On Thursday November 30th, ESLC is hosting a free workshop on forests and forestry with a focus on maintaining and increasing resilience. The workshop will introduce state resources, data, mapping, planning tools, and guidance materials. We’ll hear from Heather Disque of the MD Department of Agriculture, Beth Hill of the Maryland Forests Association, Matthew Hurd from the Maryland Forest Service, Jason Dubow from the Department of Planning, and Charles Rice, Planning Director, Charles County Department of Planning and Growth Management.

Forests and forestry are of significant importance to rural Maryland’s economy and the quality of conservation values in its open space landscapes. At the same time, they are threatened by economic and environmental challenges, including the need for planning and zoning to reflect forestry needs, as well as climate change impacts, such as increased coastal storms, saltwater intrusion, sea level rise, and pest species. The forest industry has a long history on the Eastern Shore and conforms to strong state-level regulations to protect receiving waters. This workshop will be of interest to forest landowners, local jurisdictions, and NGOs seeking to ensure long-term environmental and economic success in our region. Charles County will also discuss its approach to managing and supporting forestry at the local level through planning and zoning requirements.

Lunch will be provided.