Old growth forests were indentified in the Maryland wildlife action plan as one of 35 key wildlife habitats in the State. Old growth forest historically occurred throughout the State, dominating the landscape and representing a broad range of fores types. Over time most of these forests were converted or logged. From 2003 through 2006 an inventory of old growth forests was conducted, resulting in the identification of 40 sites designated as old growth. In total, over 2,300 acres were identified, most of which occur on State-owned lands in western Maryland. The largest identified old-growth tract is within the Big Savage and South Savage Wildlands of Savage River State Forest, an area totaling more than 770 acres. Most of the old growth stands are by mixed oak species. Guidelines for the conservation of old growth forests were also developed.