DNR: $2.2 Million for Deep Creek Lake dredging

Maryland Department of Natural Resources Secretary, Jeannie Haddaway-Riccio, last week delivered a “State of the Lake” to homeowners, officials, and stakeholders with interest in Deep Creek Lake.

The secretary also announced $2.2 million in additional funding for dredging as part of her presentation.

The state continues to follow the comprehensive watershed management plan for Deep Creek Lake, developed in 2015 by DNR and Garrett County to recommend guidelines to protect the popular area, balancing environmental and economic needs.

Secretary Riccio provided numerous updates to the activities at Deep Creek Lake, including:

• Governor Larry Hogan just released $2.2 million in new funding for pilot dredging projects in Deep Creek Lake, including $1.2 million for the Arrowhead Cove pilot dredging project,
• The State Lakes Protection and Restoration Fund, approved by Governor Hogan in 2018, provides $1 million a year for three years for state-owned lakes including Deep Creek Lake. This money has supported invasive hydrilla control, fish habitat installation, shoreline erosion control, and dredging;
• The Deep Creek Lake Launch Steward Program, a cooperative effort between Garrett College’s Natural Resource and Wildlife Technology program and the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, etc.

Deep Creek Lake is a manmade impoundment that is Maryland’s largest body of freshwater.

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources manages the lake, shoreline, and adjacent Natural Resource Management Area and State Park.