The December Woods Committee (WC) meeting will be held by remote access via Zoom meeting on Monday, December 7, 2020 at 7:30 PM. Our meetings are routinely held on the first Monday of each month. Our next online meeting will be held on Monday, January 4th.
To join the WC meeting, please use Meeting ID: 842 7903 6485
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84279036485?pwd=NWs0UnJ3TUFWdE5nVEh6RXkxNHkxZz09
By phone: 301 715 8592 / Passcode: 818893
The WC continues working to improve trail identification and maintenance. The WC has been in contact with a local sign company to create and install trail signs in the Woods Preserves. Concurrently, at the request of the WC, the Town Council is preparing a new Town Ordinance to clarify activities not permitted in the Woods Preserves, Town Parks, and other Town land.
A reminder that several of our resident red foxes continue to be seen in the East Woods and Woodward Park. Please keep your distance and do not leave food for them outside your homes. This only habituates these wild animals to human presence. Keeping dogs on leash and cats indoors protects their safety and further prevents uncontrolled interactions with foxes and other native wildlife. Pet-wildlife confrontations may result in bite injuries and unintended consequences for both.
The volunteer Bow Hunter Firefighters of Maryland (BHFFMD) continue a Town-approved managed deer hunt in the East and West Woods. The 2020-21 Maryland archery deer hunting season began, September 11, 2020 and extends until January 30, 2021.
BHFFMD are usually in the woods an hour before or after sunrise or sunset, at the beginning or end of the day. In November, one doe was harvested in the East Woods. Metrics to evaluate successful outcomes towards restoring the health of our forest ecosystem will include noting native plant re-establishment.
Please help us to preserve our forests for the enjoyment of current residents and future generations. We hope you continue to enjoy our Woods Preserves. Stay healthy and happy!