Maryland Citizens Surpass Tree Planting Goal

50,000 New Trees Planted in 2009-2010 through Marylanders Plant Trees Program

Annapolis, Md. (January 12, 2011) — Governor Martin O’Malley today announced that Maryland has surpassed its citizens’ goal of planting and registering 50,000 trees through the Marylanders Plant Trees program.

“I share this victory with each and every citizen who made the important contribution of planting a tree,” said Governor Martin O’Malley. “By planting trees, Marylanders are taking steps toward ensuring a sustainable future for our natural resources for our children and theirs and setting an important example for future stewards of our State.”

Governor O’Malley launched the Marylanders Plant Trees program, part of his Smart, Green & Growing initiative two years ago with a goal of planting 50,000 new trees by 2010. Marylanders heeded the challenge: 50,089 new trees were planted and registered as of December 2010.

The State is also on track to exceed its goal of planting 1 million trees on public lands by 2011 with the help of Maryland inmates, who have planted more than 550,000 trees toward the goal since 2009. State officials plan to plant more than 500,000 additional trees this year. The Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services (DPSCS) goal of planting 1 million trees using inmate labor is being carried out in partnership with local governments across the state to beautify communities and parks.

Trees protect water quality, clean our air and provide important wildlife habitat. One large tree can eliminate 5,000 gallons of stormwater runoff each year, and well placed trees can help reduce energy costs by 15 to 35 percent.

In cooperation with participating nurseries, the Marylanders Plant Trees program continues to offer $25 coupons toward the purchase of native trees costing $50 or more, and redeemable at nearly 70 nurseries across the State. DNR is encouraging Marylanders to register every tree they plant. Not only will they be eligible for prizes, but they will be able to see the environmental benefits of their tree through interactive maps and charts. For more information, a list of prizes, and to register a tree, go to http://www.trees.maryland.gov/index.aspp.

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.