Public Input Sought on State Forest Work Plan Update

Additional silviculture operation proposed for Potomac-Garrett State Forest in FY24

Potomac-Garrett State Forest, photo by Scott Campbell, Maryland Department of Natural Resources

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is seeking public comment on an additional silvicultural operation proposed as an inclusion to the Potomac-Garrett State Forest Annual Work Plan for fiscal year 2024. The comment period concludes November 17​, 2023.

The proposed harvest is being added to the current FY24 plan to take advantage of favorable regeneration conditions for white oak, and to permit the operation to avoid disturbance to the nearby campground during the winter months. The operation was originally proposed for the FY25 Annual Work Plan.

Annual work plans help the department identify priorities within the scope of the forests’ long-range management. They address composition, establishment, growth, health, and quality along with construction and maintenance projects.

The public comment period is the final part of a three-step process. The first step includes an internal review by natural resource professionals with expertise in wildlife and fishery habitats, recreation, forest management, water quality, and ecologically significant species. The second includes a review by a local citizens advisory committee. Following the conclusion of the public comment period, each forest manager will review, revise and finalize their specific plan.

The public can send comments to stateforests.dnr@maryland.gov. The comment period will close November 17 at 11:59 p.m.