Ecosystem Services

Starting in 2007, many western Maryland landowners saw increased oil and gas leasing as gas companies further developed the Marcellus Shale which contains one of the largest known natural gas reserves in the world. The Marcellus Shale is adjacent to a large energy market on the East Coast. The formation is located primarily in eight states, including Pennsylvania, New York, West Virginia, and western Maryland. Many landowners may think that the period for understanding how to negotiate an oil and gas lease has passed, but Maryland’s oil and natural gas resources have not been fully developed. This Bulletin will explore some of the legal obligations that mineral owners should consider. Authors: Lori Lynch and Paul Goeringer; Title: State Review of Environmental Impacts Could Result in Mineral Leasing Opportunities in Maryland (EB-418)

The white-tailed deer is of great economic and aesthetic importance to Maryland citizens. But an overpopulation of deer can result in negative consequences, such as damaged crops, landscapes, and forests, and safety concerns due to deer vehicle collisions and Lyme disease. State, local and private groups all have a stake in helping to manage the state's deer population.