# Natural Resources (GNR)

## Title 1. Department of Natural Resources

### Subtitle 4. General Provisions

#### Section 1-406

(a)

  (1) In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.

  (2) "Old-growth forest" means a forest:

    (i) At least 5 acres in size with a preponderance of old trees, of which the oldest exceed at least half the projected maximum attainable age for the species; and

    (ii) That exhibits several of the following characteristics:

      (1) Shade-tolerant species are present in all age and size classes;

      (2) Randomly distributed canopy gaps are present;

      (3) A high degree of structural diversity characterized by multiple growth layers reflecting a broad spectrum of ages is present;

      (4) An accumulation of dead wood of varying sizes and stages of decomposition accompanied by decadence in live dominant trees is present; and

      (5) Pit and mound topography can be observed.

  (3) "State conservation land" means:

    (i) State parks;

    (ii) Wildlife management areas; and

    (iii) Natural resources management areas.

(b) Whenever the Department identifies an old-growth forest on State conservation land, the land shall be managed in a manner that prohibits logging.

(c) Nothing in this section may be interpreted to prohibit the Department from taking actions to protect old-growth forest from fire, animals, insects, disease, and erosion in a manner that has minimal adverse effects on the ecosystem and subject to conditions the Secretary considers necessary.

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Md. Code Ann., Nat. Res. (as displayed at mgaleg.maryland.gov, October 16, 2026)