CHESTER RIVER SHELLFISH CLOSURE

    The Secretary of Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) pursuant to Natural Resources Article '4-1103 of Maryland's Annotated Code proposes that Strong Bay, Natural Oyster Bar 5-13, Chester River, Queen Annes County, be permanently closed to shellfish harvest for the purpose of establishing an oyster sanctuary. This closure has been coordinated with the local oyster committees.

    The sanctuary shall consist of all of Natural Oyster Bar 5-13, as defined on the charts of the Natural Oyster Survey of 1906-1912 and its amendments, beginning at a point at or near corner 1 of Natural Oyster Bar 5-13, defined by Lat. 391 00' 52.0" N. and Long. 761 16' 38.2" W.; then running approximately 2701 True to a point at or near corner 2 of Natural Oyster Bar 5-13, defined by Lat. 391 00' 52.0" N. and Long. 761 17' 7.9" W.; then running approximately 3421 True to a point at or near corner 3 of Natural Oyster Bar 5-13, defined by Lat. 391 01' 27.8" N. and Long. 761 17' 22.4" W.; then running approximately 881 True to a point at or near corner 4 of Natural Oyster Bar 5-13, defined by Lat. 391 01' 28.8" N. and Long. 761 16' 50.3" W.; then running approximately 1661 True to the point of beginning.

    A public hearing will be held Tuesday, May 13, 2003, 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. at Queen Anne County Free Library, 121 South Commerce Street, Centreville, MD. All interested parties are invited to attend and express their views. Sign language interpreters and other appropriate accommodations for individuals with disabilities will be provided upon request. Further information and a map of the area may be obtained by calling DNR Shellfish Division, Eric Campbell at (410) 260-8344.

    Written comments may be sent to Cynthia Goshorn, Maryland Department of Natural Resources, Fisheries Service, Tawes State Office Building, 580 Taylor Avenue, Annapolis, Maryland 21401 or FAX (410) 260-8278. Comments must be received by Wednesday, May 28, 2003.