The Northern Map Turtle, Graptemys geographica, is a Maryland state Endangered Species, found only in the lower Susquehanna River in Maryland. The only area where nests of this species are not heavily impacted by predators occurs in the town of Port Deposit. However, turtles in Port Deposit must often cross a gravel parking lot with constant vehicular traffic to reach the nesting sites, and turtles may become disoriented by human disturbance and move away from the river, towards the roadway, Maryland Route 222. In addition, the soil in which the turtles are nesting is heavily compacted and turtles often abandon nest sites after unsuccessful nesting attempts. The objectives of this project were to (a) rehabilitate the existing nesting areas in Port Deposit to enhance nesting success, (b) find ways to avoid disturbance by humans during nesting, and (c) work with town officials in establishing an environmental education center about the Susquehanna River and the Northern Map Turtle. Data from 2013-2014 showed that nesting in Port Deposit occurred from late May to late July. Numbers of nests varied from 7-8 per year and no nests were attacked by predators. Most nests were found adjacent to the Tomes Landing Marina, but a few were found upstream near condominiums. Distance from water ranged from 1-60 meters and no differences were found between years. Hatching of this species generally overwinter in the nest, with emergence in April and May of the following year. Towson University staff worked with officials from the Maryland State Highway Administration and Port Deposit to design the interpretive signs for the education center and the text of these signs is largely complete. Installation will occur in 2015 as part of Phase II of this project. Rehabilitation of the nesting areas has also been designed and installation will occur in 2015 as part of Phase II of this project.
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