Turning Points--by Watershed Legal Counsel

  If you’re feeling unsettled right now, you’re not alone. Across the country—and especially here in Maryland—people doing important work are staring down a moment of real uncertainty. Researchers counting on federal grants, local governments trying to balance their budgets, businesses navigating shifting regulations, nonprofits wondering if their funding is about to dry up. It’s a tough time to plan when so much seems up in the air. Recent events have only heightened the tension. A White House executive order temporarily freezing federal funds sent organizations scrambling, unsure if the money they’d been counting on would still come through. Maryland’s $3 billion budget deficit is already sparking debates about cuts and tax increases, with the impacts likely to ripple through state contracts and programs. And in the energy world, the explosion of AI-driven data centers has been driving major infrastructure decisions—until new research (most recently the release of DeepSeek) threw...

What would you do?” It’s one of the most common questions clients ask their lawyer. While it may seem like a fair question, the answer might not be that helpful. Sure, a lawyer can tell you what they might do if they were in your shoes, but the better focus is on what you should do—based on your unique goals and risk tolerance. This post explores the conversation around risk that should take place between you and your lawyer and the role both parties play in developing effective legal strategies. While we offer examples from the environmental and natural resource space, these principles apply to any attorney-client relationship. Types of Risk: Financial, Litigation, Reputational, and More When engaging a lawyer for matters involving transactions, disputes, or policy development, you need to weigh several types of risk: Financial Risk – Will the resolution cost more than the reward? Can future costs be contained? Litigation Risk – What are the chances of winning or losing, and how doe...

As the (relative) warmth of spring embraces Maryland, local businesses, land trusts, community associations, and environmental nonprofits gear up for a season of outdoor activities. From stream and woodland walks to cleanups and stewardship visits, these events not only foster a sense of community but also contribute to the preservation and appreciation of our natural landscapes. Before embarking on such adventures, it's crucial to consider several factors to ensure a safe, lawful, and successful event. Adobe Stock Photo Legal and Physical Access Before planning any outdoor event, ensure legal access to the land where the activities will take place. Obtain necessary permits or permissions from relevant authorities or landowners, and be sure to carry them on your person while visiting the property. Verify if there are any restrictions or regulations regarding the activities you plan to conduct. Never enter posted property without express authorization of the owner and acknowledged, ...