Forestry Economics and Taxation

As the famous pallet of fall colors begin to fade, Maryland's forests undergo an important transformation into the winter season.

Over the past few months, I have received several phone calls from residents across the state who share a similar problem: they have large trees in their yards that need to be trimmed or removed, yet they do not want the wood to go to waste. Is there any productive use for the woody material that will come from their trees? The product from a relatively simple process may be an answer.

Without a doubt, Maryland’s woodlands face an increasing number of challenges. But it is also important to recognize the good news among the less-than-good.

Back issues of the Branching Out newsletter can be found on this page.

In this issue: Check in on AI and its capacity to provide accurate and specific advice. Register for the spring session of our "The Woods in Your Backyard" course. Learn about a new national refuge in southern Maryland and about one couple's work on their natural areas. Read about Sugar Maple in our "Native Trees of Maryland" feature and about incised fumewort in our "Invasives in Your Woodland" feature. And more!

In the News and Notes roundup for this issue: The USDA Forest Service has released its latest tax tips for forest landowners guide; March 21 is the International Day of Forests; Maryland has passed 1 million trees planted during the Five Million Trees Initiative; and learn how to become a Maryland Tree Steward.

The News and Notes roundup for this issue: Asks, "Should you squish a spotted lanternfly?"; notes that grants for forestry projects and protection are open in Anne Arundel County; describes how researchers are using drones and AI to map forests; reports on a new story map that documents saltwater intrusion in the Delmarva; and shares one way to stay warm this winter... with just one log. 

Learn to be a steward of the land this fall with the University of Maryland Extension General Forestry Course. This online course will be offered beginning Sept.1 through Dec. 15, 2022.

A team of forest ecologists and social scientists in Penn State’s College of Agricultural Sciences, using a grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, will conduct research aimed at helping owners of small- to medium-sized forest tracts manage their woodlands for ecosystem services.

The forest products sector is worth more than $3 billion to Maryland's economy. Two new opportunities exist for individuals, groups, or companies to receive grant funding to grow their businesses in Maryland.