The state’s natural resources are too important - too fundamental - to be viewed in stark political terms. That is why, during my eight years in Congress, I did what I had to do to protect them.

Sometimes that meant opposing my party’s leadership, such as by joining a maverick band of 34 Republicans to prevent an attempt weaken federal clean water laws. Other times that meant supporting sweeping legislation to purchase environmentally sensitive land and upgrade our state’s decrepit wastewater treatment infrastructure.

I have always taken a thoughtful, independent-minded approach when it comes to the environment. I will apply this same standard to the state’s stewardship of our precious natural resources.

My philosophy for leadership is all about inclusion. While it is not possible for every policy to please every person every time, it is possible to make certain that every voice is heard and considered.

In my administration, when it comes to protecting our natural resources and the significant recreational opportunities and economies they support, every interest will have a say. Members of the environmental, scientific, industrial and sporting communities each bring diverse and legitimate perspectives to the ecological debate. Each should receive a full, fair and thorough hearing.

This means working with recreational and commercial anglers. It means ensuring ample open space for hunting and non-consumptive recreation. It means working with the agricultural community and wastewater treatment plants to curb nutrient runoff into the Bay. It means making decisions across our state that are environmentally friendly and responsive to the needs of our citizens and businesses.

For the sake of sound science, accountability and fiscal prudence, it will mean enhanced collaboration among the Departments of Agriculture, Environment and Natural Resources.

In light of the state’s budget deficit, it means working more efficiently, effectively and innovatively to achieve the results we want with the resources we have.

Despite the severity of the deficit, my budget demonstrates the extent to which the Ehrlich-Steele administration prioritizes environmental protection. Thanks to an infusion of federal funds, overall funding for the Departments of the Environment and Natural Resources increases (respectively) by 4.9 percent and 6.7 percent in our FY 04 budget.

Lastly, it means finding the right men and women to manage the state’s natural, cultural and historic resources.

My pick for Secretary of Natural Resources, Ron Franks, is a lifelong outdoorsman with a personal appreciation and passion for our state’s natural bounty. He has already begun working with DNR staff to develop a clear set of objectives for the weeks and months ahead, along with long-term goals for the future of resource management in Maryland. Under his leadership, finding the balance necessary to preserve our resources while serving our citizens will be a priority. Our state is blessed with rivers, streams, unspoiled forests, and rolling green spaces - many of which have changed little since the first Marylanders settled here centuries ago. I believe we can protect these resources for future generations, in a way that enables current generations to use them responsibly.

C. Ronald Franks, DNR Secretary