John Smith National Historic Trail
Smart Buoys Mark and Interpret All Water Recreational Route
Jul 21, 2008
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is developing an ocean research buoy system in Chesapeake Bay that serves to interpret the John Smith National Historic Trail for boaters traveling along this route.
Captain John Smith National Historic Trail
Some 400 years following the founding of Jamestown, Virginia and the exploration voyages by Captain John Smith of Chesapeake Bay, Congress established the Captain John Smith National Historic Trail (NHT). The all water trail retraces the 3,000 miles traveled by Smith between 1607 and 1609 exploring the Bay and rivers leading into it. It is the first all water route to be designated as a NHT.
Chesapeake Bay Interpretive Buoy System (CBIBS)
NOAA is installing informational smart buoys to mark points of interest for boaters traveling the historic trail. The buoys provide interpretive information and scientific data on currents and tides in the Bay. Data collected by the buoys includes weather and water quality information that is transmitted to researchers on a nearly real time basis. Information can be viewed at the program website or accessed by calling 877-BUOY-BAY (877-286-9229).
Stingray Point Buoy
The fourth and latest smart buoy to be added the CBIBS is located at Stingray Point near Deltaville, Virginia on the Rappahannock River. This buoy was placed here to mark the 400th anniversary of exploration by Captain Smith in Chesapeake Bay. Smith nearly died at this spot after being struck by a stingray in July of 1608. Other buoys in the system are located at the mouth of the Potomac River, the mouth of the Patapsco River and near Jamestown, Virginia. Additional buoys are planned for Elizabeth and Susquehanna Rivers.
In announcing the deployment of the Stingray Point Buoy, Agency Deputy Director Mary Glackin says, “These ‘smart buoys’ are an example of NOAA’s advancements in Earth observing systems. NOAA is working to improve our understanding of dynamic coastal areas like the Chesapeake Bay and how areas like the Bay are affected by changes in the global ocean."
The John Smith National Historic Trail is a unique all water route designed to allow boaters to better appreciate the beauty and history of Chesapeake Bay. Boaters of all stripes are encouraged to exercise good stewardship while retracing the paddle strokes of Captain Smith and his crew.
- Be prepared to safely navigate Chesapeake Bay and boat safety.
- Use "Leave No Trace" camping techniques. Avoid disturbing the natural surrounding, cultural artifacts, and respect private property that lies along the trail.
- View wildlife responsibly. Cache your food supply in bear proof containers. Don't feed animals along the trail. Consider leaving pets at home.
- Camp only in designated areas. Limit use of open fires to approved locations.
- Pack your trash out with you. Clean dishes away from the water and use biodegradable soap. Dispose of human and pet waste responsibly.
 |
 |
