The MD legislature is again considering raiding Program Open Space funds for other purposes.  This is a tax on real estate transfers that is supposed to be used to purchase park land, playgrounds, etc, i.e. open space, which means habitat.  This program is self-funding, and imposes no burden on taxpayers, excepting when they buy real estate.  It's all part of the closing costs.  These purchases generate jobs, and can, ultimately, tourist dollars. Diversion of these funds to other purposes is a violation of public trust

1000 Friend of Maryland had posted an alert.  I've attached it below.  Take a moment to express your outrage.

Kurt Schwarz
Conservation Chair
MOS and Howard County Bird Club


The Senate is considering taking all land conservation funding for next year's budget.

Contact Senate President Mike Miller immediately and urge him to fully fund Program Open Space!

Call: 410 841-3700 / 301 858-3700 / 1 800 492-7122 x3700 (toll free)

Email: 

Fax: 301-970-3910

Why this is important: Program Open Space is Maryland's nationally acclaimed program for land conservation and for the development of parks and recreational areas. The program has protected hundreds of thousands of acres including both rural lands and urban parks and recreational facilities. In addition, each land conservation project results in many thousands of dollars worth of employment for Maryland's private sector professional services. This is Maryland’s signature land conservation program, and it has already suffered severe cutbacks. Maryland’s future cannot afford further cuts.

Thanks, 

Kelly – Partners for Open Space