DNR’s Online Gift Shop Makes Holiday Giving Easy

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ANNAPOLIS — Are you having trouble finding a unique and thoughtful Christmas gift for someone dear to you who enjoys the outdoors? The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is here to help, with several distinctive gift ideas available for purchase from our online gift shop, all available at http://www.dnr.maryland.gov/giftshop/

Orders placed online by midnight Dec. 19 are guaranteed to be in the U.S. mail by Dec. 20. Here are six very unique gift ideas:

• Idea 1: Reduced-rate park passes! For only $75, you get a full-year's access:
  • Free day-use entry for up to 9 people in a vehicle to Maryland's 47 state forests and parks;
  • Free boat launching at most facilities, including the Deep Creek Lake and Jennings Randolph Lake boat launch.
  • A 10 percent discount on state-operated concessions and boat rentals.
  • For parks with honor box systems, the pass covers entry service charges. These passes are valid through Dec. 31, 2005.
• Idea 2: To go with your park passes, why not get them a guide to traverse the trails of our state forests and parks? For as little as $2, the State Forest and Park Service offers these waterproof, tear proof state park and forest trail guides, featuring a full color map on one side and color photographs and trail descriptions on the other. Also included is helpful information about the history, natural features and recreational opportunities available at the park. Give that special person a trail map so they can discover even more of their favorite park -- or get them two, so they can expand their horizons!
• Idea 3: Subscriptions to DNR’s Natural Resource magazine! For $8, this newly redesigned magazine is a steal! With each new season, subscribers can read about what DNR is doing to protect and enhance Maryland’s treasured natural resources, as well as find out about fun events and outdoor activities taking place at nearby state parks.
• Idea 4: Black bear conservation stamps! All proceeds from the sale of these stamps help compensate farmers for crop damage caused by black bears. Historically, DNR has not had enough funding in this account to accurately compensate farmers. While the stamp program is just one component of a comprehensive black bear management plan, it remains a vital tool to provide relief to farmers. Not a fan of stamps? We also sell T-shirts, tote bags and hats that support the program.
• Idea 5: Wye Oak Gifts! Purchase a one-of-a-kind gift made from the remains of the historic Wye Oak. Copper plated leaf pins, and pens and letter openers carved from the tree’s wood are now available. They make excellent gifts and each comes with a certificate of authenticity. Proceeds from these items will be used to create the Wye Oak exhibit and pavilion. “Wye” not own a piece of Maryland history?
• Idea 6: Consider having a tree planted for someone on your list! A gift of a tree is actually three - one to someone you care for, one to future generations and one to the environment. Gifts of Trees are available at $25 for each tree; for $250, you can decide where you’d like your grove of ten trees planted. A certificate is also sent to the recipient announcing your gift.

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The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is the state agency responsible for providing natural and living resource-related services to Maryland citizens and visitors. DNR manages more than 435,000 acres of public lands and 17,000 miles of waterways, as well as Maryland's wildlife and fishery species for maximum environmental, economic and quality of life benefits. A national leader in land conservation, the department manages natural, historic and cultural resources that attract 11 million visitors annually. DNR is the lead agency in Maryland's effort to restore the Chesapeake Bay, the state's number one environmental priority. Learn more at www.dnr.maryland.gov