Maryland Natural Resources Section 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.