In keeping with current current rate of INCREASING positivity in Garrett County, low local vaccination rates and the arrival of the Delta Variant we are requiring EVERYONE to wear a mask when checking in and while on shore. Once on the water masks may be removed. We are asking guests to maintain suitable distance while on the water, especially with Non associated groups.
KAYAKING TOUR: YOU MUST BRING A MASK FOR USE BY EVERYONE IN YOUR GROUP. So far 100% of the adults on our tours have been vaccinated. However this is an honor system. Kids are still not vaccinated so in respect to them we want everyone to have a mask with them and to stay at least 6 feet away from kids not in your group. Guides mask up when close to unvaccinated kids. We want folks to have their masks in their lifejacket pockets in case we have an emergency that requires us to get close to each other.
On hikes and other programs we require everyone to have masks and wear tem when close together. When adequate spacing can be maintained masks can be pulled down.
Our general feelings as of April 1st, is that we still do not know how this pandemic will play out this summer. Uncertainty seems to be the hallmark of this situation. We attract visitors from all over. Please be careful when out and about. More infectious and dangerous variants are in the United States. We intend to be cautious and conscientious. Our boat touch services and paddles will continue to be cleaned with CDC approved cleaners after every kayak tour. Stay safe everyone!
We are continuing to practice our full Covid safety procedures on our Eco Tours until this situation is cleared up. Take Pledge to Prevent.
Current COVID 19 All Earth Eco Tour Policies
reducing trip sizes
cleaning of equipment following CDC guidelines
proper masking when in close contact (within 6ft) or walking in a line such as hiking or snowshoeing on a trail. If you feel safest wearing your mask the entire activity we will support you 100%.
maintaining social distance with other groups on the tour
Current Garrett County and Maryland COVID 19 Details: (as of 9/11/20)
Maryland Governor Hogan has lifted the stay-at-home order and the ban on non-essential travel for the state of Maryland as of Friday, May 15, 2020 at 5 pm. Transient vacation rentals in Garrett County resumed operation as of May 14, 2020. There is no longer a limit on social gatherings but the Governor’s office has released social gathering guidance. Certain venues may still have group size limitations; please check with your venue to determine what restrictions may be in place. We ask that you follow all proper protocols and regulations when visiting area businesses. The County asks that guests to Garrett County: • Bring grocery items, paper and cleaning products with them since there may be local shortages of certain products due to the current pandemic. • Please practice social distancing while visiting Garrett County. • A face mask is required in all indoor establishments (including the public spaces of all businesses) and in outdoor public areas where distancing is not possible. • Wash your hands or use hand sanitizer when visiting indoor establishments. • If you feel ill with COVID-19 symptoms please self-isolate. • If you have questions regarding COVID-19 while visiting Garrett County, you can call the Garrett County COVID-19 Hotline at 301.334.7698. • Please notify the property manager or owner of your rental property if you test positive for COVID-19 or develop signs and symptoms of the virus before checking out so that housekeeping staff, and the Garrett County Health Department, can be notified promptly.
We take COVID 19 very seriously and are pretty strict about how our outdoor tours and educational programs are structured to minimize the risk of transmission. We sanitize boats and paddles and fully wash life jackets everyday. If you think there is any chance you or someone in your group is not feeling well or has been exposed to COVID 19 please refrain from making reservations.
Kayak Tours
Groups are kept socially distanced from other groups on dry land and during launching and returning to shore. On the water and shore we ask that groups and individuals respect each others space and be wary of drifting into others.
Your guide may ask participants to wear masks during the brief dry land kayak instruction.
Masks are expected to be worn correctly on arrival and check in and during any time guides come close to your group for the signing of release forms, the handing out of life jackets and paddles and during launching and returning to shore and while we offer your groups to-go drinks and snacks at the end.
Masks are carried in your life jacket pocket or worn (optional) wile kayaking and if during the tour we need to assist you or adjust your boat and come near you will be asked to mask up and your guide will mask up too.
Anyone not abiding by our mask policies or requests will be refused service – no exceptions – no refunds.
Birds of Prey Program
We accept a maximum of 11-12 groups at our Birds of Prey.
Reservations are Required – No Exceptions – Last minute reservation requests should be sought by 9am the day of the show. 301-746-4083.
Each group has a picnic table that is 6 feet from the adjacent table/group.
MASKS ARE REQUIRED DURING THE PROGRAM – and they must be worn correctly. If you need a break from your mask you will be required to move a minimum of 100 feet away from the program space.
The Program Presentors will stay 6 ft from you and may pull their mask down when speaking.
Program Presentors will bring birds in for a closer look and will mask up when they get within 6ft.
Individuals and couples may be asked to bring chairs if they have them.