1. (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.

2. (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. (1) The ecological uniqueness of the land;
   2. (2) The presence of rare, threatened, or endangered plants or animals or diverse communities of plants or animals;
   3. (3) The threat to the land by development;
   4. (4) Whether the land is in the Chesapeake Bay Critical Area;
   5. (5) Whether development of the land will adversely impact water quality or unique natural habitat;
   6. (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. (7) Whether the land is forestland, nontidal wetlands, or tidal wetlands.

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

   1. (1) For suggested acquisition of lands; and
   2. (2) To coordinate the acquisition projects under this subtitle.

Added by Acts 1986, c. 847, § 1, eff. July 1, 1986.