CHOPTANK RIVER

• USZDN
• Latitude: 38.8894
• Longitude: -75.8381
• US East Coast
• Marina in US

Location: US

The Choptank River, located on the Eastern Shore of Maryland in the United States, is a significant tributary of the Chesapeake Bay. It has historical and economic importance, particularly for the maritime and fishing industries. Here's a description and specification for the Choptank River, focusing on its role as a marine port and its navigational features:

Geographic Location and Access

• Mouth: The Choptank River flows into the Chesapeake Bay, with its mouth near the town of Cambridge, Maryland.
• Coordinates: The mouth of the river is approximately at Latitude 38.5726° N and Longitude 76.0676° W.
• Length: The river is about 71 miles (114 km) long, making it one of the longest rivers on the Eastern Shore of Maryland.

Navigational Specifications

• Channel Depth: Varies significantly along different sections. The navigation channel near Cambridge is maintained to a depth of about 14 feet (4.27 meters) to accommodate commercial and recreational vessels.
• Channel Width: Also varies, generally around 150 feet (45.72 meters) wide in maintained navigational portions.
• Tidal Influence: Subject to tidal currents with a tidal range of approximately 1 to 2 feet (0.3 to 0.6 meters).

Port Facilities

• Cambridge Marine Terminal: A key facility located in Cambridge, Maryland, offering docking and unloading services for various vessels, including fishing boats and recreational crafts.
• Marinas and Docking: Multiple marinas, such as the Cambridge Yacht Club and several private docks, provide services including fuel, repairs, and accommodations for transient boaters.
• Commercial Activity: Primarily caters to the fishing industry, particularly crabbing and oystering, as well as tourism and recreational boating.

Economic and Environmental Aspects

• Fishing: The river is known for its rich fishing grounds, especially for blue crabs, oysters, and other seafood vital to the local economy.
• Shipping: While not one of the major commercial ports, it supports local and regional shipping needs, focusing on smaller commercial vessels.
• Land Use: The riverbanks are a mix of residential, agricultural, and commercial uses with an emphasis on water-related activities.

Safety and Communication

• Navigation Aids: Marked by buoys and beacons to assist in navigation, which are managed by the U.S. Coast Guard.
• VHF Channels: Common VHF marine radio frequencies are used for communication between vessels and shore stations, including channels for hailing and distress (Channel 16).

Environmental Concerns

• Pollution Levels: Subject to concerns about runoff from agriculture and urban areas, which can affect water quality and marine life.
• Conservation Efforts: Multiple initiatives are in place to protect the watershed, including those by local governments, non-profit organizations, and regulatory agencies.

Historical Significance

• The Choptank River has historical importance dating back to Native American habitation, colonial settlement, and it played roles in various periods of American history including the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812.

Points of Interest

• Choptank River Lighthouse: Located at the Cambridge Marina, it is a replica of the historic lighthouse and serves as a maritime museum and local landmark.
• Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge: Near the river, offering natural habitats and opportunities for bird watching and wildlife photography.

This overview captures the key aspects of the Choptank River as a marine port, highlighting its navigational details, facilities, economic role, and environmental background.