Maryland marked a significant milestone in its 5 Million Trees Initiative by planting more than 1 million trees before the end of 2024. The initiative, part of the Maryland Tree Solutions Now Act of 2021, aims to plant 5 million native trees by 2031 to combat climate change and enhance environmental health.
The millionth tree was planted in western Maryland during the fall, according to data from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Over the past year, the state saw a remarkable increase in tree planting efforts, with the annual planting rate more than doubling compared to 2023.
Commitment to Environmental Health
“Maryland made an ambitious commitment with the 5 Million Trees Initiative, and we’re so excited to already have 1 million trees in the ground,” said Josh Kurtz, Secretary of the Department of Natural Resources. “These new trees will help improve the health of our communities, sequester carbon, purify our air and water, and aid in bolstering wildlife populations. These tree plantings are an investment in Maryland’s future.”
The initiative targets planting on both public and private lands, with a special focus on underserved urban areas. According to J.T. Bowers, deputy director of the Maryland Forest Service, the progress thus far indicates the state is on track to achieve its goal by 2031.
Collaborative Efforts Drive Success
The initiative’s success hinges on collaboration between state agencies, conservation groups, and private citizens. The Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE), which coordinates the effort, has reported substantial contributions from various partners.
“Marylanders planted twice as many trees last year as the two years prior, including nearly 60,000 in underserved urban areas,” said Serena McIlwain, Secretary of the Department of the Environment. “Trees are so important to reaching our climate goals because they capture carbon from the atmosphere. We are thankful to all the landowners, conservation groups, and landscaping companies who have partnered with us to make our state greener.”
DNR accounted for the majority of the tree plantings, with over 673,000 trees planted since 2021, including 346,000 in 2024. These plantings go beyond the state’s typical annual efforts of around 100,000 trees, which are not included in the initiative’s official count.
Expansion of Resources Boosts Progress
The state’s efforts were bolstered by hiring 10 new outreach specialists and a staff member at the Ayton State Tree Nursery, which supplies many of the saplings. This additional workforce has helped accelerate tree-planting efforts and engage new partners.
“We’re starting to hit our stride with the number of trees we’re able to plant,” Bowers said. “DNR’s outreach specialists have done great work engaging new partners and building networks to share the benefits of trees across the state.”
March 2024 marked the highest monthly total to date, with 197,000 trees planted. Looking ahead, plans for 2025 include a record-breaking planting of 200,000 trees in Queen Anne’s County’s Browns Branch Wildlife Management Area.
Urban Plantings Provide Unique Challenges
Urban tree plantings, a key component of the initiative, are progressing steadily. By summer 2024, 57,799 trees had been planted in urban areas, achieving 12% of the goal of 500,000 trees in these regions. These plantings aim to address urban heat islands and improve air quality while enhancing community aesthetics.
Bowers acknowledged that urban plantings require more time and planning but credited partner groups for laying the groundwork for future projects. “The effort is setting the stage for even greater success in the years ahead,” he said.
Supporting Climate Goals
The 5 Million Trees Initiative is a cornerstone of Maryland’s 2030 Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction Act Plan, which aims to cut emissions by 50% by 2031. Trees play a vital role in this plan by expanding carbon sinks that absorb more carbon than they release, helping to mitigate climate change.
Beyond climate benefits, trees planted along waterways and coasts serve as riparian buffers, reducing pollutants entering the water and improving ecosystem health.
Encouraging Public Participation
Residents are encouraged to contribute to the initiative by planting trees and registering them online to be counted toward the 5 million tree goal. Incentive programs such as DNR’s $25 coupon for tree purchases and the Gift of Trees donation program make participation accessible.
For more information or assistance with tree planting on specific properties, individuals can contact Isaac Whitmore, the 5 Million Trees program coordinator, at isaac.whitmore@maryland.gov.
Looking Forward
Maryland’s achievement of planting 1 million trees is a testament to the power of collaboration and commitment to environmental stewardship. With momentum building, the state is well-positioned to meet its ambitious goal, ensuring a greener and healthier future for generations to come.
