Maryland’s Board of Public Works has taken a step towards enhancing recreational opportunities and preserving natural landscapes across the state. The board approved $500,000 in grants aimed at supporting local governments and land trusts in their efforts to protect land and provide diverse recreational opportunities for Maryland residents.
The board approved three projects under the program open space – local initiative, totaling $58,000. One of these projects includes a grant to Dorchester County for the construction of a new picnic pavilion at Vienna Park. This program is designed to provide funding to local subdivisions for the planning, acquisition, and development of recreational land or open space areas.
“Program open space symbolizes Maryland’s long-term commitment to conserving our natural resources while providing exceptional outdoor recreation opportunities for our citizens. More than 6,900 park and conservation area projects have been assisted through Program Open Space Local grants,” the program details indicated.
In addition to the program open space funding, the Fair Hill Rural Legacy Area, where a 102-acre property is set for conservation, is another highlight. This area is important for agricultural production, and water quality improvement.
The share of the approved funding, amounting to $444,782, has been allocated through the Rural Legacy program to the Cecil Land Trust. This grant will enable the trust to secure an easement on the aforementioned 102-acre property within the Fair Hill Rural Legacy Area.
According to a press release, the conservation easement will protect both agricultural and forested lands, including a significant 3,300-foot stretch of forested buffer along North East Creek and its tributaries.
Details of all funded projects can be found in the agenda for the Board of Public Works meeting. The three-member Board of Public Works is composed of Governor Wes Moore, Treasurer Dereck E. Davis, and Comptroller Brooke E. Lierman.
For more information about the funding, visit dnr.maryland.gov.
