at the Bear, the Lion and the Lynx. All programs are rain or shine. April highlight: Our galaxy from the inside looking out. 5100 Deer Park Road, Owings Mills, MD 21117. Please call 410-549-3026 in advance to sign up or for more information. Cost: Free! Donations wel-come.

April 15: Nature Sprouts: Beetle Bugs-Hilton area, 10:30-11:30a.m. Explore the world of ladybugs & other

beetles with lots of hands on activities and a craft. Make a bee-tle home and take home a beetle ‘baby’. For ages 3-5. Meet at Nature Center. 1100 Hilton Avenue, Catonsville, MD 21228. Please call 410-461-5005 in advance to sign up. Cost: $4 per person (includes materials). April 17: Disc Golf Clinic - McKeldin area, 4:30-6p.m. Learn how to play this fun & inexpensive lifetime activity with the pros from Discover Outdoor Fitness. Wear good walking shoes & bring water. Everything you need will be provided to enjoy a round of disc golf. Follow the signs to the start of the disc golf course in the McKeldin area. Meet at the disc golf message board near the putting area & swings at field C. Ages 9&up. 11676 Marriottsville Road, Marriottsville, MD 21104.For informa-tion or to sign up call 410-984-7020. Cost: Free!

April 18: Feathers in Focus - Soldiers Delight, 8-10a.m. Come join the Scales & Tales animals for an up-close raptor

photo shoot. Get a rare chance to take that perfect shot! This is for all levels of photographers. We'll supply the birds; all you need is your camera! Ages 16 & up. Meet at the Visitor Center. 5100 Deer Park Road, Owings Mills, MD 21117. Please call 410-461-5005 in advance to sign up or to obtain more informa-tion. Cost: $20 per person.

Spring & Summer 2009 Program Calendar


Denotes programs suitable for wheelchairs. Accommodations for individuals with disabilities will be provided upon request. Seven days advance notice is required.

Program fees do not include park admission. Directions to the addresses listed in all park programs are on page 15. In general, program fees are $2.00 per person. Programs involving Scales & Tales animals are $5.00. Additional fees may be added to cover the cost of program materials. Programs led by volunteers are generally free, but donations are accepted and given to the appropriate park “Friends of” organization to benefit the park.

April 19: Mining History Hike - Soldiers Delight, 2-4:30p.m. Join Volunteer Ranger & mining historian Johnny Johnsson on a Mining History Hike to the historic Choate chromium mine. The history of mining in Soldiers Delight will be explained supple-mented by demonstrations of mining artifacts. Participants will have the opportunity to pan chrome sands in a restored buddle (kind of like panning for gold). This hands-on activity is great for families. The total hiking portion is less than 2 miles over level, but uneven terrain, with interpretive stops along the way. Folks who can only walk a short distance can drive part of the way, park, & then make a short walk over uneven terrain to the Choate Mine area where most of the program is conducted. Meet at Visitor Center. 5100 Deer Park Road, Owings Mills, MD 21117. Please call 410-833-5508 in advance to sign up or to obtain more information. Free! Donations welcome!

April 24: Little Shoots: Super Senses-Avalon area, 10:30-11:30a.m. Explore the spring season using all our

senses on a short level hike with lots of hands-on activities. For ages 2-4 years. Meet at Lost Lake. 5254 South Street, Hale-thorpe, MD 21227. Please call 410-461-5005 in advance to sign up. Cost: $2 per person. April 25: Bird Walk - Soldiers Delight, 8-11:30a.m. Join us on a moderate 2+ mile walk on well-maintained trails. We will look for early passerine migrants, raptors, & late wintering species as spring migration gets underway in this globally rare ecosystem. Expect between 55 -65 bird species. Dress appropriate for the weather, hiking boots recommended. Meet at Visitor Center. 5100 Deer Park Road, Owings Mills, MD 21117. Please call 410-461-5005 in advance to sign up. Free! Donations welcome. April 25: Fun Hike - Hilton Area, 10-11:30a.m. Come join one of the park’s Volunteer Rangers & explore the spring woodland sights along the Forest Glen, Sawmill Branch & Santee Branch trails. This moderate level 2-mile hike is for ages 7&up. Meet at the Forest Glen trailhead at the parking lot next to the largest shelter & the Tire Playground. Wear sturdy shoes & bring water. 1100 Hilton Avenue, Catonsville, MD 21228. Please call 410-750-0674 in advance to sign up. Free. Donations welcome.

April 25: Being a Child in the 1700’s & 1800’s- Avalon area, 1-2p.m. Come out and learn what it was like to be a

child in the 17 & 1800’s. This program is open to all ages. You will play with time period toys and you may even learn some-thing. 5254 South Street, Halethorpe, MD 21227. Please call 410-461-5005 in advance to sign up. Cost: $2 per person.

April 25: Worm Bins Work- Hilton Area, 2-3p.m. Find out how worms can turn your leftover produce into soil for your

garden. This is an easy way to help decrease what your family throws away and reduce your carbon footprint. Each person / family will make their own worm bin to take home and help start global worming. Meet at the Nature Center. For ages 7 & up. 1100 Hilton Avenue, Catonsville, MD 21228. Please call 410-461-5005 in advance to sign up. Free per person; $15 per bin. April 25: Tree ID-ing – McKeldin area, 4-5p.m. Have you ever wondered what types of trees grow in your backyard? Come & see what trees grow in the park & learn to identify them. Find out how Patapsco Valley forest has changed through time & some cool facts about the trees that grow in your area. We will take a short half mile walk, dress for the weather & wear hiking

boots. Meet at the Parking Lot near the contact station. Ages 5 & up. 11676 Marriottsville Road, Marriottsville MD 21104. Call 410-461-5005 in advance to sign up. Cost: $2 per person.

April 29: Nature Sprouts: Fantastic Flying Machines-Hilton area, 10:30-11:30a.m. Why are the birds so busy at

this time of year? We will learn about bird songs, feathers & nests with lots of hands-on activities. For ages 3-5. 1100 Hilton Avenue, Catonsville, MD 21228. Meet at Nature Center. Please call 410-461-5005 in advance to sign up. Cost: $3 per person (includes materials). April 29: Fun Hike - Avalon-Orange Grove Area, 6-7:15p.m. Come join one of the park’s Volunteer Rangers for a 2-mile moderate level hike on the Cascade Falls Trail & enjoy the beauty of the numerous falls & woodland splendor of the sea-son. Ages 7&up. Meet at parking lot across from Shelter #106 near swinging bridge. Wear sturdy shoes & bring water. Enter the park from the South Street entrance in Halethorpe, MD 21227. Please call 410-750-0674 in advance to sign up. Cost: Free. Donations to the park welcome.

MAY

May 2: Painting Waterfowl and Birds of the Forest - Ava-lon, 9:30-11:30a.m. Come join one of the park’s Volunteer Rangers & paint the winged subject of your choice using

acrylic paints. Instruction & all materials will be provided. For ages 10& up. Bring drinking water and wear old clothes. (Acrylic paints are permanent on cloth.) Meet at the Lost Lake parking lot after entering the park’s South Street entrance, Hale-thorpe, MD 21227. Please call 410-750-0674 in advance to sign up. Cost: $ 2.00 per person for materials.

May 2: Birds of a Feather-Hilton Area, 10a.m.-12p.m. Come & make your own Gourd Bird House. Tips & materials

for nest construction. Ages 8 & up. Wear old clothing. Meet at Shelter #245. 1100 Hilton Avenue, Catonsville, MD 21228. Call 410-461-5005 in advance to sign up. Cost: $2 per person. May 2: Tree ID-ing – McKeldin area, 4-5p.m. Have you ever wondered what types of trees grow in your backyard? Come & see what trees grow in the park & learn to identify them. Find out how Patapsco Valley forest has changed through time & some cool facts about the trees that grow in your area. We will take a short half mile walk, dress for the weather & wear hiking boots. Meet at the Parking Lot near the contact station. Ages 5 & up. 11676 Marriottsville Road, Marriottsville MD 21104. Call 410-461-5005 in advance to sign up. Cost: $2 per person. May 2: Owl Prowl - Soldiers Delight, 8-10p.m. Join Natural-ists for a night hike to listen for local owls, followed by a program featuring the owls from the Scales & Tales program. For ages 7 & up. Meet at Visitor Center. 5100 Deer Park Road, Owings Mills, MD 21117. Please call 410-461-5005 in advance to sign up. Cost: $5 per person. May 3: 10th Annual Garlic Mustard Challenge - Avalon & Glen Artney, 12-4:30p.m. This is a popular annual family-oriented event. Join the challenge with many other volunteers removing the invasive garlic mustard plant from the park. After two hours of pulling, enjoy live music, old fashioned picnic games, environmental displays. Prizes for all volunteers. Taste


testing of garlic mustard side dishes by amateur chefs and view posters created by local area school-age children. 5254 South Street, Halethorpe, MD 21227. Pre-registration is required by Friday, May 1, 2009. Participants must arrive at Avalon Shelter #104 by 12:30 pm to participate in the weed pulling challenge. To register, e-mail [email protected] or call 410-480-0824. Cost: A $1 registration fee is required for each participant or a maximum or $5 per group. For the chef challenge, the cost is $5 per recipe.

May 3: Butterfly Hike - Soldiers Delight, 1-4p.m. Come join butterfly expert & volunteer Dick Smith as he presents a

short slide show on barrens butterflies & then leads us on a 2 mile walk through the globally rare serpentine barrens ecosys-tem. We will search for locally-occurring & serpentine-endemic mid-spring butterflies such as the fragile Falcate Orangetip, the small & attractively bark-scalloped Eastern Pine Elfin, & the bluestem grass dependent Cobweb & Dusted Skippers. Addi-tionally, we will examine & identify several of the native grasses & wildflowers seldom seen in abundance elsewhere around Maryland. Close-focus binoculars are recommended, but butter-fly net-and-release (with in-jar identification) will be conducted by the leader. Hike is cancelled if raining but slideshow will be held. Wheel-chairs suitable for slide show only. 5100 Deer Park Road, Owings Mills, MD 21117. Please call 443-778-4973 weekdays & 410-997-7439 evenings in advance to sign up. Cost: Free, donations welcome.

May 6: History Hike-Avalon area, 6-7:30p.m. Come join one of the park’s Volunteer Rangers & explore the history of

the Orange Grove community & Mill and Swinging Bridge, the B&O Railroad, & the Bloede Dam on this 1+ mile hike on flat ground. For ages 8&up. Meet at the parking lot across from Shelter #106 near the swinging bridge. Wear sturdy shoes & bring water. Enter the park through the South Street entrance, Halethorpe, MD 21227. Please call 410-750-0674 in advance to sign up. Cost: Free. Donations welcome. May 9: Spring Wildflower Hike - Soldiers Delight, 10a.m.-12p.m. Soldiers Delight is home to many rare and unique wild-flowers. Join a volunteer naturalist for a guided hike to find some of the spring wonders of the area. Cameras are encour-aged; picking flowers is prohibited. Meet at Visitor Center. 5100 Deer Park Road, Owings Mills, MD 21117. Please call 410-461-5005 in advance to sign up. Free! Donations welcome!

May 9: Bad Bad Plants- Avalon, 1-2p.m. Ever thrown a dead plant outside thinking it would do no harm? Or does it?

This program can answer that question for you. Wear sturdy shoes or hiking boots, and bring water & curious minds for a stroll through Avalon discovering invasive species. For ages 10 & up. Meet at picnic tables at Lost Lake. 5254 South Street, Halethorpe, MD 21227. Please call 410-461-5005 in advance to sign up. Cost: $2 per person.

May 9: Mother’s Day Nature Crafts -Hilton area, 2-3p.m. Make cards & crafts from natural materials for kids to give

to their Moms. Ages 6 & up. Meet at Nature Center. 1100 Hil-ton Avenue, Catonsville, MD 21228. Call 410-461-5005 in ad-vance to sign up. Cost: $3 per person (includes materials). May 9: Star-gazing Program - Soldiers Delight, 8-10p.m. Come join volunteers from the Westminster Astronomy Club for

an evening of star-gazing as we leave our galaxy and journey into the universe. All programs are rain or shine. May highlight: Saturn's rings are getting thinner. 5100 Deer Park Road, Owings Mills, MD 21117. Please call 410-549-3026 in advance to sign up or for more information. Cost: Free! Donations wel-come.

May 13: Nature Sprouts: Spring Flowers -Hilton area, 10:30-11:30a.m. See if those April showers brought May

flowers. Through story, hands-on activities & crafts explore wild-flowers in the woodland & garden. For ages 3-5. Meet at Nature Center. 1100 Hilton Avenue, Catonsville, MD 21228. Call 410-461-5005 in advance to sign up. Cost: $3 per person (includes materials). May 15: Disc Golf Clinic - McKeldin area, 4:30-6p.m. Learn how to play this fun & inexpensive lifetime activity with the pros from Discover Outdoor Fitness. Wear good walking shoes & bring water. Everything you need will be provided to enjoy a round of disc golf. Follow the signs to the start of the disc golf course in the McKeldin area. Meet at the disc golf message board near the putting area & swings at field C. Ages 9&up. 11676 Marriottsville Road, Marriottsville, MD 21104.For informa-tion or to sign up call 410-984-7020. Cost: Free! May 16: Birding Hike – Soldiers Delight, 8-11am. Join a park naturalist on a leisurely bird hike. Here is your chance to see & hear some of our local & migrant birds in a variety of habitats. The hike welcomes birders of all skill levels from beginning bird-watchers to advanced birders. Wear sturdy shoes, bring water & binoculars, & be prepared to hike up to two miles. The hike is easy with relatively level ground, but the trails can be muddy. Meet at the Visitor Center. 5100 Deer Park Road, Owings Mills, MD 21117. Ages 12 & up. Call 410-461-5005 in advance to sign up. Cost: $2 per person.

May 16: Finding Your Way: Basic Hiking Skills for Young Hikers- McKeldin area, 10-11:30a.m. Knowing where you

are & where you are going is always important, especially if you’re hiking. Come & learn skills that will help you stay on course. Participants will discover the basics of map reading & compass use. Preparing for a hike and actions to take if lost will also be discussed. Wear comfortable shoes & bring water. Ages 7-14. 11676 Marriottsville Road, Marriottsville, MD 21104. Group will meet at picnic area adjacent to contact station. Call 410-461-5005 in advance to sign up. Cost: $2 per person. May 17: Disc Golf Tournament-McKeldin Area, 7:30a.m.-5:00p.m. Come be a part of competitive disc golf at its best! Hosted by Discover Outdoor Fitness, this tournament will entail 2 rounds of disc golf with a one hour lunch break between rounds & prizes will be awarded shortly after round 2. New par-ticipants are welcome, although it is recommended that you play a few casual rounds before entering your first tournament. Meet at the disc golf message board near the putting area & swings at field C. Ages 14& up. For information or to register, www.DoFitness.com or call Discover Outdoor Fitness 410-984-7020. Costs: Pro $30, Advanced $25, Amateur $20. May 19: Fun Hike-Avalon area, 6-7:30p.m. Come join one of the park’s Volunteer Rangers for a moderate 2-mile hike along the rolling hills of the Ridge Trail. Enjoy the woodland sights in spring. Wear sturdy shoes & bring water. Ages 8&up. Meet in


the parking lot across from Shelter #106 near the swinging bridge. Enter the park through the South Street entrance, Hale-thorpe, MD 21227. Please call 410-750-0674 in advance to sign up. Cost: Free. Donations welcome.

May 22: Little Shoots: Animal Moms & Babies -Hilton area, 10:30-11:30a.m. Learn how animal mothers take care

of their babies with lots of hands-on activities, a craft & a short hike. Ages 2-4. Meet at the Nature Center. 1100 Hilton Avenue, Catonsville, MD 21228. Call 410-461-5005 in advance to sign up. Cost: $3 per person (includes materials).

May 23: Animal Homes- Soldiers Delight, 10a.m.-12p.m. Animals have a variety of habitats that they live in through-

out the world as well as within a single area such as within a forest. Come listen to a story, participate in an activity, and meet some animals from Scales & Tales that come from differing habitats. Meet at the Visitor Center. 5100 Deer Park Road, Owings Mills, MD 21117. For ages 5-10. Please call 410-461-5005 in advance to sign up. Cost: $7 per person (includes mate-rials). May 23: Take a Scenic Hike Along the River- Daniels area, 10a.m.-12p.m. Take a scenic hike along the river and get in shape at the same time. Hike will last about 2 hours over some semi-rough terrain. Bring water and wear a good pair of hiking shoes. We will meet at the first Parking lot on the right off of Daniels road before the Dam. Ages 11 &up. Please call 410-461-5005 in advance to sign up. Cost: $2 per person.

May 23: Painting Waterfowl and Birds of the Forest - Hilton, 9:30-11:30a.m. Come join one of the park’s Volun-

teer Rangers & paint the winged subject of your choice using acrylic paints. Instruction & all materials will be provided. Ages 10&up. Bring drinking water & wear old clothes. (Acrylic paints are permanent on cloth.) Meet at the new Hilton area nature center just across from the Tire Playground. 1100 Hilton Ave-nue, Catonsville, MD 21228. Please call 410-750-0674 in ad-vance to sign up. Cost: $ 2.00 per person for materials. Mayo 23: Caminata Histórico -Área Avalon, 10-11:30a.m. Venga y únete a uno de los guarda parques voluntarios y explo-re la historia de la comunidad Orange Grove, el Molino de Oran-ge Grove y el puente colgante, la línea férrea de B&O, y la Re-presa de Bloede. La caminata es aproximadamente una distan-cia de una milla y cuarto a lo largo de un sendero plano. Niños de 8 años y adultos. Lugar de encuentro es en el parqueo que está al frente del pabellón de picnic # 106 cerca al puente col-gante. Venga con zapatos resistentes o de caminata, y traiga agua de beber. La entrada al parque es por South Street, Halethorpe, MD 21227. Por favor llamar al 443-415-3857 para registrarse. Costo: Gratis. Las donaciones para el Parque son bienvenidas.

May 27: Nature Sprouts: Frog Hops -Avalon area, 10:30-11:30a.m. Hop into spring as we look at how these meta-

morphosing marvels grow from egg to adult. Meet a frog and tadpole and see if you can hop like a frog . Visit the Lake and look for other amphibians along the stream. For ages 3-5. Meet at Lost Lake. 5254 South Street, Halethorpe, MD 21227. Please call 410-461-5005 in advance to sign up. Cost: $2 per person.

JUNE June 6: Leave It to Beavers-Hilton Area, 10a.m.-12p.m. Hey kids, come learn from a park naturalist about nature’s

most gifted engineer. Make a bark picture frame for your favor-ite summer photo. Ages 4 & up. Meet at Shelter#245. 1100 Hil-ton Avenue, Catonsville, MD 21228. Please call 410-461-5005 in advance to sign up. Cost: $ 2 per person.

June 6: Finding Your Way: Basic Hiking Skills for Young Hikers- McKeldin area, 10-11:30a.m. Knowing where you

are & where you are going is always important, especially if you’re hiking. Come & learn skills that will help you stay on course. Participants will discover the basics of map reading & compass use. Preparing for a hike and actions to take if lost will also be discussed. Wear comfortable shoes & bring water. Ages 7-14. 11676 Marriottsville Road, Marriottsville, MD 21104. Group will meet at picnic area adjacent to contact station. Call 410-461-5005 in advance to sign up. Cost: $2 per person. June 6: Owl Prowl - Soldiers Delight, 8-10p.m. Join Natural-ists for a night hike to listen for local owls, followed by a program featuring the owls from the Scales & Tales program. For ages 7 & up. Meet at Visitor Center. 5100 Deer Park Road, Owings Mills, MD 21117. Please call 410-461-5005 in advance to sign up. Cost: $5 per person. June 7: Wildflower Hike - Soldiers Delight, 2-4p.m. Soldiers Delight is home to many rare and unique wildflowers. Join a volunteer naturalist for a guided hike to find some of the spring wonders of the area. Cameras are encouraged; picking flowers is prohibited. Meet at Visitor Center. 5100 Deer Park Road, Owings Mills, MD 21117. Please call 410-461-5005 in advance to sign up. Cost: Free! Donations welcome.

June 10: Nature Sprouts: Reptiles -Hilton area, 10:30-11:30a.m. Using live animals from the scales and tales pro-

gram and lots of hands-on activities we will explore the lives of turtles, snakes & lizards and learn why we should protect them. For ages 3-5. Meet at the Nature Center. 1100 Hilton Avenue, Catonsville, MD 21228. Please call 410-461-5005 in advance to sign up. Cost: $5 per person. June 11: Fun Hike–Avalon area, 6-7:15p.m. Come join one of the park’s Volunteer Rangers for a 2-mile moderate level hike & enjoy the beauty of the numerous falls and the woodland splen-dor of the season. For ages 7&up. Meet at the parking lot across from Shelter #106 near the swinging bridge. Wear sturdy shoes & bring water. Enter the park from the South Street en-trance in Halethorpe, MD 21227. Please call 410-750-0674 in advance to sign up. Cost: Free. Donations welcome.

June 12: Tree-tectives – Soldiers Delight, 10-11:30am. Become tree-tectives (tree detectives) and try to determine

all the products that come from trees and all the benefits that trees give us! Join a naturalist in making your own paper that you can take home, by recycling old paper! For ages 6 and older. Wear clothing you don’t mind getting a little wet! Meet at the Visitor Center. 5100 Deer Park Road, Owings Mills, MD 21117. Please call 410-461-5005 in advance to sign up. Cost: $5 per person (includes materials).



June 13: Bad Bad Plants- Avalon, 1-2p.m. Ever thrown a dead plant outside thinking it would do no harm? Or does it?

This program can answer that question for you. Wear sturdy shoes or hiking boots, and bring water & curious minds for a stroll through Avalon discovering invasive species. For ages 10 & up. Meet at picnic tables at Lost Lake. 5254 South Street, Halethorpe, MD 21227. Please call 410-461-5005 in advance to sign up. Cost: $2 per person. June 13: Star-gazing Program - Soldiers Delight, see times below. Come join volunteers from the Westminster Astronomy Club for an afternoon & evening of star-gazing. Today we ex-plore our Star, why it works and what is in store for us 5 Billion years from now (It doesn't look good). (Solar observing-5p.m.) and to find out how eclipses work and what it would look like from the Moon looking at Earth. (star gazing 8-11p.m.).All pro-grams are rain or shine. June highlight: See the solar system in 3-D. 5100 Deer Park Road, Owings Mills, MD 21117. Please call 410-549-3026 in advance to sign up or for more information. Cost: Free! Donations welcome. June 14: Yoga in the Park - Soldiers Delight, 3:30-5p.m. Meet a Soldiers Delight volunteer at the visitors center and take a short hike to one of the highest points in Baltimore County located in the park. Explore the simpler yoga postures that are suitable for beginners. Experience how yoga may increase flexibility and help you relax. This activity is suitable for families and school-age children accompanied by an adult. (Please, no pets!) Wear loose clothing, bring a beach towel, and water if it is hot. The location will be sunny. The activity will be cancelled if it is raining. 5100 Deer Park Road, Owings Mills, MD 21117. Please call 410-549-3026 in advance to sign-up or for more information. Cost: Free! Donations welcome.

June 16: History Hike-Avalon area, 6-7:30p.m. Come join one of the park’s Volunteer Rangers & explore the history of

the Orange Grove community & Mill and Swinging Bridge, the B&O Railroad, & the Bloede Dam on this 1+ mile hike on flat ground. For ages 8&up. Meet at the parking lot across from Shelter #106 near the swinging bridge. Wear sturdy shoes & bring water. Enter the park through the South Street entrance, Halethorpe, MD 21227. Please call 410-750-0674 in advance to sign up. Cost: Free. Donations welcome.

June 19: Power of the Sun -Hilton area, 11:30a.m.-12:30p.m. Celebrate the summer solstice as we learn about

the equinox, measure our shortest shadow of the year and bake snacks in a solar oven. For ages 6 & up. Meet at Nature Center. 1100 Hilton Avenue, Catonsville, MD 21228. Please call 410-461-5005 in advance to sign up. Cost: $4 per person (includes materials). June 19: Disc Golf Clinic - McKeldin area, 4:30-6p.m. Learn how to play this fun & inexpensive lifetime activity with the pros from Discover Outdoor Fitness. Wear good walking shoes & bring water. Everything you need will be provided to enjoy a round of disc golf. Follow the signs to the start of the disc golf course in the McKeldin area. Meet at the disc golf message board near the putting area & swings at field C. Ages 9&up. 11676 Marriottsville Road, Marriottsville, MD 21104.For informa-tion or to sign up call 410-984-7020. Cost: Free!

June 19: Firefly Friday – McKeldin area, 8:20-9:00p.m. Learn about the bug that carries its own light. Hear a firefly

story, play a game & see the bugs dance in the night with their lights all a glow. Meet at the McKeldin area Parking Lot near the contact station. For ages 5 & up. 11676 Marriottsville Rd., Marriottsville MD 21104. Please call 410-461-5005 in advance to sign up. Cost: $2 per person. June 20: History of the Patapsco River Hike-Avalon History Center, 10a.m.-12p.m. So much history in this river. Come hear the many stories about her on this easy walk along the river. Ages 8 & up. Wear comfortable shoes, bring water. Meet a park naturalist at the Avalon Visitor Center, 5254 South Street, Hale-thorpe, MD 21227. Please call 410-461-5005 in advance to sign up. Cost: $2 per person.

June 20: Don’t Bug Me – Soldiers Delight, 10a.m.-12p.m. Lets catch some bugs! Join a naturalist in searching

for insects and identifying them. Then create an insect of your own to take home. Meet at the Visitor Center. 5100 Deer Park Road, Owings Mills, MD 21117. For ages 6-12. Please call 410-461-5005 in advance to sign up. Cost: $5 per person (includes materials). Junio 27: Caminata Histórico -Área Avalon, 10-11:30a.m. Venga y únete a uno de los guarda parques voluntarios y explo-re la historia de la comunidad Orange Grove, el Molino de Oran-ge Grove y el puente colgante, la línea férrea de B&O, y la Re-presa de Bloede. La caminata es aproximadamente una distan-cia de una milla y cuarto a lo largo de un sendero plano. Niños de 8 años y adultos. Lugar de encuentro es en el parqueo que está al frente del pabellón de picnic # 106 cerca al puente col-gante. Venga con zapatos resistentes o de caminata, y traiga agua de beber. La entrada al parque es por South Street, Halethorpe, MD 21227. Por favor llamar al 443-415-3857 para registrarse. Costo: Gratis. Las donaciones para el Parque son bienvenidas. June 28: Take a Scenic Hike Along the River- McKeldin area, 7-9p.m. Come out & take an evening hike in the McKeldin area of Patapsco. See the wildlife & learn a little history of the Park. Take a scenic hike along the river & get in shape at the same time. Hike will last about 2 hours over some semi-rough terrain. Bring water & wear hiking shoes. Ages 11&up. Call 410-461-5005 in advance to sign up. Cost: $2 per person.

JULY

July 8: Painting Waterfowl and Birds of the Forest-Hilton area, 9:30-11:30a.m. Come join one of the park’s Volunteer Rangers & paint the winged subject of your choice using

acrylic paints. Instruction & all materials will be provided. Ages 10&up. Bring drinking water & wear old clothes. (Acrylic paints are permanent on cloth.) Meet at the new Hilton area nature center just across from the Tire Playground. 1100 Hilton Ave-nue, Catonsville, MD 21228. Please call 410-750-0674 in ad-vance to sign up. Cost: $2 per person for materials. July 10: Disc Golf Clinic - McKeldin area, 4:30-6p.m. Learn how to play this fun & inexpensive lifetime activity with the pros from Discover Outdoor Fitness. Wear good walking shoes & bring water. Everything you need will be provided to enjoy a


round of disc golf. Follow the signs to the start of the disc golf course in the McKeldin area. Meet at the disc golf message board near the putting area & swings at field C. Ages 9&up. 11676 Marriottsville Road, Marriottsville, MD 21104.For informa-tion or to sign up call 410-984-7020. Cost: Free! July 10: Owl Prowl - Soldiers Delight, 8-10p.m. Join Natural-ists for a night hike to listen for local owls, followed by a program featuring the owls from the Scales & Tales program. For ages 7 & up. Meet at Visitor Center. 5100 Deer Park Road, Owings Mills, MD 21117. Please call 410-461-5005 in advance to sign up. Cost: $5 per person.

July 11: Finding Your Way: Basic Hiking Skills for Young Hikers- McKeldin area, 10-11:30a.m. Knowing

where you are & where you are going is always important, espe-cially if you’re hiking. Come & learn skills that will help you stay on course. Participants will discover the basics of map reading & compass use. Preparing for a hike and actions to take if lost will also be discussed. Wear comfortable shoes & bring water. Ages 7-14. 11676 Marriottsville Road, Marriottsville, MD 21104. Group will meet at picnic area adjacent to contact station. Call 410-461-5005 in advance to sign up. Cost: $2 per person.

July 11: Bad Bad Plants - Avalon, 1-2p.m. Ever thrown a dead plant outside thinking it would do no harm? Or does it?

This program can answer that question for you. Wear sturdy shoes or hiking boots, and bring water & curious minds for a stroll through Avalon discovering invasive species. For ages 10 & up. Meet at picnic tables at Lost Lake. 5254 South Street, Halethorpe, MD 21227. Please call 410-461-5005 in advance to sign up. Cost: $2 per person. July 11: Star-gazing Program - Soldiers Delight, 8-10p.m. Come join volunteers from the Westminster Astronomy Club for an evening of star-gazing. Seen 1 star? Two? 100,000? All pro-grams are rain or shine. July highlight: Hercules' mighty armpit returns. 5100 Deer Park Road, Owings Mills, MD 21117. Please call 410-549-3026 in advance to sign up or for more information. Cost: Free! Donations welcome. July 12: Yoga in the Park - Soldiers Delight, 3:30-5p.m. Meet a Soldiers Delight volunteer at the visitors center and take a short hike to one of the highest points in Baltimore County lo-cated in the park. Explore the simpler yoga postures that are suitable for beginners. Experience how yoga may increase flexibility and help you relax. This activity is suitable for families and school-age children accompanied by an adult. (Please, no pets!) Wear loose clothing, bring a beach towel, and water if it is hot. The location will be sunny. The activity will be cancelled if it is raining. 5100 Deer Park Road, Owings Mills, MD 21117. Please call 410-549-3026 in advance to sign-up or for more information. Cost: Free! Donations welcome. July 14: Fun Hike-Hilton area, 6-7:30p.m. Come join one of the park’s Volunteer Rangers & explore the spring woodland sights along the Forest Glen, Sawmill Branch & Santee Branch trails. This moderate level 2-mile hike is for ages 7&up. Meet at the Forest Glen trailhead at the parking lot next to the largest shelter and the Tire Playground. Wear sturdy shoes or hiking boots, and bring water. Please call 410-750-0674 in advance to sign up. Cost: Free. Donations welcome.

July16: Painting Waterfowl and Birds of the Forest-Avalon area, 9:30-11:30a.m. Come join one of the park’s

Volunteer Rangers & paint the winged subject of your choice using acrylic paints. Instruction & all materials will be provided. For ages 10& up. Bring drinking water & wear old clothes. (Acrylic paints are permanent on cloth.) Meet at the Lost Lake parking lot after entering the park’s South Street entrance, Hale-thorpe, MD 21227. Please call 410-750-0674 in advance to sign up. Cost: $2 per person for materials.

July 17: Birds of a Feather-Soldiers Delight, 10a.m.-12p.m. Come & learn about birds by doing hands-on activi-

ties including games or crafts, as well as meeting some of our Scales & Tales animal ambassadors. Meet at the Visitor Center. 5100 Deer Park Road, Owings Mills, MD 21117. For ages 6-12. Please call 410-461-5005 in advance to sign up. Cost: $10 per person (includes materials). Julio 18: Caminata Histórico -Área Avalon, 10-11:30a.m. Venga y únete a uno de los guarda parques voluntarios y explo-re la historia de la comunidad Orange Grove, el Molino de Oran-ge Grove y el puente colgante, la línea férrea de B&O, y la Re-presa de Bloede. La caminata es aproximadamente una distan-cia de una milla y cuarto a lo largo de un sendero plano. Niños de 8 años y adultos. Lugar de encuentro es en el parqueo que está al frente del pabellón de picnic # 106 cerca al puente col-gante. Venga con zapatos resistentes o de caminata, y traiga agua de beber. La entrada al parque es por South Street, Halethorpe, MD 21227. Por favor llamar al 443-415-3857 para registrarse. Costo: Gratis. Las donaciones para el Parque son bienvenidas.

July 23: History Hike-Avalon area, 6-7:30p.m. Come join one of the park’s Volunteer Rangers & explore the history of

the Orange Grove community & Mill and Swinging Bridge, the B&O Railroad, & the Bloede Dam on this 1+ mile hike on flat ground. Ages 8&up. Meet at the parking lot across from Shelter #106 near the swinging bridge. Wear sturdy shoes & bring wa-ter. Enter the park through the South Street entrance, Hale-thorpe, MD 21227. Please call 410-750-0674 in advance to sign up. Cost: Free. Donations welcome. July 26: Take a Scenic Hike Along the River- Daniels area, 7-9p.m. Take a scenic hike along the river & get in shape at the same time. See the wildlife & learn a little history of the Park. Hike will last about 2 hours over some semi-rough terrain. Bring water & wear hiking shoes. We will meet at the first parking lot on the right off of Daniels road before the Dam. Ages 11 &up. Call 410-461-5005 in advance to sign up. Cost: $2 per person.

Canoeing in the Daniels area of the Park

photo by Larry Martin


PATAPSCO VALLEY STATE PARK HOSTED PARTICIPANTS OF THE NRPA CONGRESS On Tuesday, October 18th, the McKeldin area of Patapsco Valley State Park was the site of the Trail Sustainability Design and Maintenance Course for participants in the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) Con-gress and Exposition held in Baltimore. Fifty participants from across the United States spent the day at McKeldin learning how to design, build, and main-tain sustainable trails. The day began with Park Manager Robin Melton welcoming participants to the park. She was followed by Maryland Park Service Superintendent Nita Settina who gave a presentation on the Maryland Park Service Trail Management Recreation and Resource Conservation Program. The day continued with staff from many state parks throughout Maryland including Fair Hill, Gunpowder, Southern MD Regional Complex, Swallow Falls, Susquehanna, and Patapsco, leading workshops and discussions. Topics covered included trail ratings, tools, and the use of mechanized equipment. Participants then spent time on trails discussing sustainable trail solutions, wetland trail solutions, trail foundation and construction, trail design ele-ments, and techniques for reclaiming unwanted trails.

PATAPSCO’S VOLUNTEER BIKE PATROL NEEDS NEW MEMBERS The Maryland Volunteer Ranger program started in 1992. It is comprised of volunteers dedicated to teaching citi-zens about natural resources protection, and assisting with State Park activities, maintenance and events. Since 1997, the Central Region Parks of the Maryland Park Service have been host to Volunteer Mounted Patrols (VMP). This group of Volunteer Rangers performed their duties on horseback. Adding bicyclists with a Volunteer Bike Patrol (VBP) was an obvious complement to the VMP program. This is an exciting initiative that utilizes volunteers to assist Rangers in our State Parks. Volunteers are able to combine their love of bike-riding with their expertise & training to assist other park users, expose their sport to others, and help educate all users about the wise use of our natural resources. The VBP patrol the trails to be the “eyes and ears” of the park. Although the VBP are not commissioned law enforcement officers, they look for vandalism, park violations and trail maintenance problems. The VBP report to the Park Rangers and the Natural Resources Police. The VBP also provide first aid, offer assistance and provide trail information to visitors. Yellow shirts with the Department of Natural Resources patch identify the VBP. These volunteers have completed specialized training that includes CPR. Additionally, their bikes have also been in-spected to ensure suitability for the program. If you enjoy riding in the park and would like to serve on the Volunteer Bike Patrol, please contact Larry Martin, the park’s volunteer coordinator at 410-465-3287 or by email to [email protected].

CIVIC JUSTICE CORPS RETURNS TO PATAPSCO IN 2009

Last summer marked the beginning of the Civic Justice Corps in Maryland state parks. This program focused on Bal-timore’s youth. Two hundred inner-city kids worked for 6 weeks in Patapsco Valley and Gunpowder Falls State Parks. The program, which focuses on environmental stewardship and awareness, had the kids performing a variety of tasks including trail work, construction of a rain garden, removal of invasive species, and re-vamping of the new nature center in the Hilton Area of Patapsco. All of the participants received a uniform, meals and a paycheck. This year the Civic Justice Corps will return to the parks. Both Patapsco and Gunpowder with host Baltimore City kids. Similar programs will begin at Susquehanna State Park and Merkle Wildlife Sanctuary. The new programs will draw young people from surrounding areas. This summer, kids will continue to work on park related tasks with a con-tinued focus on environmental stewardship. Parks will partner with the Department of Natural Resources’ Outdoor Discovery program to ensure that corps members get an outdoor educational experience. Corps members will have the opportunity to go camping in Western Maryland as well as participate in a Challenge and High Ropes Course at Tuckahoe State Park designed to focus on team-building. Similar to last year’s program, the Maryland Conservation Corps (Americorps volunteers assigned to one of eight state parks in Maryland) and park staff will work directly with these youths. This year’s Civic Justice Corps will begin on June 22nd and run through the first week of August.


Maryland Junior Rangers Program Join us this summer for the Maryland Junior Rangers (ages 8 – 13) programs at Patapsco Valley State Park. You will have fun with nature arts and crafts, hikes, nature games and hands-on activities. There are several levels of achievement along the Junior Ranger trail with certificates, patches and awards for each level. The requirements include completing an activity book, attending a Ranger Round-Up and participating in a service project. The following sessions are being offered at several locations throughout the park. Please complete the registration form below and indicate which session your child/children will be participating in. There is a non-refundable service charge of $30.00 for the first child and $20 for each additional child. Sessions: 1) Orange Grove Area Ages 8-13 Wednesdays June 24 – July 22 10:00 AM – 12:30 PM 2) Hilton Area Ages 8-13 Week-long July 6 – July 10 10:00 AM – 12:30 PM 3) Soldiers Delight Ages 8-13 Tuesdays June 23 - July 21 10:00 AM – 12:30 PM On July 25th, there will be a graduation including games, songs and an awards ceremony. Afterwards, families are invited to an optional camp out together at the park! It will be fun for the whole family! __________________________________________________________________________________________________

Junior Naturalist: Nature Awareness Series Hey kids, come join our seasonal naturalists in May & June for the Junior Naturalist: Nature Awareness Series (Grades 3-6) at the Hil-ton Nature Center in Patapsco Valley State Park. Increase your knowledge and awareness of the natural world focusing on spring plants, birds and amphibians. The series consists of four Thursday afternoon sessions, each from 4:30p.m.-5:30p.m., on May 14th, May 21st, May 28th & June 4th. Please complete the registration form below and circle Junior Naturalist. A maximum of 12 children may participate. There is a non-refundable service charge of $20.00 for the first child and $10 for each additional child.

For more information or registration forms for either of these programs, please call: 410-461-5005 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------————————–

Cut along dotted line and send bottom portion with your payment to the address below

Registration Form Child’s Name: __________________________________________________ (please circle one) Junior Rangers Session #: 1 2 3 or Junior Naturalist Child’s Age:______ D.O.B.:_______ Parent or Guardian:____________________________ Emergency #:________________ Address: ____________________________________ Home Phone: ________________

____________________________________ Work Phone: ________________ Email address:_____________________________________________________ Known allergies or health restrictions: _____________________________________ Has your child participated in Maryland Junior Rangers or Junior Naturalists? ________ If yes, which park? ____________________________ Last level completed? __________________________ Parent or Guardian Signature:_______________________________ Date: ___________ Please fill out a registration form for each child and send it with your payment to:

Patapsco Valley State Park Headquarters 8020 Baltimore National Pike

Ellicott City, MD 21043 Attn: Junior Ranger or Junior Naturalist Program


PATAPSCO VALLEY STATE PARK HOSTED BLOEDE FAMILY DESCENDENTS

On July 22, 2008, six descendents of Victor Bloede were welcomed to Patapsco Valley State Park following their visit to the Bloede house in Catonsville. In 1906, Victor Bloede organized the Avalon Water Works and the Patapsco Electric & Manufacturing Co. and fi-nanced the construction of Bloede's Dam, a hydroelectric dam which impounds the Patapsco River and served as a power generating plant for the Patapsco Electric & Manufacturing Company, a service providing electricity to Catons-ville, Maryland and the surrounding areas. Bloede's dam was the first known hydroelectric dam of-its-kind in the country and is an icon often used to identify Patapsco Valley State Park. For example, please look at the photo just under the title banner on page one of this issue of the Patapsco Tributary. Several park programs being offered this season include a hike to the dam along the Grist Mill Trail and a discussion of the dam as part of the history of the river. Marge Coates is Victor Bloede’s granddaughter. She was 17 years old when her grandfather died in 1937, so she remembers him. She lives in Havre de Grace with her son Dan Coates and daughter Sarah Coates Morris. The other three great-grandchildren who visited were David Davis and Lois Mingo from Street, Maryland and Marion Coates Harrell from Silver Spring, Maryland. After looking at the exhibit about Victor Bloede and the Bloede dam at the park headquarters lobby, the group drove over to the Avalon area of the park where they were greeted by park volunteer Russ Brown who opened the Avalon Visitors Center for them. They spent about an hour and a half at the Avalon Visi-tors Center before going for a picnic and a look at the dam in the Orange Grove area.

PATAPSCO VALLEY STATE PARK, SOLDIERS DELIGHT NEA & MORGAN RUN NEA VOLUNTEERS HAVE ANOTHER BANNER YEAR!!!

The final figures are in and 2008 was another banner VOLUNTEER year for Patapsco Valley State Park, Soldiers Delight NEA and Morgan Run NEA. 141 individuals and 14 groups/organizations volunteered a total of 10,460.45 hours. This was an increase of 1142.95 hours or 12.26% over 2007. This equates to 1307.5 eight-hour work days and is valued at $204,083.38 based on the 2007 national figure of $19.51/hour for the value of volunteer time published by the Independent Sector, a leadership forum for charities, foundations and corporate giving programs committed to advancing the common good in America and around the world. http://www.independentsector.org/programs/research/volunteer_time.html.

(Left to Right)- David Davis, Marge Coates (Grand-daughter), Dan Coates, Lois Mingo, Marion Coates Harrell, Sarah Coates Morris

photos by Larry Martin Victor Bloede’s descendents view his exhibit in the lobby at Patapsco Valley State Park Headquarters

Directions to Areas of Patapsco Valley State Park Pickall Area, 8125 Johnnycake Road, Baltimore 21207 From the Beltway (I-695): Take Security Blvd. (Exit 17) west-bound. Go 0.5 mile and turn left on North Rolling Rd. Take next right (Fairbrook Rd) Go 1 mile, turn left onto Johnnycake Rd. Go 1.5 miles. Park entrance is on the left.

From Rt. 40: Take Rt.40 to North Rolling Rd. toward Security Square Mall. Go 2.5 miles, turn left onto Fairbrook Rd. Follow above direc-tions.

Hilton Area, 1100 Hilton Ave., Catonsville 21228

From the Beltway (I-695): Take Frederick Rd. (Exit 13) through Catonsville to South Rolling Rd. Turn left and continue straight onto Hilton Ave. Follow Hilton Ave. 1.5 miles to the park entrance on right.

From Howard County: Follow Frederick Rd. through Elli-cott City into Baltimore County, turn right at South Rolling Rd. and follow directions above.

Avalon/Glen Artney/Orange Grove and Lost Lake Areas, 5254 South St., Halethorpe 21227

From the Beltway (I-695): Take Rt. 1 (exit 12A) toward Elkridge. Follow Rt. 1 South about 3 miles to South St. Turn right. Park entrance on the left.

From I-95: Take I-195 East toward BWI. From I-195 take Rt. 1 South (Exit 3) and turn right toward Elkridge. Turn right onto South Street. Park entrance is on the left.

From Howard County: Follow Rt. 1 through Elkridge and into Baltimore County. Turn left onto South St. Park entrance is on the left.

McKeldin Area, 11676 Marriottsville Road Marriottsville 21104 From I-695/I-70 West: Take I-70 to Mar-riottsville Rd.( Exit 83). Go North for 4 miles to the park entrance on the right.

From I-70 East: Take Rt. 40 to Marriottsville Rd. Turn left. Park entrance is 5 miles on the right. From Rt. 26: Take Rt. 26 to Marriottsville Rd. Go South 4 miles, park entrance is on the left.

Soldiers Delight NEA, 5100 Deer Park Road, Owings Mills, 21117

From the Beltway (I-695): Take I-795 to Franklin Blvd. West, turn right. Bear right at Church Rd. Turn left at stop sign onto Berrymans Lane. Turn left at Deer Park Rd. and go for 2.5 miles, to Visitor Center entrance on the right.

From Rt. 26 West : Take Rt. 26 to Wards Chapel Rd. Turn Left. Fol-low Wards Chapel to stop sign, and turn right onto Deer Park Rd. Entrance is 1 mile on the right.


Hollofield Area, 8020 Baltimore Na-tional Pike, Ellicott City 21043

From the Beltway (I-695):

Take Rt. 40 West, (Exit 15).Follow Rt. 40 West 2 miles to the park entrance on the right.

From I-70/Route 29

Take Rt. 29 South (Exit 87) to Rt. 40 East 2 miles to the park entrance on the right.

ONLINE INFORMATION The Patapsco Tributary is also available on the Patapsco Valley State Park web-page:

http://www.dnr.state.md.us/publiclands/central/patapscovalley.html

Visit the DNR website to view the Online Events Calendar & for information on camp-ing reservations, special events, hunting & fishing, and more: www.dnr.maryland.gov

Morgan Run NEA, Ben Rose Lane, Eldersburg 21784 From MD #26 & MD #97 west of Eldersburg, go 2 miles north on #97 to Bartholow Road. Go right on Bartholow about 0.1 mile, turn left onto Jim Bowers Road & left again immediately onto Ben Rose Lane. Go about 0.5 mile to end.

Daniels Area, Daniels Road, Ellicott City, MD 21043 From the Hollofield Area, take Route 40 West to the second light which is Rogers Avenue. Turn right. Follow Rogers Avenue to traffic circle to Old Frederick Road. Turn right. Go about 1.5 miles and turn left on Daniels Road.

Maryland Department of Natural Resources Patapsco Valley State Park 8020 Baltimore National Pike Ellicott City, MD 21043

Phone: 410-461-5005 Fax: 410-418-9750 Email: [email protected] TTY users call via the MD Relay

Martin O’Malley, Governor John R. Griffin, Secretary

website: www.dnr.Maryland.gov Toll-free in MD: 1-877-620-8DNR

Welcome to the Patapsco Tributary The Tributary is a park wide program newsletter published twice per year through the cooperative efforts of park staff and volunteers. Your suggestions and/or opinions are welcome and can be delivered to Park Management at the above phone or fax numbers or email address.

Patapsco Valley State Park Hours of Operation: Park Headquarters: Mon.-Fri. 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. phone 410-461-5005 Scales & Tales: Mon.-Fri. 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. phone 410-461-5005 Soldiers Delight NEA: phone 410-922-3044 (call for Visitor Center hours) Avalon History Center: phone 410-737-0451 (call for History Center hours) ALL OTHER AREAS OF THE PARK ARE OPEN FROM 9 AM TO SUNSET TO MAKE SHELTER OR CAMPING RESERVATIONS CALL: 1-888-432-CAMP or log on to http://reservations.dnr.state.md.us

The facilities and services of the Department of Natural Resources are available to all without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, national origin or physical or mental disability.

This document is available in alternative format upon request from a qualified individual with a disability.

PARK WATCH In case of emergency

dial 911 To report a violation in the Park or to contact a

Ranger call 1-800-825-PARK

PRINTED ON RECYCLED PAPER

DNR 04-362009-379

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