DNR says park funding is volatile as consultant study points to large funding needs under Great Maryland Outdoors Act

The Department of Natural Resources’ fiscal 2025 analysis and departmental responses focused on long‑term park funding, visitor capacity closures and program implementation under the Great Maryland Outdoors Act.

DLS summarized the DNR budget (about $406.7 million) and highlighted managing‑for‑results exhibits showing declining park visitorship from pandemic highs but rising capacity closures tied to parking and staffing. The DLS consultant’s report outlined low and high funding scenarios: maintaining current service carries a large price tag, while the consultant’s ideal GMOA implementation could require significantly more operating and capital funding than currently budgeted or available through the transfer tax.

DLS raised concerns about data gaps needed to implement the consultant recommendations — an asset management system, timely closure data and completed park strategic plans across the system. The analysis also flagged declines in minority representation among Natural Resources Police recruits and asked DNR to explain recruitment steps.

Secretary Josh Kurtz said transfer‑tax volatility is the root of many constraints and described steps the department has taken: a pause and rebuild of park service leadership, a new testing approach and expanded testing sites for Natural Resources Police recruitment, a plan to target 64 Great Maryland Outdoors Act (GMOA) positions into specific park managers/maintenance roles, and an apprenticeship/intermediary approach for outdoor recreation jobs tied to community colleges and local businesses.

On other issues DLS raised — a delayed renewable‑portfolio study, freshwater mussel hatchery funding changes, and deer management plans — DNR provided status updates and committed to further reporting. The subcommittee asked for a fund‑level summary of special funds and more detail on apprenticeship contracting and timelines for the GMOA implementation.