Maryland § 8-1008

§ 8-1008.

    (a)    (1)    At least once every 3 years within the 10–year certification period:

            (i)    The Department shall require an on–site inspection, as defined by regulations adopted under this subtitle, of each agricultural operation certified under this subtitle to assure the agricultural operation continues to meet the requirements of this subtitle; and

            (ii)    The Department of the Environment shall, if applicable, assure compliance with laws, regulations, permits, or other requirements administered by the Department of the Environment.

        (2)    The inspections required under paragraph (1) of this subsection shall be conducted by a certified verifier determined by the Department.

    (b)    The certified verifier conducting the on–site inspection shall provide:

        (1)    A report to the Department detailing the agricultural operation’s compliance with program requirements, including:

            (i)    Efforts to manage soil conservation and water quality; and

            (ii)    Nutrient application, including location, rate, source, and timing, by crop; and

        (2)    Notice to the certified agricultural operation at the time of the on–site inspection of all new State and local laws and regulations enacted or adopted since the date of certification.

    (c)    Following the third on–site inspection in the 10–year certification period, the certified verifier who conducted the most recent on–site inspection shall provide information to the Department, the Department of the Environment as applicable, and the certified agricultural operation on best management practices applicable to the operation and necessary for the agricultural operation to comply with new laws, regulations, or rules adopted or enacted after the date of certification and necessary for recertification.