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Maryland, known as the Old Line State, is a diverse and vibrant state located in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States.
It boasts a mix of urban and rural areas, with various landowners, from individuals to corporations.
This article will discuss the top 10 landowners in Maryland and their impact on the state's economy and environment.
Top Landowners In Maryland
| Landowners | Total Acres |
|---|---|
| 1. The State of Maryland | 700,000 |
| 2. The Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation | 320,000 |
| 3. The United States Government | 300,000 |
| 4. The Maryland Environmental Trust | 130,000 |
| 5. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources | 55,000 |
| 6. The Montgomery County Department of Parks | 37,000 |
| 7. The Nature Conservancy | 32,000 |
| 8. The Chesapeake Bay Foundation | 30,000 |
| 9. The Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge | 27,000 |
| 10. The Pocomoke State Forest | 15,000 |
1. The State of Maryland
The largest landowner in Maryland is, unsurprisingly, the state itself.
It owns over 700,000 acres of land, which accounts for approximately 18% of the state's total land area. The state's land is used for various purposes, including state parks, forests, and wildlife management areas.
2. The Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation
The Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation, a state agency dedicated to preserving farmland in Maryland, holds easements on over 320,000 acres of farmland.
Their work ensures that Maryland's rich agricultural heritage is preserved for future generations.
3. The United States Government
The federal government is the second-largest landowner in Maryland, with over 300,000 acres of land, which includes military bases, national parks, and wildlife refuges.
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4. The Maryland Environmental Trust
The Maryland Environmental Trust, a state agency dedicated to preserving natural resources and protecting land in Maryland, holds conservation easements on over 130,000 acres.
Their work ensures that Maryland's natural resources are protected for future generations.
5. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources owns and manages over 55,000 acres of land in Maryland.
Their land includes state parks, forests, and wildlife management areas. They are committed to preserving Maryland's natural resources for future generations.
6. The Montgomery County Department of Parks
The Montgomery County Department of Parks owns and manages over 37,000 acres of land in Montgomery County.
Their land includes parks, trails, and natural areas that provide essential habitats for wildlife and opportunities for outdoor recreation.
7. The Nature Conservancy
The Nature Conservancy, a global environmental organization, owns and manages over 32,000 acres of land in Maryland.
Their land includes critical habitats for wildlife, such as the Appalachian Mountains and the Chesapeake Bay.
8. The Chesapeake Bay Foundation
The Chesapeake Bay Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting and restoring the Chesapeake Bay, owns and manages over 30,000 acres of land in Maryland.
Their land includes wetlands, forests, and farms critical to the bay's health.
9. The Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge
The Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge, located on the Eastern Shore of Maryland, is a 27,000-acre sanctuary for migratory birds and other wildlife.
It is owned and managed by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service and provides critical habitat for endangered species such as the Delmarva fox squirrel and the bald eagle.
10. The Pocomoke State Forest
The Pocomoke State Forest, located in Worcester County, is a 15,000-acre forest owned and managed by the state of Maryland.
It is a popular outdoor recreation destination and provides essential wildlife habitat.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, these are the top 10 landowners in Maryland, each with their unique impact on the state's economy and environment.