Growing for Good: Farming and Forestry in Maryland is a new report conducted in summer 2018 that looks at the public’s awareness and engagement with agriculture and forestry. This is the first study of its kind completed in Maryland to gain a baseline measurement of consumer behavior and attitudes toward these economically and environmentally crucial industries. Overall, the survey shows that Marylanders have many connections to agriculture and hold highly favorable views toward farming operators in the state. However, we also found there is a lack of understanding of the forestry industry.
Key Findings
Many Marylanders:
- Feel connected to agriculture
- Have favorable impressions of farming
- Do not understand the forestry industry
- Carry misconceptions about clear-cutting
- Are surprised by agriculture's economic impact
When Terra asks Dave why he is cutting trees, she learns how foresters manage lands to grow wood products, prevent disease and provide wildlife habitat. Maryland forestry contributes $4 billion dollars to the state's economy and employs 10,000 people. The forest industry is the largest employer in Garrett and Allegany counties.
Related Documents
Forestry Resources
Maryland communities depend on healthy forests to thrive. Woodlands need help to control pests and prepare for climate change. To ensure the survival of bellwethers like the white oak — Maryland’s oyster of the woodland — action must be taken today.
Maryland’s forest communities contribute $3.4 billion to the state‘s economy and support more than 15,000 jobs generating more than $132 million in tax revenue. The Center works with landowners to maintain healthy forestlands and partners with environmental and forest organizations to increase education and stewardship efforts.
See the following resources for more information on Maryland’s forestlands.