Late fall has provided some exciting outdoor alternatives to those enjoying the Chesapeake Bay Region. Fall colors always amaze us even when we seem to know what to expect as winter approaches in the woods, fields and timber stands. November has been a busy month for anglers, hunters and others who appreciate being outdoors during that magnificent seasonal transition that occurs and continues through December and January. Those who forgo outside activity when late fall comes to a close are missing some great opportunities. As the trees drop their leaves, trail hikers, hunters and “woods walkers” discover a new visual world opening up. During December and January, get out there and enjoy it all. Eastern Virginia and Southern Maryland have an incredible mixture of habitats to share. 

     The holiday season is an exciting time for gift givers and receivers of all ages. Eliminate the stress of scrambling for gifts and consider one or all of three great books about the outdoors. Deane Winegar’s book, Longstreet Highroad Guide to the Chesapeake Bay provides an enjoyable and informative tour of the Chesapeake Bay Region. Descriptions of what’s available to see or experience is complimented by directions, activities, facilities, dates/times for access and special events, fees (if applicable), closest towns and sources of additional information. 

     Even those already familiar with Virginia’s Tidewater, Northern Neck and Eastern Shore areas will find this book informative and enjoyable. People equally familiar with Maryland’s Chesapeake Bay Region on both the Eastern and Western Shores will also enjoy the Longstreet Highroad Guide to the Chesapeake Bay. For information about Deane’s book call 800-782-9579 or write, Deane Winegar, 180 North Bear Den Road, Waynesboro, Va. 22980.

     Many anglers and hunters have had the opportunity to meet Natural Resources Law Enforcement personnel while on the water or enjoying the woods and outdoors. Game Wardens, Marine Patrol Officers and Natural Resource Police have important roles in protecting game and fish species and ensuring that laws and personal safety are enforced. 

     While their responsibilities are vital and sometimes somber or serious, even Game Wardens have their lighter moments. Lt. Frank G. Mundy, a Virginia State Game Warden and well known hunter safety instructor has written two books which share some hilarious and informative adventures he and others have experienced over more than a 20-year period. While additional stories and events continue to develop within Frank’s diverse career, his two already published books, Game Warden Entertainment and Game Warden Entertainment, The Next Book provide some of the most hilarious regional reading you will find. Mixed in with these real life stories, are some useful lessons in both environmental and human ethics. 
Laughter prevails throughout both of these books and includes such incidents as a suspected fish poacher who tries to conceal himself by hanging upside down under a bridge. One story concerns a fellow peace officer who puts on an unfortunate but hysterical display in the unplanned presence of many others in law enforcement. 

     Another involves the use of a decoy deer used to apprehend deer poachers. By coincidence Frank and other Game Wardens net a law-abiding hunter who initially believes he is being spoken to by the supreme being, looking after the welfare of earth’s creatures. What is the relationship between pizza, sardines and RC Cola with fishing and hunting laws in the Commonwealth? Read Frank’s books and you will find out. For information about his books call 540 833-8316, or write Frank G. Mundy, P.O. Box 22, Broadway, Virginia 22815.

     On October 28-29 2000, the Southern Maryland Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) along with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) sponsored an Outdoor Women Event. The “Boss Hens” who attended were joined  by Susan Boarman and Lynn Saunders who in addition to being NWTF members, planned the event. 

     Things were underway at 5 a.m. on Saturday morning when the women gathered at the Billingsly Property in Southern Maryland for a managed deer hunt. It was a fun experience for all who attended. Afterwards, the women headed back to the Myrtle Grove Wildlife Management Area where they set up camp for the night. After putting up our tents we were treated to a delicious dinner of venison barbecue, venison chili, and corn bread cooked over the grill. We all enjoyed a star lit sky and brisk cold air as we gathered around the campfire to tell stories and roast marshmallows.

     Sunday morning breakfast included pancakes, sausage, bacon, and eggs cooked over the grill. This was just what we needed to start our vigorous schedule. We started off the day with the Southern Maryland Archers Club who instructed us in developing or perfecting archery and tree stand skills. We climbed several kinds of tree stands and enjoyed target practicing with our bows.

     Next we had a muzzle loader and rifle demonstration followed by target practice. Then we gathered back at the lakeside camp to have homemade vegetable soup, corn bread and apple pie for lunch. After lunch Mike Burnham, a Maryland Natural Resources Police Officer, conducted a question and answer session on hunting regulations and safety.

     Our last event was canoeing basics and proper techniques. We paired off into canoes which gave us a chance to perfect the skills we learned and enjoy some competition. After canoeing we headed back to the target range to shoot skeet and clay targets.
It was an action packed weekend, which made it hard to say so long to friends both new and old. Thanks to Susan Boarman, Lynn Saunders, Danny Estevez , Dennis Hammett and the other supporters who made this event possible. They all made our Outdoor Women weekend a huge success.

     It’s so important for women and children to have the opportunity to learn outdoor activities in positive surroundings. This was the NWTF Southern Maryland Chapter’s second annual Outdoor Women Event. They have also sponsored several Juniors Acquiring Knowledge Ethics and Sportsmanship (JAKES) Days which give youth an opportunity to enjoy and experience the environment. While you enjoy your own outdoor adventures this winter, think how wonderful it would be to share them with others. 

© 2000 Chelly & Steve Scala All rights reserved