MDTU Chapter History
The Maryland Chapter was formed in 1971 and currently has over 800 members. These members largely live in Baltimore City and in Baltimore and Harford Counties. The mission of Trout Unlimited is to preserve, protect and restore North America's cold water fisheries and their watersheds.Trout Unlimited was started in 1959 by a group of concerned fisherman in Grayling, Michigan. Its efforts were instrumental in the institutionalization of "catch and release" fishing practices and in the growing recognition of the importance of America's cold water fisheries. There are now over 450 local chapters with 145,000+ members across the United States. The National office is located in Rosyln, Virginia and has worked to build up considerable expertise in legal and environmental issues and regulations. The strength of the grass roots chapters and the National office has given Trout Unlimited significant influence at the national, state and local level on environmental issues.
MDTU, over the years, has pursued the mission in the following ways:
Responsible for the creation and maintenance of the Gunpowder River fisheryHas spearheaded the stream habitat improvement of numerous watersheds in the Baltimore area. These have included: Little Gunpowder, Long Green Run, and Jones Falls.
Has been a force in responsible real estate development crafting agreements with various developers governing storm water runoff and other issues
Led the Creation of handicapped access to Morgan Run
Ongoing stewardship nd monitoring of cold water fisheries throughout the Baltimore area
Has an active grant program designed to assist landowners to become better stewards of their riparian watersheds. we work closely with the Maryland State DNR personnel to secure reimbursement for seedlings and fencing along streams
Sponsor monthly speakers on fishing and conservation related topics
Maryland Trout unlimited prides itself on an open door policy of engaging all constituents in dialog assigned to increase understanding and conversation of cold water fisheries. Its Board of Directors meetings are held the second Tuesday of every month.