01 - Welcome
Agriculture and Aquaculture
Agriculture and maritime culture shape the cultural landscape of Southern Maryland. The importance of the land and sea is everywhere in this region. You can explore farms that go back to the foundation of Maryland, take a ride on a historic skipjack, or eat oysters or a crab fresh from the morning’s catch. This region has a natural beauty that will stay with you long after your visit.
Drive the roads of Southern Maryland and you will see horses in the fields, old tobacco barns (some with quilt squares), cattle, corn, and Amish driven carriages. Take to the waterways and you can kayak around sunken ships at Mallow’s Bay or head out on a “bugeye” or a “skipjack” to explore the rivers and the Chesapeake Bay.
Places to Learn More About Southern Maryland Heritage on the Land and Sea
On September 3, 2019, Mallows Bay-Potomac River National Marine Sanctuary became the first national marine sanctuary designated since 2000. Mallows Bay-Potomac River National Marine Sanctuary protects and interprets the remnants of more than 100 World War I-era wooden steamships – known as the “Ghost Fleet.” The waterways are accessible to kayakers who can paddle among sunken ships.
Beyond the Ghost Fleet, the area’s history includes connections to the Revolutionary War and the Civil War. In addition, it has a rich heritage of commercial fishing, the military, the Piscataway Indian Nation and the Piscataway Conoy Tribe of Maryland, as well as the Patawomeck Indian Tribe of Virginia. Its significance is recognized by the national Register of Historic Places and it is listed as a National Treasure by the National Trust for Historic Preservation.
The Southern Maryland Agricultural Development Commission is an excellent resource to explore the agriculture and aquaculture of Southern Maryland and to find out about farmers markets and where to buy local.
Explore restaurants and oyster ranches using the Southern Maryland Oyster Guide to further enjoy the heritage of the waterways of Southern Maryland.
The Calvert Marine Museum offers river tours on the historic oyster dredge boat Bugeye Wm. B. Tennison, built in 1899. They also offer tours on the skipjack the Dee of St. Mary’s. Learn more about these tours.
The Calvert Barn Quilt Trail promotes Calvert County’s agricultural heritage, local history and artistic talent through the exhibition of hand painted wooden quilt squares on barns and buildings throughout the county.
Habitats and Species of Southern Maryland
Did you know that there are trees in Southern Maryland that are over 1,000 years old? Or that Southern Maryland is home to the second largest population of bald eagles in the state? Southern Maryland contains a number of natural resources that are ranked nationally as significant habitat areas, many of which are available for visits, hiking, camping and kayaking.
Significant Waterways and Habitats:
Nanjemoy Creek is home to the largest Great Blue Heron rookery on the east coast north of Florida and the state’s second largest population of Bald Eagles.
Zekiah Swamp has been recognized as one of the most significant ecological areas in the Chesapeake Bay watershed.
Wicomico River, a designated State Scenic River, provides vital habitat for many fish and wildlife species. The river is also recognized as one of the most productive oyster grounds in the state of Maryland.
Port Tobacco River also has a significant bald eagle population. Check out their online eagle cam to catch a glimpse.
Header Photo by Remsburg Photography.
Additional Places to Visit
Battle Creek Cypress Swamp
Battle Creek Cypress Swamp contains the northern most stand of bald cypress trees in the United States. The swamp is estimated to be 10,000 years old; some of the cypress trees still standing in it today are over 1,000 years old. These waterways are accessible to kayakers, birdwatchers, and general nature enthusiasts.
American Chestnut Land Trust
American Chestnut Land Trust is open to hikers and kayakers, bird watchers, and those who would just like to take a stroll. The ACLT has 22 miles of trails across a 3,000 acre preserve and guided canoe trips on the beautiful Parkers Creek. Learn more by visiting their website.
