The Coastal Conservation Association Maryland, a non-profit group of l,800-plus recreational anglers and conservation-minded citizens, recently donated $3,000 worth of equipment to Maryland Natural Resources Police (NRP) to help officers enforce marine laws. This donation brings the total amount CCA MD has provided NRP since 2000 to more than $25,000.
“NRP is the only law enforcement body in Maryland that has marine capabilities,” points out Andy Hughes, CCA MD chairman. “The Chesapeake is a magnificent resource that benefits citizens throughout the state, and NRP officers have a tremendous responsibility to enforce marine laws so that we can enjoy this resource.”
The donation included two Canon cameras for use in photographing violations, a Garmin Chartplotter, and three Bushnell Elite Rangefinders to gauge distances of nets from shore to assure they are within legal ranges. Zodiac of North America, Inc. assisted in providing the Garmin Chartpolotter.
Previously CCA MD has donated binoculars, tripods, scopes, and an ATV trailer, among other items.
“In these times of budget constraints when NRP is losing manpower and other resources, CCA MD believes community support is essential to assist their officers with conservation enforcement,” said Hughes. “We are pleased to continue assisting NRP.”
