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Montgomery council member supports Howard County bill to authorize volunteer maintenance in Patuxent River Wildland
Summary
Staff told the Council that Howard County Bill 5-25 (and related SB968) would authorize DNR to enter agreements with volunteers using motor vehicles or motorized equipment to maintain safe access in the Patuxent River Wildland, which spans both Howard and Montgomery counties; the Montgomery County member for the district said she had no objection.
The Council heard from staff about a Howard County local delegation bill (Howard County Bill 5-25, also referenced as SB968) concerning the Patuxent River Wildland.
Kathleen Boucher explained the bill would permit the Department of Natural Resources to enter into agreements with volunteer groups that use motor vehicles or motorized equipment to help maintain and clear passes in the wildland. Staff confirmed the Patuxent River Wildland includes parcels in both Howard and Montgomery counties and that Montgomery County Parks and WSSC do not own the parcels at issue.
Boucher said testimony from the sponsor in the Howard County delegation described a volunteer group called the Howard County Iron Bridal Hounds working with DNR to obtain such an agreement. Council President asked whether anyone had questions; Council Member Lukey, who represents the district, said: "It is in my district. I am in favor of doing things that help proactively maintain the trails in the best way possible." Lukey added she had heard no complaints or opposition to the bill.
Staff said the delegation asked whether the county executive and county council supported the bill; the Council agreed staff could convey no objection and note the district representative's views. The Council did not adopt a formal position during the session.
