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DNR Invites Comments on State Forest Annual Work Plans
Annapolis, Md. — Beginning today through Oct. 20, 2008, citizens may comment on the proposed 2009 fiscal year work plans for Green Ridge, Pocomoke, Potomac-Garrett, and Savage River State Forests recently developed by Maryland Department of Natural Resources Forest Service. Public input will help us to ensure that our State Forest’s resources are prudently managed for the benefit of all our citizens and the resource itself.
“DNR manages state forests to improve wildlife habitat, and offer recreational opportunities and sustainable forest products,” said DNR Forest Service Director Steve Koehn. “I encourage citizens to participate in the public meeting process and contribute their ideas and suggestions to improve the quality of our state forests.”
The annual plans identify goals and work for the forests’ management during the next fiscal year, including silvicultural operations, restoration, maintenance and construction projects within the scope of the forests’ long-range management plan.
The online public hearing is the final step in a three-step review process. The first phase involves an internal review by a team of wildlife, fisheries, heritage, forestry, recreation, water resources and planning professionals. The second step is a review by the state forest advisory committees. After reviewing and considering public comments, the forest manager finalizes the plan.
Public comments will be posted online and the website will be updated weekly.
For more information about Maryland’s State Forests visit http://www.dnr.maryland.gov/forests/mdforests.asp.
September 23, 2008 Contact: Olivia Campbell
410-260-8016 office I 410-507-7525 cell
ocampbell@dnr.state.md.usMaryland 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.