Governor Wes Moore announces Maryland's success in conserving nearly 1.9 million acres, aiming for 40% by 2040.
Maryland Sets Groundbreaking Conservation Target, Achieves 30% Land Protection
Maryland Sets Groundbreaking Conservation Target, Achieves 30% Land Protection
The state has reached its ambitious conservation goal ahead of schedule, paving the way for further preservation efforts.
Maryland has made significant strides in conservation, recently achieving its goal of protecting 30% of its land, a benchmark set by the “30 by 30” global initiative. This milestone was reached a full six years ahead of schedule, with approximately 1.9 million acres now designated as protected. The areas that have been safeguarded comprise a diverse range of ecosystems, including the captivating Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge and the expansive Green Ridge State Forest.
The initiative includes crucial coastal areas, farmland, and wooded regions that support a variety of wildlife, including rare species like the bald eagle and the Delmarva fox squirrel. In 2023, Maryland joined the global conservation effort, and Governor Wes Moore's recent announcement indicates that the state is not just resting on its laurels but has already begun setting more ambitious targets, aiming to protect 40% of its land by 2040.
One such initiative is the conservation of King’s Ridge, a significant 350-acre farmland owned by Albert and Kristen Nickerson, which adds to their total of 1,600 acres being kept free from development. The couple's efforts reflect the broader impact of conservation on local ecosystems, enhancing food production while also promoting biodiversity and improving water quality through sustainable practices. With the successful completion of the 30% land protection goal, Maryland is setting an inspiring example for other states to elevate their conservation efforts in the face of environmental challenges.
The initiative includes crucial coastal areas, farmland, and wooded regions that support a variety of wildlife, including rare species like the bald eagle and the Delmarva fox squirrel. In 2023, Maryland joined the global conservation effort, and Governor Wes Moore's recent announcement indicates that the state is not just resting on its laurels but has already begun setting more ambitious targets, aiming to protect 40% of its land by 2040.
One such initiative is the conservation of King’s Ridge, a significant 350-acre farmland owned by Albert and Kristen Nickerson, which adds to their total of 1,600 acres being kept free from development. The couple's efforts reflect the broader impact of conservation on local ecosystems, enhancing food production while also promoting biodiversity and improving water quality through sustainable practices. With the successful completion of the 30% land protection goal, Maryland is setting an inspiring example for other states to elevate their conservation efforts in the face of environmental challenges.
