In this subtitle the term “ginseng” includes any part of the plant called Wild American Ginseng (panax quinquefolius l.).

A person who collects and harvests ginseng for sale shall hold a valid annual collection permit from the Department. A person who buys ginseng for resale shall register annually with the Department as a ginseng dealer.

The Secretary may: Conduct research to determine ginseng population trends, propagation techniques or ways of conserving ginseng; Promote the conservation and export of ginseng; Establish standards for the certification of ginseng intended for export; Establish guidelines and requirements for the conservation and harvesting of ginseng; Require that records be kept by any person who harvests or buys ginseng intended for sale; and Establish conditions under which a permit or registration may be suspended or revoked.

Any records required by this subtitle shall be kept for 3 years and be made available to the Department upon request.

The Secretary may charge the following fees: Collection permit - $2 each; Dealer registration - $20 each.

Any fees collected pursuant to this subtitle shall be placed in a fund to defray partially the costs of administering this subtitle. Any unexpended funds shall revert to the General Fund of the State at the end of the fiscal year.