MARYLAND DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES WATERSHED & CLIMATE SERVICES

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The programs are aligned with NGSS, Common Core, & Maryland’s Environmental Literacy Standards.​
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Sunfish and Students

 

Who can Participate?
Classroom teachers, Environmental Education Centers, and Nature Centers.

What is the cost?
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources provides:

  • Aquarium supplies for Starter kits and Replacement kits. The program budget fluctuates annually and space is limited. Acceptance will be decided on a first-come-first-serve basis.
  • Hatchery raised Bluegill Sunfish and fish food
  • A Teachers’ manual and data sheet
  • Lesson Plans and Background Information
  • Reimbursement for fish release trip costs
    • 50 % of the total cost of buses (maximum of 3 buses)
    • 100% of the total cost for substitutes (maximum of 3 substitutes)

What you should know graphic 

Program Timeline?

Date(s)What to doResources/Forms
January 1stRegister - both new and returning participants must register every year
 Registration Form Here
*Deadline May 15th
2nd Saturday of SeptemberTeacher Training Workshop - required for all new participants, and every 3 years for returning participants Equipment Responsibilities Form

*The September 12, 2026 training workshop is mandatory for all participants.
1st and 2nd Thursday of OctoberFish Pick ups - there are only two pick up day options. You must make one of these work. You may send someone on your behalf if neededAquatic Studies Permit - this will be issued to you upon pick up

*Alternate days will be offered as available. No fish will be available after Oct. 31st.
October - MayRaise fish
Conduct lessons		 Teachers Manual

Lesson plans

Background information

MD Fish Facts
Late May/Early June
No later than June 30th		Fish Releases - at an approved release site, see permit and/or contact program coordinator Release Agenda Template
June 30thReimbursement Packages due - package must include invoice, proof of purchase and W-9 if new vendor. ARE Vendor Invoice Template

W-9 Form

*Packages sent after June 30th with not be accepted
Due July 31stComplete the ARE reporting form online - simple google form that covers both participation data and release data.ARE Reporting Form

*Failure to report will result in unenrollment from the program

Training Workshop and Fish Pickup Information for School Year 2026​-2027


Workshop

  • Date: Saturday, September 12th
  • Time: 9am - 12pm
  • Location: TBD - will update by February 27th, 2026

Fish Pickup(s)

  • Date: Thursday, October 1st, 2026
  • Location: Patapsco Valley State Park - Avalon Area,
    5120 South Street,
    Halethorpe MD 21227
  • Time: TBD
  • Date: Friday, October 15th, 2026
  • Location: Gambrill State Park- The Rocky Run day use area,
    8002 Gambrill Park Road, Frederick, MD 21702
  • Time: TBD

Alternate Options:

  • Attending the William S. Schmidt Outdoor Education Center Fish Pick up in Prince George’s County.
    • If this is desired the Sunfish and Students coordinator can provide their plans and inform them that you are coming.
  • Going directly to the Cedarville Fish Hatchery, 2575 Fish Hatchery Rd, Brandywine, MD 20613.
    • Must be communicated and planned with the Sunfish and Students coordinator.

Reminders:

  • You may send another person to pick up fish and supplies on your behalf. This may be another teacher/staff member at school, family member, or volunteer parent. Just let us know!
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Contact:

Chelsea Kenworthy
Aquatic Resources Education Coordinator
Watershed and Climate Services
MD Department of Natural Resources
580 Taylor Ave., E-2 Annapolis, MD 21401
410-260-8705
[email protected]

 


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