10 minutes from now marylanders will no longer have to use the exercise and acquiring food exceptions to go paddling or rowing as long as we follow the following rules:

• Boaters must be with immediate family members or people with which they reside. 
• No more than 10 people can be on a boat at one time, including captain and crew.
• Boats must be distanced from each other by at least 10 feet and are prohibited from rafting up, beaching, or having rendezvous events.
• Boats are prohibited from docking at restaurants or bars.
• Vessel and boat races remain prohibited.
• Marinas can reopen to recreational boaters, but must adhere to Maryland Departments of Commerce and Health guidelines.
• Pump-out stations and boats may resume operations under the Departments of Commerce and Health guidelines.
• Local jurisdictions may choose to open public boat ramps, but must ensure social distancing guidelines.
• All normal boating rules and regulations are in effect and must be followed

Expect all those people "working from home" to be at the ramps and other launch sites, so be careful and watch your distancing.

Now if only the weather will cooperate and stop raining and blowing.

Laszlo