Frederick County landowners with two or more acres of open or underutilized land have an opportunity to transform their parcels into permanent forests through the county’s reforestation program, Creek ReLeaf. The initiative allows participants to receive up to $9,000 per acre along with five years of professional maintenance at no cost. Applications for the program are being accepted until December 31, 2026.
Since its inception in 2017, Creek ReLeaf has successfully planted over 650 acres of native trees throughout the county. The program aims to establish permanent forests on eligible properties, covering the costs of planting and maintenance during the critical early years of forest development. This initiative is particularly beneficial for property owners with land that is challenging to maintain, such as areas prone to erosion or those impacted by invasive species.
Landowners who participate in the program will retain ownership of their property and can continue to utilize it for recreational activities. As part of the agreement, the reforested area will be placed in a permanent conservation easement, allowing for selective harvesting of mature trees in line with an approved forest stewardship plan. The easement is designed to provide long-term ecological benefits while still enabling landowners to enjoy their property.
The Creek ReLeaf program not only helps address local environmental issues but also enhances the overall landscape by improving water quality, stabilizing soil, and providing wildlife habitat. Recent funding initiatives, including a $904,000 grant from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources and a $649,800 grant from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, will further support the county’s reforestation efforts, including a project to convert an old golf course into a protected reforestation site.
For landowners interested in learning more about the Creek ReLeaf program or applying, further information is available on the Frederick County Government’s website. County staff will evaluate proposed planting sites and guide property owners through the process, ensuring they understand the program’s requirements before making a commitment.
Read the original article at Frederick County Government