From the Desk of John R. Griffin

Dear Colleagues:

Today marks the beginning of Public Service Recognition week, and Governor Martin O’Malley will proclaim Wednesday, May 9, Maryland State Employees Recognition Day.

On behalf of the Governor and all the members of DNR’s leadership team, I would like to take this opportunity to recognize your outstanding work, as well as the extra effort and patience you’ve exhibited over the past several months in ensuring a smooth transition for the new Administration in general and for Eric and me personally.

While the challenges facing us are great, Governor O’Malley, the members of the General Assembly and our federal delegation in Washington have all made well known their support for the Department and the important work that we do. Leading the regional effort to restore the Chesapeake Bay and working statewide to foster environmentally sound land conservation, maintain species biodiversity and address global climate change are no small tasks. However, having worked with many of you before and having gotten to know more of you since my return, I am certain we are up to them.

Collectively, you comprise a diverse team of talented, committed professionals whose expertise, scope of knowledge and passion for the work we do is unparalleled. It is an honor and a privilege for me to be a part of this team, and to champion you, your work, and your commitment to doing the right thing for our natural resources and the citizens we serve.

Please join us this week in celebrating you!

Best regards,

John