Appointed by Governor: Anne Frances; Jil M. Swearingen; Sara A. Tangren, Ph.D.
Appointed by Senate President: Karen S. Montgomery
Appointed by House Speaker: A. Shane Robinson
Ex officio: Earl F. Hance, Secretary of Agriculture; Robert M. Summers, Ph.D., Secretary of the Environment; Joseph P. Gill, Secretary of Natural Resources; James T. Smith, Jr., Secretary of Transportation; Christopher T. Frye, State Botanist; vacancy, State Soil Scientist.
Staff: Gwenda L. Brewer, Ph.D.
c/o Wildlife & Heritage Service, Department of Natural Resources
Tawes State Office Building, E-1, 580 Taylor Ave., Annapolis, MD 21401
(410) 260-8558
e-mail: gbrewer@dnr.state.md.us
In June 2013, the Maryland Botanical Heritage Work Group was created (Chapter 655, Acts of 2013).
The Work Group is to identify obstacles to the preservation of Maryland's native plant species, such as biological invasions not prevented or controlled; fragmentation or destruction of habitat; and lack of data on loss of species. To improve the preservation of native plant species, the Work Group will consider using new innovations in biology, information systems, social networks, technology, marketing, education, and resilient systems theory. Further, the Work Group will explore providing extension-style support to citizens working to preserve native plant species, and will examine botanical conservation programs that work in other jurisdictions. Finally, the Work Group will recommend how best to proceed in the preservation of native plant species, including setting goals, collecting data, addressing regulatory issues, promoting a profitable native plant and seed market in Maryland, and finding revenue sources.
Authorization for the Work Group extends through May 31, 2014.
© Copyright August 01, 2013 Maryland State Archives