What

Recent pier permit decisions have raised questions about whether current State laws adequately protect both the environment and community character. In response, the Maryland Department of the Environment created the Pier Task Force to help the Agency determine whether existing regulatory processes adequately address all issues. The task force will review existing State laws, regulations, and policies related to residential pier construction, environmental protection, and riparian property rights. The first meeting of the Task Force, which consists of a wide range of stakeholders, was conducted on September 18, 2009. This meeting provides all interested persons an opportunity to address the Task Force.

Who

Property owners, recreational enthusiasts, community groups, environmental scientists and consultants, contractors, and environmentally conscious citizens are invited to present their concerns and experiences regarding the construction of piers in tidal waters to the Task Force and to offer recommendations on how to improve the regulatory process.

When

Friday, October 16, 2009 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Where

House Office Building, 6 Bladen Street, Room 145, Annapolis MD 21401.

For more information or to register to speak, contact Robert Rushlow, Natural Resources Planner, Tidal Wetlands Division, by email at Robert.Rushlow@maryland.gov or by telephone at 410-537-4023.

###