Mission Statement: Maryland Department of Planning (Planning) provides guidance, analysis, outreach and support to ensure that all of the State’s natural resources, built environment and public assets are preserved and protected as smart and sustainable growth goals are attained. Planning provides land use planning and implementation support to local governments, communities, businesses, and organizations. We develop data and analysis to support planning activities throughout the state. The department provides technical assistance and local plan and program review to Maryland's counties and municipalities. We utilize research and analysis methods and other resources to assist in planning a sustainable future for Maryland. Demographic, socio-economic, cultural and geographic information and land-use trends are analyzed and then, using computer modeling and geographic information systems, are delivered as interactive online tools or practical guidance to users across the State.