The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is reaching out to residents for their input on the state’s recreation needs and land conservation priorities for the next decade. This initiative is part of the draft Land Preservation and Recreation Plan (LPRP), which is open for public comment until June 28.
Community Engagement and Planning
Over the past year, the DNR has collaborated with Agency Landscape and Planning to gather comprehensive data on Maryland’s current land preservation and recreation amenities. This effort included two surveys, four regional public events, and four stakeholder focus groups, all aimed at shaping a plan that reflects the needs and desires of Maryland’s residents.
The draft plan provides a detailed overview of the current state of Maryland’s parks and protected lands, alongside a vision for the future. It highlights a trend of increasing participation in outdoor recreation across a diverse population, though it notes a decrease in the time individuals spend outdoors. To address this, the plan proposes increased investment in outdoor recreation to enhance service quality and encourage more time spent in nature.
Access and Conservation Goals
According to the plan, residents in Central Maryland, including Baltimore, Howard, and Montgomery counties, as well as Baltimore City, enjoy some of the best access to nature within a five-mile drive. However, the Eastern Shore counties face significant access gaps, requiring longer travel distances to reach natural areas.
Maryland has already achieved its goal of conserving 30% of its 6.1 million-acre land area by 2030, six years ahead of schedule. The state now aims to increase this to 40% by 2040, with the LPRP supporting these conservation goals. Land protected by state agencies, local governments, nonprofit land trusts, and the federal government all contribute to this ambitious target.
Community members are encouraged to review the draft LPRP and submit their comments via an online form by 11:59 p.m. on June 28. This feedback will play a crucial role in finalizing a plan that aligns with the community’s values and priorities.
Original reporting: Baltimore Fishbowl — read the source article.
