Introduced to the Virginia end of the Chesapeake Bay in the 1970s, the Blue Catfish is now considered an invasive species, rapidly expanding through Maryland’s rivers and outcompeting native fish for food and habitat.
These highly adaptable predators feed on blue crab, menhaden, American eel, and other economically and ecologically important species. They can now be found in most of Maryland’s tidal and non‑tidal rivers—and even throughout the Bay itself—where their broad diet and fast growth give them a significant advantage.
As their population continues to surge, the spread of Blue Catfish has become a major concern for scientists, watermen, and fisheries managers. Their impact on native species of the Bay has sparked intense debate about how best to respond to this growing ecological challenge.
We have found two brilliant speakers for our June Lecture on the Shore event on the Blue Catfish dilemma. Dr. Noah Bressman from Salisbury University to speak on how this species got out of control and the impact this has had on the Bay, countered by Nick Hargrove, the waterman/entrepreneur from Tilghman Island who sees an opportunity in solving the problem.
What to Expect:
For this Lecture on the Shore, we are kicking off our first event at a new venue some might remember from Aspen Institute days, the Temple B’Nai Israel off the Easton By-Pass. We’ll start the evening off with a reception with the presentors at 5:30pm. Expect an assortment of refreshments and hors’devours before taking seats for the program from 6:30 to 8pm.
Thursday | June 25 | 5:30-8pm | IN PERSON (at the Temple B’Nai Israel, 7199 Tristan Drive, Easton, MD) | $60 or 6:30-8pm LIVESTREAM | $40
