DNR Photo Contest Accepting Entries
Photographers and nature enthusiasts who enjoy Maryland’s outdoors are invited to submit their most beautiful images of the state’s flora and fauna to the Department of Natural Resources 2026 Photo Contest.
A Historic Year for Maryland Oysters
Gov. Wes Moore has announced a historic year for oyster reproduction in Maryland waters.
Free Trees Available for MD’s Backyard Buffer Program
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is offering free tree seedlings to landowners statewide who have a creek, drainage ditch, stream, or other waterway on or near their property through the Backyard Buffer program.
New Reservation System for MD State Parks
The Maryland Park Service has launched a new, modern reservations management system that will provide visitors a faster way to reserve campsites, cabins, mini-cabins, pavilions, and other amenities at 37 Maryland state parks.
MD Oyster Season Extended for 2 Weeks
Maryland’s Department of Natural Resources is moving forward with a two-week extension of the commercial oyster season to help watermen make up for lost harvesting opportunities after many waterways and parts of the Chesapeake Bay froze during frigid temperatures in January and early February. The change will extend the state’s commercial oyster season to April 14.
Entries Sought for Arbor Day Poster Contest
The 2026 Maryland Fifth Grade Arbor Day Poster Contest is now open for submissions. Maryland fifth-graders are invited to create original artwork showing how trees enrich our lives. Deadline to submit is noon April 1.
VFDs in Maryland Get Funds for Rural Wildfire Protection
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources Forest Service is providing Volunteer Fire Assistance grants to 55 volunteer fire departments in 17 counties across the state.
Stay Alert for Cold-Stunned Aquatic Wildlife
The Maryland DNR asks those visiting the Chesapeake Bay to be vigilant of sea turtles who exhibit signs of cold-stunning, a condition that causes animals to become debilitated due to prolonged exposure to cold temperatures.
State’s Tree Program Surpasses 1.5M Trees Planted
Maryland’s 5 Million Trees program has reached more than 1.5 million native trees planted, marking a major milestone and reflecting momentum toward reaching the state’s goal of planting 5 million trees by 2031.
Maryland Deer Harvest Decreased in 2025
Maryland hunters reported harvesting 27,620 deer during the two-week firearm season from November 29 through December 13.
