Forestry Day in Annapolis

March 12, 2025 - The Maryland Forests Association, in partnership with the MD-DE Society of American Foresters, hosted another successful "Forestry Day in Annapolis." This event provided a platform for the forest community to engage with legislators, exchange ideas, and discuss emerging issues relevant to our sector.

The event was held at Governor Calvert House, with over 100 attendees, including numerous legislators, agency representatives, allied organizations, and staff from Congressman Andy Harris's office. Attendance and engagement far exceeded our expectations!

Matt Hurd thanked the event sponsors for their generous support!

Opening Remarks from DNR Secretary Josh Kurtz

The day began with a legislative breakfast and a warm welcome from SAF member Matt Hurd, who introduced DNR Secretary Josh Kurtz for opening remarks. His message provided a positive vision for the future of Maryland's forestry sector. Following his speech, MFA Executive Director Beth Hill recognized the following honorees:

Legislators of the Year: Senator Mary Beth Carozza & Delegate Jay Jacobs were recognized in appreciation for sponsoring "The Bat Bill." — **Legislators of the Year**: Senator Mary Beth Carozza & Delegate Jay Jacobs were recognized in appreciation for sponsoring "The Bat Bill."

Landowner of the Year: The Nature Conservancy MD/DC Chapter was recognized in appreciation for establishing an interpretive trail on the Nassawango Creek Preserve. — **Landowner of the Year**: The Nature Conservancy MD/DC Chapter was recognized in appreciation for establishing an interpretive trail on the Nassawango Creek Preserve.

Above & Beyond Award: Jennifer Walsh, TGCC was recognized as a driving force dedicated to revitalizing the forestry sector through numerous outreach and education efforts across the region. — **Above & Beyond Award**: Jennifer Walsh, TGCC was recognized as a driving force dedicated to revitalizing the forestry sector through numerous outreach and education efforts across the region.

Ethan Tapper, author of How to Love a Forest, traveled from Vermont and captivated the audience with his keynote presentation. He emphasized the importance of active forest management in the face of climate change, past human interference, invasive species, and other stressors. He reminded us that forests sometimes need a helping hand and that sustainable harvesting can restore resilience. His message resonated deeply with attendees.

Didn't get a copy at our event? CLICK HERE

Gary Allen of the Maryland Forestry Foundation and Joe Hinson, president of the MFA Board, provided an overview of current forestry issues and a policy update. MFA's #1 Legislative priority is the passage of the HB894/ SB946 "The Bat Bill."Our other priorities include wood energy, transportation, incentives for landowners, forestry education, planning principles, and forest conservation. As the forest community continues to recover from declining markets, funding for key initiatives is crucial to the rebuilding of the sector as outlined in the Forestry Economic Adjustment Strategy. We will continue to work with partners to convey our budget priorities:

Mel Noland Woodland Incentives Fund- Benefits private forest landowners & industry via cost-share programs.
Rural Maryland Council—Grant funding supports entrepreneurship, infrastructure, and capacity building, while the regional councils provide future economic planning for the sector.
MARBIDCO—Loan and grant programs help forest product businesses innovate and take advantage of emerging market opportunities to become more sustainable.
SMADC- Plays a pivotal role in supporting forestry by providing education & outreach that connects local communities.
Program Open Space- As our motto says, "FORESTS FOREVER." Land preservation programs serve to keep working forests on the landscape.

Joe Hinson & Gary Allen give an informative update on the forestry sector.

The always-engaging, Carl Anderton moderates the panel discussion.

Carl Anderton from the Maryland Department of Commerce led a panel discussion focused on "Challenges & Opportunities." The panel featured individual questions, cross-panel conversations, and a lightning round.

· Steve Kline (ESLC) discussed the economics and importance of natural resource-based industries. He highlighted findings from a recent study commissioned by his organization and warned that cuts to Program Open Space would have devastating long-term effects.

· Maya Ross (MCEC) focused on wood energy, emphasizing its potential to help Maryland meet green energy goals while providing a much-needed market for low-value wood.

· Jeff Carroll (Unified Wood Economy) explored the parallels between urban and rural wood markets. He discussed how circular economy solutions, such as biochar, could address multiple environmental and economic challenges.

The day concluded with an optional tour of the Maryland State House, where attendees learned more about the rich history of our state capital.

Our vision states: The Maryland Forests Association envisions a future in which vibrant forests are maintained throughout the state, providing diverse economic and environmental benefits to all.

We sincerely thank everyone who attended and took the time to make their voices heard. There is power in numbers in Annapolis, and we look forward to hosting similar events in the future. Please continue follow-up discussions with legislators about our outlined priorities, and we hope to see you at our next event!

"Forestry is truly a nonpartisan issue because its benefits transcend political divides. Maryland’s forests contribute to a healthier environment by cleaning our air and water, supporting biodiversity, and acting as a renewable resource. At the same time, they bolster our economy, providing over 12,000 jobs and generating $3.3 billion annually. Protecting and promoting sustainable forestry ensures that all Marylanders—regardless of party—continue to enjoy these vital environmental and economic benefits." – Beth Hill, MFA