STATE FORESTS
![[color photograph of loblolly pine tree]](/msa/mdmanual/01glance/images/i002569a.jpg)
Loblolly Pine Tree, Prince George's County, Maryland, 1998. Photo by Diane P. Frese.
In 1986, nearly 2.7 million acres, or 43% of Maryland's land surface, was forests (U.S. Dept. of Agriculture Forest Inventory, 1986; results of current survey available in 2000). Over 160 native or naturalized tree species can be found in Maryland. Oak and hickory are the dominant hardwoods, making up 60% of forested areas. Loblolly pine, the predominant forest tree on the Eastern Shore, is the most prevalent softwood. Chief forest products are lumber, pulpwood, and piling. The total value of all manufacturing relating to wood and forest products in the State exceeds $500,000,000 annually.
The State Forest and Park Service of the Department of Natural Resources oversees 7 State forests and 4 demonstration forests covering 136,907 acres. Demonstration forests show short- and long-term effects of sound forest and wildlife management practices.
Maryland has seven State forests.
ALLEGANY COUNTY
CECIL COUNTY
- Elk Neck State Forest (North East) (410) 287-5333
GARRETT COUNTY
PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY
WORCESTER COUNTY
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