Section 10-1301 - Aquaculture defined; legislative intent; duties of State departments, etc. - Maryland Statutes

§ 10-1301. Aquaculture defined; legislative intent; duties of State departments, etc.
 

(a)  "Aquaculture" defined.-  

(1) The General Assembly defines aquaculture as an agricultural activity. 

(2) "Aquaculture" includes the commercial rearing of finfish, shellfish, and aquatic plants for sale, trade, barter, or shipment. 

(b)  Intent.- It is the intent of the General Assembly to create: 

(1) An Aquaculture Review Board and an Aquaculture Coordinating Council to promote the development of an aquaculture industry in this State; and 

(2) An Aquaculture Coordinator to assist persons in obtaining the permits and licenses necessary to conduct aquaculture in the State. 

(c)  Duty of Department of Agriculture.- The Maryland Department of Agriculture is the lead agency for: 

(1) Promoting, coordinating, and marketing aquaculture and aquaculture products; and 

(2) Coordinating and streamlining the process of applying for a State aquaculture permit. 

(d)  Duty of Department of Natural Resources.- The Department of Natural Resources is responsible for enforcement of laws, regulations, and rules. 

(e)  Duty of University of Maryland.- The University of Maryland is the lead agency for research in aquaculture production and shall be responsible for development of education and extension programs which promote aquaculture as an industry. 
 

[1988, ch. 534, § 1; 1989, ch. 5, § 1; ch. 785, § 1; 2005, ch. 405, § 1.]