cialist in the Department of Forest and Parks. This was done in an
attempt to assist the political sub-divisions in establishing recreational
areas and programs.

This Administration also appointed a committee charged with the
responsibility of studying and preparing a ten-year master plan for
the acquisition and development of parks and recreational areas. On
the basis of this master plan, ten additional State parks will be devel-
oped in the very near future and improvements will be made in all
recreation areas. A top-priority recommendation of the master plan
is the acquisition of an area on Assateague Island for development as
an oceanside State park. While the recent storm impeded progress
in this area, plans are now proceeding.

In still another area, this Administration promoted the develop-
ment of nature trails and nature centers in present areas such as Pa-
tapsco. Future development of this kind is scheduled for Gunpowder,
Susquehanna, Tuckahoe and Shad Landing. State parks have already
been proposed for these locations and we have been given the neces-
sary cooperation by State, county and local groups.

I am vitally interested in all forms of water-based recreation with-
in the State. I have advocated the development of water contact rec-
reation on existing bodies of water and endorsed the impoundments
set forth in the aforementioned master plan.

In closing, let me say that, as your Governor, I congratulate each
of you here today for the interest you have shown in initiating sound
programs for our parks and recreational areas, and for the interest
you have displayed in the health and enjoyment of your fellow Mary-
landers. It is my hope that all of you will come away from this con-
ference inspired and dedicated to the task of improving our recrea-
tional resources. Through this work you can play a vital part in the
moral, physical and cultural betterment of us all.

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