Queen Anne's County outlines parks budget increases for invasive-plant control, ranger coverage and playground planning

Queen Anne's County officials reviewed the Parks & Recreation portion of the proposed FY26 budget April 1, highlighting requests for new staff, expanded maintenance contracts for invasive vegetation, and capital planning for aging playgrounds and restroom infrastructure.

Parks staff described four enhancement requests in the operating budget, including a ranger supervisor position and converting an existing part‑time park technician to a full‑time role to strengthen field supervision and 7‑day coverage. "We think it would be more efficient if we had a third person who is an actual field supervisor," said a parks staff member responsible for rangers, explaining the rationale for the supervisor request.

The department also asked for additional contract funding to address invasive weeds and trees in larger park areas. Parks staff said the department currently has $150,000 budgeted for invasive management this year and a…