DNR Encourages Green Giving this Holiday Season

---

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

Bird-watchers and art lovers will enjoy a blue heron, hummingbird or oriole wildlife conservation print, while wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate a black bear travel mug, hat, stuffed animal, or long sleeve t-shirt or adoption of an educational Scales and Tales animal. Proceeds from wildlife gift sales help fund wildlife monitoring and restoration efforts.

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 Tree-Mendous Program.

For your hiking or boating companions, consider the 2009 Maryland State Park Passport. The Passport is a great value as it gives free day-use entry for up to 10 people in a vehicle to any of Maryland’s state parks; unlimited boat launching at all facilities; and a 10 percent discount on state-operated concessions and boat rentals. Waterproof and tear-proof trail guides and reusable cotton bandana maps make great gifts for any hikers, horseback riders or mountain bikers on your list.

Purchase a 2009 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.

DNR’s 2009 Natural Resource Calendar featuring winning photographs from the 2008 Maryland Natural Resource photo contest 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 15.

---

November 25, 2008

Contact: Kara Turner 410-260-8018 katurner@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.