Fall / Winter 2008

Connections In Nature

older months in the Gunpowder provide great opportunities for nature watchers! The abundance of spring and summer fades and the temperatures drop, forcing plants and animals to alter their behaviors in order to survive. Birds, mammals, and plants all rely on each other and all have specific roles to play in the survival of the forest community throughout the fall and winter. Brave the park in the colder months and you will be rewarded with some amazing glimpses of the natural world! One of the most interesting natural events at this time is the migration process. In late summer and early fall, many birds and butterflies migrate to warmer areas. They rely on the plants of our area to provide them with the sustenance required to make long flights, sometimes traveling thousands of miles. The forests and fields accommodate the needs of the birds as some plants produce late blooming fruits and seeds. Hike the trails of Gunpowder in early fall and look for dogwood, sassafras and spicebush, all

producing bright red berries. These trees are also among the first to go through leaf color changes, turning from green to bright orange, red or yellow. The early change helps advertise the food source to birds flying overhead. This system helps both the birds and the trees; birds get an important fall food source, and the tree species survival is enhanced by birds carrying their seeds to new areas to germinate and grow. Travelers on our trails at this time of year will also note that many trees begin producing fruit and nuts even as their leaves begin to fade. Gunpowders towering white and red oak trees begin to drop a great bounty of acorns, providing nourishment to deer and squirrels. Sit quietly near one of these trees and wait and see who might drop by for a snack look at the forest floor beneath your feet to see how many acorns have already been taken with only the cap left behind. Whitetail deer in particular love the large acorns of the white oak. If youre looking for whitetail, finding an area with plenty of mature oaks is a great start. Also, look around to see if you can spy any trees with the bark scraped off in a long, low, linear patch. A male deer causes this mark,

called a rub, by scraping its antlers on the tree. Male deer, called bucks, create rubs either to mark their territory or to scrape the soft velvet covering from their antlers in order to prepare for the upcoming competition of fall and early winter. If youre in the woods and you see an area with many rubs, a deer is likely nearby. As you enjoy nature-watching in Gunpowder this fall and winter, remember that you play a role in the environment too. Practice Leave No Trace principlesmake sure you pack out what you pack in. The animals rely on the natural world to provide them with what they need to survive the colder months. Visitors need to be careful to minimize their impact on that world when they visit the park. In addition to taking care not to harm nature during a visit to the park, nature lovers can also consider making some changes at home to help animals through the colder months. If you have garden beds around your home, leave the plants standing through the winterwait until spring to prune back old seed heads and tall grasses. The plants in your garden may be dry and brown but they can still provided shelter for animals and seeds for birds. continued on page 4...

The Civic Justice Corps: Reconnecting Youth with Nature

his past summer, groups of teenagers could be seen in various areas of Gunpowder Falls State Park all wearing khaki pants, work boots, and the Civic Justice Corps emblem. These teens were involved in service projects throughout the park; over the summer they learned about the relevance of nature, the importance of conservation, teamwork, job skills, and a little bit about themselves. With the support of Governor Martin OMalley as part of Marylands Partnership For Children In Nature, the Department of Natural Resources embarked upon a significant new initiative of the Maryland Conservation Corps (MCC) named the Civic Justice Corps (CJC). The CJC is a six-week employment program designed to provide conservation service opportunities for Baltimore City youth. The objective of this program is to build a connection between inner city youth and the natural resources the

By Jennifer Cashell, Park Technician Photo by Nancy Lease

Maryland Park Service strives to protect. The work of the CJC would not only aid in the conservation efforts of the park service, but we hoped to reach these teens on a level

that deepened their appreciation for the world beyond the concrete jungle of their neighborhoods. For some, the connection reached far beyond even these expectations, as I found from my personal experience working with two CJC crews. At the beginning of the program, I met two crews of nine girls I was scheduled to work with, crews 21 and 24. Both crews had a supervisor and a peer leader. The supervisors had been carefully screened to provide strong leadership, proper mentorship, and adequate nurturing. The peer leaders had been selected, based upon their application essays and interviews, as team members who would likely be looked up to and assist in maintaining morale. I soon learned the girls by their crew names, which were determined by the other girls on the crew and were usually descriptive of their hair styles or personality traits ...continued on page 4...

Page 2

Gunpowder Currents

A NOTE ON PROGRAM REGISTRATION: You may notice that some of the programs below ask that you pre-

register to participate. This helps us to direct our efforts in ways that best serve you, our guest. If the program youre interested in requires pre-registration, please take a moment to call us at 410-592-2897 and let us know youre coming. This helps to ensure that your program will not be canceled. For park programs, children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

OCTOBER 2008
4 Kayak Fly Fishing Instruction - hosted by Ultimate Watersports,
Dundee Creek Marina, 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. This one day school, taught by FFF and ACA certified instructors, is designed to teach you everything from fly casting out of the kayak, to paddling technique, to kayak rigging. Registration required, limit 25. For more information call 410-335-5352 or visit www.ultimatewatersports.com.

and enjoy an old fashioned hayride and storytelling around a campfire. Roast a snack to enjoy as you listen and relax by the fire. For kids of all ages-all children must be accompanied by an adult. Pre-registration is required. Call: 410-592-2897 for registration and to check for cancellations due to inclement weather - shine only.

26 Fall Celebration Sparks Nature Center, 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Stop
by Sparks Nature Center to join park naturalists for fall fun. Activities include storytelling, childrens games and crafts, and the chance to meet some of the fascinating and spooky animals of Gunpowder Falls State Park. Call: 410-592-2897 for more information. Rain or shine.

4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 19, 25, 26 Jerusalem Mill Visitor Center and Museum - Gunpowder Falls State Park Headquarters, 1:00 - 4:00 p.m.
View artifacts and exhibits pertinent to the history of this early industrial village which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Follow the efforts of the Friends of Jerusalem Mill in restoring the significant architecture of this colonial era settlement. Museum is open every Saturday and Sunday. Call: 410-877-3560. Donations welcome.

NOVEMBER 2008
1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23, 29, 30 Jerusalem Mill Visitor Center and Museum - Gunpowder Falls State Park Headquarters, 1:00 - 4:00
p.m. View artifacts and exhibits pertinent to the history of this early industrial village which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Follow the efforts of the Friends of Jerusalem Mill in restoring the significant architecture of this colonial era settlement. Museum is open every Saturday and Sunday. Call: 410-877-3560. Donations welcome.

5, 12, 19, 26 Blacksmithing Demonstration - Jerusalem Mill, 1:00

- 4:00 p.m. Visit us on any Sunday to observe a blacksmith demonstrating both traditional and contemporary techniques in historic Jerusalem Village. Call: 410-877-3560. Donations welcome.

5, 12, 19, 26 Jerusalem Mill Gunshop - Jerusalem Mill, 1:00 - 4:00

p.m. Visit us any Sunday to observe the daily activities of 18th century village life: gardening, gunsmithing, hearth cooking, woodworking, etc. Activities vary - see website for preview at www.jerusalemmill.org. Open every Sunday. Call: 410-877-3560. Donations welcome.

2, 9, 16, 23, 30 Blacksmithing Demonstration - Jerusalem Mill,

1:00 - 4:00 p.m. Visit us on any Sunday to observe a blacksmith demonstrating both traditional and contemporary techniques in historic Jerusalem Village. Call: 410-877-3560. Donations welcome.

4, 5 Jerusalem Mill Village General Store - Jerusalem Mill,

1:00 - 4:00 p.m. Expanded hours starting in 2008! View the changes that have taken place in the three display rooms. The general store was in operation from the 1830s until 1940 and we currently have a room reflecting some of the highlights of the 1930s time period. Try a game of checkers by the pot-bellied stove. We also feature a room dealing with the events surrounding the Confederate raid by Harry Gilmors troops in July 1864 as recognized by the Civil War Trails map for Maryland. The third room features original furniture and a showcase of items of the longtime (1906-1939) store operator, Samuel O. McCourtney. Call: 410-877-0080. Donations welcome.

2, 9, 16, 23, 30 Jerusalem Mill Gunshop - Jerusalem Mill, 1:00 4:00 p.m. Visit us any Sunday to observe the daily activities of 18th century village life: gardening, gunsmithing, hearth cooking, woodworking, etc. Activities vary - see website for preview at www.jerusalemmill.org. Open every Sunday. Call: 410-877-3560. Donations welcome.

1, 2 Jerusalem Mill Village General Store - Jerusalem Mill,

1:00 - 4:00 p.m. Expanded hours starting in 2008! View the changes that have taken place in the three display rooms. The general store was in operation from the 1830s until 1940 and we currently have a room reflecting some of the highlights of the 1930s time period. Try a game of checkers by the pot-bellied stove. We also feature a room dealing with the events surrounding the Confederate Raid by Harry Gilmors Troops in July 1864 as recognized by the Civil War Trails map for Maryland. The third room features original furniture and a showcase of items of the longtime (1906-1939) store operator, Samuel O. McCourtney. Call: 410-8770080. Donations welcome.

11 Moonlight Paddle Tour - hosted by Ultimate Watersports, Dundee

Creek Marina, 7:30 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. Paddle along the Gunpowder River as night falls, and watch as a spectacular full moon rises over the Chesapeake Bay. Must be over 18, pre-registration required. For more information call 410-335-5352 or visit www.ultimatewatersports.com..

12 Poker Run on the TCB Trail - Paper Mill parking lot, 9:00 a.m.
Explore the TCB trail on bike or on foot as you compete for the best poker hand. This is a wonderful opportunity to learn some of the history of the trail and its natural surroundings. Begin at Paper Mill and travel to Monkton as you collect your cards. Pre-registration is required. Call: 410-592-2897 for registration and to check for cancellations due to inclement weather - shine only!

8 Owl Prowl / Night Hike - Hammerman, Ash parking lot, 6:30 - 8:30
p.m. Spend an evening hiking in and near the woods of the Hammerman area, searching and listening for the hunters of the night. Learn about these amazing animals with hands-on activities during the program. Quiet is the key to a successful night hike; please plan accordingly when considering the participation of young children. Pre-registration is required. Cost: $2/person.. Call: 410-592-2897 to register and to check for cancellations due to inclement weather - shine only.

18 Full Moon Campfire and Hayride - Hammerman, 6:30 p.m.

8:30 pm. Meet at Hammerman beach lot. Celebrate fall with the family

Newsletter
15 An Afternoon of Crafts and Tea - McCourtneys Store at
Jerusalem Mill, 1:00 - 4:00 p.m. Join us to learn how to create natural Christmas ornaments. Work with cornhusks, pinecones, and other natural materials to create handmade tree ornaments. Desserts based on Civil War time recipes will be served. Register by calling: 410-529-8488. Limit 15 participants. Other dates: December 4. Cost for each workshop and refreshments is $35/pp.

Page 3
the events surrounding the Confederate Raid by Harry Gilmors Troops in July 1864 as recognized by the Civil War Trails map for Maryland. The third room features original furniture and a showcase of items of the longtime (1906-1939) store operator, Samuel O. McCourtney. Call: 410-8770080. Donations welcome.

4 An Afternoon of Crafts and Tea - McCourtneys Store at

Jerusalem Mill, 1:00 - 4:00 p.m. Join us to learn how to create Williamsburg Style Christmas Decorations. Various decorations will be demonstrated. Participants will make a pair of boxwood candle rings. Scones, clotted cream, and tea will be served. Register by calling: 410529-8488. Limit 15 participants. Cost for each workshop and refreshments is $35/pp.

15 Full Moon Campfire - North Point, 7:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Bring
chairs, picnic blankets and a flashlight and enjoy Smores and other fire roasted snacks on a cool autumn night. The whole family can unwind after a busy workweek and hear our naturalists share their knowledge of the parks natural, cultural and historic resources. Pre-registration is required. Call: 410-592-2897 to register and to check for cancellations due to inclement weather - shine only.

13 Santas Workshop - North Point State Park, 12:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Come have your picture taken with Mr. and Mrs. Claus. Make a gift to take home to a loved one. Listen to festive music and check out our train garden and creative holiday decorations. For kids of all ages accompanied by an adult. Call 410-477-0757. Donations welcome.

22 Trail Work Party - Monkton Station, 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. First,
meet at Monkton to discuss current trail practices with an experienced trail builder. Then carpool a short distance to a nearby park location to practice trouble-shooting and problem identification in the field. Learn how to implement sustainable solutions. Come ready to work- wear layers, comfortable boots, and work gloves. Pre-registration is required. Call: 410-592-2897 to register and to check for cancellations due to inclement weather - shine only.

JANUARY 2009
3, 4, 10, 11, 17, 18, 24, 25, 31 Jerusalem Mill Visitor Center and Museum - Gunpowder Falls State Park Headquarters, 1:00 - 4:00
p.m. View artifacts and exhibits pertinent to the history of this early industrial village which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Follow the efforts of the Friends of Jerusalem Mill in restoring the significant architecture of this colonial era settlement. Museum is open every Saturday and Sunday. Call: 410-877-3560. Donations welcome.

22 Native Plants, Native People - Hammerman, Ash parking lot,

2:00 - 3:30 p.m. Join park naturalists to learn some of the games and activities enjoyed by native and colonial people. Learn how our ancestors relied on nature to provide them with materials needed for everyday life. Pre-registration is required. Call: 410-592-2897 to register and to check for cancellations due to inclement weather - shine only.

4, 11, 18, 25 Blacksmithing Demonstration - Jerusalem Mill, 1:00 23 Energy Audit - Monkton Station, 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. Learn how to
prepare your home for winter. Let a park naturalist help you create a personal home heating audit. Be sure to bring area measurements for each heated room in your house and a copy of your 12 month heating bill. Find out how you can cut down on your costs and carbon emissions this winter! Pre-registration required. Call: 410-592-2897 to register. Rain or shine. - 4:00 p.m. Visit us on any Sunday to observe a blacksmith demonstrating both traditional and contemporary techniques in historic Jerusalem Village. Call: 410-877-3560. Donations welcome.

4, 11, 18, 25 Jerusalem Mill Gunshop - Jerusalem Mill, 1:00 4:00 p.m. Visit us any Sunday to observe the daily activities of 18th century village life: gardening, gunsmithing, hearth cooking, woodworking, etc. Activities vary - see website for preview at www.jerusalemmill.org. Open every Sunday. Call: 410-877-3560. Donations welcome.

DECEMBER 2008
6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21, 27, 28 Jerusalem Mill Visitor Center and Museum - Gunpowder Falls State Park Headquarters, 1:00 - 4:00 p.m.
View artifacts and exhibits pertinent to the history of this early industrial village which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Follow the efforts of the Friends of Jerusalem Mill in restoring the significant architecture of this colonial era settlement. Museum is open every Saturday and Sunday. Call: 410-877-3560. Donations welcome.

3, 4 Jerusalem Mill Village General Store - Jerusalem Mill,

1:00 - 4:00 p.m. Expanded hours starting in 2008! View the changes that have taken place in the three display rooms. The general store was in operation from the 1830s until 1940 and we currently have a room reflecting some of the highlights of the 1930s time period. Try a game of checkers by the pot-bellied stove. We also feature a room dealing with the events surrounding the Confederate Raid by Harry Gilmors Troops in July 1864 as recognized by the Civil War Trails map for Maryland. The third room features original furniture and a showcase of items of the longtime (1906-1939) store operator, Samuel O. McCourtney. Call: 410-8770080. Donations welcome.

7, 14, 21, 28 Blacksmithing Demonstration - Jerusalem Mill, 1:00 4:00 p.m. Visit us on any Sunday to observe a blacksmith demonstrating both traditional and contemporary techniques in historic Jerusalem Village. Call: 410-877-3560. Donations welcome.

7, 14, 21, 28 Jerusalem Mill Gunshop - Jerusalem Mill, 1:00 - 4:00

p.m. Visit us any Sunday to observe the daily activities of 18th century village life: gardening, gunsmithing, hearth cooking, woodworking, etc. Activities vary - see website for preview at www.jerusalemmill.org. Open every Sunday. Call: 410-877-3560. Donations welcome.

17 Winter Birds - Sweet Air, 1:00 - 2:30 p.m. Winter is a great time for
beginners interested in bird watching. The stark winter landscape makes it easy to spot feathered friends! Join a park naturalist to hike and learn about the birds in our area over the winter. Bring your binoculars and a field guide if you have one. Call: 410-592-2897 to register and to check for cancellations due to inclement weather - shine only.

6, 7 Jerusalem Mill Village General Store - Jerusalem Mill,

1:00 - 4:00 p.m. Expanded hours starting in 2008! View the changes that have taken place in the three display rooms. The general store was in operation from the 1830s until 1940 and we currently have a room reflecting some of the highlights of the 1930s time period. Try a game of checkers by the pot-bellied stove. We also feature a room dealing with

17 Appalachian Trail Slide Show - Monkton Station, 7:00 - 8:30

p.m. Join a park ranger as he relives the pictures and stories from his 2004 Appalachian Trail thru-hike. In addition to flora and fauna he will present all the gear and equipment that took him over 4,000 miles from

Page 4
Georgia to Maine! Call 410-592-2897. Donations welcome.

Gunpowder Currents
1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Jerusalem Mill Gunshop - Jerusalem Mill, 1:00 4:00 p.m. Visit us any Sunday to observe the daily activities of 18th century village life: gardening, gunsmithing, hearth cooking, woodworking, etc. Activities vary - see website for preview at www.jerusalemmill.org Open every Sunday. Call: 410-877-3560. Donations welcome.

24 Appalachian Trail Slide Show - North Point State Park, 7:00 - 8:30
p.m. See above.

31 Winter Animals - TCB Trail, Sparks Bank Nature Center, 1:00 - 2:00
p.m. Enjoy being warmed by the nature centers wood burning stove while you learn about Marylands animals and how they survive in winter time. Then create a gift to help the animals through the rest of the cold season! Pre-registration is required. Cost $2/pp. Call: 410-592-2897 to register. Rain or shine.

1 Jerusalem Mill Village General Store - Jerusalem Mill,

1:00 - 4:00 p.m. Expanded hours starting in 2008! View the changes that have taken place in the three display rooms. The general store was in operation from the 1830s until 1940 and we currently have a room reflecting some of the highlights of the 1930s time period. Try a game of checkers by the pot-bellied stove. We also feature a room dealing with the events surrounding the Confederate Raid by Harry Gilmors Troops in July 1864 as recognized by the Civil War Trails map for Maryland. The third room features original furniture and a showcase of items of the long-time (1906-1939) store operator, Samuel O. McCourtney. Call: 410-877-0080. Donations welcome.

FEBRUARY 2009
1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22, 28 Jerusalem Mill Visitor Center and Museum - Gunpowder Falls State Park Headquarters, 1:00 - 4:00 p.m.
View artifacts and exhibits pertinent to the history of this early industrial village which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Follow the efforts of the Friends of Jerusalem Mill in restoring the significant architecture of this colonial era settlement. Museum is open every Saturday and Sunday. Call: 410-877-3560. Donations welcome.

7 Survival Day - Sweet Air, 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. Come put your survival
sense to the test! Join park naturalists to learn some simple outdoor survival skills. All ages welcome! Pre-registration is required. Cost $2/pp. Call: 410-592-2897 to register.

1, 8, 15, 22 Blacksmithing Demonstration - Jerusalem Mill, 1:00 4:00 p.m. Visit us on any Sunday to observe a blacksmith demonstrating both traditional and contemporary techniques in historic Jerusalem Village. Call: 410-877-3560. Donations welcome.

22 Survival Day - Days Cove, 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. See above. 28 Trail Work Party - Monkton Station, 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. First,
meet at Monkton to discuss current trail practices with an experienced trail builder. Then carpool a short distance to a nearby park location to practice trouble shooting and problem identification in the field. Learn how to implement sustainable solutions. Come ready to work- wear layers, comfortable boots, and work gloves. Call: 410-592-2897 to register and to check for cancellations due to inclement weather - shine only. Connections in Nature ...continued from page 1

1, 8, 15, 22 Jerusalem Mill Gunshop - Jerusalem Mill, 1:00 - 4:00

p.m. Visit us any Sunday to observe the daily activities of 18th century village life: gardening, gunsmithing, hearth cooking, woodworking, etc. Activities vary - see website for preview at www.jerusalemmill.org Open every Sunday. Call: 410-877-3560. Donations welcome.

1 Jerusalem Mill Village General Store - Jerusalem Mill, 1:00 - 4:00

p.m. Expanded hours starting in 2008! View the changes that have taken place in the three display rooms. The general store was in operation from the 1830s until 1940 and we currently have a room reflecting some of the highlights of the 1930s time period. Try a game of checkers by the potbellied stove. We also feature a room dealing with the events surrounding the Confederate Raid by Harry Gilmors Troops in July 1864 as recognized by the Civil War Trails map for Maryland. The third room features original furniture and a showcase of items of the long-time (1906-1939) store operator, Samuel O. McCourtney. Call: 410-877-0080. Donations welcome.

10 Winter Tree ID - Big Gunpowder parking lot, Belair Rd, 2:00 - 3:30
p.m. Join park naturalists for an exploration of the trails and trees along the Big Gunpowder River. Learn a little about the trees common to our area including the secrets to winter tree identification! Pre-registration is required. Call: 410-592-2897 to register and check for cancellation due to inclement weather - shine only.

Further increase your homes hospitality to wildlife by putting out feeders for birds, like blue jays and cardinals, who stay active in Maryland during the winter. And as you watch wildlife in your yard, or during your visits to the park, remember that it is all connected. The survival of everything is a balancing act and all aspects of the natural world rely on each other to survive, including us! Make choices in your life to play an overall positive role in the natural worldlook for ways to minimize your consumption of resources and contribute to the well-being of the living things around you. Get out in the park now, and get inspired!
The Civic Justice Corps ...continued from page 1

MARCH 2009
1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22, 28, 29 Jerusalem Mill Visitor Center and Museum - Gunpowder Falls State Park Headquarters, 1:00 - 4:00 p.m.
View artifacts and exhibits pertinent to the history of this early industrial village which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Follow the efforts of the Friends of Jerusalem Mill in restoring the significant architecture of this colonial era settlement. Museum is open every Saturday and Sunday. Call: 410-877-3560. Donations welcome.

1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Blacksmithing Demonstration - Jerusalem Mill, 1:00

- 4:00 p.m. Visit us on any Sunday to observe a blacksmith demonstrating both traditional and contemporary techniques in historic Jerusalem Village. Call: 410-877-3560. Donations welcome.

names like Squeaks for the quiet one, Hollywood for her diva sunglasses, and Flower Child for being inquisitive about the natural world. In no time they had given me my own crew name: Miss Firecracker! They showed me the contract flags they designed and signed on their first day together, dedicating themselves to the purpose of the program and their own personal goals. As we threw ourselves into our projects, I could not believe how deeply each girl reached within herself to go beyond her comfort level and perform the tasks at hand. Working in the woods without the creature comforts of home or basic technology they were familiar with was sometimes quite a stretch, but that was a vital lesson that each individual had to learn. In time, many of the girls embraced the conditions in which we worked.
...continued on page 5...

Page 5
Park Hours
Park Headquarters: Open year-round, Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Closed on state holidays Open weekends year-round, 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. Available other times by appointment

Gunpowder Currents

Jerusalem Mill Museum:

Blacksmith Shop & Gun Shop at Jerusalem Mill: Monkton Train Station:

Open Sundays, 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. Open weekends only in April, May, September and October, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Hours from Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day: Wednesday through Sunday, 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Open by appointment only Open year-round, 8 a.m. - Sunset Hours from Memorial Day weekend Labor Day: WednesdaySunday, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. April - October November - March 8 a.m. - Sunset 10 a.m. - Sunset .

Sparks Bank Nature Center: North Point Day Use Area: North Point Visitor Center:

Hammerman Day Use Area:

Hammerman Beach:

Lifeguards on duty from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, Wednesday - Sunday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Beach unguarded at other times. Lifeguard hours subject to change. Call (410) 335-3461 to confirm. April Hours: May Hours: Call (410) 335-3461 for hours. Monday - Friday, 6 a.m. - 2 p.m. Saturday & Sunday 6 a.m. - 7 p.m. Memorial Day weekend - Labor Day, open daily from 6 a.m. - 7 p.m. After Labor Day: Call (410) 335-3461 for hours. March 1 - November 30 6 a.m. - Sunset

Dundee Creek Marina Store:

Dundee Creek Marina Launching Ramp: Trails in the undeveloped areas of the park :

Sunrise to sunset

...continued from page 4...

The girls displayed tenacity and sheer physical strength that was both awesome and inspirational to me. They were curious about the natural and historical resources that were around us and listened intently when they were given interpretive lessons during the ample teachable moments. At the end of the six weeks we had completed significant and labor-intensive projects, and I had the pleasure of accompanying my girls on their camping trip to Western Maryland. By this time I had learned each girls real name after sharing challenges and triumphs that helped us grow close. I could not hold back my tears during the commencement ceremony when they gave me a framed photo of all of us on our first day working

together with a card they had all signed. I personally could not have asked for a more meaningful experience. All in all Gunpowder Falls State Park had ten Civic Justice Corps crews working on service projects including trail maintenance and renovation, carpentry projects, tree planting, critical area maintenance, water diversion and road repair, equipment use and safety, masonry, construction of a green promenade, and stream clean-ups. There were also recreational learning activities including a ropes course, canoeing, animal presentations, hiking, camping, and tubing. All of these projects and activities required dedicated park staff to provide technical support as well as additional mentoring and

supervision. Together with the careful planning of MCC coordinators, CJC staff and DNR cooperation, the CJC program changed perceptions, broke down barriers, created opportunities and taught valuable lessons for all involved. Along with a paycheck, it was clear that these teens earned some self-respect, trust in themselves and others, a deepened appreciation of nature, and a broadened understanding of their role in conservation. For more information about the Civic Justice Corps, visit http://www.dnr.state.md.us/cjc/. For the Children in Nature Initiative, visit http:// www.dnr. state.md.us/education/ children_nature/.

Newsletter

Page 6

Winter Youth Programs

Junior Rangers
The Junior Rangers program returns for the winter of 2009! Kids from 8-14 years old are invited to get outside, explore the park, discover nature, and learn about the environment through handson activities. Sign up soon because space is limited and you dont want to miss out on all the fun!

Park Pals
Younger children ages 4-7 can join in the fun too! Park Pals are introduced to the outdoors through games, crafts and activities with a nature theme. This program gets our youngest visitors involved in the same topics as Junior Rangers, but with a more hands-on approach thats tailored to early childhood. Its perfect for the younger brothers and sisters of Junior Rangers!

Areas & Times

Days Cove: February 6 - March 13 Fridays, 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Sparks Nature Center February 7 - March 14 Saturdays, 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Areas & Times

Days Cove: February 6 - March 13 Fridays, 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Cost is $25 per child for Junior Rangers or Park Pals. Take advantage of our great family rate! $10 for each additional child from the same family. Children must attend four out of six sessions and complete required activities to earn their patch. To register, call 410-592-2897. Registration is limited to 20 children per Junior Ranger session and 15 per Park Pal session. Early registration is recommended.

Tired of high gas prices, traffic jams and airport delays complicating your precious vacation? Simplify! Choose the Mill Pond Cottage for your next getaway, and leave your troubles behind. Located in the scenic Hereford area of Gunpowder Falls State Park, the Cottage offers true peace and quiet in a private, streamside retreat. The Mill Pond Cottage sleeps 8 people, and has a full kitchen, central air conditioning and heat, cable television, wood-burning fireplace, screened-in porch and much more! Anglers will love the two-minute walk to one of the best trout fishing areas in the country. A mere thirty-minute drive from Baltimore can make you feel like youre a thousand miles awaywithout the travel hassles! Wed love to help you plan your visit. Call Park Headquarters at 410-592-2897 for information, or to request a full-color brochure. Check us out on the web at: www.dnr.state.md.us/publiclands/millpond.html

Be the first to hear about park events! For a donation of $10, you will receive the Gunpowder Currents for one year. This offer includes two issues of the Currents, and notices on other events too. Subscribers receive a $1 discount on programs requiring pre-registration. To order, fill out this form and mail it with your payment (checks only, please) to GFSP, P.O. Box 480, Kingsville, MD 21087.

CHECKS MUST BE MADE PAYABLE TO GUNPOWDER FALLS STATE PARK Name:___________________________________________________________ Address:__________________________________________________________

Newsletter DIRECTIONS TO PARK AREAS

Note: Gunpowder property spans from the Pennsylvania line to the Chesapeake Bay. Use Internet mapping programs with caution, as no one street address can provide proper directions to the entire park. For help with directions, call the park at 410-592-2897.

Page 7

Gunpowder Global Warming Initiative: UPDATE!

The Gunpowder Polar Fair will return in the spring of 2009! Bring the family to North Point State Park for a day of family fun, games, food and learning what you can do to reduce your impact on the environment and help stop global warming. We are seeking exhibitors nowplease call (410) 592-2897 for details!

HAMMERMAN (Chase, Maryland) - From I-95 take exit 67A for Route 43 east (White Marsh Boulevard). Follow 43 to Route 40 east. After turning onto Rt. 40, turn right at the first light onto Ebenezer Road and follow it for 4.5 miles. The park entrance will be on your left. MONKTON STATION (Monkton, Maryland) - From I-83 N, take exit 27 and turn right on Mt. Carmel Road. Turn right on York Road and make a quick left onto Monkton Road. Go about 4 miles, where the road crosses the TCB (formerly NCR) Trail. Monkton Station will be on your left. Limited parking. Call the park or see the website for parking options on the TCB. JERUSALEM MILL (Park Headquarters in Kingsville, Maryland) - From I-95 take exit 74 for Route 152 West (Mountain Road). Follow Mountain Road toward Fallston and after about 2 miles, turn left onto Jerusalem Road (its the first left after Singer Road). Jerusalem Mill will be on your left after 1.1 miles. Parking is in the lot on the right, just before the mill. NORTH POINT STATE PARK (Edgemere, Maryland) Coming from the Towson or Essex area on the Inner Loop of I-695, take exit 42 (Edgemere - Fort Howard). Follow Route 20 south (North Point Road) through the town of Edgemere. The entrance to the park will be on your left after 2 miles. Coming from the Key Bridge or Glen Burnie area on the Outer Loop of I-695, take exit 43. Follow signs to Route 20 south. SPARKS BANK NATURE CENTER (Sparks, Maryland) - From I-83N take exit 24 (Belfast Road). Turn right onto Belfast Road. Turn right onto York Road (Route 45). Take your second left onto Sparks Road. Follow it until it crosses the TCB (formerly NCR) Trail. Sparks Bank Nature Center will be on your right. Limited parking.

Take the 2009 Gunpowder Carbon Footprint Challenge!

Have you made a change to help reduce energy consumption and your carbon footprint? Wed love to hear about it and help you share your ideas with others! Submit an essay about what you did and how you did it to our Challenge. Winning essays are published in the next edition of the Gunpowder Currents. Contact park headquarters for complete contest rules, deadlines, and judging criteria, (410) 592-2897, or email park-gunpowder@dnr.state.md.us.

Want to See More on the Web? Interested in Volunteering?

Check these out!
Visit the Maryland Department of Natural Resources website to obtain information about parks, upcoming events around the State, regulations, educational programs, and so much more! Our website address is: www.dnr.state.md.us The Friends of Jerusalem Mill is a group which took the lead in the restoration of the 18th-century mill which now serves as park headquarters, and houses a Visitor Center and Museum. The Friends are currently working closely with DNR and Gunpowder Falls State Park to restore additional, recently acquired, properties which were also part of the historic Jerusalem Village. Information about their activities can be found at: www.jerusalemmill.org The North Point Volunteer Association is a dynamic force at North Point State Park, managed as part of Gunpowder Falls State Park. They sponsor numerous activities throughout the year. Their volunteers have restored and continue to maintain the fountain that was a centerpiece of the old Bayshore Park. Follow their activities, and see how to get involved, at: www.northpointstatepark.org

Need to Report an Emergency or Crime in the Park?

Call Park Watch at

1-800-825-PARK (7275)
This 24-hour DNR Communications line is there to help.

Page 8
Gunpowder Falls State Park P.O. Box 480 Kingsville, Maryland 21087 410-592-2897, FAX: 410-592-8760 Email: park-gunpowder@dnr.state.md.us Internet: www.dnr.Maryland.gov TTY users call via the MD Relay

Gunpowder Currents Newsletter

Martin OMalley, Governor John R. Griffin, Secretary SERVICE CHARGES

Access to most areas of Gunpowder is free. There is a $3 per person service charge for entrance into the Hammerman area. This service charge is in effect every day during the summer season (Memorial Day through Labor Day) and weekends in the spring and fall. Children in car seats, and patrons over age 62, are free. A $3 per car honor system is in effect on weekdays in the spring and fall. Buses - $10, with reservation required. At North Point State Park, a $3 per car service charge is in effect. All Season Passes for 2008 are available for $75, and can be obtained at the Hammerman and North Point areas. be made at 410-592-2897. The service charge is $200 for pavilion use, in addition to the $3 per person service charge for entrance. The North Point Trolley Station is a larger pavilion, which is available for rental and seats up to 400 people. The service charge varies depending upon the number of people using the facility.

BOATING
Dundee Creek Marina provides access to the northern Chesapeake Bay. Rental boats, gas, and a full line of boating accessories are available at the marina. The service charge for launching is $10 per launch.

TRASH-FREE PARKS
All Maryland State Forests and Parks are Trash-Free. Please take your trash home with you and remember to reduce, reuse & recycle.

ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES
Alcoholic beverages are permitted in developed picnic areas (Hammerman and North Point), where they are permitted at picnic tables only. Alcoholic beverages are prohibited in all other areas.

OVERNIGHT CAMPING
Overnight camping is available at Camp Wood and Camp Cone for organized youth groups. Reservations required. Call 410-592-2897 for youth group camping. Primitive campsites at Hart-Miller Island, accessible by boat only, May 1 - Sept. 30. First come, first served. Service charge: $6/site/night. Limit of 6 people per site.

PETS
Pets are prohibited at Dundee Creek Marina, the Hammerman area and the designated developed areas of North Point. Pets on leashes are permitted in all other areas of the park, except youth group camping areas and where otherwise marked.

The Department of Natural Resources preserves, protects, enhances and restores Marylands natural resources for the wise use and enjoyment of all citizens.
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, mental or sensory impairment. This document is available in alternative format upon request from a qualified individual with disability.

NEED MORE INFORMATION ?

Call Park Headquarters at 410-592-2897. Additional park regulations are posted on bulletin boards.

PAVILIONS
Gunpowder has four picnic pavilions in the Hammerman area. These may be reserved in advance. For reservation dates between May 1 and September 30, call 1-888-432-CAMP. Reservations for all other dates may

Printed on recycled paper DNR# 04-9162008-343