About MDE

Mission

The Maryland Department of the Environment's mission is to protect and restore the quality of Maryland's air, water, and land resources, while fostering smart growth, a thriving and sustainable economy, and healthy communities.

Vision

MDE's vision is to ensure a clean environment and excellent quality of life for Marylanders.

Goals

MDE has the following seven broad goals to measure its progress in achieving its mission and vision:

Promoting Land Redevelopment and Community Revitalization
Ensuring Safe and Adequate Drinking Water
Reducing Maryland Citizens' Exposure to Hazards
Ensuring the Safety of Fish and Shellfish Harvested in Maryland.
Improving and Protecting Maryland’s Water Quality
Ensuring the Air is Safe to Breathe
Providing Excellent Customer Services to Achieve Environmental Protection.

Values

MDE employees are:

Credible and have the public's confidence;
Supportive of teamwork, and empowered by management;
Innovative and resourceful;
Customer-service-oriented;
Professional and proud of their work;
Responsive to their stakeholders; and
Supportive of environmental stewardship.

MDE Customers and Stakeholders

MDE’s customers include Maryland citizens who expect protection and restoration of the environment; businesses, governments, and individuals who are applying for permits and receiving technical assistance; and technical personnel including well drillers, sanitarians, waste water operators, and asbestos contractors who require certification. Other key stakeholders include environmental and public health advocacy groups, citizen groups, educators, scientists, and natural resource users.

Beginnings

In 1987 the Maryland Department of the Environment was created to protect and preserve the states natural resources. In addition to restoring Maryland environment and safeguarding the environmental health of Maryland citizens, MDE's duties encompass enforcement and regulation, long-term planning and research, and technical assistance to industry and communities for pollution, growth issues, and environmental emergencies.