Maryland § 5-1503

§ 5-1503.

    (a)    The Department may acquire a conservation easement or a fee simple or other interest in any land described under § 5-1502 of this subtitle.

    (b)    The Department shall establish criteria for acquisition of conservation easements and of fee simple and other interests in lands, including a priority system that considers:

        (1)    The ecological uniqueness of the land;

        (2)    The presence of rare, threatened, or endangered plants or animals or diverse communities of plants or animals;

        (3)    The threat to the land by development;

        (4)    Whether the land is in the Chesapeake Bay Critical Area;

        (5)    Whether development of the land will adversely impact water quality or unique natural habitat;

        (6)    Whether a natural area has been designated by the State or submitted by a county for designation as an area of critical State concern under § 5-611 of the State Finance and Procurement Article; and

        (7)    Whether the land is forestland, nontidal wetlands, or tidal wetlands.

    (c)    The Department annually shall consult with the counties of the State:

        (1)    For suggested acquisition of lands; and

        (2)    To coordinate the acquisition projects under this subtitle.