On Tuesday May 6th, legislation to create a statutory definition of ecological restoration was signed by Governor Wes Moore. Audubon Mid-Atlantic led a coalition of community and environmental groups from across the state to move this important bill forward. We are thankful for the leaders in the conservation and environmental community as well as our grassroots supporters who helped advance this this important legislation.

Audubon’s director of policy for the Mid-Atlantic region, Jim Brown, made this statement after Tuesday’s bill signing ceremony:

“This legislation establishes a clear, legal definition of ‘ecological restoration,’ which will assist the state of Maryland, conservation and environmental organizations as they work on projects designed to increase climate resiliency and protect natural lands in Maryland. The bill will also allow the state to hasten its response to and preparedness for climate change.

“Having a clear, unified understanding of ecological restoration, will also encourage collaboration between state and federal partners, and will strengthen the role of ecological restoration as a habitat investment tool with the co-benefits of supporting Maryland’s agriculture, tourism, fishing industries, and local economies. Audubon looks forward to using this clear definition to advance our marsh restoration work for Maryland’s bird habitat, and for our resilient coastlines into the future.

We extend our sincere gratitude to the legislators who championed this bill throughout the 2025 legislative session. SB722/HB1155 was sponsored by Senator Shaneka Henson, Senator Malcolm Augustine, and Delegate Dana Stein. Audubon Mid-Atlantic deeply appreciates their unwavering advocacy for our conservation priorities and thanks them for their continued dedication to the people, birds, and vital habitats in Maryland. We are thrilled that the Governor has signed this bill into law.”