Talbot Watermen Association Inc.

The Talbot Watermen Association Inc. is a nonprofit organization based in Talbot County, Maryland. Its primary mission is to promote and support the local seafood industry while advocating for ecological and economic measures to revitalize the Chesapeake Bay.

Mission and Goals

The organization's mission includes promoting Talbot County seafood and supporting the industry through both ecological and economic initiatives. It aims to advocate for public fisheries and watermen, ensuring that their voices and factual information are heard in legislative matters. The association actively engages with Maryland’s Department of Natural Resources and other advisory boards to manage natural resources effectively.

Role and Members

Comprised primarily of watermen, their families, and related industry businesses (such as processors, shipping companies, and restaurant workers), the association acts as a voice for its members. It works to bring awareness about the decreasing availability and high cost of local seafood due to reductions in public fishery allocations.

Activities and Events

The Talbot Watermen Association hosts several events throughout the year, notably the annual Watermen Appreciation Day. Funds raised from these events are donated to community needs and organizations focused on preserving and educating about the Bay, the seafood industry, and maritime history.

Community Involvement

The association encourages community involvement by inviting citizens interested in preserving the Chesapeake Bay to join them. Through cooperation with Maryland’s Department of Natural Resources and local legislators, they aim to restore the Bay and preserve their heritage and way of life.

Contributing to the Chesapeake Bay

Watermen in Talbot County harvest various species of seafood depending on the season. Crabs and clams are abundant in the summer, while oysters and clams are traditionally harvested in the winter. The organization also supports fishing for species like Rockfish, Bluefish, and Flounder throughout the year.

Historical Context

Historically, the seafood industry in Talbot County has been significant, especially for African American communities, who played a crucial role as sailors, shipbuilders, and watermen. Despite facing social and economic challenges, they contributed significantly to the industry's development and cultural identity.

Advocacy and Environmental Efforts

The association supports legislation aimed at improving Bay and tributary water quality, ensuring a healthier Chesapeake Bay for all Maryland citizens. It emphasizes the importance of sustainable harvest practices and replenishing harvest areas annually.

Overall, the Talbot Watermen Association Inc. serves as a crucial advocate for the watermen community and the Chesapeake Bay ecosystem, working towards preserving the traditional way of life while promoting sustainable environmental practices.

[1] https://www.talbotwatermen.net [2] https://www.talbotwatermen.net/about [3] https://talbotwatermen.wordpress.com [4] https://talbothistory.org/collections-research/collections-archives/black-watermen/ [5] https://www.pbs.org/video/waters-edge-black-watermen-of-the-chesapeake-lo9iwq/