Description

Fish of Jug Bay Annual Citizen Science/Kayak Experience8:00 am to 1:00 pm (rain date of Sunday, Sept 20, 8:30 am -1:30 pm)Emory Waters Nature Preserve6032 Pindell RoadLothian, MD 20711Join Jug Bay Volunteer Naturalists in Jug Bay’s newest Participatory Science Survey. See how the fish community in a tidal freshwater marsh reflects the changing tides and discover Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary’s River Farm property. We will start with a seine net survey at 8 am to capture low tide fish, then launch kayaks from the farm pier to observe the abundant wildlife and plants at the wetlands of Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary. We will paddle along the shore and marsh edges of the Patuxent River, looking for beavers, muskrats, osprey, bald eagles, red-winged black birds, ducks, and many other animals. Finally, we will return to Emory Waters for the high tide survey. Participants can expect to actively paddle for 2.5 to 3 hours, learn how to identify and handle young fish and how similar data are used to understand fish communities and help manage fisheries.The Patuxent River is a relatively slow-moving river, but paddlers must be able to propel the kayak through the water. Participants must be able to:1. Independently participate in all activities while maintaining an appropriate and safe body position.2. Manage all personal care and personal mobility independently.3. Effectively communicate with leaders and other participants.For your safety you are required to have plenty of water (at least 32 oz per person), sunscreen, sun hat, sunglasses, lunch/snacks, and wear closed toe shoes that can get wet & muddy. If you lack any of these items, we can deny you participation!! Your feet will get wet! If the weather and/or river conditions do not allow paddling, a hike will be substituted. Please arrive 15 minutes before the start time. $25 per person. No refunds after 9/12/26. Please keep both dates free. Ages 13 and older. Minors must be accompanied by an adult. Registration required. For questions, call 410-222-8006 or email jugbay@aacounty.org.