05/11/2020
Governor Hogan has taken small steps to open access to recreational resources in the state. There is mounting pressure on the Governor these days but the reality for most of Maryland is the curve has not yet flatten in the state and continued social distancing and other measures remain essential.
At a press confernce yesterday, the Governor did take some small steps to open recreational activity, effective today, May 7, 2020. TextL https://news.maryland.gov/dnr/2020/05/06/frequently-asked-questions-about-governor-hogans-stay-at-home-order/.
Sections which are pertinent to Deep Creek Lake owners and users:
BOATING
Recreational boating activities, including motorized and non-motorized vessels and personal watercraft, are permitted, however:
Boaters must be with immediate family members or people with which they reside.
No more than 10 people can be on a boat at one time, including captain and crew.
Boats must be distanced from each other by at least 10 feet and are prohibited from rafting up, beaching, or having rendezvous events.
Boats are prohibited from docking at restaurants or bars.
Vessel and boat races remain prohibited.
Marinas can reopen to recreational boaters, but must adhere to Maryland Departments of Commerce and Health guidelines.
BEACHES
DNR-owned beaches [at the State Park] will be opened and outdoor exercise such as walking, jogging, running, swimming, and fishing will be permitted, however:
Guidance on social distancing must be followed.
The prohibition on social gatherings must be strictly followed.
Chairs, blankets, and picnics will be prohibited.
CAMPING
DNR will begin accepting reservations for overnight tent and RV camping in state forests, parks, and other campgrounds, however:
Campers must be with immediate family members or people with which they reside.
Guidance on social distancing must be followed.
No parties or reservations for more than 10 people will be granted for any one site.
FISHING
Recreational fishing activities, including catch-and-release, are allowed, however:
When fishing from a boat, one must be with immediate family members or people with which they reside.
No more than 10 people may be on a boat at one time, including captain and crew.
When fishing from onshore or at a pier [or dock] social distancing guidelines must be followed.
DNR fishing piers will reopen immediately. [The State Park dock has remained open during the stay-at-home order.]
Fishing tournaments remain prohibited at this time.
IMPORTANT—The Maryland stay-at-home order remains in effect.
If folks come to Garrett County from elsewhere in the State, they are expected to self-isolation for 14 days in order to prevent spread of the COVID19 virus.
Other relevant news:
Garrett County Commissioners have been meeting with the rental property businesses to develop plans for re-opening.
Garrett, Allegany and Washington Counties have sent a request to Governor Hogan requesting permission to develop a coordinated re-opening process for western Maryland, an area of the state with relatively low cases and deaths.
Ocean City Council has decided to open their beaches. Social distancing will be expected and the retail businesses along the Boardwalk will remain closed.
Slow steps in the right direction but it is so important to be responsible. We have made such progress, it would be terrible if we had to close down again.
Your friends and neighbors--
Friends of Deep Creek Lake Board
Update Regarding Maryland’s Stay at Home Order and Opportunities for Outdoor Recreation May 6, 2020 UPDATED May 7 As you know, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Governor Hogan issued a stay-at-home order, which remains in effect. That stay-at-home order allowed for limited outdoor exercise. Given the ...
