Maryland Celebrates Planting 1 Million Trees in Bold Climate Initiative
Maryland has reached a momentous milestone in its ambitious 5 Million Trees Initiative, surpassing the planting of 1 million native trees well ahead of schedule. This initiative, a key component of the Maryland Tree Solutions Now Act of 2021, aims to combat climate change and enhance environmental health by planting 5 million trees by 2031.
The millionth tree was recently planted in western Maryland during the fall, as confirmed by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR). This achievement marks a significant uptick in tree planting efforts, with the annual planting rate more than doubling compared to 2023.
Commitment to Environmental Health
Maryland’s Secretary of the Department of Natural Resources, Josh Kurtz, expressed excitement about the progress, stating, “Maryland made an ambitious commitment with the 5 Million Trees Initiative, and we’re so excited to already have 1 million trees in the ground. These new trees will help improve the health of our communities, sequester carbon, purify our air and water, and aid in bolstering wildlife populations. These tree plantings are an investment in Maryland’s future.”
The initiative targets planting in both public and private lands, with a specific focus on underserved urban areas. According to J.T. Bowers, deputy director of the Maryland Forest Service, the state’s progress indicates that it is on track to achieve the 5 million tree goal by 2031.
Collaborative Efforts Drive Success
The success of the 5 Million Trees Initiative hinges on collaboration between state agencies, conservation groups, and private citizens. The Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) has reported substantial contributions from various partners, including doubling the number of trees planted in the past year compared to previous years.
Serena McIlwain, Secretary of the Department of the Environment, emphasized the importance of trees in reaching climate goals, stating, “Trees are so important to reaching our climate goals because they capture carbon from the atmosphere. We are thankful to all the landowners, conservation groups, and landscaping companies who have partnered with us to make our state greener.”
Expansion of Resources Boosts Progress
To accelerate tree-planting efforts, Maryland has hired 10 new outreach specialists and a staff member at the Ayton State Tree Nursery, which supplies many of the saplings. This additional workforce has helped engage new partners and expand the reach of the initiative.
Bowers highlighted the positive impact of the outreach specialists, stating, “DNR’s outreach specialists have done great work engaging new partners and building networks to share the benefits of trees across the state.” The state set a new record in March 2024, with 197,000 trees planted, and is planning to plant 200,000 trees in Queen Anne’s County’s Browns Branch Wildlife Management Area in 2025.
Urban Plantings Provide Unique Challenges
Urban tree plantings, a crucial aspect of the initiative, are steadily progressing. By summer 2024, nearly 58,000 trees had been planted in urban areas, addressing urban heat islands and improving air quality. While urban plantings require more time and planning, partner groups have laid the groundwork for future success.
As Bowers noted, “The effort is setting the stage for even greater success in the years ahead.” Maryland’s commitment to planting trees aligns with its 2030 Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction Act Plan, aiming to cut emissions by 50% by 2031.
With public participation encouraged through incentive programs and online registration, Maryland is well on its way to achieving a greener and healthier future for all. Residents can contribute to the initiative by planting trees and registering them online. For more information or assistance, individuals can contact Isaac Whitmore, the 5 Million Trees program coordinator, at isaac.whitmore@maryland.gov.
Maryland’s accomplishment of planting 1 million trees showcases the state’s dedication to environmental stewardship and the power of collaboration. As momentum builds, the state is poised to achieve its 5 million tree goal, ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come.
