gunpowder currents - Maryland Department of Natural Resources

GUNPOWDER CURRENTS
THE OFFICIAL NEWSLETTER OF GUNPOWDER FALLS AND NORTH POINT STATE PARKS
SPRING 2013
By Jen Cashell
Most everyone hates bugs that feast on
their homes, buildings and trees, causing
structural and possibly catastrophic
damage. There are, however, delightful
beetles which only eat dead, decaying wood
and would never cause a bit of damage to
anything but a rotten log. These spectacular
insects are commonly called Bess Beetles or
Patent Leather Beetles due to their glossy
black appearance. They are of the insect
family Passalidae and sport a very short,
harmless horn. Other physical features
include their “clubbed” antennae, large
mandibles, and short golden hairs visible
between body parts and on their legs.
Adults are typically 1 – 1 ½ inches long.
The Patent Leather Beetle prefers
decayed hardwoods such as oak or elm for
food; they reside inside the log that feeds
them and their offspring, which they play an
active role in tending. Adult Patent Leather
Beetles chew through the rotten wood to
form tunnels, or galleries, in which they
feed, lay eggs, and raise their larvae. Adults
have been found to move their eggs through
the galleries to the best areas of wood on
which newly emerged larvae feed; they will
guard both the feeding areas and larvae.
Interestingly, the adults will provide larvae
with pre-chewed wood and their droppings,
or frass, which is an important component
of their diet. Both adults and larvae will
feed on this as well as decayed wood. The
presence of frass is necessary to promote
bacterial growth in order for wood to
decompose and so that beetles in any life
THE INSECT ADVOCATE:
PATENT LEATHER BEETLES
stage can digest properly. Once they
undergo complete metamorphosis, the
newly emerged beetles are a glossy reddish
brown until they become black and are
considered mature. It is at this point that
the beetles participate in their nuptial flight
before settling down in a new rotten log to
start the process over. Scientists believe
they fly only then and seldom, if ever, other
than that.
The Patent Leather Beetle, or Horned
Passalus, is also capable of making sounds,
or stridulating by rubbing together body
parts. These stridulations sound like a faint
squeaking noise; this is audible to the
human ear if you very gently grasp the
beetle and hold it close to your ear.
Researchers have discovered 17 sound
signals among larvae and adults which are
used as communication for the group of
beetles, for management of immature
beetles, and as self defense. If you find these
wonderful beetles in your mulch pile or in a
rotten log, treat them with care and do not
be afraid of them. Take the opportunity to
handle one of these harmless beetles,
appreciate its beauty, and teach your
children that bugs can be fun (and are not
scary!), before gently replacing it into its
home. After all, it has its young to tend to as
well.
For a detailed description of the Horned
Passalus, or Patent Leather Beetle, check
out this great website: http://
entomology.ifas.ufl.edu/creatures/misc/
beetles/horned_passalus.htm.
News From
Around the Park
Compiled by Robert Bailey
New Park Affiliated Foundation Organized
The Percy Lee Dairy Farm Foundation, Inc.
has been organized to begin the process of
preserving (and possibly restoring) the
Jerusalem Mill Village bank barn and its
accompanying tenant house. Originally built in
the early 1800s, the Pennsylvania-style bank
barn was used continuously until it was
destroyed by arson in the 1960s.
The Foundation’s website states that, “While
the bank barn has stood for 200 years, it is
imperative that funds be obtained and works
begun to save this iconic structure in order to
reincorporate it into the operational and
interpretive activities of the historic Jerusalem
Mill Village for future generations.”
So far the foundation has obtained oldgrowth
timber remains of the recently
demolished Axial Belko Factory in
Franklinville, and an Eagle Scout is rebuilding
the barn’s pump house.
To learn more about the Percy Lee Dairy
Farm Foundation, visit their website at
www.bankbarn.org.
Improvements Planned For North Point
In 2012, North Point State Park received
funding for two much-needed projects. First,
the park obtained funds to rebuild the 1,000-
foot Crystal Pier. Second, the park obtained a
grant from the War of 1812 Bicentennial
Commission to develop and install new
exhibits in the Takos Visitor Center.
Built in 1906 as part of the Bay Shore
Amusement Park, the Crystal Pier was a
popular attraction until the park closed in
1947. DNR acquired the abandoned pier
(along with the rest of the old Bay Shore Park)
from Bethlehem Steel in 1987. Today the pier
is a popular spot for sight-seeing and fishing.
On a clear day, one can see the Chesapeake Bay
Bridge from the pier. Storms in recent years,
however, have battered the pier. This
restoration project will ensure the pier will
survive for future generations to enjoy.
Construction is planned to begin this summer.
Meanwhile, new exhibits featuring both the
War of 1812 and Bay Shore Park will begin
installation this coming fall and should be
completed in time for the Bicentennial of the
Battle of Baltimore in September 2014. Park
staff is working closely with the National Park
Service and Joan Carol Design Group to
develop the exhibit’s content and design.

GUNPOWDER CURRENTS NEWSLETTER
Family Programs and Special Events
PROGRAM CALENDAR
DATE PROGRAM TIME MEETING LOCATION COST
April 20 ____________MA & PA Railroad Hike* ____________________ 9 a.m.– 1 p.m. __________ Jerusalem Mill _________________________________________ $5/person
April 27 ____________Ospreys Return to the Gunpowder ________ 10-11 a.m. _____________ Beach parking lot, Hammerman __________________________ Free!+
May 5 ______________Second Annual Radio Days _________________ 1-4 p.m. ________________ Jerusalem Mill, McCourtney’s Store _________________________ Free!
May 25 _____________Campfire at the Beach ______________________ 6:30-7:30 p.m. _________ Hammerman Beach ________________________________________ Free!+
June 1 ______________Campfire at North Point ____________________ 6:30-7:30 p.m. _________ North Point Waterfront ____________________________________ Free!+
June 2 ______________Summer Concert: Set Free Bluegrass _______ 6 p.m. __________________ Jerusalem Mill _________________ Varies, See Program Description
June 5 ______________Bike Through History _______________________ 6:30-8:30 p.m. _________ Paper Mill ____________________________________ Donations Welcome
June 8 ______________Canoeing: Sunset Paddle* __________________ 6:30-8:30 p..m. ________ Days Cove _____________________________________________ $10/person
June 9 ______________Hawk Walk* _________________________________ 1-2 p.m. ________________ North Point ___________________________________________ $2/person+
June 12 ____________Bike Through History _______________________ 6:30-8:30 p.m. _________ Bentley Springs ______________________________ Donations Welcome
June 14 ____________Evening Bird Watching Series, #1* ________ 5:30-7 p.m. ____________ Days Cove ______________________________________________ $2/person
June 15 ____________Campfire at the Beach ______________________ 6:30-7:30 p.m. _________ Hammerman Beach ________________________________________ Free!+
June 16 ____________Summer Concert: Ken & Bradley Kolodner ___ 6 p.m. __________________ Jerusalem Mill _________________ Varies, See Program Description
June 19 ____________Bike Through History _______________________ 6:30-8:30 p.m. _________ White Hall ___________________________________ Donations Welcome
June 22 ____________Stream Search/Aquatic Exploration* ______ 9-11 a.m. _______________ Sparks Bank Nature Center __________________________________ Free!
June 22-23 ________Gilmor’s Raid on Jerusalem Mill ____________ 10-4 p.m. _______________ Jerusalem Mill _________________ Varies, See Program Description
June 23 ____________Tubing on the Gunpowder* ________________ 12-3 p.m. _______________ Monkton _______________________________________________ $5/person
June 26 ____________Bike Through History _______________________ 6:30-8:30 p.m. _________ Monkton _____________________________________ Donations Welcome
Some programs ask that you pre-register. If the program requires pre-registration, please call the number listed during regular business hours and let
us know you are coming. This helps to ensure that your program will not be canceled. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
* denotes pre-registration is required. + denotes that park entrance fee is required.
Bike Through History
Join us for this regular Wednesday evening program as we explore
various segments of the TCB Trail. This ride is approximately 10 miles
round-trip. Bring bikes, helmets and water. Bike lights are
recommended. This is a shine only event. No registration necessary. Call:
410-472-3144 to check for cancelations due to inclement weather no later
than 4:30 p.m. on the day of the ride. Donations welcome.
Campfire at the Beach
Bring your chairs or a picnic blanket and enjoy s’mores and other fireroasted
snacks on a warm summer night. The whole family can unwind
after a busy work week and hear our naturalists share their knowledge
of the natural and cultural resources in our park. No registration
necessary. Call: 410-592-2897. FREE!
Campfire at North Point
Bring your chairs or a picnic blanket and enjoy s’mores and other fireroasted
snacks on a warm summer night. The whole family can unwind
after a busy work week and hear our naturalists share their knowledge
of the natural and cultural resources in our park. No registration
necessary. Call: 410-592-2897. FREE!
Canoeing: Sunset Paddle
Explore the scenic Days Cove area by canoe and experience the
marshlands as they come alive with wildlife activity at dusk. Individuals
must be at least 12 years old to participate in this 2.4 mile paddle. Preregistration
is required. Call: 410-592-2897. Cost: $10/person. Other dates
available.
Evening Bird Watching Series, #1
Do you enjoy exploring the park and you want to learn more about bird
watching? If so, join Gunpowder naturalists at Days Cove as you take an
evening hike to learn more about the birds that are in your backyard.
Learn how to identify different birds by their coloration, flight patterns,
and songs. Bring a pair of binoculars and/or a camera to catch a glimpse
of these beautiful animals. Pre-registration is required. Call: 410-592-
2897. Cost: $2/person.
PROGRAM DESCRIPTIONS
denotes appropriate for Junior Rangers
Gilmor’s Raid
This is a Civil War encampment and Confederate cavalry raid on
Jerusalem Mill General Store. Military drills, period crafts and skills
demonstrations, live music and other activities throughout the day. See
website for details at www.jerusalemmill.org. Call: 410-877-3560 for
details. Cost: Non-Members: $7.00, Members and Seniors: $5.00, Children,
ages 6-16: $5.00, Children, age 5 and under: Free, Scouts, if in uniform with
accompanying adult and/or family member: $3.00 each, Families (2 adults
with at least 3 children): $25.00.
Hawk Walk
Spend an afternoon hiking in and near the woods searching and
listening for the hunters of the sky. Learn about these amazing animals
with hands-on activities during the program. Pre-registration is
required. Call: 410-592-2897. Cost: $2/person.
MA & PA Railroad Hike
Once one of Maryland’s most meandering and bucolic railroads, the MA
& PA in Maryland has been dormant for over half-a-century. Come on a
hike to explore this remnant of Maryland’s transportation past. Be sure
to dress appropriately for the weather. The hike will be over 5 miles on
varied and steep terrain. Bring snacks! Pre-registration is required. Call:
410-592-2897 to register. Cost: $5/person.
Ospreys Return to the Gunpowder
The ospreys will be returning to the Gunpowder from their South
American wintering grounds in April. Join a park ranger and learn the
importance ospreys play in the environment, and why we should watch
for them and their offspring. No registration necessary. Call: 410-592-
2897. FREE!
Second Annual Radio Days
Join Jerusalem Mill Volunteers for 1930’s and 1940’s radio shows at
McCourtney's Store. Shows will include The Lone Ranger , The Green
Hornet, Jack Benny, Sherlock Holmes, and more. There will be three
different shows on at all times from 1 to 4 p.m., Sunday. Fun for all ages.
Try our vintage radio Trivia Quiz when you get here. No registration
necessary. Call: 410-877-3560 .

GUNPOWDER CURRENTS NEWSLETTER
Stream Searches/Aquatic Exploration
Youth age 6-12 will explore the stream and learn how to use a seine and
dip nets. Collect and identify aquatic insects and learn their importance
to the health of the stream. Wear clothes and shoes you can get wet and
muddy. Bring sun block and insect repellent. Pre-registration is required.
Call: 410-592-2897. Donations welcome.
Summer Concert Series
The Friends of Jerusalem Mill invite you to the banks of the Little
Gunpowder on occasional Sundays at 6 p.m. Bring your folding chair or
blanket and picnic dinner, and enjoy a musical performance by one of a
select group of regional performers. See website for details at
www.jerusalemmill.org. Call: 410-877-3560. Cost: Non-Members: $7.00,
Members and Seniors: $5.00, Children ages 13-16: $5.00, Children 12 and
under: Free. All concerts are held rain or shine. In the event of inclement
weather, please call for alternate location.
Tubing Trips on the Big Gunpowder
Beat the summer heat with a leisurely tubing trip down the Big
Gunpowder Falls. Meet at Monkton Station for a 1.8-mile hike up the
TCB Trail. Then enjoy the two hour river float back to Monkton Station.
Wear sun block, swimsuits or shorts and sturdy shoes that can get wet.
Secure your car keys. Tubes and PFD’s are provided. Please arrive early,
as parking spaces are at a premium at this location. Participants must be
at least 16 years old. This is a shine only event. Pre-registration is
required. Cost: $5/person. This trip may be cancelled due to weather;
please check for cancellations by calling 410-472-3144 before noon on the
day of the trip.
Summer Youth Programs
JUNIOR RANGERS
The Junior Rangers program returns for the summer of 2013! Kids
from 9-12 years old are invited to get outside, explore the park,
discover nature, and learn about the environment through hands-on
activities. We are offering three different locations this year, so no
matter where you are there is a session convenient for you. Sign up
soon because space is limited and you don’t want to miss out on all
the fun!
PARK PALS
Children ages 5-8 can join in the fun too! Park Pals are introduced
to the outdoors through games, crafts and activities with a nature
theme. This program gets our youngest visitors involved in the same
topics as Junior Rangers, but with a more hands-on approach that’s
tailored to early childhood. It’s perfect for the younger brothers and
sisters of Junior Rangers!
SPROUTS
Children ages 2-4 and their parents can join in the fun also! Sprouts
will be introduced to the outdoors through crafts, stories and
activities with a nature theme. This program gets our youngest
visitors involved in hands-on activities that enhance early childhood
development. All children must be accompanied by an adult.
REGULARLY SCHEDULED PARK PROGRAMS
Monkton Ranger Programs
Join park naturalists or rangers for a children’s nature or history
program at Monkton Station. Programs will vary from day-to-day. It
might be a craft program, a talk on owls, a walk into history, a stream
search, etc. It could be almost anything! Stop by and find out. The
programs will take place from noon-2 p.m. every Saturday, Sunday and
holiday starting Memorial Day Weekend and running through Labor
day. No registration required. FREE! Donations Welcome.
North Point Ranger Talks
Join park naturalists or rangers for an impromptu history or nature
program at North Point. Programs will be 15-to-30 minutes long, and
will vary from weekend-to-weekend. It might be a talk on hawks, a
walk into history, an exploration of the park’s wetlands, etc. It could be
almost anything! Stop by and find out. The programs will start at 2 p.m.
every Saturday starting Memorial Day Weekend and running through
Labor day. Meet near the Trolley Station pavilion. No registration
required. FREE! Donations Welcome.
Wandering Wildlife Exhibits
Keep an eye out as you visit the park! During summer weekends and
holidays, naturalists and rangers will be moving through our busiest
areas with live animals native to your area. You and your family may be
lucky enough to meet with them! No registration required. FREE!
2013
Park Quest is back this summer
at Gunpowder. Join in on the
summer fun with your family!
The September finale will also
take place at Gunpowder! For
more information, visit
www.dnr.state.md.us/
parkquest
PROGRAM DETAILS
Weekly Sessions, June 21-July 26, 2013
Session 1: Days Cove, 9-11 a.m.
Session 2: Hammerman, 1-3 p.m.
Week-Long Sessions, August 5-9, 2013:
Session 1: Hammerman, 9-11 a.m.
Session 2: Days Cove, 1-3 p.m.
Service Charges: $30 per child for Junior Rangers or Park Pals; $20
per Sprout. Take advantage of our great family rate! $15 for each
additional child from the same family!
Requirements: Children must attend four out of six sessions and
complete required activities to earn their patch. Please plan family
vacations and other activities accordingly.
Registration: To register, call 410-592-2897. Space is limited! Early
registration is recommended.

GUNPOWDER CURRENTS NEWSLETTER
GUNPOWDER FALLS STATE PARK
2813 Jerusalem Road
P.O. Box 480
Kingsville, Maryland 21087
410-592-2897
FAX: 410-592-8760
Email: park-gunpowder@dnr.state.md.us
MARYLAND DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES
Our mission...
For today and tomorrow the Department of
Natural Resources inspires people to enjoy and
live in harmony with their environment, and to
protect what makes Maryland unique - our
treasured Chesapeake Bay, our diverse
landscapes and our living and natural resources.
www.dnr.maryland.gov
The facilities and services of the Maryland Department
of Natural Resources are available to all without regard
to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age,
national origin or physical or mental disability. This
document is available in alternative format upon
request from a qualified individual with a disability.
DNR# 04-4112013-639
Martin O’Malley, Governor
John R. Griffin, Secretary