KING’S LANDING, Md., June 5, 2025 — The Calvert County Parks & Recreation Natural Resources Division celebrated its volunteers at the annual Calvert Stewards picnic on May 18, 2025, at Kings Landing Park. The event recognized the group’s 8,000 hours of service in 2024, with several volunteers receiving Presidential Service Awards, service pins, and citations from the Board of County Commissioners.
Commissioner Earl “Buddy” Hance presented citations to youth volunteers and those contributing over 100 hours. “Thank you to all the CCPR volunteers who generously give their time and talents to support Calvert County parks!” the Natural Resources Division stated in a release.
Among the honorees, Braedyn McIntosh earned a youth service citation for his work on the Bluebird Project, which supports native bird populations through nest box monitoring. Mary Hollinger received both a citation and a Presidential Service Award for her dual roles as a wildlife transporter and Bluebird Project volunteer. Rebecca Brown was recognized for her service as an education intern, delivering programs to engage the community with local ecosystems. Mary and Gordon Burton were commended for their contributions to the Orchid Conservation Project, focused on preserving native orchid species.
The Calvert Stewards program, managed by the Natural Resources Division, engages volunteers in park maintenance, environmental conservation, and educational outreach across Calvert County’s parks and preserves. In 2024, their efforts supported projects like habitat restoration, wildlife monitoring, and public engagement at sites such as Kings Landing Park, Battle Creek Cypress Swamp, and Flag Ponds Nature Park. The 8,000 hours donated last year reflect tasks ranging from trail upkeep to data collection for conservation initiatives.
Volunteers receiving Presidential Service Awards included those logging significant hours, with some earning five- and 10-year service pins for long-term commitment. The awards, part of a national program, honor individuals who meet specific volunteer hour thresholds annually. Citations from the county commissioners highlighted both youth involvement and high-hour contributors, emphasizing the program’s diverse volunteer base.
Kings Landing Park, the picnic’s venue, spans 156 acres along the Patuxent River, offering trails, wetlands, and historical sites. The event featured food, games, and opportunities for volunteers to connect, fostering a sense of community among those dedicated to preserving Calvert County’s natural spaces. The Natural Resources Division used the gathering to recruit new stewards, encouraging attendees to spread the word about volunteer opportunities.
The Bluebird Project, a flagship initiative, involves installing and monitoring nest boxes to support eastern bluebird populations, which have declined due to habitat loss. Volunteers like McIntosh and Hollinger maintain boxes, track fledgling success, and remove invasive species. The Orchid Conservation Project, supported by the Burtons, protects native orchids through propagation and habitat management, while wildlife transporters like Hollinger ensure injured animals reach rehabilitation centers.
Education interns like Brown lead guided hikes, school programs, and citizen science projects, helping visitors understand Calvert County’s biodiversity. These efforts align with the county’s broader mission to maintain its 10,000 acres of parkland, including nine major parks and three natural areas.
The Calvert Stewards program continues to seek volunteers for roles in conservation, education, and park operations. Interested residents can contact the Natural Resources Division for details on training and opportunities. The annual picnic serves as a reminder of the impact of collective action in sustaining Calvert County’s natural heritage.
