DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES
Robert L. Ehrlich, Jr., Governor Michael S. Steele, Lt. Governor
C. Ronald Franks, Secretary
Mr. Joseph Whilden
St. Mary’s
Dear Mr. Whilden:
Thank you for your email to Governor Robert L. Ehrlich, Jr. regarding a terrapin program within the Department of Natural Resources. Governor Ehrlich has reviewed your email and has requested that I, as Secretary of the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, respond on his behalf
Our interest in diamondback
terrapins has expanded in recent years. We now have a resident species
biologist who tracks the diverse terrapin projects conducted by the Army Corps
of Engineers, academic and enviromnental centers. Data indicates that terrapin
populations vary in watersheds from very abundant to scarce. We are mindful
that worldwide demand for turtles as food appears to be increasing, and we are
considering additional conservation measures for the commercial harvest of
terrapins in the
We also participate in public
awareness programs for terrapin conservation and the need for shoreline
property owners to prevent loss of terrapins in recreational crab pots and
armored shorelines. The Department issues scientific collection perniits to
accredited organizations that collect terrapin eggs at risk to incubate, hatch
and rear for future release. With our cooperation, the
Once again, thank you for your letter. Governor Ehrlich appreciates hearing from you, and on his behalf, I thank you for your interest. If I may be of further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me at 410-260-8100 or Howard King at 410-260-8281, toll-free at 1-877-620- 8367, extension 8281, or email at hking@dnr.state.md.us. He will be pleased to assist you.
cc: Howard King, Director, Fisheries Service, DNR
Tawes State Office BuildingS
S8OTaylor AvenueS
Sincerely,
Secretary
410.260.SDNR
or toll free in