Home / Environment / Maryland Forests Need You: Join Conservation Boards!
Maryland Forests Need You: Join Conservation Boards!
11 Jul
Summary
- Maryland seeks volunteers for restructured Forestry Boards.
- New regional districts aim for better forest conservation coordination.
- Volunteers support tree plantings and stewardship programs.
Maryland is actively seeking residents to join its local Forestry Boards following a statewide restructuring initiative aimed at improving forest conservation. These boards, which have been a part of the state since 1943, serve as crucial links between communities and forest stewardship.
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources and the Maryland Forestry Foundation announced the reorganization in spring 2026. The previous county-based structure has been replaced by four regional districts: Western, Central, Southern, and Eastern. This shift is designed to foster stronger collaboration across larger landscapes and watersheds.
This new regional model allows county board chairpersons and at-large members to share resources more effectively. Anne Hairston-Strang, Maryland's state forester, emphasized that this transition enhances collaboration across the state while keeping local communities central to conservation efforts.
Volunteers on Forestry Boards engage in various activities, including tree plantings, supporting Arbor Day events, and promoting forest stewardship. They also assist with programs like Maryland's Big Tree Program. The Maryland Forestry Foundation offers support, while the Maryland Forest Service provides technical assistance, ensuring a robust network for forest conservation.
