Monday, August 22, 2011

Maryland Elk Reintroduction Study

The Maryland Legislative Sportsmen’s Foundation (MLSF), the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation (RMEF) recently announced the formation of a partnership to determine the viability of elk reintroduction to Western Maryland.

The biological, social and economic feasibility assessments will require a minimum of 12 months to complete and will be thoroughly evaluated before any decision is made.

According to MLSF Chairman David Sutherland, "Elk once roamed Maryland but have been absent since the 1700s."

The Sportsmen’s Foundation will contract with a professional consulting group to conduct a formal survey of public opinion on the question of returning elk to the State. DNR will oversee development of the survey, which will include outreach to farmers and other stakeholders that may be impacted by a return of the species

In addition, the agency will conduct an assessment of potential elk habitat in western Maryland.

source: MD DNR

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