As Maryland continues to develop rapidly, easement programs may be necessary to compensate landowners for differences in values between forest uses and developmental uses. Where development does occur, planning is necessary to conserve forests within the developed area, and to ensure protection of forest values. Maryland's Forest Conservation Act is an innovative approach to reducing the number of forested acres lost to land development. It requires developers to conserve, and in some cases replant forested portions of sites that are undergoing development. It was created in response to significant losses of forest land resulting from rapid urban development of Maryland.
Education is a key element in any effort to retain forest resources.
Landowners must have access to accurate information if they are to make informed decisions about their forest land. People who directly benefit from forests have personal incentives to retain forest land. Also, informed citizens and policy makers can advocate reasonable public policy decisions. Finally, all citizens must have a clear understanding of benefits and costs of forests if rational and effective choices are to be made. This Forest Health Report provides information to help Marylanders take appropriate actions to enhance forest resources for the present and for future generations.