SIDELING HILL CREEK STATE PARK, MD – Bill Dixon, Supervisor of Maryland Hunter Education, is proud to announce the opening of a new trapping heritage display at Camp Baker, located in Sideling Hill Creek State Park, Allegany County. This initiative highlights Dixon’s dedication to preserving Maryland’s rich trapping traditions and educating future generations about the critical role trapping plays in wildlife management, conservation, and state history.
The exhibit focuses on the ecological and historical significance of trapping in Maryland, including the essential role trappers played in saving Chesapeake Bay from the invasive nutria, a destructive species threatening the bay’s health. Dixon’s efforts aim to teach Maryland’s youth about the ways trapping supports wildlife management, protects the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries, and contributes to the state’s vibrant outdoor heritage.
“Trapping is not just a skill; it’s a legacy of stewardship,” said Dixon. “It’s essential that we expose young Marylanders to this heritage, so they understand the vital contributions trappers make to our environment and history.”
About the New Display
The trapping exhibit, now a permanent feature at Camp Baker, offers an engaging experience for students, parents, and visitors. Featuring static displays and training aids, the exhibit includes a variety of trapping-related materials that showcase the tools, techniques, and history of the practice.
Camp Baker, a dedicated Hunter Education facility, provides unparalleled opportunities for hands-on learning. Unlike temporary setups, its permanent displays—ranging from tree stands to trapping tools—offer a consistent, immersive environment for students to explore and learn.
Preserving Maryland’s Outdoor Legacy
The new display is a significant addition to Maryland’s Hunter Education Program. It complements the state’s broader efforts to promote outdoor heritage, foster conservation awareness, and equip young people with the knowledge to become responsible stewards of the environment.
Sideling Hill Creek State Park, located at 11110 Ziegler Road SE Hancock, MD 21750, one of Maryland’s youngest state parks at just three years old, offers an ideal setting for this initiative. Located in eastern Allegany County, the park provides a serene, resource-rich environment that enhances the educational experience for students participating in Hunter Safety Education classes.
A Renewed Focus on Maryland’s Trapping Heritage
Thanks to Dixon’s vision and leadership, Maryland is seeing a revitalized appreciation for trapping and its value to the state. By educating young people and their families, Dixon ensures that the legacy of trapping—and its role in protecting Chesapeake Bay and Maryland’s wildlife—remains vibrant and impactful for generations to come.
About Maryland Hunter Education
Maryland’s Hunter Education Program is committed to promoting safety, conservation, and outdoor ethics through hands-on learning and community engagement. The program’s goal is to prepare the next generation of hunters and outdoor enthusiasts to responsibly enjoy and protect Maryland’s natural resources.