Maryland has successfully protected nearly 1.9 million acres of land, achieving its conservation target six years ahead of the 2030 deadline set by the "30 by 30" initiative. This milestone has inspired the state to increase its goal to 40% by 2040, emphasizing the ecological importance of preserved areas in supporting wildlife and enhancing environmental quality.
Maryland Achieves Environmental Milestone: 30% of Land Protected
Maryland Achieves Environmental Milestone: 30% of Land Protected
Maryland becomes the pioneer state in reaching the global conservation goal of protecting 30% of its land, setting sights on further environmental preservation.
Maryland has officially reached a landmark conservation milestone by protecting almost a third of its land, a target set by the global “30 by 30” initiative aimed at preserving 30% of Earth's land and waters by 2030. Governor Wes Moore announced that by 2024, the state successfully safeguarded approximately 1.9 million acres, including diverse habitats like the expansive Green Ridge State Forest and unique sites like the Unicorn Fishing Lake Park and Hatchery.
This milestone encompasses a range of environments, from protected shorelines and forests to agricultural lands around the Naval Air Station Patuxent River. Among these protected areas are ecosystems that provide homes to various wildlife, including the iconic bald eagle and the previously endangered Delmarva fox squirrel.
In a move reflecting its strong commitment to environmental conservation, Maryland has set a new ambition to extend land protection to 40% by the year 2040, further prioritizing the preservation of natural ecosystems. The initiative is not only a testament to conservation efforts but underscores the state's role in addressing global environmental challenges through local action.
As part of the "50 States, 50 Fixes" series focusing on local environmental solutions, Maryland's achievement highlights the critical balance between development and ecosystem preservation. Farmers like Albert Nickerson, who preserved about 350 acres of farmland, demonstrate the dual benefits of producing food while supporting wildlife, enhancing soil conservation, and improving water quality through responsible stewardship of land. The campaign serves to inspire communities nationwide to take similar conservation actions.
This milestone encompasses a range of environments, from protected shorelines and forests to agricultural lands around the Naval Air Station Patuxent River. Among these protected areas are ecosystems that provide homes to various wildlife, including the iconic bald eagle and the previously endangered Delmarva fox squirrel.
In a move reflecting its strong commitment to environmental conservation, Maryland has set a new ambition to extend land protection to 40% by the year 2040, further prioritizing the preservation of natural ecosystems. The initiative is not only a testament to conservation efforts but underscores the state's role in addressing global environmental challenges through local action.
As part of the "50 States, 50 Fixes" series focusing on local environmental solutions, Maryland's achievement highlights the critical balance between development and ecosystem preservation. Farmers like Albert Nickerson, who preserved about 350 acres of farmland, demonstrate the dual benefits of producing food while supporting wildlife, enhancing soil conservation, and improving water quality through responsible stewardship of land. The campaign serves to inspire communities nationwide to take similar conservation actions.
