Historical Documents

In order to understand the present role of forestry boards in comparison with the law that led to their creation, it may be useful to review their history briefly. The Maryland Forest Service owes its origin to the creation of the Board of Forestry as result of the vision of Robert and John Garrett, who donated over 2,000 acres of mountain woodland in 1906 to the state, provided it would make proper provision for its care. During its early years, the Board appointed Fred W. Besley state forester, who served through various organizational changes until 1942; and forest wardens, whose primary function was the prevention and suppression of forest fire. Excerpted from History of the Maryland Forestry Boards : John Blake, Member and former Chair Frederick County Forest Conservancy District Board October 25, 2004

To read more on the history of Maryland's Forestry Boards click HERE.

To read about the Ancient Trees of Calvert County by Ailene W. Hutchins, 1986, download HERE