Initiative considers ideas that would strengthen Montgomery County’s Forest Conservation Law and support new forest conservation programs.
Per Montgomery Planning:
WHEATON, MD – Montgomery Planning has launched the No Net Loss of Forest Initiative. Over the next several months, stakeholders are considering ideas to achieve a more balanced approach to forest conservation across Montgomery County, including potential amendments to the County’s Forest Conservation Law, policy changes, and additions to its forest conservation programs such as Reforest Montgomery.
Once recommendations for amendments or other legislation are finalized, they will go through a series of internal and external reviews, including a review by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, before being introduced to the Montgomery County Planning Board. Staff anticipates that a Planning Board discussion on this topic will occur in early spring of 2022, which will be followed by a public comment period and public hearing.
The Planning Department’s Forest Conservation staff are holding two virtual listening sessions in December that the public is invited to attend:
- December 1 from 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
- December 9 from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Before each session, it is recommended that you watch the staff presentation about the initiative.
Forest Conservation in Montgomery County
Since 1993, projects subject to the Montgomery County Forest Conservation Lawhave focused primarily on protection of pre-existing forest (both on-site and off-site) to meet requirements, resulting in permanent protection for more than 12,500 acres of forest in Montgomery County. Additionally, the law has resulted in planting of more than 2,500 acres of new forest in the county, which are also permanently protected. These planting and protection efforts intend to mitigate for the clearing of over 4,000 acres of forest by projects subject to the county law.
Montgomery Planning is proud that the Forest Conservation Law has resulted in planting and protection of more than 15,000 acres of quality forest in the county, roughly 16% of the county’s forest. The goal of this new initiative is to bring the acreage of forest planted and acreage of forest cleared closer together for the county as a whole, while retaining the option to protect pre-existing forest that has been successful to date.
To learn more about the Montgomery County Forest Conservation Law, see our FAQs.
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FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival
Get ready to experience the vibrant colors, tantalizing flavors, and infectious rhythms of the Caribbean at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival! Hosted by RHU LLC, this exciting festival is set to take place on May 18, 2024, at the picturesque 16700 Barnesville Rd in Boyds, MD.
Step into a world where the Caribbean spirit comes alive! From 12:00 PM onwards, immerse yourself in a sensory journey that celebrates the unique culture, cuisine, and music of the Caribbean. Whether you're an African American, a Reggae or Soca music enthusiast, a wine lover, or part of the vibrant Caribbean diaspora, this festival promises to delight and captivate you in every way.
Let the enticing aromas of mouthwatering Caribbean dishes tantalize your taste buds. Feast on traditional delicacies prepared by expert chefs, showcasing the rich and diverse culinary heritage of the Caribbean. Indulge in flavorful jerk chicken, succulent seafood, and delectable plantain dishes that will transport you straight to the islands.
Accompanying the culinary extravaganza is a carefully curated selection of premium wines, ensuring the perfect pairing for your palate. Sip on fine wines from renowned vineyards, each sip a reflection of the Caribbean's vibrant spirit. Discover new flavors, expand your wine knowledge, and savor unforgettable moments with every glass.
As the sun sets, get ready to groove to the infectious rhythms of Caribbean music. Feel the pulsating beats of reggae, soca, dancehall, and calypso, moving your body to the lively melodies. Live performances by talented musicians and performers will keep the energy high, ensuring a night of unforgettable entertainment.
Don't miss this opportunity to embrace the Caribbean spirit and celebrate the arrival of spring in style! Tickets are available on AllEvents, so secure your spot today. Join us at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival, where cultures collide and unforgettable memories are made.
LIVE PERFORMANCES By: CULTURE Feat. Kenyatta Hill, EXCO LEVI, IMAGE BAND, RAS LIDJ REGG'GO with Special Guest SUGAR BEAR FROM E.U. & MORE! & MORE!
MUSIC By: DJ ABLAZE, DJ SMALLY & NAJ SUPREME
2 NIGHT Camping packages available: RV/CAMPER $200 | TENTS $150 Starting on Friday May 17 @ 5pm | 30 RV SPACES | 30+ TENT SPACES
KIDS 12 & UNDER FREE!!!
