DNR Encourages “Going Green” With Holiday Gifts

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ANNAPOLIS, MD – For those interested in “going green” for the holidays – while avoiding the crowds at the mall - the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is offering a host of gifts through its online store.

Bird-watchers and art lovers will enjoy a bluebird, hummingbird or oriole wildlife conservation print, while wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate a black bear conservation stamp, hat, stuffed animal, or t-shirt or adoption of an educational Scales and Tales animal. Proceeds from the sale of wildlife gifts help to fund wildlife monitoring and restoration efforts.

Purchase a 2008 fishing license for your favorite angler or make a donation in their name to the Maryland Artificial Reef Initiative which creates much needed fish habitat in the Chesapeake Bay.

For your hiking or boating companions, consider the 2008 Maryland State Park Passport. The Passport is a great value as it gives free day-use entry for up to 9 people in a vehicle to any of Maryland’s 49 state parks; free boat launching at all facilities; and a 10 percent discount on state-operated concessions and boat rentals. Waterproof and tear-proof trailguides and reusable cotton bandana maps make great gifts for any hikers, horseback riders or mountain bikers on your list.

Future, current, or retired firefighters will enjoy a limited edition centennial forest fire truck. Environmentalists will delight in the Gift of Trees that gives not only to them, but to future generations and the environment by planting a tree through DNR’s Forest Service’s Tree-Mendous Program.

DNR’s 2008 Natural Resource Calendar featuring winning photographs from the 2007 The Maryland Natural Resource magazine or the 2007 Maryland Holiday Ornament would make a great gift for anyone on your list. All of these gifts may be purchased online at www.dnr.maryland.gov/giftshop/ and delivered by Christmas if ordered by December 13.

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November 29, 2007

Contact: Olivia Campbell 410-260-8016 office I 410-507-7525 cell ocampbell@dnr.state.md.us

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