Maryland Forest Service
The Maryland Forest Service in 1996 marked the 90th anniversary of forestry in Maryland, USA and the birth of what is known as the Department of Natural Resources Forest Service. Although the service has been known by many names over nine decades, its mission has been consistent: "To conserve and enhance the quality, quantity, productivity and biological diversity of the forest and tree resources of Maryland."[1]
History
Exploitation of forests
The rates of forest exploitation grew as ways for milling and harvesting improved. The Climax and Shay logging locomotives made possible harvesting of timber in Western Maryland that previously had been inaccessible.
In the late 19th century, the nation grew concerned about the abuse of its forest resources, and their protection and management became a politically popular issue.
Gifford Pinchot, the "father of American forestry" and one of Theodore Roosevelt's chief advisors, promoted the concept of wise use and sustained yield of forests.
Aware of the need for conserving Maryland's forests, John and Robert Garrett of Baltimore offered 2,000 acres (8 km2) of woodland to the state in 1906. The bequest was contingent upon the organization of a state forestry department to manage the land.
See also
References
- ↑ 1995-2006 Maryland Department of Natural Resources