Mark Smithson
Mark’s love for the Chesapeake Bay began early, shaped by birdwatching and fishing from a kayak. Exploring shallow waters allowed him to get close to wildlife in ways larger boats simply can’t, fostering a deep, lasting connection to the region.
That passion led him to earn a B.S. in Biology from the College of William & Mary, where he studied shorebird conservation along coastal Virginia. Along the way, he developed a keen ability to identify birds by ear—an expertise that continues to enrich every outing. He later worked in oyster reef restoration and went on to earn a Ph.D. in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology.
Over time, however, his career pulled him away from the outdoors, and he realized something was missing. Now based in Urbanna, Mark has reconnected with the remarkable waterways of the Chesapeake region. He founded Chesapeake Ecotours to share that connection with others, offering immersive, up-close experiences with the wildlife and ecosystems that make this place so unique.
Meghan Smithson-Hall
With family roots in Urbanna, Meghan has been drawn to these waters since she was young. Inspired by the creek and coastal lifestyle, she moved from Richmond in 2021 and now leads the storytelling behind our social media—bringing each experience to life. Meghan is the better half of Mark Smithson and a driving inspiration behind Chesapeake Ecotours.
A graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University with a degrees in Public Relations and Non-profit Management, Meghan serves as Executive Director of Urbanna Main Street, runs her own social media marketing business, and also offers yoga classes. She’s quickly developed a sharp eye for bird identification over the past few years—bringing that knowledge and curiosity into every story she shares.
Kevin Hussey
Kevin grew up in the Midwest and moved east in 2019. He quickly felt at home, attracted by the area’s waterways, scenery, and fishing opportunities. Since then, he’s spent more time than he’ll admit on the water, learning the ins and outs of the local waterways.
He volunteers with Friends of Dragon Run, helping lead guided paddles, supporting conservation efforts, and participating in bird monitoring and seasonal counts. He is also deeply passionate about shoreline and wetland conservation, dedicating time and resources to programs that grow oyster reefs as a natural way to protect saltwater marshes.
An avid fisherman, Kevin brings a sharp eye for reading water and understanding the habitats and patterns fish rely on. His trips are relaxed, informative, and tailored to each group—whether it’s your first time in a kayak or you’ve been paddling for years. If it floats, he’s into it, and he’s always happy to share that enthusiasm with others.