Maryland Code, Natural Resources § 5-102.1

(b) Forestry, as prescribed by a person licensed as a forester under Title 7 of the Business Occupations and Professions Article and in accordance with accepted silvicultural principles, as defined by the Society of American Foresters, constitutes a traditional, fundamental, beneficial, and desirable use of the State's forest resource. Forestry is an important land management tool that contributes significantly to the economy of the State by the support of a vital forest products industry, as well as to the health of forests and their wildlife, water quality, and recreational benefits by the sustainment of forest productivity and wildlife habitats.

(c) In Maryland, forestry, including the harvest and transport of forest products, is often carried out in close proximity to populated areas. Other than development for more intensive uses, this harvest of timber may represent a major source of income for the profitable use of private property.

(e) Since it is in the State and public interests to preserve the forest land base and other natural resources, a local government with planning and zoning powers shall support forestry by a reasonable exercise of these powers, including the consideration, development, and interpretation of planning and zoning requirements that beneficially impact the efficient and economic practice of forestry in a manner consistent with the local government's implementation of the visions listed in § 1-201 of the Land Use Article.