Maryland Forestry And Parks Service Honored Nationally

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WILLIAMSBURG, VA — On September 6, 2007, the Maryland Forestry and Parks Centennial Committee was honored by the National Association of State Park Director’s (NASPD) at the NASPD Awards Ceremony held at the Woodlands Hotel in Williamsburg, Virginia.

The Park History Award was presented to Maryland Park Superintendent Rusty Ruszin on behalf of Maryland for their multi-faceted observance of the 100th anniversary of Maryland’s state forestry and park program.

 “We hope that our efforts continue to inspire and educate citizens about the rich history, tradition and health, environmental and economic benefits afforded Maryland through their Forest and Park Services.” said Ruszin. “I am honored to accept this prestigious award on behalf of the Centennial committee.” added Ruszin.

The centennial celebration was composed of public events, interpretive programs, a television documentary which was nominated for an “Emmy” award in the public service documentary category, as well as a feature-length picture book history on forestry and parks in Maryland. The book entitled Maryland’s Forests and Parks: A Century of Progress printed by Arcadia Publishing is available through various book retailers and online at http://www.easycart.net/MarylandDepartmentofNaturalResources/Books.html

The Park History Award, established in 2006, recognizes an individual, team, academic institution or organization that has displayed outstanding efforts in original research and presentation of state park history that results in tangible work product. The National Association of State Park Directors (NASPD) is a limited member organization of all 50 States, National Park Service, Puerto Rico Park Service and associate membership of the Canadian Park Service. Active membership is limited to the administrative head of each of those park agencies.

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September 10, 2007

Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is the state agency responsible for providing natural and living resource-related services to citizens and visitors. DNR manages more than 449,000 acres of public lands and 17,000 miles of waterways, along with Maryland's forests, fisheries and wildlife for maximum environmental, economic and quality of life benefits. A national leader in land conservation, DNR-managed parks and natural, historic and cultural resources attract 12 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