Research and outreach to begin in February. We encourage you to review this plan …

CROWNSVILLE, MD (February 14, 2013) – The Maryland Historical Trust (MHT), an agency of the Maryland Department of Planning (MDP), today announced that efforts to update Maryland’s State Historic Preservation Plan are underway. The goal of the preservation plan is to gain a full understanding of the issues facing historical and cultural resources in Maryland and to identify innovative strategies for their recognition, long term care, and enhancement.

This year-long plan update process will rely upon public participation throughout 2013. Outreach efforts begin with an online survey currently underway. This spring, MHT will conduct interviews with major stakeholders and then, during May and June, will host public forums at various locations statewide. Following the analysis phase over the summer, the plan will be published later this fall.

State historic preservation plans are prepared periodically, in part, to comply with National Park Service requirements. Plans must be updated in order for state historic preservation offices to remain eligible to participate in the national historic preservation program. The previous plan was published in 2005.

You may visit the MHT website for a more detailed description of the planning process and many of the key issues that will be covered by the plan at mht.maryland.gov/plan or “like” us on Facebook atPreserveMaryland. To participate in the online survey, visit the MHT website or go to: www.surveymonkey.com/s/MDPRESPLAN. Contact Tim Leahy at (410) 514-7625 or tleahy@mdp.state.md.us with questions and comments.