The University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science, a branch of the University System of Maryland, is designated to encompass the functions of the Natural Resources Institute and the additions set forth in this subtitle.

The University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science shall be under the supervision, direction, and control of the Board of Regents of the University System of Maryland. Academic rank and faculty status may be assigned to the director and qualified personnel staff members.

The University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science shall conduct a comprehensive program to develop and apply predictive ecology for Maryland to the improvement and preservation of the physical environment, through a program of research, public service, and education. The University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science shall perform the following functions: Maintain liaison with the State to identify the important regional and environmental problems, including the relationship to the use of the waters of the State and in particular those environmental problems affecting the waters of the Chesapeake Bay; Inventory appropriate: Professional individuals; Organizations which are private, public, and commercial; Facilities; and Programs, including: Educational; Research and development; and Public service; Arrange or prepare critical reviews, analyses, summaries of present levels of understanding and technical status reports on topical environmental problems, in formats ranging in depth from informal consultation to formal reports; Assist the development and coordination of single or multidisciplinary programs and projects on the environment at public and private educational and research institutes; Develop and promote environmental educational programs in the State; Conduct environmental research programs; Implement a program of environmental education to include participation in undergraduate and graduate collegiate programs, assist public and private educational systems, and participate in the education of the public and environmental fields; Implement joint graduate degree programs and post baccalaureate certificate programs, if authorized by the Maryland Higher Education Commission and the Board of Regents of the University System of Maryland in accordance with the Education Article; Perform other acts of public service relating to the environment in the best interest of the citizens of the State; and Implement the application of the institutional and physical resources of the University to the needs of State agencies in environmental matters. The University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science staff may collect any animal, plant, and other sample and use any collection device, technique, and seizure necessary for and pertinent to its research, public service and education program.