Late last year, Maryland Natural Resources Police received their helicopter back after seven years. Their 1972 Bell Jet Ranger, named Natural 1, was transferred in 2009 to Harford County Sheriff’s Office due to a budget cut. Mark Belton, the NRP’s secretary went to great lengths to reacquire the helicopter and spent $158, 000 on an overhaul.

However, a proposal from the House Appropriations subcommittee puts the helicopter in jeopardy. The proposal includes cutting $556, 000 from the aviation fund, as explained in the departments MoU, they should request a helicopter from the Maryland State Police if one should be needed. This renders Natural 1, as unnecessary, reports Bay Journal.  Belton is working to build a case against this proposal. He points out that per hour, the Maryland State Police helicopter costs taxpayers $5 881, while the Natural 1 costs $340.