Public Comment Period Open For Johnson Wildlife Management Area's 15-Year Vision Plan

Annapolis, Md. (July 26, 2010) — The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Wildlife & Heritage Service is currently seeking public comment for the Johnson Wildlife Management Area’s (WMA) 15-year Vision Plan. The 153-acre property is located in the south central portion of Wicomico County. DNR will accept public comments about the plan through August 27.

The Johnson WMA Vision Plan will serve as a sound management strategy for natural resource professionals to preserve, protect, enhance and restore diverse wildlife populations and associated habitats,” said Russ Hill, Habitat Biologist and Plan Coordinator for DNR’s Wildlife & Heritage Service. “We hope that interested hunters, hikers, birdwatchers and other outdoor enthusiasts will take advantage of this opportunity to review and comment on the plan.”

The vision plan was developed to effectively establish long-term goals to manage public access for outdoor recreation and natural resource protection. It also addresses the conservation, restoration and protection of sensitive wildlife habitats, as well as the enhancement and creation of habitat for game species.

The plan can be viewed at http://www.dnr.state.md.us/wildlife/JohnsonWMAForum/CommentForm.asp.

Written comments may be sent to Russ Hill, DNR Wildlife & Heritage Service, 201 Baptist Street, Suite 22, Salisbury, MD 21801. Citizens may also comment by phone by calling 410-713-3851, by fax to 410-713-3849 or online at: http://www.dnr.state.md.us/wildlife/JohnsonWMAForum/CommentForm.asp.

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is the state agency responsible for providing natural and living resource-related services to citizens and visitors. DNR manages nearly one-half million 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 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