Proposed rules to govern fracking in Maryland draw criticism from environmentalists and energy industry

The Hogan administration is proposing rules that would limit the hurdles that energy companies must overcome before they could start the gas-drilling process known as fracking, while also requiring more protections against groundwater contamination.

In revising a plan crafted by the administration of then-Gov.Martin O’Malley, state environmental regulators on Wednesday endorsed speeding the review of natural gas wells, allowing them closer to homes and waterways and reducing the amount of environmental testing required before drilling could begin.

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#ThrowbackThursday: Garrett County Resorts

Garrett County, Maryland has been a tourist destination for over a hundred years!

Check out these crazy cool historic resorts that used to stand in these very mountains!

Garrett County Fair

If you are in Deep Creek Lake from July 30 – August 6, you are in luck! The Garrett County Fair will be held right here on Mosser Road in McHenry, Maryland. Offering rides, agricultural contests, vendors of all kinds, and much more, the fair is not something to miss!

For more information, click on the photo.

Friendsville Days

The 36th Annual Friendsville Days will be held from July 29th & 30th. Come visit the small, charming town for all kinds of activities. There will be a parade, vendors, entertainment and more!

For more information, click on the photo.

Smiley's Fun Zone

Looking for a great place to take the kids on your Deep Creek Lake vacation? Check out Smiley’s Fun Zone in McHenry, Maryland!

Not only do they have a bar and grill but they also have a whole area to entertain you and your kids!

From batting cages to go-karts to laser tag to bowling, Smiley’s has something to do- rain or shine!

For more information, click on the photo or call (301) 387-0059.

Bill's Marine Service

Check out one of Deep Creek Lake’s local marinas! Bill’s Marine Service has been around Deep Creek for over 40 years. They are a full service marina offering new and pre-owned boat sales, rentals, service, and storage.

If you are here on vacation and looking to rent, Bill’s Marine Service offers ski, pontoon and fishing boat rentals.

For more information, click on the photo.

Chanteclaire Farm

Looking for a beautiful wedding venue near Deep Creek Lake? Check out Chanteclaire Farm. Located off the beautiful Friendsville Road, Chanteclaire Farm offers a serene setting, perfect for a wedding.

The farm is only a ten minute drive away from Deep Creek Lake!

But don’t just take my word for it- check out their website by clicking on the photo.

Deep Creek Marina

Looking to purchase or rent a boat? Check out the Deep Creek Marina. They sell new and pre-owned boats as well as other water crafts.

If you are just looking to rent, Deep Creek Marina offers ski and pontoon boats, WaveRunners, kayaks, canoes, paddle boards, tubes and more in the summer.

In the winter months, the Deep Creek Marina offers snow rentals like skis and snowboards.

The Deep Creek Marina is located in McHenry’s cove! Go check them out!

For more, click on the photo

or call (301) 387-6977.

Mountain State Brewing Company

Looking for a great local beer and even better food? Check out Mountain State Brewing Company, right here in McHenry, MD!

The largest brewery in West Virginia, their craft beer is made in nearby Thomas. If you have the time, check out their story.

Their beer, pizza, salads, and sandwiches have become regional favorites over the years. Come check them out and support a blooming, local business!

Their beer may come from neighboring West Virginia, but

Deep Creek loves Mountaineers!

For more information, click here.

Deep Creek Lavender Farm

Looking for a unique place to visit during your Deep Creek Lake vacation? Try Deep Creek Lavender Farm. Located in Accident, Maryland, it is a short drive from the lake.

The farm has over 1,200 lavender plants, including many different species. They offer many kinds of lavender products and lunches for guests that request them in advance. The farm is open every Saturday, Sunday and Monday, starting after Memorial Day.

For more information, click on the photo.