In June 2010, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, Forest Service will submit a State Assessment and Strategies for the state’s forest resources to the USDA Forest Service as required by the 2008 Farm Bill. The broad purpose is to identify, protect, and encourage management of working forests and special forested areas on private and public forestlands. Click the image above to learn more.

Smokey Bear Educational DVD

Since his “birth” on August 9, 1944, Smokey Bear has been a recognized symbol of conservation and protection of America’s forests. His message about wildfire prevention has helped to reduce the number of acres burned annually by wildfires, from about 22 million (1944) to an average of 6.5 million today. However, wildfire prevention remains one of the most critical environmental issues affecting our country. Many Americans believe that lightning starts most wildfires. In fact, on average, 9 out of 10 wildfires nationwide are caused by people.

Brigham Young University Ad Lab created a new DVD for elementary school teachers and other educational group leaders to communicate Smokey Bear’s important messages. The DVD features a day in the forest with Smokey Bear and tells his story of wildfire prevention. Produced in both English and Spanish and in 3D animation, the DVD also contains curriculum, activities and resources for teachers. To view the DVD, visit www.smokeybear.com/resources.asp.

State Forest Closure

Pocomoke State Forest: Due to the poor condition of the Pocomoke State Forest (Chandler Tract) ORV trail and the threat of additional impacts to the surrounding sensitive resources, such as the Corkers Creek watershed, the Department of Natural Resources is currently conducting an in-depth evaluation of the future use of this trail. Until this evaluation is concluded and a determination made regarding the future of this trail, the Trail will remain closed until further notice.

Forest Stewardship Landowner Questionnaire

Being a good steward of the land is important for the future of our natural resources in Maryland. The Forest Stewardship Program will provide assistance to you that will assist you to incorporate this land ethic into the management of your property. The primary component of this program is a Forest Stewardship Plan.

Completing the online Forest Stewardship Landowner Questionnaire is a good first step in moving toward successfully managing your forest toward your established goals. It is designed to assist you in thinking through your interests and the level of direct involvement you are able to provide to the stewardship of your forest land.

There is no fee for completing this online questionnaire. If you submit this completed form, it will be forwarded to our local forester and you will be contacted in how to proceed with the next step. Click here to go to the online Forest Stewardship Landowner Questionnaire.

The Power of Trees in Cumberland

Learn about the importance of trees in Cumberland, Maryland by viewing a 15-minute video developed by the City of Cumberland in partnership with Chesapeake NEMO and Maryland DNR Forest Service

Emerald Ash Borer Quarantine

The EAB quarantine area has been extended, for complete details see the Quarantine Order. For more information regarding EAB please visit the following DNR web site: http://www.dnr.state.md.us/dnrnews/infocus/emerald_ash_borer.asp
or visit the Maryland Department of Agriculture web site: http://www.mda.state.md.us/plants-pests/eab/

Buying Firewood

We get many calls from people either with questions about buying their seasons supply of firewood or what they can do after recently purchasing wood they were less than happy with. There are a few things you should know about wood and the laws regarding selling firewood that will help you make the best decision when making your firewood purchase.
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