SWANTON, Md. (AP) — How private landowners can help preserve the green salamander and other rare species found in Garrett County will be discussed at the annual meeting of the Allegheny Highlands Conservancy.

The meeting is scheduled for Wednesday evening at the Deep Creek Lake Discovery Center in Swanton.

Ed Thompson, the forest ecologist for the Maryland Natural Heritage Program, will speak about rare, threatened and endangered species of the region. Thompson will also explain how conservation of privately held lands can play a role in preservation of those species.

The Natural Heritage Program is part of the Maryland Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife and Heritage Service.

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