BALTIMORE, MD—The Friends of Maryland State Parks have awarded 22 grants, totaling $37,855, to state parks across Maryland, according to a press release. The funds, which are from the organization’s “Small Grants, Big Impact!” program, will support projects that enhance cultural history education, protect dunes, expand recreational access, and promote conservation.
This year’s grants increase the program’s funding from $13,619 in 2021 to $37,855 in 2025. All five state park regions have received annual grants to improve public lands and visitor experiences.
Chuck Hecker, board president of Friends of Maryland State Parks, says park rangers and staff generate increasingly creative projects that benefit park visitors. “We have funded 95 SGBI projects since the grant program started five years ago. The total amount of funding, since the program’s inception, is $149,952.”
The grants range from $900 to about $2,000. Here is a list of some of the projects the funds will support:
- Assateague Island State Park: Dune Grass Plantings and Protection
- Bohemia River State Park: Middle School Bioblitz — We Need a Ride!
- Cedarville State Park: Activity guidebook
- Cunningham Falls State Park: Audio tour for aviary
- Cypress Branch State Park: Outdoor educational program kits
- Deep Creek Lake State Park: Rain garden enhancements
- Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area: Kiosk and MCC skills training
- Franklin Point State Park: Trail improvements
- Greenwell State Park: Horse hitching rail and post
“This program continues to be a game-changer and force-multiplier for Maryland State Parks, providing vital support to enhance visitor experiences, protect natural resources, and expand educational opportunities,” said Maryland Park Service Deputy Director Rachel Temby. “We are grateful for the Friends of Maryland State Parks’ ongoing commitment to supporting innovative projects that benefit both our public lands and the communities we serve.”
The grants, which range from $900 to $2,000, will also support projects that promote wildlife conservation and fishing education.
This article was written with the assistance of AI and reviewed by a human editor.
Photo: Friends of Maryland State Parks presented grant funds to Assateague State Park. Maryland DNR photo.
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