Large sewage overflow into Pocomoke River

 (WBOC)

Heavy Rainfall Causes 500K Gallon Sewer Overflow in Pocomoke River in Snow Hill

Thursday, February 18th 2021, 12:42 PM EST

Updated: 

Thursday, February 18th 2021, 1:10 PM EST

SNOW HILL, Md.- As a result of prolonged periods of heavy rainfall, the Town of Snow Hill reported to the Maryland Department of the Environment and Worcester County Environmental Programs that there has been a combined sewer overflow from the Snow Hill wastewater treatment plant of more than 500,000 gallons.

View full news story:

Heavy Rainfall Causes 500K Gallon Sewer Overflow in Pocomoke Riv - WBOC TV

(PPE reader comment)

 Anonymous said...

According to Worcester Environmental Programs "Fishing, swimming, wading or other contact with the waterways should not be conducted until this rain event has concluded"

I don't know about you but I was not planning on swimming in the river this week, or even trying out my new fishing rod. And we actually pay Bob Mitchell good money to say things like this?

The Delmarva Discovery Center Is Seeking Volunteers

 

 

Men's Tug-O-War Competition

Pocomoke Cypress Festival

Men's Tug-O-War Competition
Saturday Night


Video Rusty Merritt


Great to see  that this oldie but goodie has returned! The idea to return the tug-o-war started out with a slow response.   For an event to have been gone for a few years the 2013 tug-o-war competition ended with 3 women's teams and six men's teams. 

Be sure to watch the video to find out who managed to stay out of the mud to win the trophy !

 

Locals Appreciation Weekend At Delmarva Discovery Center

Locals Appreciation Weekend

 

The First Weekend of Every Month

 50% off Admission for Locals!
(Sussex, Worcester, Wicomico, Somerset

 and Accomack Counties)

 

PLUS  The Delmarva Discovery is now open

7 days a week 10 AM - 4 PM

 

Don't forget to visit

Delmarva Discovery Center Museum Store

 

And COMING  SOON!!

 

 

 

www.delmarvadiscoverycenter.org

Nature Trail UPDATE ~ Moving Right Along With Lots To See and Still Do!

NATURE TRAIL UPDATE

By Richie Schoemaker MD, project chairman

Posted Tuesday, May 14th 2013


Construction:
Looking back from where we are now, I can’t believe we only got started 2 weeks ago. Now we are ready to start building (come help us on 5/15 and beyond). The massive transport job led by foreman Andy Clarke is just about done. The 38 “second floor” racks are now waiting on the island (as yet unnamed; how about “Broken Back Island”?) near their final resting place in the final stretch of impenetrable swamp. Granted it took two sessions of 90 minutes each to load the 150 pound racks in groups of 10 onto Andy’s long trailer, transport them from the City Public Works lot to the building site, slide each rack down the hill and through the woods, over the bridges and into place. It took four people to load each rack; two to unload and move to the forest and four to haul into the swamp staging area.


Prothonotary Warbler - Male

We had some familiar faces sweating with the loads: Larry Fykes, Rob Clarke (right in there full bore!), Andy Clarke, Michael Redden and a newbie, Josh Weichman. Our first truck load took 58 minutes and the second 39 minutes. The next session was Andy, Larry, Rob, Scott Tatterson, some physician part time, and from the cadet corps came Kalie and Luke Speta. With all that crew, Larry suggested that they move some planks that we need to use as joists as well. And so they did.

Meanwhile, the Town Public Works crew has moved the hundreds of 4 foot treads that Chris Miles cut (for free, thanks Chris!) for us. Only 600 more to go (well, maybe a few more). We are ready for the machine-like assembly line in the swamps! But, one small item remains. What path does the Trail actually follow to get to its final end point? Into the swamp go Andy and Larry, with music from African Queen and Heart of Darkness quietly playing in the stream of consciousness. They make it back alive. Larry’s hip waders didn’t drag him down into the suction of the organic floor of the wooded wetlands (don’t laugh, that happens).

So now we are so close to finishing. Larry wants to jump start our deep water sections, the most difficult, which as one might expect are the first. Yet, our plan is still to push the work over Memorial Day weekend, beginning on Saturday at 9 AM. Volunteers will assemble at the Greenway parking area for the Trail entrance by the golf course and walk around Stevenson’s Pond to the work site adjacent to the northbound Route 13 Bridge. You will see and hear us. Bring your own tick repellent spray, water and work gloves. We will work for 3 good hours and see what we have.

Great Crested Flycatcher

Donations:We are so thankful for the support we have received so far. Many people have called asking about how to contribute. Checks are welcome, payable to CRBAI or the Pocomoke Nature Trail; mail them to Nature Trail, 500 Market St Suite 103, Pocomoke, Md 21851.


T-shirts are going out (as soon as they are done!) to Anne Hughes, Al Correia, Debbie Waidner, CD Hall and Nancy Newsome for their donations for a Foot of the Trail. Major donors are Dr. Tom and Dorothea Harblin and Dr. Scott McMahon who will each sponsor an observation station. Our biggest booster to date is Circuit Court Judge Richard Bloxom who is a Silver Sponsor and supporter of an observation station.

Why volunteer to do this much work?As I stood as quietly as I could last week on the island, I could hear the pileated woodpeckers and summer tanagers calling. Prothonotary warblers were all around. See them and hear them. There was a black and white warbler close to the trunk of the sycamore tree. The great crested flycatchers (AKA weep-weep birds) were definitely annoyed that I was in their space. I heard a new bird call, one almost like a warbler’s phrasing, but no, this was a vireo. We have lots of vireos in our swamps, but this one…

My hearing is getting bad, so I can’t rely on the sound any more. There it is, I can see it just overhead. It was a solitary vireo (and was by itself too), one that I personally have never seen around here. Where is naturalist John Dennis when I need him?

Pileated Woodpecker

I saw a blue-lined skink and found scat of a fox newly deposited on the top of the new bridge abutment. The lizard and fox couldn’t resist checking out our new trail. Neither can I. As the evening started to arrive with fading light, softening of the wind in the cypress and a few buzz, buzzing bugs around my ears, I could see schools of surface feeders breaking the calm of the slack waters between the tides. Solace, indeed.

And yet, what was that? Not a log; that was a head! An otter! Oh my, I haven’t seen otters here for twenty years! I waited, hoping if I held my breath that it would come my way but it swam to shore out of sight up by the magnificent cypress that will be our final destination of this loop.

Otters, birds, fish, and quiet magnificence of our Trail: all this wonder leads to some important questions. What really matters when people are slaughtered in Mother’s Day parade and stories of unspeakable horror fills our newspaper? Are we really better off to seal away human populations from use of our wooded wetlands as a place for solace, learning and recreation? Or are we better off teaching our visitors what splendor we have by letting them see it from our protected boardwalks and observation platforms. I have consistently voted to open access of our forests and swamps to school kids and visitors understanding that a few visitors will attack our signs and some others will toss cans and paper onto the forest floor. Not all people are good hearted.

For every knucklehead who trashes a part of our Trail, there are hundreds and hundreds of others who will value seeing an otter slide or an osprey soar or a calico bass ripple a still surface. Will seeing an elusive vireo (after first identifying its call) impact an eighth grader’s view of nature and the world? Will that attention to detail be the springboard for a new answer to approaching the complex problems of a global world? Can we just try?

Blue Lined Skink

I am not suggesting that studying lizard habitat or understanding where mammals hide under the snows in southern places like Pocomoke will help save the world, but as long as we have youngsters like Hunter Tatterson, Kalie and Luke Speta, and Josh Weichman who are willing to give back to a community like Pocomoke, almost before they are old enough to have taken from the community, then I am optimistic that all the efforts of old guys like Don and Jim and me, like Jack Spurling years ago, are based on an idea that won’t die as we will. We have a duty to teach, to share and to provide for those who will follow and improve upon our attempts to make this a better place to live, to work and to raise the next generation. We can’t ask our schools to take on extra burdens when we can combine our love of nature and our willingness to do the hard work to share with others in hopes that our survivors will see what we see now.

So, you can understand why I feel that building the last loop of the Trail means a lot symbolically. Please give generously of your time and what donations you can to help us make the Pocomoke Nature Trail better.

And don’t forget to pick up a couple of the famous Birds of the Pocomoke River t-shirts! And the bumper stickers too. Call us at 410-957-1550 or at the Chamber of Commerce at 410-957-1919.

Years ago (1980), Mayor Dawson Clarke told me that once I had some Pocomoke River mud under my toenails that I would stick around. The world has changed since then but the same river mud that helped shape my career to focus on environmental health issues might just be important for some one else.

Please help our Trail committee make that opportunity grow.

 Download the Pocomoke City Nature Trail Donation Form


Many thanks,

Ritch Shoemaker MD
Trail Committee, Chairman

Armed Forces Appreciation Weekend ! Visit the Delmarva Discovery Center

DON'T FORGET!


20th Annual    "DRUMS ON THE POCOMOKE"    Pow Wow has  free admission to Veterans and Active Service members of the Armed Services!  All you need is your I.D.

NEW! Pocomoke Boat Docking Association

NEW!

Pocomoke Boat Docking

POCOMOKE BOAT DOCKING is in it's 1st year and will be held in beautiful downtown Pocomoke on the riverfront.

They are currently looking for sponsors.  If you would like to be a sponsor leave a message on their facebook page - Pocomoke Boat Docking Association

The event will be held on Aug. 18, 2013 starting at 1 pm. Gate will open at 10 am.

From the Pocomoke Boat Docking Association (below)

Vendor booth spaces are $50 for the day. If you are interested in being a sponsor, those details are as follows:
 
Bronze Dockers $100-$500
 - Name on sponsorship banner
 - 2 free tickets to event
 - 25% off vendor booth space
 
Silver Dockers $501-1500
 - Name on sponsorship banner
 - 4 free tickets to event
 - Business announced at event
 - Secondary bleacher seating
 - 50% off vendor booth space
 
Gold Dockers $1501-$3000 - Name on sponsorship banner
 - 6 free tickets to event
 - Business announced all day
 - Representative brought in by boat
 - Business on all radio PSA's
 - VIP seating
 - Free vendor booth space
 
Thank you for your interest!

I'll have more info as it becomes available! 

NEW Events ~ Pocomoke Cypress Festival

 

 NEW events added this year!

 

Wristbands go on sale May 1

 

Pre-sale wristbands will be available at the Chamber office at 6 Market Street beginning at 10 am Wednesday May 1! Wristbands are $8, 1/2 price regular admission, and are good for Wednesday, Thursday, or 12 to 4 Saturday.

 

Here's a quick rundown of the Pocomoke Cypress Festival.  For more information go to:

 http://pocomoke.com/cypressfestival/

 

OR

 

POCOMOKE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

FACEBOOK

 

 

 

Cypress Festival  Wednesday, June 12 through Saturday, June 15 2013 The good old days are now! For more information see http://pocomoke.com/cypressfestival/ ... Wednesday, June 12, 6 pm-10 pm  6 pm, Pocomoke Elks & Boy Scouts perform opening Flag Ceremony Thursday, June 13, 6 pm-10 pm Pocomoke Idol Friday, June 14, 6 pm-10 pm 6:30 pm, judging of boat decorating contest. Red, white and blue patriotic theme. Entry forms at www.pocomoke.com.  All entries receive free admission passes to Friday and Saturday of the Cypress Festival. You must be present at the judging contest to receive these passes. 7:15 pm Corn Hole Tournament Saturday, June 15, 12 pm-10pm Tug-O-war Boat Regatta, 2:30 Mid Life Crisis Band Fireworks

 

 

NEED VOLUNTEERS!!!!

Pocomoke City Area Chamber of Commerce is looking for a

volunteer to lead the Corn Hole Tournament for the Cypress Festival.

Without a leader for this event it  may have to removed from the

lineup.

Lots of great stuff still going on like the boat decorating and raft race!

Any volunteers?

  Forms and full schedule:  http://pocomoke.com/cypressfestival/

20th Annual Delmarva Birding Weekend

Get set to attend the 20th Annual Delmarva Birding Weekend, which takes place April 25-28, 2013, and celebrate the spring migration of thousands of warblers, shorebirds, waterfowl and raptors. No experience is necessary, as guided walks, paddles and boat excursions are suited to experienced birders and novices alike.

Worcester County is a birdwatcher’s paradise. From the Atlantic coastline across the Pocomoke Forest and down  Pocomoke River, Worcester County is home to pelicans and pewees, kingbirds and cuckoos, herons, harriers and eagles. The piping plover, a bird struggling to make its way off the endangered species list, makes its nesting grounds in and around Assateague Island, while another 350 species of birds also make their homes in and around the salt marshes along the Atlantic Coastal Bays.

Birding in Worcester County offers travelers the chance to experience an unspoiled barrier island, cypress swamp, centuries-old forest, tidal wetlands and secluded fields. State and national parks in the county offer camping, nature trails and guided tours, inviting you to share the beauty of Worcester County’s native landscape.

The Delmarva Birding Weekend provides of tours in these areas that offer an inside glimpse at the diverse wildlife that migrates to regions of the Atlantic and Chesapeake Bays as well as Delaware Bays, where they nest and forage along the barrier islands, tidal wetlands, cypress swamps, upland fields and primeval forests. In fact, more than 400 bird species have been recorded in the region.

The wildlife to be seen on each tour differs. For example, those who tour Ayres Creek are likely to witness wading birds herons, egrets, loons and various duck species – to birds of prey, including majestic bald eagles and hawks. Those opting to tour the Pocomoke will discover warblers and other birds that make their homes far off the beaten paths.

Tours are not just for experienced birders, but are also great for novice birdwatchers, individuals and families alike who love wildlife and being outdoors.

“I went on a trip on the Shorebird Explorer and that was an excellent trip because there were lots of guides on the boat pointing out various species. We even saw a clapper rail as we went down the backside of Assateague and around Skimmer Island,” Challenger said.“We saw a lot of really beautiful birds. This particular trip is a great event for families with children.” “This year, birders may even see some seals bathing in the sun”.
Worcester County was recognized by the Audubon Maryland-DC, the state office of the National Audubon Society for ongoing work to protect the Important Bird Areas (IBA) along the Atlantic Coastal Bays. Specifically, the county purchased and facilitated conservation easements in this habitat-rich area. The IBA in Worcester County includes vulnerable birds and their habitats, and boosts the local economy through nature tourism.

All trips are guided by experienced birders. Take day or night hikes on public and private lands, paddle at sunrise or sunset and cruise by boat in our coastal waters, rivers and creeks.

Nature enthusiasts are invited to join us and experience the fall migration as well for the Eastern Shore Birding and Wildlife Festival, which runs from October 11– 13.

For more information on birding in Worcester County or to register for these events, visit www.delmarvabirding.org.

http://www.co.worcester.md.us

Delmarva Discovery Center ~ Easter Egg Hunt

Keep you eyes open on Sunday!  The Easter Bunny may be making an appearance !!


DELMARVA DISCOVERY on Facebook

Be A Volunteer ~ The Delmarva Discovery Center

TODAY ~ Delmarva Discovery Center

The Delmarva Discovery Center

TODAY at 1:30 PM

 

Educational program "It's lunch time, Come and Get IT!" featuring the very special Gary Busey, our eastern box turtle!

 

 

Come learn about Gary and the fish in the 6000 gallon tank eat for lunch!

 

The Delmarva Discovery Center

 

Delmarva Discovery ~ Critter Corner Today

 

Critter Corner TODAY at The Delmarva Discovery Center

1:00 PM until 1:30 PM

Meet a new animal or animal group today and then create a

 critter-themed craft to take home!

 

 

Riverside Grill Specials For Wednesday

WEDNESDAY

FEBRUARY 27, 2013

 

 -Turkey & Rice Soup w/ 1/2 roast beef sandwich or side salad 5.99
 -Pear-Mango Salad (spinach, pear, mangoes, candied pecans, feta) 6.99
 -NC Pulled Pork BBQ Sandwich w/ cole slaw and hush puppies 6.99
 -Thai Chili Shrimp Wrap w/ fries 8.99

 

 

 Happy Hour 4-7 w/ $1 off appetizers

 

 @ 8pm

 $5 crab dip

 $5 cosmos

$2 house wines

 $2 Coors light drafts

Riverside Grill ~ Pocomoke

SATURDAY SPECIALS

FEBRUARY 16, 2013

 

 -Cream of Crab Soup w/ 1/2 tuna salad sandwich or side salad 6.99
 -NC Pulled Pork BBQ w/ cole slaw and hush puppies 6.99
 -Wedge Salad w/ blackened shrimp 8.99
 -Fried Oyster Basket (dozen) w/ fries 10.99
 -Ale Batter Fried Shrimp Basket w/ fries 8.99*

 

 *Take another $1 off shrimp baskets all day

 

 $2.50 Bloody Mary’s and Mimosas all day

 

@ 5 pm: $4 burgers

 

@ 8 pm: $3.50 Stoli drinks

 $3 Coronas, Corona lights, and Red Stripes

 

What's New At The Delmarva Discovery Center

CREATE YOUR OWN COMIC!
Presented by JBL Comics
February 23 from 10 am until 12 noon.Learn to create your own comic book
Create story, lay out pages, draw, ink & letter
For children & adults interested in creating
comics, graphic novels or sequential art

FREE with paid admission
All supplies will be provided









Locals Appreciation ALL YEAR LONG!!!!

The First Weekend of Every Month
 50% off Admission for Locals!
(Sussex, Worcester, Wicomico, Somerset and Accomack Counties)

~Bay Queen Christmas Cruises~

View the decorated homes along the Pocomoke River

Delmarva Discovery Center ~ "Feathered Fiesta"

Riverside Grill Pocomoke ~ Sunday Specials !

Riverside Grill Pocomoke

Sunday Specials

9/16

Come watch the game and enjoy these specials:

-Vegetable Beef Soup or Chili w/ 1/2 deli sandwich or side salad 5.99
-Meatloaf w/ mashed potatoes and green beans 6.99
-Meatball Sub w/ fries 7.99
-1 chili cheese dog w/ fries 4.99 or 2 for 6.99
-Taco Salad 6.99

Appetizers:
-Crab Pizza 9.99 or
-Chili Nachos 5.99

Sunday Drink Specials All Day 9/16!Happy Hour all day

$2.50 bloody mary/ mimosas
$1.50 Coors lt., bud lt., yuengling draft
$5 bombs

MONDAY SPECIALS ~ Riverside Grill

Riverside Grill

Monday,  September 10, 2012

SPECIALS

-Chili with a half turkey sandwich or side salad 5.99
-Taco Salad 6.99
-1 Chili Cheese dog with fries 4.99 or 2 dogs for 6.99
-Open Face Roast Beef with mashed potatoes and green beans 6.99

AppetizersCrab Pizza 9.99
Chili Nachos 5.99

HAPPY HOUR  4 TO 7PM

Monday night at 8 Pm

1/2 price appetizers and import bottles