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Maryland Department of Natural Resources - June 2013 |
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From the desk of...
Secretary Joseph P. Gill
Dear Friends,
I am honored to introduce myself as the new Secretary of the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. Following in the celebrated footsteps of John Griffin --- who is now serving as Governor O'Malley's Chief of Staff --- is a tall order, but a challenge that I am thrilled to embrace.
After 14 years as the department's chief legal counsel, and 3 years as Deputy Secretary, I am looking forward to working with our team of exceptional employees as well as with you, the customers and stakeholders who share our mission to restore, protect and conserve our natural and living resources. Like many people, I came to a deeper appreciation of the abiding beauty of our landscapes and ecosystems later in life. As a young boy growing up in Buffalo, New York, I spent most of the year outside, playing in a local park (designed by Frederick Olmstead), swimming at public beaches while my father fished, walking, running and cycling. Later in college, with an eagle scout roommate also named Joe, I began camping, which I continued in our Maryland state parks after attending law school, and, later in life, at parks in other states. Along the way I picked up a few kayaks and an appetite for visiting Maryland's best, remaining natural areas.
Through the years I learned that the natural resources I came to enjoy are there because of the wisdom of those who, walking before me, chose to acquire, protect, and preserve them. I pledge to add to their legacy, with the help of an excellent team of public servants at the Department, and with your help, too.
Sincerely, 
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[Access DNR June 2013] |
Breaking News!
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 Joe Gill Sworn in as DNR Secretary |
 Landmark Oyster Restoration Project Moves Forward On May 29, Governor Martin O'Malley and the Board of Public Works approved a wetlands license to support a landmark oyster restoration project in the Chesapeake Bay. The $31 million project will ultimately restore 371 acres of oyster bars along the bottom of Harris Creek in Talbot County. Since Governor O'Malley's 10-point Oyster Restoration and Aquaculture Development Plan was adopted in 2009, the State of Maryland has significantly increased its network of oyster sanctuaries --- from 9% to 24% of remaining quality habitat.
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 Governor Expands Hunting Opportunities; Forest Cover Commitment In May, Governor O'Malley signed into law legislation to expand Sunday hunting opportunities in Carroll, Dorchester and Queen Anne's counties. "Hunters contribute to our economy and conservation efforts in myriad ways. I am very pleased that this year, working with members of the General Assembly, we are able to expand opportunities for families to enjoy the sights, sounds and excitement that come with days afield," said Governor O'Malley. Governor O'Malley also signed landmark forest legislation to maintain Maryland's current 40 percent tree canopy --- a no net loss. This first-of-its-kind law requires State Forests to gain dual sustainability certification, and extends tax benefits to citizens who increase tree cover on their properties. Department of Defense Joins Coastal Resources Protection Efforts
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 Governor and Students Celebrate Green Schools
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 Enter the What is Water Safety? Video Contest
Together with the Natural Resources Police and West Marine BoatUS, DNR presents the first annual What is Water Safety? video contest! Water lovers and aspiring moviemakers have until the end of August to enter a creative, family-friendly 3-minute video showing how to be safe on the water. Prizes for the top three videos include a paddleboard, a bundle of life jackets and a park passport.
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 Wanted: Diamond Jim
With a bounty of $10,000, Diamond Jim has been released into the Chesapeake Bay along with dozens of imposter Rockfish as part of the 9th annual Maryland Fishing Challenge. The longer he is on the loose, the higher the reward. Explore all the Challenge components and plan to attend the fish challenge finale at the Maryland Seafood Festival on September 7 at Sandy Point State Park.
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 Spots Still Open for Natural Resources Careers Camp
High school students may still apply for the 2013 Natural Resources Careers Camp, held from July 21-27 in Garrett County. Participants will learn from field professionals, engage in hands-on activities, become eligible for college scholarships, earn college credit and more. Don't wait --- applicants are interviewed and accepted on a first-come-first-serve basis.
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 MET Awards Annual Grants, Recognizes Leaders and Volunteers Through the Keep Maryland Beautiful and Jan Hollmann programs, the Maryland Environmental Trust (MET) granted $34,054 to school groups and land trusts for State health, beautification and stewardship projects. In recognition of all they do to preserve important landscapes and treasured resources, MET also honored this year's top conservation leaders, as well as the many volunteers who make their success possible.
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 Bus Tour Showcases Chester River Restoration State and county representatives, citizens and neighboring watershed groups recently toured the Chester River, receiving an update on the progress of ongoing restoration projects. Since 2010, the Middle Chester Partnership has incorporated a switchgrass buffer to serve as future source of biofuel energy, precision farming to cut back on nitrogen use, new septic systems to reduce run-off and more.
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 Buy Local Produce at DNR in Annapolis The DNR-hosted Anne Arundel County Farmers' Market has returned! From 3 to 6 p.m. on Thursdays through September 5, fresh fruits, vegetables and homemade goodies will be available in the Tawes State Office Building lot at 580 Taylor Avenue in Annapolis. New offerings include meat, wine and ice-pops. Remember, shopping locally lowers packaging and fuel costs, protects farmland, supports small businesses, and keeps money circulating within Maryland.
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Martin O'Malley, Governor - Anthony G. Brown, Lt. Governor
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Celebrate Maryland Outdoors Days
Help Compile Amphibian and Reptile Atlas