Marylanders Dream Big with Bold Land Preservation, Recreation, and Parks Plan
Maryland is planning boldly again, together with the help of thousands of Maryland voices! Building on a legacy of firsts, including America’s first state park system and a pledge to protect 40% of land by 2040, Maryland is creating a new roadmap to shape the future of Maryland’s parks, forests, and farmland—ensuring they reflect and serve all Marylanders.
Together with Assedo Consulting, the Agency team has been traveling across the state to put on community pop-up events on behalf of Maryland’s Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Events spanned across the state of Maryland, from the foothills of the Appalachian Trail to the Chesapeake Bay’s Eastern Shore, each celebrating the diverse geographies of Maryland’s parks, natural resources, agricultural lands, and waterways. We’ve met with over 300 Marylanders, who have shared their dreams for Maryland parks and preserved land and another 1,100+ people who shared their dreams on an online survey.
This community feedback will shape recommendations for Maryland DNR’s Land Preservation and Recreation Plan, which is updated every 5-10 years and guides local and state park and preservation strategies. The plan touches on everything from staffing needs to identifying gaps in access to preservation strategies to support regions with rural character. The team is also working in collaboration with PROS Consulting, CHMGS, and ETC Institute, to prepare a State Parks Strategic Plan, which will provide more specific recommendations for Maryland’s State Parks.
To read more about Maryland’s Land Preservation and Recreation Plan, click here.